The Boat Floats

Hire & Experience on the Kennet and Avon Canal

2 hire & experience businesses found along the Kennet and Avon Canal.

Want to explore the Kennet and Avon Canal? There are 2 hire and experience businesses offering everything from afternoon trips to week-long holidays.

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The Bathwick Boathouse

Hire & Experience
4.5 mi

Sally Narrowboats Ltd.

Hire & Experience
0.8 mi

Boat hire and experiences on the canals

Hiring a narrowboat or canal boat is one of the best ways to experience the inland waterways. Most hire companies offer boats for anything from a few hours to a couple of weeks. You'll get a full handover covering how to steer, work locks, and handle the boat safely before you set off.

Day boats are perfect for a taster experience, while a week-long hire lets you properly settle into the rhythm of canal life. Popular routes include the Llangollen Canal, the Kennet & Avon, and the Four Counties Ring. Book early for school holidays, as the best boats go quickly.

Beyond traditional hire, some operators offer skippered trips, canal-themed experiences, and even floating restaurant evenings. It's a growing part of the waterways scene and a wonderful way to share the canals with friends and family who might not be confident handling a boat themselves.

About Kennet and Avon Canal for boaters

The Kennet and Avon Canal, managed by CRT is part of the UK's inland waterways network running approximately 140 kilometres.

With 123 locks along its length, it offers a varied cruising experience for narrowboat and wide-beam owners alike.

Below you'll find services, facilities, and local knowledge contributed by boaters who know this waterway well.