Frequently Asked Questions about Boating Holidays
I've never been on a boat before. Are they easy to control?
Our Norfolk hire boats are simplicity themselves. A single lever gives you forward or reverse thrust and a steering wheel is used for direction. You'll be given expert guidance before you set off and so long as you take things easy, you'll find navigating and mooring a doddle.
Do I need a licence to drive the boat?
No. Anyone competent can pilot a river cruiser and you will be given a hands-on demonstration before you leave the marina.
Can I bring my dogs?
Sure. We welcome dogs onto most of our boats. There are many open spaces for them to run around and plenty of walks for you all to enjoy.
Can I smoke?
Sorry, all our Norfolk Broads holiday boats are strictly no smoking.
What time can I collect my boat?
We aim to have boats available for boarding from 4pm for holidays of a week or more and 2pm for short breaks.
What time do I need to return the boat?
Please have the boat back at the marina by 9am on the morning of vacation.
Can I bring a bicycle?
Sadly not. The potential for injury and damage from a cycle is too great in the confined space of a boat. We do not permit cycles of any kind onboard.
How far can I travel?
If you average about four hours cruising a day, you can travel over 80 miles in a week. Putting that into perspective, it gives you the opportunity of exploring most, if not all, of the Northern Norfolk Broads during a week's holiday.
Can I fish?
Sure. Fishing is a very popular pastime for boat hirers and being able to move from place to place allows you to try different waters. Remember though that the Norfolk Broads are subject to the standard fishing season (16th June - 14th March). Fishing the Norfolk Broads outside of these dates is illegal. There's a tackle shop at Ludham Marina and you can buy your rod license from the local village Post Office.
Can my children drive the boat?
Local Broads Authority Bylaws permit only children of eight years and over to be at the helm of a motorised vessel and then only under supervision.
How fast can I go?
It's not a question of how fast, but how slow. A Norfolk Broads holiday cruiser is about slowing down. Remember, it's the most relaxing adventure holiday you're likely to have. River speeds are between 3 and 6 mph. Excessive speed causes river erosion and may damage other craft. There's also a maximum £1000 fine, so please stick to the speed limits.
Where can I moor?
So long as there aren't any specific notices indicating that you can't moor (private land or because of dangerous banks, etc.) you can moor almost anywhere. If you want to be secluded amongst the trees, pull up carefully and tie up. If you prefer to be around others, there are plenty of designated public moorings with solid quay headings and mooring posts/rings. You can even drop your mud weight in the middle of a broad (though please stay out of the traffic channels).
What about bridges?
There are only a few bridges on the Broads that pose a problem for cruisers. Both Potter Heigham & Wroxham bridges have a pilot to take you through and some boats are simply too large to make it. Others will only-just make it at low tide. Most other bridges are easily passable, though you should always take the canopy down to ensure you don't collide with the structure. Many of our boats will pass under Potter Heigham Bridge at suitable tides.