Cruiser Boats - Boating Holiday Questions Answered

Your Questions Answered

>	Do I need any previous boating experience?
>	Do I require a Driving Permit?
>	Will I be able to moor easily?
>	Are the waterways and locks easy to navigate?
>	How do I know where to go?
>	How far can I go?
>	What sort of boat should I choose?
>	Start and finish times
>	Is it expensive?
>	What happens if we run into any difficulties?
>	Will I need special insurance?
>	Car Parking
>	How do I book?
>	How do I get to the Boat Base?

Do I need any previous boating experience?

No, many of our holidaymakers are first-timers. All our boats are easy to handle, and no previous experience is required before taking the helm.

Do I require a Driving Permit?

A driving licence is not required in France. After your instruction lesson you will be given a temporary permit for the duration of your holiday. No permit is required in Holland or Italy. For Germany a driving permit is only necessary if you require one for your own home country.

Will I be able to moor easily?

Stop when and where you like at a marina or in the open countryside. There are plenty of moorings all along the waterways which are usually free of charge, except in some popular tourist centres, where a fee may be payable.

Are the waterways and locks easy to navigate?

The quiet waterways are largely non-tidal, with only the gentlest of currents, making them extremely easy to navigate. Many are operated automatically or by lock-keepers, whilst others you operate yourselves. You’ll enjoy the locks - they are fun and are often a great place to meet fellow travellers.

How do I know where to go?

Each of the different regions you can explore by boat is covered in detail. Once you’ve decided on your destination, we will send you a specially prepared map for your chosen waterway, showing places to see and things to do - or we will be happy to help you choose.

How far can I go?

Normal cruising speed averages at about 8-10 kph (5-6 mph) and it takes up to 20 minutes to go through a lock. Plan to cruise no more than 4-5 hours each day and you’ll cover 30-40 kms (20-25 miles), but remember to allow time for each lock you need to pass through.

What sort of boat should I choose?

We offer a range of different models and styles of cruiser to suit all requirements, each fully equipped to give your party all the home comforts you need. Click the Boats link on left for more information. Full descriptions and pictures are given in our brochure.

Start and finish times

Hire duration is normally for one or two weeks although 10 & 11 day periods and short breaks are also available. Normal takeover time is 4pm-5pm and return time is by 9am on the final day.

Is it expensive?

These boating holidays represent excellent value for money. The prices are for the boat - simply divide the total cost by the number of people on board and judge for yourself what good value it is.

What happens if we run into any difficulties?

Our boat operators are at your service seven days a week. At each of our bases they have bilingual staff, so whatever the problem, simply phone your base and they will be happy to help you.

Will I need special insurance?

Your boat is fully insured and you are only responsible for any damage up to the amount of your security deposit. Alternatively, you can opt for the damage waiver scheme. The options are described on the Booking Form.

Car Parking

All our bases have free outside parking plus enclosed parking for a modest charge. Some bases offer undercover parking at a charge.

How do I book?

Simply e-mail, telephone or fax us to check availability of your chosen boat and base. We can then make a Provisional Reservation for you, following which you return the completed booking form to us to finalise the booking.

How do I get to the Boat Base?

You can make your own way to the Boat Base, or we can make travel arrangements - please click the Travel button opposite.