Actually, you don’t need an inland waterways helmsman certificate to hire a day boat from Fox Narrowboats. You don’t even need any experience on the water. And you won’t be handed a set of keys on a cork keyring, and sent off down the river. Our team gives you a full talk and initiation before you leave the mooring, so by the time you’re casting off, you’ll be feeling ready.

All you will need is snacks, a decent pair of sunglasses, and a “can do” attitude!

A proper day out. Not just a boat trip.

Day boat hire from our marina in March, Cambridgeshire, isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about cruising along a pretty stretch of the Old River Nene, or the moment someone spots a heron standing very still in the reeds and everyone goes quiet. It’s sometimes about the debate with your crew, about whether to stop for fish and chips or have lunch at a waterside pub. It’s always about a break away from screen time, notifications and emails.

heron still fenland waterways – deposit

The Fens don’t look like anywhere else in England: Big skies, flat landscapes, ancient towns and atmospheric legends that have been woven into classic novels.  (Think Philip Pullman, and Philippa Pearce.) If you’ve spent the last few weekends at soft play, a garden centre or a shopping centre this is going to feel a bit different.

Pick your route. We’ve done the planning for you.

Depending on how adventurous you’re feeling and what kind of places you’d like to stop in, there’s a route to suit you. See our fenland waterways map

fenland waterways interactive map – fox

Best for families with young children: Three Holes or Benwick

Both of these routes are lock-free, which means no stress and no queue. Head out along the Middle Level Navigations towards Three Holes for a route that’s become something of a wildlife corridor; brilliant for spotting kingfishers, herons and the occasional swan. There’s space to moor up for a picnic, and the kids can try their hand at net fishing from the bankside. It’s about four hours of cruising in total, so quite manageable with an early start and a packed lunch.

rustic corner cafe benwick march – rustic

Benwick is another gentle option heading west, with moorings near the village and the Five Alls pub at the far end of the route at weekends. This rural, dog-friendly pub has outside tables to sit at in the summertime. Muddy paws and boots are welcome all year round. The Rustic Corner Café inside the Spar shop does excellent breakfasts and cakes, and the Facebook reviews describe it as a “hidden gem.”

Best for a longer day: Upwell and Outwell

If you want to make a full day of it, the journey east towards Upwell and Outwell is one of the most picturesque in the Fens. You’ll pass through Marmont Priory Lock and arrive at Upwell, a village that seems almost too pretty to be real; Dutch-style houses lining the waterway, are a stunning photo opportunity. There is time for a stop at The Creek public house.

At Outwell basin, there’s a natural turning point and a good spot for a picnic. On the way back through Upwell, J.R. Stott Fish and Chips is the place to be (but check opening times on 01945 772345 before you go).

This route takes around seven and a half hours return with two locks, so it’s a proper full-day adventure. Comfortable for adults and older children who are up for a longer cruise.

Best for a relaxed start: through the town of March

Some routes pass through March itself, which means you can start your morning with breakfast at The Acre riverside pub (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays) or a full English at Ye Olde Griffin Hotel any day of the week. And on the way back, the Ship Inn has moorings right outside and a cold drink with your name on it.

March isn’t the most famous Fenland town, but its hidden charms are worth slowing down for.

A note to the first-time skipper

Yes, you can steer a hire boat without having done it before. Thousands of people do it every year, including people who were considerably more nervous about it than you are. The boat’s easy to handle, the Fenland waterways give you plenty of room, and the speed limit on the navigation is 4mph, about the same pace as a brisk walk. But that’s not a goal to aim for, you won’t be travelling fast enough to do anything so dramatic!

Locks may sound intimidating until you’ve done one, at which point they become the most satisfying part of the day. On the lockless routes, you don’t have to worry about them at all.

Before you set off, our team will walk you through everything you need to know: how to steer, how to slow down, how to moor up, and what to do at a lock if your route includes one. You’ll leave feeling calm and capable rather than like you’ve been handed a manual and wished good luck.

What to bring

Pack as though you’re going for a long picnic that happens to take place on water. Layers are your friend in the Fens; the skies are wide open and the wider waterways can be breezy. Bring more food than you think you’ll need, a blanket, sunscreen, hat and something to keep the children occupied during the quieter stretches. A spotters guide to Fenland birds could make the day more interesting too.

You might also want to look up opening times for wherever you’re planning to stop for food. Canal-side pubs and small town cafés are charming, but if you’re planning a day around a particular stop you’ll need to be sure it’s open and consider pre booking.

Ready to book?

June is peak season on the waterways; the days are long, the light is amazing, and the Fens are genuinely at their best. Day boats go quickly at this time of year, (even though they move slowly!) so if you’re thinking about it, now is the time to stop thinking and start booking.

Visit Day Boat Hire to check availability and book your day out on the water. We’re based in Cambridgeshire, and we’ll be very glad to see you.

No experience necessary. Happy memories guaranteed.

You may also like: Why Your Kids Will Love a Narrowboat Summer Holiday

Don’t miss more articles about what to see and do when narrowboating in the Fens: Sign up to follow this blog in the sidebar on the right.

Peggy Melmoth is a writer who shares her memoir-style writing and poetry at Life, Locks and Literature.

Photo credits: Marina Fox Narrowboats, Heron Deposit Photos, Ship Inn riverside, 

The post You Don’t Need to Know What You’re Doing. That’s the Adventure! appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

1. Planning a Narrowboat Holiday

If you’re thinking about your next trip, these posts are full of tips and ideas to help you plan with confidence, whether it’s your first holiday or your fiftieth.

collage spring 2025 – april narrowboat holiday is the perfect spring get away

• Don’t Book a Narrowboat Holiday – Before Trying this One-Minute Hack
  Smart narrowboaters subscribe to this blog before booking; find out why and get insider tips to make your holiday stress-free.
• First-Time Narrowboat Holiday? Here’s What the Internet Wants You to Know
  From managing locks to keeping dogs safe on board, discover the advice seasoned boaters wish they had before their first cruise.
• Buying a Slice of Heaven – My Experience of Buying a Narrowboat
  If you’re planning to go boat shopping but are a novice, it is always a good idea to enlist an “in-the-know” friend to accompany you.
• Why an April Narrowboat Holiday is the Perfect Spring Getaway
  Spot wildlife, enjoy cosy waterside pubs, and cruise through peaceful Fenland landscapes in the best season for a trip.

2. Family Life and Shared Adventures

Narrowboating is full of moments big and small that bring families closer together; from learning to steer to tending a rooftop garden, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy.

milla & daughter narrowboat alice elgie

• Boating Adventures with Four-Legged Friends
  With endless towpaths for walks, relaxing cruising time, and cosy evenings on deck, boating is perfect for pets as well as people.
• Narrowboat Roof Gardening (with or without children!)
  Gardening from the boat teaches patience and wonder, perfect for little hands and curious minds alike.
• Why Your Kids Will Love a Narrowboat Summer Holiday
  From spotting ducks to steering the boat, discover how a narrowboat holiday offers adventure, relaxation, and family bonding without leaving the UK.
• A Writer’s Experience of a Family Narrowboat Adventure
  In an increasingly busy world, an escape to life on the cut gives families the chance to slow down and reconnect.

3. Romance, Rest and Reconnection

Sometimes a canal boat holiday is just about slowing down, spending time together, or finding a little magic in everyday moments.

• Narrowboating Through Winter
  There is a quiet romance to basic meals cooked on the fire, giving you permission to hunker down and switch off from the world.
• The Lovers Guide To The Fen Waterways
  Scenic views, cosy pub lunches, and strolling hand in hand along cobbled streets make the Fenland waterways a perfect romantic getaway.

4. Living a Slower, Greener Life

Life on the cut encourages a gentler rhythm and a closer connection to the world around you; mindfulness, seasonal awareness, and simple eco-friendly choices can make every trip feel special.

greener living on a narrowboat

• Mindfulness on the Waterways
  Mindfulness is a way of being within the community, both human and animal, and it helps keep canals peaceful for everyone.
• A Simpler Greener Freer Lifestyle On Board A Narrowboat
  Use your move afloat or narrowboat holiday to slow down, reconnect with nature, and consider the impact of technology and your environmental footprint.
• Autumnal Foraging on the Towpath
  Enjoy seasonal treats while treading lightly, and discover the beauty and bounty of the hedgerows.

5. Places, Nature and Inspiration

From wildlife to seasonal scenery, waterways maps to historic destinations, there is always something to inspire you on the canals.

• Spring On The Cut
  Nature through a narrowboat window draws you in like nothing else, offering an immersive, ever-changing view of the world outside.
• Autumn On The Water – Diary of Living On A Narrowboat
  Reeds sway and leaves twirl across the water, a reminder of the beauty of seasonal change.
• Exploring Cambridgeshire’s Wildlife: Spotting Flora and Fauna with Fox Narrowboats
  Swans, kingfishers, and more, there is always something new to spot around every river bend.
• The Seven Wonders of the Fenland Waterways
  From medieval bridges to breath-taking scenery, take a canal journey through hidden Fenland wonders.
• A Canal-Themed Christmas, Dreaming of Your 2026 Waterways Escape
  While our boats rest for winter, imagine frosty towpaths, festive days out, and the timeless beauty of Ely Cathedral.
• Puss in Boats: Can Cats Live Afloat On A Narrowboat?
  From towpath adventures to roof-top sunbathing, discover how boat cats enjoy life on the cut.

We hope these highlights inspire your own adventures on the waterways this year. There is always something new to discover.

Love canal boating? Make 2026 your year on the waterways! For inspiring tips, seasonal ideas, and surprising insights for your next Fenland adventure, enter your email in the ‘Follow Blog’ box on the right-hand side, and we’ll send new articles straight to your inbox.

Peggy Melmoth is a writer who spent thirteen years living on canal boats with her family. She writes about narrowboat holidays, life on the waterways, and finding adventure in everyday moments at www.narrowboatwife.com

The post Fox Narrowboats: Highlights from Our Blog in 2025 appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life?

Need a break that will suit your whole family?

Want to enjoy quality time together and learn new skills?

A narrowboat holiday offers a unique and unforgettable experience for families, allowing you to travel at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Fenland countryside, explore charming towns and villages, and create lasting memories. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect family holiday in Cambridgeshire.

Is a Narrowboat Holiday Right for Your Family?

Are you looking for a different kind of family adventure? Look no further than a Fox Narrowboats holiday. Picture yourself and your loved ones cruising along our unusual waterways, surrounded by breath-taking scenery and big skies. A Cambridgeshire narrowboat holiday offers a unique blend of relaxation, exploration, and quality time with your family. The flat, reclaimed land of the Fens has a very different vibe to the rest of the English canal network.

Narrowboats, (also known as canal boats,) provide a cosy and comfortable home away from home. Our traditional Fox boats are designed to navigate our local canals and rivers, offering a peaceful and slow-paced way to travel. With all the necessary amenities on board, including comfy beds, a kitchen, saloon and bathroom, you’ll have everything you need for an enjoyable holiday.

What Safety Tips Do Families Need to Know?

While children of all ages can enjoy a boating holiday, it’s important to assess their safety and ability to follow instructions. Younger children may require constant supervision to ensure their safety, and yet older children can actively participate in becoming valued members of the “crew” helping with steering, mooring and operating the locks. Just a few simple precautions will keep everyone safe. Life jackets supplied on board will provide peace of mind, especially if you have young children. Choose sensible, flat, comfortable shoes for everyone when the boat is underway, and save your fancy shoes for when you’re heading ashore for an evening meal! Prepare for the unpredictable UK weather by packing comfortable clothes, shorts, fleeces and waterproofs for everyone.

You may need to remind the children of the importance of staying away from the water’s edge while on board the narrowboat. Running on the towpath is to be avoided, and so teach everyone to keep a safe distance from the edge. Make sure children are supervised on board and explain how to stay safe during the journey. Be aware that locks have tall, slippery sides and fast-moving water: Children should never operate a lock without adult supervision.

Essential Planning

You can get the kids excited about the upcoming narrowboat holiday by involving them in the preparations and talking about the safety tips they will need to know. Explain the potential dangers, and that they may need to wear life jackets, depend on their age. It will be important to follow instructions and be mindful of their surroundings. Watching videos together can help to prepare your family before you go. Try YouTube for canal boat safety tips, and Robbie Cumming for boating inspiration.

Watch: Robbie Cumming Stars in Canal Boat Diaries

Younger children may enjoy the old ITV programme Rosie and Jim.

You may also like to plan your narrowboat holiday around family-friendly attractions and activities. Research destinations that offer playgrounds, nature reserves, and museums suitable for children. This will keep the children are entertained and engaged throughout the journey. There is also lots of inspiration for a family boating holiday on our blog.

Would boating suit your family? Check availability now for your next family adventure.

You may also like: The Top 5 Tips for a Family Narrowboat Break

For more essential tips about family boating holidays enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your in -box. (We never share or sell email addresses, this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

The post The Ultimate Guide to a Memorable Family Narrowboat Holiday appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Thank you Fox Narrowboats for a great day…

“Well what a great time we had! We (three couples) decided to hire the day boat (March Adventurer) so we could take a trip to Outwell to enjoy the fantastic Fens scenery and fit in a spot of geo-caching.

The weather was wet for most of the day but that DID NOT spoil our enjoyment. The boat had a large outside covered area to the bow and all the facilities to make a cuppa and sit down inside (with the heating on so we could dry out).

Leaving the marina and heading for March town centre, we stopped at the March Town moorings and headed into The Ship public house for a Full English Breakfast. Then it was time for some caching. We managed to get three caches before heading into the wilderness of the Fens.

After going through Marmount Priory Lock, which was great fun for a bunch of newbies, we headed down the tranquil stretch of Well Creek to Upwell and up to the basin at Outwell. Here we turned round and headed back, stopping at the moorings at the Five Bells to grab a couple of caches, before heading home (and stopping at The Globe for an ale and warm fire).

Getting to March, once again we stopped at The Ship for a quick drink, before catching a few more caches on the way back to the marina.

We fitted all this in to one day and managed to get back to the marina on time to hand the boat back in one piece at 6pm.

Thank you Fox Narrowboats for a great day….the weather didn’t deter us….in fact it made for an entertaining day! We will be back!”

The post Customer Testimonial of the Month appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.