We've never driven a boat before!
Don't worry - it's simple, you don't need a licence. Our boats are easy to handle and you'll soon get the hang of the locks. Our trained staff* will give you a guided tour of your floating home and take you out on a practice run before you set off. On board you will also find a comprehensive and easy to read manual giving simple reminders, safety tips and details of the area. * Guildford Boat House is accredited by the British Marine Federation for boat handover procedures.
What do we need to bring?
Our boats are fully equipped with cutlery, crockery, cooking utensils and bed linen. All you will need to bring will be your clothes, towels, tea towels and groceries. It's a good idea to bring enough food to keep you going for the first few days. Also useful are soft-soled, non slip shoes and wet weather clothing, games, your camera (and binoculars if you have them), as well as a torch for finding the boat after an evening ashore. Towels are supplied to overseas visitors free of charge.
Can we use hair dryers and shavers?
Your boat has a 12v system which means you need to use the special hair dryer supplied. All boats have electric razor points and a cigar socket similar to a car for charging your mobile phone – so bring your usual connecting plugs and leads.
What about fuel and water?
You start your cruise with a full tank of fresh drinking water (which can be topped up en route), gas for your hot water, cooking and heating and a full tank of diesel fuel - usually ample for your cruise. Your hire charge includes the cost of the fuel (subject to changes in fuel duty) and gas you use.
How far can we go?
Think of your narrow boat as a 'room with a view' - at every turn there is something different to see. The speed limie on the River Wey is 4 miles per hour so you will realise that this is a time for relaxing, not racing! See our Cruising Area section for suggested routes.
Where can we moor?
Anywhere on the towpath side of the River Wey Navigations, providing you are not causing an obstruction. If you are close to a town centre on the Thames, expect to pay.
Where can we park our car?
We have limited car parking at the Boat House free of charge, with an allocation according to the size of yur boat. Additional cars, over and above the allowance for your craft, are charged a modest feeand can be accommodated only by special arrangement with us.
Do we need insurance cover?
Your cancellation insurance is automatically included in your hire charge. Your boat is already insured; you simply pay a non-refundable security waiver with your balance of hire, and in some cases (multi-boat bookings and/or single-sex parties) a refundable security supplement.
When can we start?
You can start your holiday or short break on Friday, Saturday, Monday or Tuesday and your cruise can be of 3, 4, 7, 10, 11 or 14 days' duration - even longer if you can spare the time! With heating on board, our craft are suitable for all-year-round cruising, though we are unable to hire craft over the Christmas/New Year period.
What next?
Just telephone or go to our contact form page to check availability and costs: the process of booking is made as easy as possible.