Week & Longer Hires

You can hire a boat for a week or longer starting on a Friday, Saturday, Monday or Tuesday.

WEEK-LONG HOLIDAYS

Hiring a boat for a week allows you to either take things more slowly and relax to the full, or to venture further afield and explore more of the picturesque countryside, villages and towns along the route of the Kennet and Avon canal. A popular choice is to head west to Pewsey and Devizes and then east towards Crofton, Great Bedwyn and Hungerford, essentially doing both of the ‘short break’ options in one longer trip. You can read more about these on the ‘Short Breaks’ tab. This offers the advantage of passing back through our Burbage Wharf base midweek for any practical needs, and the knowledge that you are always close by. There is much to see in both directions, including some lovely pubs and cafes, and great places to walk. Both Devizes and Hungerford are thriving market towns with many independent retailers and eateries to explore. In our opinion, although different in character, they are of equal merit; we enjoy visiting both!

If travelling further afield floats your boat, you can head towards Newbury and Reading to the east or towards Bradford on Avon and Bath to the west. Bear in mind, however, that venturing west of Devizes means at least half a day (often 5-6 hours) in either direction negotiating the infamous Caen Hill lock flight. For some, this is a must-do right of passage, whilst others prefer to avoid the challenge of 29 locks in two miles!

Remember that boats on the canal move at no more than walking pace, and all sorts of unforseen situations can slow your progress, so it’s best to have an idea of where you want to go, but not to attach too much importance on getting there! Most local establishments are happy to help by making bookings flexible, or even recommending taxis if you moor further away than you planned. Our galleys are fully equipped, however, and are in open plan living spaces, so cooking on board is a happy option. Along the canal, you will find ‘winding holes’ where boats are able to turn, so mid way through your week, you’ll need to check the map for a suitable place to switch direction.

LONGER HIRES

We are very accommodating of longer hires, but ask you to please make contact with us before you book to discuss practicalities. Many of our hirers don’t want to leave after a short break or a week, and we well understand the appeal!

Please email us with your contact details and brief requirements: enquiries@cruise-england.co.uk

You may also like to know that one of our sister companies, Long Term Narrowboat Hire, offers narrowboats for extended periods of a month or longer. These long term narrowboats are based at Lower Heyford in Oxfordshire.

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