What are the pickup and return times?
Pick up times are 3.30pm unless a different time has been agreed and this will be stated on your invoice. If you are going to be later than 4.30pm, please let us know by phoning the office on 0118 9574323. If you are late you will be able to stay on your boat, but you will not be able to leave the boat yard until you have had your demonstration the next morning.
Boats need to be returned between 9am and 10am on the last day of hire. Office hours are 8.30am to 5.30pm (Out of hours phone numbers can be found in the manual on board your boat)
How far can I travel in a day?
The maximum speed limit on the Thames is 5mph (8kms). Please note you can only cruise in daylight hours, so in a 6 hour cruise you would travel about 25miles, and would have fully charged your batteries for the evening. Please refer to the websites on your holiday letter for route planning.
What do I need to bring?
You should bring a First Aid Kit, rubber soled shoes and a torch. Also cleaning materials and toilet rolls (Due to the toilet systems onboard please only bring 2 ply tissue) . A welcome pack will be on board – Included will be washing up liquid, washing up sponge, 2 x tea towels, oven gloves, cooker lighter and a complimentary toilet roll in each toilet.
Tesco, Aldi and Waitrose are all near the boat yard for food shopping if required.
Do I need to bring bed linen or towels?
All your bed linen is provided on your boat, but you will need to bring your own towels.
Do we get Buoyancy Aids?
You will get these on arrival. They are provided and fitted free of charge and should be worn at all times when outside on a moving boat at locks. Especially children and non-swimmers.
What bathroom facilities are available on the boats?
All boats have hot running water (once the engine has been run) and at least one shower, sink and toilet. The toilets my need to be pumped out during your holiday which can be done at boat yards along the river (prices vary per yard). The more you can use shore based toilets the better!
It is recommended to top up your water at least every other day, possible daily depending on usage.
Can I bring my own electrical appliances?
All boats have USB sockets, a shaver point and a 12 volt socket similar to in a car. There is also a minimum of one 240v socket which can also charge a tablet, camera, laptop etc. Please do not bring your own hairdryer or straighteners, as these cannot be used but you will find a 12v hair dryer on board. We do have boats that can run up to 2000w currently Marquis and Emperor. Please see the boat descriptions for a full list.
Is there a fridge on my boat?
Yes but please note these are smaller than your fridge at home with a much smaller freezer.