Tilly can carry up to 10 people in total, including children. This is the maximum allowed for safety reasons.

No boating experience is necessary. Before you set off, our team will give you a full safety briefing and practical demonstration. We’ll make sure you feel confident steering, mooring, and (if applicable) using locks before we leave you to enjoy your trip.

You do have the option of hiring one of our professional skippers to help you through the day if you would prefer.

Tilly is equipped with:

• A flushing toilet

• Heating

• A refrigerated cool box

• USB charger for phones and small devices

• A gas hob and kettle

• Seating area with table

• Lifejackets and buoyancy aids (for adults and children)

• Fire safety equipment and first aid kit

Absolutely! There are some local pubs and cafes along the route, but you’re welcome to bring your own picnic or refreshments. Please note that the boat must not be operated by anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome by prior arrangement. Please let us know by selecting the option to add a dog when booking.

We offer two hire options:

• Day Hire: Start at 9:00 am or 10:00 am, duration 7 hours.

• Evening Hire: 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm (summer months only) or until sunset, whatever is earlier.

All hires begin and end at the AquaVista Marina in Apsley on the Grand Union Canal. You’ll receive the exact address, parking information, and directions in your booking confirmation email.

Yes. You’ll be free to cruise the local stretches of the Grand Union Canal at your own pace. We’ll provide suggested routes depending on how long you’ve booked and whether you want to experience more canal locks or focus on the local scenery.

• Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather

• Flat, non-slip shoes (no high heels or flip flops)

• A picnic and drinks if you’d like

• A light jacket or jumper — even on sunny days, it can feel cooler on the water

We don’t recommend swimming in the canal for safety and hygiene purposes.

Yes. We provide child-sized lifejackets, and we’ll show you how to keep children safe when boarding, mooring, and around locks. Children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.

Anyone hiring the boat must be at least 21 years old.

The boat can be used in most weather conditions, and we encourage you to dress accordingly. In cases of severe weather (e.g. flooding, unsafe navigation conditions, frozen canal), we may have to postpone your hire and re-arrange a suitable date.

No, for safety reasons smoking is not permitted anywhere on board.

Yes, but please be considerate of other canal users and wildlife. Keep the volume at a respectful level, especially when passing moored boats.

You’ll be given an emergency contact number in your handover pack. Call us straight away if you have any issues, and we’ll guide you through the next steps.

It’s important to return on time as the boat may be needed for the next hire. Late returns may incur additional charges, as outlined in our booking terms and conditions.