How Does the Boat Hire Work?
Canal boat day hire is a beginner-friendly boating experience where you hire a narrowboat for the day without needing a licence or prior experience. You receive a full safety briefing before setting off, support is available throughout the day, and everything is designed to be calm, simple, and enjoyable. At Canal Boat Day Hire, based at Apsley Marina in Hertfordshire, guests regularly enjoy relaxed days on the water even if it’s their very first time on a boat.
What Happens When You Arrive
Your day begins with a warm, unhurried welcome at the marina. Before you go anywhere, you’ll receive a full safety and boat-handling briefing.
This covers:
How to steer and stop the boat
How the engine works and what the controls do
Safe movement around the boat
Canal etiquette and awareness
What to expect at locks and bridges
Nothing is rushed, and you won’t leave until you’re comfortable. If you want anything repeated, it will be explained again.
Information Provided Before Your Day
Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive a detailed confirmation email so you can prepare at your own pace if you wish.
This includes:
Your booking details (date, start time, number of people, cost and reservation number)
Full contact details for the day
Free parking information and a car park map
A link to the Canal & River Trust boat handling and safety video
A link to the CRT Boaters’ Handbook for additional guidance
Everything is still explained again on the day — the advance information is there simply to help you feel relaxed and informed.
How Long Is Canal Boat Day Hire?
A standard day hire lasts 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to cruise, relax, and enjoy the experience. During winter months, this may be slightly shorter depending on sunset times.
Evening hires are typically around 4 hours, also dependent on daylight.
The pace is slow and flexible — the day is about enjoyment, not distance.
Route Planning on the Day
There are two routes available from Apsley Marina: one heading north and one heading south along the Grand Union Canal.
Your route can be:
Discussed in advance, or
Decided together on the day
This allows the plan to suit your group’s confidence, interests, timing, and expectations.
Both routes include locks. You’ll always be assisted through the first lock, so you understand exactly how they work before continuing on your own.
What’s Provided Onboard
The boat is fully equipped for a comfortable day out.
Onboard you’ll find:
Cutlery, plates, bowls, glasses and mugs
A kettle and 4-ring gas hob
A flushing toilet
USB charging sockets
Life jackets are available for adults and children if required.
Fuel is included in the hire price, with no hidden fees.
Support Throughout the Day
You’re never left to figure things out alone. If you need help, reassurance, or recommendations during your hire, you can contact us throughout the day.
Guests often ask about:
Locks or bridges
Cruising times
Turning points
Nearby places to stop or visit
That ongoing support is especially reassuring for first-time boaters.
Skipper Hire: Extra Support and Local Knowledge
Some guests choose to hire a professional skipper for the full day or evening.
This is popular with:
Nervous first-time boaters
Groups who want deeper local knowledge
People considering buying their own boat
Those planning longer canal holidays elsewhere
A skipper can demonstrate more advanced aspects of boating during the day, including engine management and use of the weed hatch.
It’s also a great option for groups who want to enjoy the day together without one person spending the whole time steering. Even with a skipper onboard, guests are still welcome to take a turn at the helm whenever they like.
Perfect for Families, Groups and Corporate Days
Canal boat day hire works beautifully for:
Families (children must be supervised at all times)
Groups of friends
Celebrations
Relaxed corporate days
The minimum booking age is 21, and dogs are very welcome. There’s a small additional fee for dogs to allow for an extra deep clean afterwards, ensuring the boat remains enjoyable for every four-legged visitor.
A Low-Commitment Way to Try Narrowboating
If you’ve ever wondered whether narrowboating might be for you, day hire is the perfect introduction. There’s no long-term commitment, no maintenance, and no pressure — just a chance to experience life on the water in a calm, supportive setting.
You can explore booking options here:
Hire Tilly for a day or evening trip
Or browse everything we offer here:
Canal Boat Day Hire
Conclusion
Canal boat day hire is a simple, well-supported experience designed to be accessible for beginners while still offering depth for those who want to learn more. With a full safety briefing, information provided in advance, flexible routes, onboard equipment included, and support available throughout the day, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to experience the canals. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a group celebration, or exploring narrowboating for the first time, canal boat day hire offers a relaxed and confidence-building introduction to life on the water.