Guide To Chiltern Canal Boat Holidays

We stayed on Mini Escape for three nights, in the marina as we were out of season. What a fantastic, cosy little boat. It is very small but has everything you could want. The log burner was grest, really kept your warm on some very cold nights. The location couldnt be better, we enjoyed some really good walks alo g the canalside; Berkhampstead is a lovely place and highly recommended. The owners are really friendly and helpful but not in any way intrusive. Will definitely come back again.

We stayed for a few nights during the week and loved it. The boat is so much more comfortable and spacious than I expected. It’s well kept, clean and well equipped. The owner is a lovely guy, very knowledgeable, I’m normally quite uncomfortable around people but really enjoyed chatting with him. If we are ever in that neck of the woods again I wouldn’t think of staying anywhere else, we absolutely loved every second of our stay.

We booked a 5 berth narrow boat for 3day hire.

We were given a tour of the boat and shown where everything was and how it worked.

We were then given a lesson on navigating the boat and locks.

We opted to travel towards Wendover and went through the Wendover arm.

As first time barge drivers it was fairly easy but nerve racking when coming up against oncoming boats and kayaks….that always seemed to be in narrow spots and under bridges! 🤣 We moored at different points and had some local walks and completed some geocaching along the way.

My 16 year old Nephew spent much of his time at the Helm, he navigated the Boat like a pro! Being taller he found it easier to see over the top and sides of the boat, something which at 5’4 I struggled with even when standing.

We saw some beautiful wildlife including Otters, Herons, Red Kites, Deer and Toads.

They were a few open areas where cross winds were difficult but slow going is the way forward.

Would definitely go again albeit for myself I’d like to Try the Mini Escape boat in the hopes of a better 360° view when driving!

Owners were lovely and helpful. Boat was well equipped. Fifth sleeping spot is suited to a child. Couldn’t fault the service.

Mini escape was such a lovely boat and Corrine and Gareth excellent hosts. The boat was well equipped and perfect for a couples getaway – it was easy to drive and comfortable for 2 people. We had a bit of an accident with the boat (smashed window!) but Gareth and Corrine couldn’t have been kinder and more understanding. We enjoyed our trip immensely and would highly recommend a stay on one of their boats.

We had a fantastic long weekend on the wonderful 2 berth boat. From the moment we booked we were well looked after. The communication prior to the trip was fantastic with recommendations on what to bring, routes and things to do. Corinne and Gareth were brilliant in showing us the ropes and if you’;ve never done this before fear not, the tuition was comprehensive and hands on, there’s a lock at the marina to practice on so we felt very confident in setting off on our own. Two routes are recommended, we took the Berkhamsted route taking you through 7 locks – so a total of 14! The route is beautiful for scenery and wildlife and Berkhamsted town is well worth visiting for restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques and you moor next to a Waitrose so stocking up is easy. The boat is well equipped and a full-size fridge is an absolute bonus! All in all a wonderful trip and we can’t recommend it highly enough.