Many people worry that handling a narrowboat may be difficult. Although we have many repeat customers every year we also have many first timers and we at Foxhangers will do our very best to put you at ease.
Before you book, our experienced booking team will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and help you plan your route.
You may also benefit from watching the boat handling videos in the cruise guides.
On arrival, once you have been booked in at reception, one of our specially trained staff will meet you at our wharf. As part of the British Marine Federation approved handover, you will be shown how all the equipment onboard works, what to look out for when you do a few simple daily checks and an explanation of how swing bridges work. You will have a “driving” lesson which will include a lock demonstration. Once you and our staff are happy with what you have learned you will be ready to start Your Canal Adventure!
After you have set off, the same team that dealt with your booking will be on hand to answer any questions you may have, and you will be given an out of hours number in case you have any problems or concerns when the office is closed.
Bon Voyage!
“We set out on Fox Talbot on 6th August with some trepidation as novices and with four teenagers on board! Foxhangers had been highly recommended to us and the boat met all of our expectations. We received a detailed, informative and entertaining briefing before setting off towards Bath. Having negotiated the first swing bridge and then lock we grew in confidence and settled into a wonderfully recuperative week afloat on the Kennet and Avon canal. Our initial worries about planning where to stop proved unfounded as the onboard info was very useful and reliable, the recommended pubs proving to be excellent for both food and ales. A fantastic holiday in no small part due to the professionalism of Foxhangers. We will definitely return.”
Richard, Kim, Oli, Bram, Connie and Beth!
