No, no special licence is required to operate the boat. The boat itself is licensed for all British Waterways canals and rivers. Other waterways, specifically the Thames and the Avon require further licenses at your own cost. Request further information if you wish to cruise these waterways.
So what if we have never been boating before?
Don't worry, you will be given full, hands-on instruction
on the use of your boat and canal cruising. Boat handling is easy, and even first-timers have confidence after only a few hours cruising. In addition each boat has an instruction manual with lots of useful information and tips.
Do we need to bring our own bedding?
No, each boat is equipped with duvets, pillows for each berth. You will need to bring your own towels, however.
So what do we need to bring?
We suggest casual clothes, sensible (rubber-soled) shoes, Wellingtons and waterproofs. Don't forget torches, and games for the children. Each boat has on board enough cutlery, crockery, kitchen utensils and equipment for the number of people on board, as well as a standard domestic-sized fridge (with a small icebox) and a four-ring gas cooker with oven & grill. A full inventory list is available.
We can supply groceries from your shopping list and have them placed on your boat ready for your arrival if requested. We cannot guarantee to supply specific brands but there is no charge for this service. You will find that this makes the start of your holiday more relaxing.
What time can we collect the boat?
Unless otherwise stated, your boat is normally available from 2:30 p.m. on the first day of your holiday, so please do not arrive at 1 p.m. expecting your boat to be ready. To ensure a speedy takeover please advise us of your expected arrival time. The boat must be returned and vacated by 9.00 a.m. on your last day.
What routes are available?
The most difficult part of cruising with Napton Narrowboats is choosing your route! To help you choose please look at the Map and route descriptions within this website.
In addition we recommend waterways guides available from our shop to show you all of the details and facilities you will need for your chosen route.
What charges are there?
Hire Fees
The hire charge (displayed on each boat's page) includes VAT. Holiday Cancellation Scheme is included in
the cost of the Hire
Damage Waiver
As standard we operate a Damage Waiver where for a once-off and non-returnable payment
(£50) you will be covered in the event of any damage/loss or accident to your boat or its inventory during your holiday. (Exceptions: malicious or intentional damage or the return of the boat in an unclean condition.)
When you think that this barely covers the cost of a new boat pole, let alone a replacement window, it is a small price to pay for complete peace of mind.
With each booking you will pay a fuel deposit of £100 to cover the fuel
you will use. With additional duty recently added to red diesel the likely
cost, depending on how carefully you cruise, will be £80 - £120 for a week
or £30 - £50 for a short break. The balance due or returnable will be paid
at the end of your holiday.
Extras
Well behaved and clean pets are welcome on all of our boats, but there is a charge of
£35 per pet per week. There is no charge for our on-site car park, but at
our Autherley Junction
site, locked, under cover parking is available at £14 per week if
required.
Note that all male or all female parties are required to leave an additional, returnable security deposit of £50 per
head in cash at the boatyard before taking over the boat.
