Rush hour on the canals

    Blue Otter helps you escape the demands of modern living. Plan a leisurely course through the locks and bridges of North Yorkshire , from Skipton out on to the Leeds to Liverpool Canal, Aire & Calder, or venture further across the countryside to enjoy picturesque towns, villages and country pubs through Lancashire, Cheshire and Staffordshire as the waterways weave their way to Birmingham – a city known to have more miles of canals than Venice.

    Just south of Birmingham on the Stratford Canal is our second hire base at Wootton Wawen. From there it’s just a day’s cruising into our national bard’s hometown, Stratford upon Avon.

    There are over 2000 miles a canals across England and Wales, but whichever way the tiller directs you, within minutes on board you’ll enjoy a truly wonderful canal boat experience. From the moment you reserve your time on Blue Otter Boats, we’re with you every step of the way. We’ll show you how to pilot the boat, navigate locks and bridges, and provide all the back-up you need to make your trip a success.

    We’ll spend as much or as little time with you as you need on day 1 to feel comfortable. In the meantime, feed your dreams of a holiday cruising the canals with this introductory video from the Canal and River Trust.

To read more about boat handling in preparation of your canal holiday,
download the Canal & River Trust Boaters Handbook here