Canal Boating Guide

Great family holiday
"Not having been on a canal boat trip before I was a little worried about 1 week on a boat with 4 kids but I needn't have worried. On arriving at the boat yard we were shown our 69ft boat and given instruction on driving and working the locks.... The feedback from the kids (age 10, 12 and 15) was excellent and they thoroughly enjoyed getting involved when needed and chilling out at the same time. Thanks Andersen Boats for a great experience."
Visited October 2013

Andersen Boats, more than 40 years experience making canal holidays.....


Andersen Boats Middlewich Base Ok, firstly we are ideally located for a choice of picturesque, relaxing and exciting canal adventures (including the Llangollen Canal, the Marple aqueduct and the Anderton Lift). Secondly, we are a great choice for first time boaters as we are located in Middlewich right next to a set of 3 locks so our hirers not only get full hands on tuition to the operation of their boat but also hands on experience in boat handling, lock operation and waterways safety. But.. once you have set off on your holiday, each boat has a detailed boat manual on board and there is 24 hour telephone support available.

If this is your first time on a canal boat holiday, it's ok if the prospect of a holiday on the water is exciting though also a little daunting :-) especially when it comes to being in charge of your own boat and operating the locks!

Please don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you would like to, at any point before and after booking your holiday. We want to ensure you feel confident throughout your whole holiday journey from looking, booking and going.

Because you will be excited, and it’s good to be prepared before you go :-),  take time to go through this online guide and also download the Boaters Handbook.

How should I start planning my holiday?

So, you want to begin planning your canal boat holiday.... you may have a route in mind? even if you do or you don't, check out our waterways holidays routes and our fleet of narrowboats boats.

However, for any help planning your holiday please call us on (+44) (0)1606 833668 or send us an email on  info@andersenboats.com.

How to operate a canal boat

Here are sources of helpful information the Boaters Handbook & the Canal & River Trust Boaters Handbook Video.



Canal boating holidays England and Wales
Andersen Boats Middlewich Canal Boating Holiday Brochure
Full hire boat instruction and handover given   Accredited hire firm for quality and safety APCO ensuring safety and standards   Hoseasons partners, quality and experience

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