HeatherP

Thanks ever so. I just want to enjoy a peaceful holiday knowing we're doing our best to "get it right:"

Oh that's useful To know. We're used to working with tidal flow in the Broads. Incidentally, how do you judge speed in a narrowboat? In the cruisers you go by an approximation from rpm, but have to exceed it to make any progress where the tidal flow or wind is strongly against you.

Thanks everyone. Some useful thoughts. When 3 of us do the Broads we cook in mostly and have one or two pub meals, so are well used to that. This time we have another couple with us, so it's up for discussion. Good thought about walking ahead to check it's clear - great dog walk! Being used to the Broads I'd forgotten canals have towpaths. Yes, we've been loaned the Nicholson's guide.

Hello all. We're a group of 5 adults in our 50/60s - two couples, plus 1 and also our dog. My hubby and I have a good deal of river cruiser experience from the Broads (no locks!), but none of us have any useful canal experience. We are hiring from Wrenbury 17th Sept and are soon having a get together to discuss choice of route and catering matters. We have just the week,so doing a ring is not an option. In any event we feel a ring route would put time pressure on us, and being newbies that's not sensible. If we're out/back we can easily revise our turn around point if we're making faster/slower progress than predicted. So, any hints and tips, advice, comment please, such as: Which route to choose? What is a realistic distance to plan for? Is it worth taking fishing gear? On the Broads we fish off the boat of a late pm/evening, but of course this time of year it's likely dark 6/7pm What is the biting insect quotient like in late Sept? Other than "take your time", which we sure will, any tips on mooring/turning the boat? I've seen odd pics of boats moored so far off the bank they need a gangplank to get ashore - is that likely? Anything else you can think of, please share Many thanks for your time and patience!!