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Know nothing about canal boats? No idea about canals? Haven't a clue
what to expect? Don't worry, here's the absolute basics laid out for
you. Tillerman Holidays welcome absolute beginners - we know that
you can have a great holiday on a canal boat even if it's a totally
new concept for you.
What's the difference between a canal and a river?
Canals are manmade waterways, built in Britain during
the industrial revolution some 200 years ago. Therefore they do not
have a current like a river does, making them much easier for navigating
a boat! Some canals do join up with rivers but first timers should
stick to the canals.
What is a canal lock?
A lock allows you to go up or down hills on the
canal. It's a simple piece of engineering that sometimes scares first
time boaters... but they're easy to get the hang of.
You cruise into the lock, close the gates behind
you so that you're in a sealed area of water. You then open 'paddles'
which let water trickle into the lock, raising the water (and your
boat) to the higher level. Only then can you open the top gates and
cruise out. Still confused? Don't worry, Tillerman Holidays give thorough
training on locks when you arrive and will make sure you fully understand
before you cruise.
Is there a steering wheel on a canal boat?
There's no steering wheel on a canal boat - instead
you steer from the rear of the boat using a 'tiller'. It's a pole-like
handle that is attached to the rudder. Push it to the right and the
boat will slowly turn to the left, push it to the left and you'll
turn to the right. Again, you'll be trained on how to handle the boat
when you arrive at your Tillerman holiday marina.
Does someone come with us?
No, the boat is all yours for the duration of your
holiday. We train you when you arrive so that you are confident you
can handle the boat. Tillerman Holidays can advise you of good routes
to take and what to expect. Then you'll cruise away to explore the
canals at your own pace. There's a mobile phone on board every boat
so you can contact us 24 hours a day should there be a problem.
Can we sleep on our canal boat?
Absolutely! Our boats have luxurious interiors and
sleep up to 6 people. Everything you need is on board- beds, a toilet
and shower, a kitchen, central heating, the lot. Your canal boat is
both your transport and your hotel! For some hints on packing, see
what to bring on a canal boat holiday.
Where can we go on the canals?
The rules of the canal are simple and few. You can
go anywhere on the canals and our experts at the marinas will take
you through the maps and advise you of the options. You can stop nearly
anywhere- prohibited moorings will have clear signs, just make sure
you don't moor (park) on sharp bends or very close to bridges and
locks. The only other rule is to cruise on the right of the canal
and slow down as you pass other boats.
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