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The following are some of the things which we here at Foxhangers are often asked. There are also some testimonials of past customers you can look at. If you have any questions that are not answered in this section, please contact us

Do I need any previous boating experience?

What is a boating holiday like?

Do I need a licence?

How far can we travel in a day?

What should we bring?

What shouldn't we bring?

How do I find a suitable holiday?

What happens when I reserve a boat?
 

What is included in the holiday price?

Can I take dogs?

What if I have to cancel the booking?

Exactly what safety advice and training do you provide?

What is the Hireboat Handover Scheme?

Are Lifejackets provided?

What is provided on-board?

How far can we get in a week? In a few days?


 
Do I need any previous boating experience?
 
No. It is not necessary to have any previous boating experience to hire a self-drive boat. We will provide you with a very comprehensive boaters hand book which you can read prior to your holiday, plus we provide training on arrival at our base. This will include how to steer your boat, daily boat checks, operating locks and safety instructions. Don't be afraid to ask questions to ensure that you are completely confident and can get the most enjoyment from being captain of your own vessel.
 
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What is a boating holiday like?
 
Boating holidays appeal to a wide variety of interests. You can get away from it all on the tranquil backwaters of the rural canals with their quaint waterside pubs, or explore the normally hidden channels through major towns and cities with a wealth of architectural and industrial history only accessible by water. Your boating holiday offers many places of interest to stop along the way for the whole family.

There is also plenty to do on the water itself, including piloting your own boat, operating locks, exploring backwaters, and maybe taking in a little fishing or soaking up the sun! The slow pace of the waterways is one of the main attractions to many and because you travel only as far as you wish each day, your holiday can be as relaxing or as energetic as you choose.

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Do I need a licence?
 
No "driving" licence is required for a hire boat on the inland waterways. Your boat will however be licensed to use the Kennet & Avon canal including the rivers Avon & Kennet at each end. Should you wish to enter the Bristol Floating Harbour you will be required to make a small payment to the harbour master.

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 How far can we travel in a day?
 
On most of the inland waterways the maximum speed is around 4mph (a brisk walking pace) however the average speed is closer to 3mph. In calculating how far you can to travel in a day, you should work on the basis of "lock miles" . To do this count each lock as one mile and add the distance in actual miles to make "lock miles". Divide this by 3(mph) to give the total time in hours to cover the required distance including locks.

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 What should we bring? 
 
Not too much! Storage space is quite limited on a narrowboat, although our boats have more than most! We provide all bed linen but remember to bring your own towels. Be prepared for all weather conditions, warm clothes can be necessary even in summer. We do provide 2 sets of waterproofs on all our boats. Do not wear shoes that might slip on a wet deck, and bring wellies outside of the summer months. 12v phone mobile phone charger and 12v chargers for any laptops or cameras that plug into a cigar lighter. There are plenty of excellent canalside pubs and restaurants along the K&A, but you will need to bring or purchase along the way provisions for the boat. Games, books, cameras, fishing rods etc are a good idea as there will always be time at the end of a days cruising for some quiet relaxation

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 What shouldn't we bring?
 
Canoes, large suitcases (these can be left in your car), live fishing bait, 240v appliances such as hairdryers (the boats have 240v inverters suitable for charging mobile phones, cameras and laptops)

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How do I find a suitable holiday?

1) If you have chosen the boat you wish to hire but are quite flexible with dates you can go then view the price list in conjunction with the on line availability calendars, to view the price go to the price list and then view the availability calendars.

2) If you know the specific dates you can go and want to see what boats are available then use our prices search function.

3) Once you have selected a boat and date go back to the boats page and check that the boat provides the correct sleeping options for your party.  You can also look at each boat in detail with floor plans, photos & virtual tours. 

4) When you have made your final choice you can make a 48hr reservation by completing the 'Contact Us' form and once we have emailed a reply confirming the temporary reservation you have 48hrs to send us completed booking form and appropriate payment.


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What happens when I reserve a boat?
 
When you click the 'Contact Us' button, a form appears for you to complete with your details. Complete the form with as much information as possible, you can ask any questions you may have in the comments box. On receipt of your form we will verify that the requested dates and boat are still available and then contact you (normally within the same or following day) by email or phone to confirm your 48 hr reservation

Please note that your booking is not complete until you have submitted a booking form, paid an appropriate payment and received written confirmation from us.

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What is included in the holiday price?
 
Your holiday hire cost will include the self-drive hire of your chosen boat for the rental period. The hire costs includes sufficient fuel to run the engine for an average of 4 hours per day plus all heating. If you run the engine for longer than 4 hours a day then a small fuel surcharge will be levied of approximately £1.50 per hour for every extra hour, the price will be confirmed on your arrival as it depends on the fluctuations in the market price for diesel. Please don't be put off by this charge as it is due to the recent deregulation of red diesel by the EU, note other hire boat companies are charging for all of the diesel consumed including diesel used for the heating.

All bedding, car parking, colour TV, canal map, life jackets and VAT at 15% is included in the hire price.

A damage deposit of £200.00 is payable with your final payment. This will be refunded to you after your holiday subject to the boat being returned at the correct time in the condition you took it.

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Can I take dogs?
 
No more than 2 well behaved dogs are welcome on our boats.  Please include details on the holiday booking form. A charge of £20.00 per dog per week will be applicable.

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 What if I have to cancel the booking?

You are liable for the monies you have already paid should you have to cancel. The balance is required at least 8 weeks prior to your booking and should you cancel after you have paid the balance you are not entitled to a refund. In the event we are unable to re-let the boat we also reserve the right to claim from you any unpaid balance of the hire cost. We therefore strongly recommend you take out cancellation insurance at the time of booking, we will send details of an independent company although you are welcome to make your own arrangements.

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Exactly what safety advice and training do you provide?

We aim to provide all the information you will need in order to safely handle our boats. One of our experienced team members will show you through the boat, explain where everything is and how everything works, before demonstrating how to safely drive and moor the boat, operate swing bridges and locks. We have developed this handover training in compliance with the British Marine Federation’s Hire Boat Handover Scheme.

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What is the Hireboat Handover Scheme?

The ‘Hire Boat Handover’ is a nationally recognised scheme developed by the British Marine Federation and RYA. There will be two forms sent to you on confirmation of your booking. You will need to bring these completed forms along with you on the day of your holiday. Failure to do so will result in your not being able to board your boat.

These measures are in the best interest of your safety and allow us to optimise our quality of service to you. They simply allows us to get a better idea of your level of knowledge and to ensure that you understand all aspects of canal boating and your vessel before you depart. This is vital to your group’s safety and to minimise the risk of damaging the boat.

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Are Lifejackets provided?

We will always provide life jackets for all children and non-swimmers in your group. These members should wear their lifejackets whenever they’re on deck. If other members of your group would like lifejackets, we are only too happy to provide them for you.

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What is provided on-board?

All of our boats have cooking and cleaning equipment, as well as plates, glasses, cutlery etc. We provide bed linen and pillows, and are able to provide towels if requested (a hire fee is applicable for towels). Click here to go to the boats page. Full inventories for each boat can be accessed by clicking on the boat that you would like to look at.

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How far can we get in a week? In a few days?

This really depends on how much boating you want to do. Click here to go to the Kennet and Avon canal page where you can plot your route with approximate travel times provided. As a rough guide, If you are heading west, Bath is approximately 9 hours boating away, and heading east, it takes about 4 ½ hours to negotiate the Caen Hill locks to Devizes.

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Here are some of the comments we have received from past customers:

Excellent Holiday aboard the 'Foxcub' (6/6/10-13/06/09) Ideal size for first timers. Peter.

Me and six friend hired Cunning Fox from 13th-15th June, for a short break heading towards bath. As none of us had never been on a canal boat we didn't know what to expect, but after our briefing everything was fine and we all had one of our best weekends ever and we definitely be doing this on yearly basis. The staff were excellent and the boat was spotless. Cant wait till next year. Marino and crew, Cornwall.

We thoroughly enjoyed our week on Foxtrot (22-29 May 2009) - an excellent boat and so well equipped with everything we needed. Mooring in the centre of the City of Bath was amazing and the canal was really beautiful. Being so close to nature and seeing all the young water birds was amazing. Many thanks for a truly memorable holiday. Keith, Mary, Lucy, Adam, Jack and Megan.

Super service, thanks you all were great to work with and run a darn good service. The boat was very fine and made us feel proud as we passed the other guys. Best Regards Gary and Barbara, Foxtail 8-22 May 2009.

Just wanted to say what a great time we all had and that was very much helped by the quality of your boats and excellent service we received when you were able to get all the boats ready for us together on Friday. Very clean, well laid out and functioning boats with a shower that surprised everyone (well those that used it anyway!) and the little personal touches like the wine and chocolates (I’d forgotten to bring some wine and being told there was a cold one in the fridge started my weekend off well!) Thanks again and I’m sure there will be a few, including me, that will be looking again at holidaying with you, Mark Whitehouse

Just a note to thank you for a great holiday. The cleanliness of the boat, equipment and training (Richard) were first class. Again many thanks. Roy Reynolds,"Foxglacier" 5/11th May 2009

10 relaxing days on Foxglove. Weather was great most of the time. We have brought back some happy memories. Thanks to all the staff at Foxhangers who were all helpful and welcoming. We will be back next year. Dave & Jane Langlois, Foxglove, Easter 2009

We just returned from a tranquil 2-week holiday on the canal aboard the Fennec Fox in April 2009. The boat was well kitted out and very clean; everything works onboard. The canal passage to/from Bristol was nicely spaced out with serene countryside and busy Bath & Bristol. We particularly enjoyed the River Avon passage between Bath & Bristol, as it was a bit of an adventure. The sight of the Bath Weir and mooring just before it was truly an awesome experience. The one thing I’ve missed since returning to Singapore are the sounds of birds singing every morning…our wake up call. Mark & Jessie

Thank you for a perfect short break. Foxtalbot took myself, my 76 year old Mum, my husband and my two children ( 12 and 15 years) from Foxhangers to the second aqueduct past Bradford on Avon and back again, between Tuesday at 5pm to Friday at 9 am at a relaxing pace. We feel completely rested and energised at the same time. Foxtalbot gained many admiring glances from other boaters who noticed her beautifully constructed and luxurious interior as we shared locks! We are particularly impressed with the courtesy, knowledge and reassurance of the Foxhangers staff, both before and during the holiday. Alison & Brian Johns and family April 2009

Just returned from a splendid week with the Fennec Fox. It was our first time on a narrow boat, however the comprehensive information pack, plus the hands-on initial instructions and tips meant we had no problems operating the boat, locks or swing bridges. Mooring up in Bath just below the weir on my birthday was magical. Looking forward to our next trip. N. Arnott.
 

We hired Foxtalbot in November 2008, with my wife and our daughter and partner for a 4 night mid-week break. What an amazing way to spend quality time with family or friends. We were blessed with great weather (although cool) but with the central heating, it was no problem! We found the whole experience great fun and would not hesitate using Foxhanger for another trip and have already told our family and friends in New Zealand, to try before they die! The boat was very well appointed, clean and had everything that opened and shut, the Foxhanger staff were friendly and very helpful. We would have no hesitation in recommending or using Foxhangers again in the future. And the pubs were great as well! Best Wishes, Bruce & Leeann Macaulay

Spent a fantastic four fun packed days moseying up to Bath - great pubs on route and plenty of exercise to keep the waistline at bay. Boat warm and comfortable and remarkably easy to handle most of the time - even by a four year old!!!!! Managed a full cooked breakfast for eight every morning from the well equipped galley.Cold but sunny and, even though we awoke to ice on the inside of the windows, were extremely snug under the great duvets! Definitely want to return and get through Bath next time!! Highly recommended!!! - The Strilkowski's and The King's - Foxhunter 27th October 2008

For four nights, and three days, we enjoyed being in charge of Foxtrot, one of Foxhanger's fine vessels. As our skills at the helm improved, so did our enjoyment. Rainstorms, not withstanding, we remained cosy and comfortable. To be eye to eye with a resting Kingfisher was "priceless". Thank you. Matthew & Shirley Hudson

Well, from the start of contacting Foxhangers via email we knew we'd made the right choice, attentive, friendly, cheerful bunch of people!!!
We hired Foxterrier a 9 berth boat for a 4 day break(22/26 Sept 2008)for a skipper, crew of 7 & baby ,well I can say it was a first class boat & service, we made it to bath & back & had some spectacular views along the way(& bacon butties..!!)the boat was fitted out very comfortably & had everything on it to make it a home from home!!! Can't wait to go again next year! Aaron & crew, Basingstoke

Great boat, great canal, great service, great holiday. What more could you want?  Many thanks and all the best. Tritton family, Cunning Fox, 27th September 2008.

A great holiday on the Flying Fox in September 2008. We wanted to introduce our Danish friends to a canal boat holiday and we were not disappointed. Despite some wet and cloudy days, we had a great holiday. There was no shortage of information and the service by the Foxhanger staff was friendly and efficient. When we had problems with the gas, help came almost immediately - we felt we were in good hands and enjoyed a beer together. The boat had lots of storage space and was spotlessly clean and well appointed. We were very impressed with the inventory and loved the warm duvets - something Danish people would hate to be without! We recommended your company on several occasions when talking to other holiday makers who thought the boat looked so attractive. The only minus was the fact that we couldn't go on the Avon River because of the strong currents and heavy rainfall, but even Foxhangers have no control over the weather gods! We hope that more people from abroad will sample the delights of a canal holiday through the lovely English countryside. Patricia Joergensen

I am writing to thank everyone concerned for a fabulous weekend on board Foxterrier. It was a surprise for my husband's 60th birthday and he new nothing until we turned into your gate on Friday. I am pleased to say that he enjoyed every minute of the weekend as did our children and their partners and especially our 2 year old granddaughter. The boat is superb and was well fitted out and very clean. The bottle of wine and the chocolates in the fridge were a very nice touch and our first experience of narrow boating has not disappointed us and we possibly now have the bug and will be back again. Maureen Torah

Thank you for a wonderful holiday. It was our first canal boat holiday and we are already planning our next. Everybody we met at Foxhangers, and on the canal were friendly and helpful. The standard of the boat exceeded expectations. We would not hesitate to recommend Foxhangers to anybody. Keep up the good work. Rob Perry. Foxterrier August 26-29th 2008.

Thanks for a wonderful week on Foxterrier. The boat is one of the best we have ever hired, superbly equipped and maintained. We were particularly impressed by the two hot water tanks and the fact that we could shower first thing in the morning! Pat and Alan Wright, Foxterrier 11th - 18th Aug 2008

Dear All, Just to say a big thank you for our excellent holiday last week. As my father had been on a few water-borne holidays in years gone by we thought a trip in a narrowboat would be an ideal 65th birthday present from the family. We were not disappointed. From the extremely friendly welcome and highly professional introduction to the craft we knew we were in for a good week. The boat was excellent (once we'd mastered the steering!) and very well equipped. The canal was glorious. Excellent cruising and good pubs at convenient intervals along the way. It was so nice to get away from cars and the generally frantic pace of normal life. Overall, a wonderfully relaxing few days. I had not done anything like this before and have now definitely got the bug. I'm working out when I can book to go up the Caen Hill flight next year. Thank you so much for an excellent holiday. Regards Matthew Wood.

Brilliant. Thank you. What a nice, friendly and efficient firm Foxhangers is! As we were leaving last Friday morning, a big dark dog fox ran across your drive in front of the car. Foxhanger indeed! David Hanson.

Four of us had a short break on Fox Glacier last weekend of June 2008. We are two couples who had never been on a canal boat before. When we arrived we were very apprehensive and wondered if we had perhaps bitten off more than we could chew. Our fears were groundless. Your induction was very professional but at the same time an entertainment in itself. When we set off we soon found we could actually do it! First we learned how to go through locks and swing bridges; a little later how to get unstuck with the barge poles; then how to park without falling in. Last how to turn round. A great thrill! A small technical problem was dealt with immediately by your extraordinarily helpful people including chauffeuring us to the best pub dinner we have ever had! We had an absolutely splendid break! We are hooked!. We are telling all our friends you've gotta do it! Kindest regards Jules & Norman, Hanneke & Maurice of Nottingham.

"Thanks for a lovely relaxing holiday. Went up the Caen Hill locks which was a fantastic experience and then onto Hungerford where we turned round.(106 locks in total for week). Staff were very friendly and the boat was excellent. Hope to hire from them again in the future." John. Foxglacier Friday 13th June 2008.

"Just a quick note to say thanks for a brilliant holiday! we hired the Foxtrot on the May Day bank holiday weekend in 2008. Excellent training, staff all helpful, friendly and patient, and wonderful boat with excellent facilities. A most relaxing, enjoyable weekend. Excellent detailed information provided about local pubs, stuff to look at, and maps. Boats were straightforward to use (with a bit of practice) and locks, bridges, all the same. Would highly recommend your service to anyone!" Vera and crew

"Thank you all for such a pleasant holiday, all your staff were really helpful and the boat was well equipped and the layout was great".
Shaun Fox. Cunning Fox, 19th April 2008.

"We hired the Foxtalbot from 14-18 April; had a marvellous time. boat very comfortable, well appointed and warm; canal beautiful, weather cold but dry, thank goodness. A very relaxing break. all the staff at Foxhangers were very helpful. We hope to come back again." A Ambrose.

“Very impressed with cleanliness of boat and also the equipment supplied on the boat.” – Fox Talbot 28th July 2007

“Foxhangers appear to have everything about right – first class holiday – well done!” – Arctic Fox 22nd July 2007

“An excellent boat, well planned and built, handling also very good” – Flying Fox 24th June 2007

“We were pleased with the boat – lots of nooks and crannies for storing. The boat was easy to handle, a very pleasant holiday.” – Foxtail 11th June 2007

“Kitchen was well equipped, the boat spotless, nice staff. Had a good time despite the English weather. Thank you Foxhangers.” – Foxglove June 2007

“The holiday was immense fun, excellent boat, keep up the good work!” – Foxglove 2nd May 2007

“Can’t fault anything, you must take great pride in your boats and it shows.” – Foxtail 27th April 2007
 

If you would like to add your own testimonial and let us know how you enjoyed your holiday, please contact us

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