10th August 2026
Water shortages and canal closures may be affecting some parts of the UK’s canal network, but there are still plenty of opportunities to get afloat with ABC Boat Hire. Whether you're travelling locally for a staycation or flying in from abroad, we'll do our best to get you on the water.
If you’re planning a canal boat holiday this summer, you may have seen reports about water shortages and restrictions affecting parts of the UK’s waterways. While some routes have been impacted, it certainly doesn’t mean that canal cruising has come to a stop. Across the network, there are still numerous waterways open for cruising, with plenty of fantastic routes and destinations to explore from our marinas.
At ABC Boat Hire, we’re monitoring the situation closely and work with the relevant navigation authorities to keep our customers up to date. Where restrictions are in place, these may affect particular stretches of waterway or specific routes, rather than the entire canal network.
One of the great things about a canal boat holiday is the sheer variety of routes available. From peaceful rural waterways and historic towns to bustling cities, countryside pubs and spectacular aqueducts, there are many different cruising experiences to enjoy.
Even where a particular route has been affected by water shortages, there may still be alternative cruising available from the same marina.
So, if you’re booked to go away, don’t assume that your holiday can’t go ahead just because you’ve heard about water shortages. Our teams are keeping a close eye on local conditions and will be able to advise you on the best routes available for your holiday.
We understand that customers want certainty when booking a holiday, particularly when weather and water levels are outside anyone’s control. If the situation changes and no cruising is available from the marina you booked, we'll review the options available to you.
Where possible, we can transfer your booking to another ABC Boat Hire marina where cruising is available, allowing you to still enjoy your canal holiday.
We operate a network of marinas across England, Wales and Scotland, which means we have the advantage of being able to look at alternative locations rather than simply saying your holiday can’t go ahead.
Water levels and navigation restrictions can change, so our advice is to check the latest information before setting off and speak to our team if you have any concerns about your planned route. You can do this by checking:
Our holiday teams can help you understand what is currently open, suggest alternative routes and make sure you have the information you need to enjoy your time afloat. The waterways may be facing some challenges, but there are still plenty of adventures waiting to be discovered.
So, pack your bags, leave the everyday behind and get ready to explore the waterways – because there’s still plenty of cruising available.
Find your next adventure with ABC Boat Hire.
