BOAT HIRE IN DECEMBER

[Janet S]

Good afternoon guys,

 

Does anybody out there know of any boat hire firms who operate in December? We'd prefer somewhere in the North of England, but we'd be prepared to travel. We'd be looking for a week from 15th December.

 

I've tried on the internet, but I've been at it all morning and haven't come up with anything.

 

Janet

[John Orentas]

Not certain but I think Shire Cruisers of Sowerby Bridge do some winter hire.

 

Tel...............(01422) 832712

....................www.shirecruisers.co.uk

Edited March 23, 2006 by John Orentas

[Janet S]

Thanks Jon,

 

I've already tried them, as we went with them last May, and we've booked again for next May, but unfortunately they don't have anything available. Shame, as they're one of the best companies we've hired from.

[Bones]

IS THIS ANY GOOD?

 

 

http://www.canaljunction.com/narrowboat/winter.htm

[Richard Bustens]

If you wanted a change, Norfolk Broads do them Richardsons boat yard Stallam. and there is nothing better than the Broads in November / December.

[Janet S]

Thanks Bones,

 

I'm looking now. Don't know why I forgot this site. Must be something to do with the boss hovering round all day and trying not to let him see what I'm up to!

 

Cheers

 

Janet

[dor]

Middlewich boats seem to be out all winter. Also Empress in Nantwich will hire out in winter.

[peasant]

canaltime seem to have boats out at odd times during winter

[adam1uk]

I believe Kate Boats in Warwick hire right through the winter. Give them a ring or send them an email -- they're very friendly and helpful.

 

www.kateboats.co.uk

[Jon]

Was going to suggest Kate Boats too.

 

Just be mindful that holidays in winter are liable to interuption with BW's winter maintenance programme. You need to check before booking, otherwise you could find yourself with very little canal to cruise!

 

Jon

[Janet S]

Thanks for that.

 

After the disasters we've had trying to do the South Pennine Ring over the past three years, we are fast becoming experts on how to keep an eye on stoppages!

 

Fingers crossed for our 2007 trip with Shire Cruisers.

 

Janet

[Paul@CW]

Hi there, you could give my father at Claymoore a ring. They hire all year round, including over Christmas and New Year for those that want a different sort of Christmas.

[Janet S]

Hi Paula,

 

Claymoore is at the top of the list. We had Quarry Bank Mill a couple of years ago, and had a brilliant time on a great boat.

 

Janet

 

PS. Is it right that I hear they are building a 2 berth boat for next year?

[Paul@CW]

Hi Janet

 

It's Paul actually but don't worry (must be the way I walk )

 

The new 2 berth is the next project on the agenda I believe (this year is was an 8-10 berth). I think it may end up being a 2-4 though rather than just a 2 berth. Now that the old man (hope he doesn't read this) is moving things along nicely I can always hope that he can find a job for me there one day (I hope he reads this) rather than just getting me to do his website for nothing haha.

[Liam]

Along with keeping an eye out for stoppages, you'll have to hope for the best weather wise during the Winter months, as ice can play havoc when it gets trapped behind lock gates, and handling frozen ropes isn't the most pleasant thing to do when you've been cruising all day and decide to moor up at 5pm, in the dark. Although, sayting that, the ice usually doesn't arrive until Jan or Feb.

[Canal Shop Man]

If you only want a small boat and can come a bit further south you could try SAISONS. They are available all year and have solid fuel stoves for those cosy evenings in front of the fire! Only 2 and 4 berth boats available.