DO I NEED A LICENCE AND WHAT ARE THE RULES?
You don’t need a licence to drive a boat. However, like the Highway Code (but much simpler) there are a few basic rules you need to follow. These are all explained in the manual onboard which we provide in every boat. We will also advise you when you are given your handover tuition.
SHOULD SOMEONE IN MY PARTY HAVE BOATING EXPERIENCE?
No experience is required. When you arrive to pick up your boat, you’ll receive plenty of expert tuition from our boatyard staff. They’ll provide all the training, help and advice you need until you’re happy to take the helm. Your on-board manual gives you lots of tips and reminders, too.
ARE YOU ALLOWED TO DRINK ALCOHOL?
It is a myth to think that drink-driving rules do not apply to Rivers, they do! At any one time there must be at least two people within the legal alcohol limit and alcohol consumption by the rest of crew needs to be an acceptable amount where it does not impede their ability to conduct themselves in a safe manner.
HOW FAR CAN I TRAVEL AND WHERE CAN I GO?
Depending on how busy the waterway is, you’ll be travelling at a maximum of 5mph. Cruising about 4 hours a day means approx. 80-100 miles in a week, and you can travel along the main navigational channel which is covered by your boat’s licence. We can offer rough guidance in distances and times, or you can download the Thames River App. On you holiday maker letter there is also a list of helpful websites.
WHERE CAN I STOP?
The manual on board your boat has information about mooring places, and we will show you how to moor up. The most popular moorings are those closest to waterside pubs, restaurants, villages and towns (where a charge is usually made) but there are many quieter places to moor free of charge. Just be respectful and do not moor where private moorings is displayed.
WHAT DO I DO AT LOCKS?
On the Thames all the locks are electric, and some will be manned during the day. They will be self-service before and after lock keeper hours but will be on reduced power for the public. In the skipper manual provided, you will find more detailed information on locks and on the demonstration they will also be explained you.
HOW MUCH WILL MY FUEL COST?
You will only be charged for the fuel used, and this amount will be deducted from your fuel deposit when you return the boat. £10-£15 a day is average but obviously differs with the size of boat & if heating is used.
WHERE DO I GET WATER FOR DRINKING AND WASHING?
On your boat, of course. Your boat will have a full tank of water and all boats have hot and cold running water for kitchens and shower rooms. You can easily top up your water tank at all boatyards, lock stations, and public moorings, usually at a small cost. When topping up remember to use “drinking water” only.
WHAT ABOUT SAFETY? DO I NEED SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OR TRAINING?
All you need to bring with you are sensible non-slip shoes, and you’ll receive all the training about safety you need from our staff when you arrive. We recommend buoyancy aids for children and non-swimmers – these are provided free of charge when you pick up your boat. The boat manual on board your boat contains all the safety information you’ll need, too. Remember, though, that boating is an active holiday. At least two members of your party will need to be able to jump on and off the boat to moor up and work the locks.
CAN I USE MY HAIRDRYER OR OTHER ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT?
Not on our cruisers, we supply an 12v hairdryer on board and if you require them, we can supply 12v hair straighteners. All our boats have shaver points for electric shavers, and most have a 12v accessory socket like a car. Any electrical items with a car adapter will operate from this socket, including mobile phones, camcorders, digital cameras and chargers for their batteries. You’ll need to bring your own connecting plugs and leads, though. All our boats also have USB ports onboard for charging mobiles and tablets.
The batteries will not support any medical equipment due to the amount of power they require.
