No, in fact it’s surprisingly easy – it steers with a wheel just like a car, and a single level controls speed both forward and backwards. Our boats are specifically designed for easy, relaxed cruising, so are very manoeuvrable, very steady and comfortable.
Cruising always happens at slow speeds, at around 3-4 knots (a brisk walking pace) so there is plenty of time to manoeuvre, whilst watching the world slip by. Boats don’t have brakes so you simply allow time for the boat to glide to a halt, or use reverse gear if needed.
We have created an exclusive DVD specifically to help newcomers understand how easy it is to enjoy a cruising holiday. Clips from the DVD will be coming soon to the website.
As much as you need. If you are an experienced cruiser, our base teams will quickly familiarise you with your chosen boats features and controls and away you go. If you are a newcomer or slightly nervous we will stay with you until you are confidently manoeuvring the boat, steering, controlling your speed and able to approach locks or moorings with confidence. It really is very easy.
Very comfortable. Our range of boats can cater for small groups of 2 right up to 10 or more. All of the creature comforts you would expect of a holiday home are provided, fully equipped galleys (that’s nautical for kitchen!) hot and cold running water, TV’s, lounges, en-suite showers and WC’s – we even have air conditioning on some of our more modern boats. There are a few specifics you need to be aware of, for example running your engine charges your batteries (the batteries power the lights, TV stereo etc) and heats the water for you, but it is really very straightforward
No. We only cruise on canals and sheltered waters. Even on the windiest days on the larger lakes of Ireland, our boats are so big and stable, you won’t feel uncomfortable.
Yes and no. You get the excitement of exploring a new region, at your own time and agenda, with complete freedom and flexibility, but you don’t have the stress of worrying about the wind, waves, navigation, sails and tides. You will also be amazed at how much space is available both above and below decks
Generally speaking no. The induction you receive on arrival at our base, is sufficient for most of our cruising areas, but a few areas do require a formal license. These areas are clearly marked in our brochures, websites or our sales team will help you choose.
Make the most of the long March - October cruising season and see more of Europe at times that suit you best. Whether you’re looking for an early Spring break to the tulip fields of Holland, a two week holiday cruising the Canal du Midi or an end of season jaunt to Venice for the last of the summer sunshine - we can help you cruise whenever you choose!
The beauty of our holidays is that you tailor-make your own holiday. We provide suggested cruising itineraries for each region but you have the freedom to set your own pace of life. A one-way cruise is perfect if you want to cover a lot of ground and see as much as possible, or choose a return-to-base if you prefer to linger and explore the towns and villages en route - that way you won’t miss a thing!
Short breaks are increasingly popular as more and more people take advantage of cheap airfares to get away for long weekends. Or why not use your boat as a longer-term alternative to hotels and villas and get to see more of the area you are in. Many people hire our boats for a month or more, especially if they are propertyhunting in an area, so call the sales team early to secure the boat and dates of your choice.
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