Frequently Asked Questions

A self drive boat with up to 12 people on board may be driven by anyone over 18 years of age without a licence

Yes, pets are welcome and do not count towards the passenger headcount. You are the best one to decide whether or not they will be an asset or a nuisance

12 is the absolute legal maximum on any self drive boat. It is a head count and includes babies. Bookings will not be taken for any party with more than 12 per boat, any group picking up extra passengers away from the boatyard will be liable to have the boat immediately repossessed and will forfeit all their security deposit

Yes. Beginners receive full instruction on boat handling, including on the water practice. You are taken through the on-site lock to see how to operate one safely. As members of the British Marine Federation we comply with their handover procedures.

Yes, the boats have a proper flushing loo in its own (small) compartment.

Not just clean but spotless inside and out.

The boat landing stage is accessible for wheelchair users. Rumble has a lift which enables step free access into the boat, and once on board other more able crew can manage the boat. There are steps down into Jumble and Fumble, but there are always people here to assist you. If you need the lift please specify when you book.

Yes, there is full wheelchair access onto Rumble. We can also supply mobile ramps to help with access from the boat during your day(please note you use these entirely at your own risk). Unfortunately the loo compartment on board is not large enough for wheelchair access.

Yes, the boats often go out with just two people.

Yes. We are always ready for you at 9, but you can arrive whenever you like. Please be aware that the boats must be returned by 5pm, so the later you arrive, the shorter your day will be.

No. Your hire fee includes car parking, fuel, life jackets if required, and all other costs related to the boat. Your security deposit will be used to pay for any loss from or damage to the boat or it’s equipment, and for late return, but nearly everyone gets all their deposit back at the end of the day.

The boats are designed to be used in all weather with an enclosed cabin and a canopy over the front. The steerer is outside, and working the locks requires another person outside. Normally your day will go ahead as planned. In exceptional circumstances we may allow you to change to another day. If we feel the weather or river conditions may affect your safety, we will offer you another day or refund your deposit.