Information for first-time holiday boaters

On a boat you'll never get bored of looking out of the window, because you can change your view every day.

With over 2,000 miles of our canals and rivers for you to cruise, the sheer choice of holiday routes can seem daunting at first, but it's really just a case of deciding what you want to get out of your time afloat.

How do I choose where to go?

First choose a location, either a place that you've previously fallen in love with or somewhere you've always wanted to explore. You can then look up a suitable hire boat company in the area, who will be able to explain nearby routes. Alternatively, if you really don't know where to go, why not pay a hire company a visit right from the off and get their suggestions based around your wants and needs.

Think about how you and your family or friends want to spend your days. If you love visiting attractions and eating out, go for a route that passes through a major city like Birmingham or Liverpool. But if you prefer peaceful surroundings and wildlife spotting there's a huge choice of rural waterways, like the Mon & Brec or Llangollen Canal.

Your skill level and confidence in driving the boat may also play a part in your route decision. If you're new to boating, you may want to avoid areas with lots of locks. However, if you have energetic children, then locks could help to keep them entertained.

How far can I travel?

During the summer months, when the days are longer and the weather is (usually) better, you can expect to cruise for anywhere between four and seven hours a day.

Travelling at 3-4mph daily will mean you cover around 80 to 100 miles in a week. This will still provide plenty of time for lazy lunches and/or energetic exploring.

You should also make sure you allow extra time in your schedule to go through locks. It will take you at least 15 minutes to get through each one and there might be a queue of boats at peak times.

How much will it cost?

The price of a canal holiday can vary widely and depends on a number of factors, including how many people are in your group, what time of year you're going, the length of your break and the quality of boat you choose.

• A couple can expect to pay around £350 upwards for a short break (3-4 nights) and £500 upwards for a week-long break
• A group of four can expect to pay around £450 upwards for a short break and £850 upwards for a week-long break

Sharing your holiday with a larger group of friends and family can make it much more affordable. For example, a short break on a boat for up to 12 people can cost as little as £800, which is around £65 per person. Most hire boat companies offer free parking at their base for the duration of your holiday.

Check whether fuel is included in your quote and if there are any extra costs, such as a damage waiver.

As with most holidays, prices are often higher during peak times like summer and Christmas.