Union Wharf, Market Harborough
About this trip.
Weighing up hire firms? UK narrowboat hire, compared lists 32 firms by canal, dog fees and fuel.
Before you book: Canal du Midi vs UK narrowboating — same week, different country, very different holiday · How we vet operators — and the questions you should ask any small-group operator yourself
King-size beds, large showers and interior-designed rooms
Narrowboats designed for two
King-size beds, large showers and interior-designed rooms set the tone for these canal boat holidays for couples. Each narrowboat is handcrafted and sleeps two, and there are several styles to choose from. Inside you'll find warm interiors, boutique styling, modern comforts and thoughtful touches.
The idea is to slow down. Days are for gentle cruising, you can moor wherever you like, and the evenings are cosy on board. It's a simple way to switch off and spend time together.
Help for first-timers
You don't need any experience, and most guests are complete beginners. You'll be welcomed when you arrive and given a friendly handover. After that you'll be guided step by step until you feel confident cruising on your own. If you need help or advice at any point during your holiday, the team is a phone call away.
Booking at Union Wharf Marina
You can book online through a secure booking system, use the contact form, or call the office at Union Wharf Marina on 01858 432123. If nobody is in the office, the team may be out around the marina. Leave a message and they'll call you back.
The shape of the trip.
Everything you might be wondering.
Q1Do I need a licence?
No. The hire base gives you a short handover covering steering, locks, and safety before you set off. Speed limit is 4 mph on UK narrowboats — slower than a walking pace. If you can drive a car, you can drive a canal boat.
Q2How many locks will I do?
Depends on the route. The Llangollen has about 20 over a week — leisurely. The Caen Hill flight on the Kennet & Avon has 29 in one stretch — a full day's work. Some European routes (Canal du Midi, Camargue) have almost none. The operator's map shows lock counts per day so you can pace yourself.
Q3Can I travel solo?
Most hire companies require two adults on board, mainly so one person can work locks while the other steers. A few allow solo hire on quieter routes — ask the operator before booking.
Q4What's included?
Typically the boat, fuel for the engine, a handover briefing, mooring ropes, fenders and a starter pack (tea, coffee, washing-up kit). Bedding is sometimes included, sometimes £10-20 extra. Food is your own, shopped from towpath-side villages.
Q5What if something breaks?
The hire base has a 24/7 support line. A fitter will usually come out within a few hours. Engines are robust and well-maintained — the most common failures are blocked weed hatches (clearable yourself) and flat domestic batteries.
Q6Is it good for kids?
Yes — lifejackets are provided and kids love working locks. Older children (6+) can help steer under supervision. Toddlers need constant watching near open decks. A reinforced guard rail helps.
Q7Can I bring my dog?
Most hire companies allow one or two dogs for a small supplement (£20-30 per dog per week). They love the towpath walks. The boat will lose its deposit if the dog damages upholstery — bring a blanket.
Q8What about cancellation?
Typically a 25% deposit at booking, balance 8-12 weeks before departure. Each operator has its own cancellation ladder (steeper close to departure). Travel insurance with cruise cover is recommended.
Three canal holidays, side-by-side.
The two closest canal holidays on Mooch, both in England. Prices are the operators' own, per boat.
