Safe boating in all seasons

For those who boat all year round, different seasons mean different challenges. Find out how to prepare for boating in summer, winter and spring.

Boating in summer

Warmer temperatures, long days and glorious sun can make boating holidays all the more enjoyable. However, droughts and water shortages can cause problems for our canal network.

Saving water when boating
You should use water efficiently all year round, but especially during hot summers
Saving water when boating
You should use water efficiently all year round, but especially during hot summers

Boating in winter

Snow-topped canals might look like scenes out of a Christmas card, but the winter months require preparation for boaters.

Prepare your boat for winter

If you're going to leave your boat unattended, you'll need to protect it from the damaging effects of winter

Personal security in winter

Towpaths can be very dark in the evenings, so it's good to think about personal safety and the security of your boat

Boat left stranded on land after a flood

Preparing for a flood

Safeguard your boat to minimise the impact and subsequent damage caused by a deluge

A boat moored in the snow on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal

Eight tips when winter cruising

Ice on the canal, freezing pipes and slippery surfaces – boating in winter is a whole new ball game

Boating in spring

Spring on the canals means young ducklings and a bloom of wildflowers, but it can also mean birds nesting on your boat.

Nesting birds on boats
Some birds seek nesting spots on boats; here's what you can do
Nesting birds on boats
Some birds seek nesting spots on boats; here's what you can do

Last Edited: 25 November 2024