Canal Boat Day Hire Reviews 2

TrustScore 4 out of 5

3.8

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Company details

  1. Boat Rental Service
  2. Boat Tour Agency

Written by the company

Canal Boat Day Hire is a family-run business based at Apsley Marina in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. We offer self-drive and skippered narrowboat experiences on the beautiful Grand Union Canal, providing a unique and relaxing alternative to traditional days out. Our boat, Tilly, is available for private hire and can accommodate groups of up to 10 people. Whether you're planning a family day out, a birthday celebration, a catch-up with friends, a team-building event, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from everyday life, we aim to provide a memorable experience on the water. One of the things that makes us different is that no previous boating experience is required. We provide a comprehensive handover and practical instruction before every trip, helping customers feel confident and comfortable before setting off. Many of our guests are first-time boaters and are often surprised by how easy and enjoyable canal boating can be. We pride ourselves on offering a personal service from the moment a booking is made through to the end of the hire. As a small independent business, we genuinely value every customer and work hard to ensure each trip is safe, enjoyable and stress-free. Located just a two-minute walk from Apsley railway station, with direct links to and from London, Canal Boat Day Hire offers an easily accessible way to experience the tranquillity of the British waterways and create lasting memories with family, friends and colleagues.


Contact info

3.8

Great

TrustScore 4 out of 5

2 reviews

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

We had an amazing day out with family

We had an amazing day out with family. Something different and fun to do and all the mobile phones were away for a change! Lovely . The boat was very clean and Paul told is everything we needed to know for a safe and fun day out . Definitely would recommend

May 10, 2026
Unprompted review
Canal Boat Day Hire logo

Reply from Canal Boat Day Hire

Thank you so much for your lovely review.

I'm delighted to hear that you and your family had such a great day out. One of the things I enjoy most about canal boating is seeing people put their phones away and spend quality time together, so it's wonderful to hear that was part of your experience too.

Thank you for your kind comments about the boat and the handover. I always try to make sure everyone feels confident and comfortable before setting off, especially those who are new to boating.

It was a pleasure meeting you all, and I really appreciate the recommendation. Hopefully I'll see you back on the Grand Union Canal again in the future.

Kind regards,

Paul

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Really lovely day out with our…

Really lovely day out with our Leadership Team from Life Health Foods

What a great way to spend to spend time together outside the office

Great instructions , lovely boat , scenic but simple route and an enormous pub lunch at our turnaround point

I will definitely be booking again

June 3, 2026
Unprompted review
Canal Boat Day Hire logo

Reply from Canal Boat Day Hire

Thank you Mike. It was great meeting you and your team. I'm glad you all had a nice time. Thank you for looking after the boat for me. Hope to see you all again soon.

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