Romantic Boat Trips in Hertfordshire
A Relaxing Escape from Everyday Life
One of the reasons couples love canal boating is the pace. Life slows down on the canal. There’s no rush, no crowded schedules, and no pressure to be anywhere quickly.
Instead, you can spend the day:
Cruising through peaceful countryside
Watching wildlife along the canal
Stopping for drinks or lunch at waterside pubs
Enjoying a picnic onboard
Taking photos along scenic stretches of the Grand Union Canal
Relaxing together away from busy daily life
Many couples describe it as one of the most relaxing days out they’ve had in years.
What’s Included Onboard
Your hire includes everything needed for a comfortable day on the water:
Seating area
Kitchen facilities
4-ring gas hob
Kettle
Plates, bowls, mugs, glasses and cutlery
Flushing toilet
USB charging sockets
Fuel included with no hidden costs
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks onboard to make the day feel even more personal and relaxed.
Romantic Day Trips Near London
Canal Boat Day Hire is based at Apsley Marina in Hertfordshire, making it an ideal day trip location for couples travelling from London and surrounding areas.
Apsley Train Station is only a 2-minute walk from the marina, with regular direct train services to and from London.
This makes canal boating an easy and accessible romantic experience without needing to travel long distances.
Perfect For
Our couples canal boat trips are popular for:
Anniversaries
Date days
Birthday surprises
Marriage proposals
Relaxing weekend activities
Staycation experiences
Unique things to do near London
Quiet escapes from busy city life
Looking for a romantic day out that feels completely different from the usual restaurants, cinemas, or busy attractions? A canal boat trip on the Grand Union Canal offers couples the chance to slow down, relax, and spend genuine quality time together surrounded by peaceful countryside and calm waterways.
At Canal Boat Day Hire, couples can enjoy a private self-drive canal boat experience aboard Tilly, our cosy and beginner-friendly narrowboat based at Apsley Marina in Hemel Hempstead. Whether you’re planning a special anniversary, birthday surprise, date day, proposal, or simply looking for a relaxing escape near London, a canal boat day creates a memorable and unique experience.
No licence or boating experience is required.
No Experience Needed
Most couples hiring a canal boat have never driven one before. That’s completely normal.
Before you set off, we provide:
A full handover and safety briefing
Boat steering demonstrations
Guidance on locks and mooring
Help through the first lock
Ongoing support if needed during your hire
Tilly is easy to handle and ideal for beginners, making the experience approachable even if you’ve never stepped onto a canal boat before.
Explore the Grand Union Canal Together
The Grand Union Canal is one of the UK’s most scenic and historic waterways. Cruising through Hertfordshire offers peaceful countryside views, historic locks, quiet stretches of canal, and charming canalside pubs and cafés.
Routes can be discussed before or on the day depending on how relaxed or adventurous you’d like your trip to be.
Why Couples Choose Canal Boat Day Hire
Couples regularly choose us because we make canal boating simple, welcoming, and stress-free.
Why customers love the experience:
No licence or experience needed
Peaceful and private atmosphere
Beginner-friendly boat handling
Flexible self-drive experience
Scenic countryside routes
Easy access from London
Full training and support included
Book Your Romantic Canal Boat Trip
If you’re looking for a relaxing couples day out in Hertfordshire or a romantic experience near London, a canal boat trip offers something genuinely different.
You can check availability and book online through our Book Now page.
You can also explore our Hire Prices, learn more about Tilly, or visit our FAQ page for more information.