Dragonfly Narrowboat Hire FAQ and Links
Mobile Phones / Cameras
There is a car type 12volt cigar lighter socket fitted; all that you need is your in-car adapter to plug-in.
Bicycles
Bicycles can be taken by prior arrangement. Please bring something to protect the boat’s paintwork (eg. old carpet). If you store them on the roof we cannot accept responsibility for damage caused by low bridges, trees, etc. Please note that cycling is not officially allowed on towpaths except on designated cycle ways.
When can we pick-up the boat?
The boat will normally be available by 3.00pm for Saturday afternoon departures (you can arrive from 2.00pm.) and by 9.30am for Wednesday morning departures. The boat should be returned and vacated by 9.30am for a Saturday finish and 2.30pm for a Tuesday finish. If the boat is returned late, it will cause a delay for the next hirer; in this event we reserve the right to charge for the late return, or if it is returned in a dirty condition.
What instruction do we get?
No previous experience is necessary, the boat is very easy to handle. Some weeks before your holiday you will receive a booklet covering all aspects of operating and handling the boat through locks and along the canal. On board is a comprehensive boat manual giving details of the boat equipment. At the start of your holiday we will show you around the boat and explain how all the boat systems work and how to operate safety equipment. We then accompany you along the canal and through the first lock giving full lockside
instruction. When you are quite happy handling the boat on your own we leave you to enjoy your holiday.
Heating and Bathing facilities
Full central heating with radiators and a boiler keeps the boat warm on the coldest of days. There is also a hot water storage tank to provide plenty of hot water, and you even have an airing cupboard. The shower room has a full size shower, with a normal mixer tap to control the water flow and temperature.
Toilet facilities
The toilet is a modern water flush toilet, made of ceramic and fitted with a macerator and discreet pump-out holding tank of sufficient capacity for your holiday.
What if something goes wrong?
The Boat Manual provided on the boat has a list of useful contacts covering most emergency problems. We also have a dedicated 24 hr. number that you can ring, and, even at night, we will always come out for an emergency.
What is provided?
The boat is fully equipped, it comes fully fuelled, serviced and cleaned and with fresh bed linen, tea towels, toilet rolls, and washing-up liquid. Towels can be provided on request. All that you need is clothing, suitable footwear, rainwear, toiletries, food and drink. If you are unable to bring some groceries with you we can order from your list – just pay on arrival and they will be onboard waiting for you.
Pets
Well-behaved pets are very welcome, but please keep them off the bedding and upholstery. The first pet is free, additional pets are charged at £25 each. Please bring the pets own bedding or cages and feeding bowls etc. No more than 2 dogs please.
Fishing
Fishing is allowed provided that you have the correct rod licence / permit / day ticket, for where you are fishing. Please note that, for health and safety reasons, any form of live fishing bait is not allowed on the boat.
Maps and guides
A Nicholson map of the four counties and Welsh canals is provided, others can be purchased at the marina or even from www.amazon.co.uk. You will not get lost because all bridges are numbered and junctions have signposts. You will also find that canal people are very friendly and ready to help, just ask.
Where can I moor?
You can moor virtually anywhere along the towpath to explore the surrounding area and places of interest, for the country view or next to one of the many canalside pubs.
When do I need to book?
The earlier the better, popular holiday dates are booked very quickly, especially with the early booking offers which we run. Just give us a ring, or send an Email, to check the availability of your chosen dates.
Informative Links
Jim Shead
Comprehensive canal related information compiled by Jim Shead, a waterways photographer and writer, including photographs, maps, route planning, history and articles.
Nantwich Website
A very interesting and informative website about Nantwich and surrounding areas.
Swanley Bridge Marina
The beautiful new marina on the Llangollen canal, close to the historic market town of Nantwich and the starting point of your holiday with Dragonfly Narrowboat Hire.
Wrenbury Village Website
A most impressive village website packed with local information about the local community, things to do, places to stay and much more.
