Narrowboat hire
Narrowboat hire in the UK, direct from owners
Seven foot beam, a proper stove and somewhere to sleep. Britain's canals were built for these boats, and you book them from the people who live with them.
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Choosing a narrowboat
How many it sleeps
Berths are usually a mix of a fixed double and a convertible dinette. Check what converts, and who is happy to make a bed up each night.
Length matters
Under 45 feet goes almost everywhere including the Llangollen and the northern Oxford. Longer boats give more space but limit turning points.
Cruising or traditional stern
A cruiser stern fits the whole crew outside with the steerer. A traditional stern keeps the weather off and gives you more cabin.
Heating and hot water
Most boats have a stove plus diesel or gas heating. Ask how hot water is made, as engine-heated tanks need a run each morning.
Narrowboat hire, the practical bits
Do I need a licence to hire a boat?
No. The owner holds the boat's licence and the hire endorsement that lets it be hired out. You just turn up and cruise.
Do I need experience?
No. Every owner runs a hands-on handover before you set off, covering steering, mooring, locks and the safety kit on board.
How is BoatStays different from a hire fleet?
You book the owner's own boat and deal with them directly. They know the water, the moorings and the good pubs, and you get their number for the whole trip.
How fast do narrowboats go?
About 3 to 4mph, which is walking pace. That is the point of them.
What about fuel and pump outs?
Each listing sets out what is included and what is charged on return. Ask your owner before you book if it is not clear.
Slow down past moored boats. Everyone on the cut will thank you for it.