NarrowBoat - Novice/Virgin Welcoming advice and positive Vibes

[surreylady]

Have booked a long weekend break on a narrowboat - next weekend - welcome all positive experiences and advice...

Never been self catering (and worried that we wont find places to eat) never been boating (other than used to row as a young lady) - seemed like a good idea - thought the children (6 and 9) would have great fun - appreciate all positive statements (secretly looking forward to it ourselves too!!!)

you will ahev a fab time

borrow or buy the Nicholson's guide to whicheevr canal you're on for info on places to eat
take wherewithal for breakfasts, sandwichy lunches and a few basic meals in case
also a good knife etc as they are never as good as your own
also rainy-day amusements for the kids just in case
and cosy pyjamas

lifejackets - no negotiation, they must wear them at all times

locks - read the British Waterways guide (they should give you one with the boat) and take your time

don;t attempt to go too far

it will be fun. do bear in mind though that the driving part is hard work for the one who has to do it.

Thanks - have put out a few fav familoy gamea nad have booked lifejacket fittings for the children and will be vigilent on this.

goodness rubbish typing clearly tired - mean famiyl games and lifejacket fittings

don't let your dog try to walk along the narrow shelf down the side of the boat

Don't try to cross the Ouze behind an extremely large coal barge with a strong wake

don't let your dh send you the wrong way out of a lock towards a weir while he stands on the bank watching you struggle to turn the boat round before you go over the top!

oh yes, whoever is driving gets tea and snacks brought to them at the tiller

wear shoes with decent grip (ugly sports sandals are ideal if hot) as you do have to step from moving boat to slippery bank a fair bit

where are you going?