Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Canal Boat Hire in Warwickshire
Established in 1972, Rose Narrowboats is a family-run business with over five decades of expertise in narrowboat hire and canal maintenance. Our fleet of self-drive narrowboats, ranging from 2 to 8 berths, operates year-round from our strategically located boatyard in Warwickshire, offering unparalleled access to Englands 2,500-mile canal network. We provide comprehensive instruction for first-time boaters, ensuring a seamless experience, and cater to both leisure and commercial clients with services including long-term hires, mobile repairs, and bespoke canal maintenance solutions.Our commitment to quality is evidenced by our British Marine accreditation and partnerships with organisations like the Canal & River Trust. We prioritise customer satisfaction through tailored support, environmentally conscious operations, and a deep understanding of the inland waterways unique challenges and opportunities.
Services
Narrowboat Hire
Long Term Hire
Boatyard Services
Mobile Repairs
Commercial Workboats
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of experience in narrowboat hire and canal maintenance.
- Our self-drive boats come with full instruction for first-time boaters.
- We operate from the heart of Englands canal network, offering diverse routes.
- Our mobile workshop provides prompt repairs across a wide geographical area.
- We hold British Marine accreditation for quality and safety standards.
Associations and certifications
- British Marine
- Canal & River Trust
Services
Narrowboat Hire
We offer self-drive narrowboat hire from 2 to 8 berths, with flexible durations from two days to six months. Our boats are fully equipped and centrally heated, ideal for exploring Englands canals. Full operation instruction is provided, making it accessible even for first-time boaters.
Long Term Hire
Our long-term hire service allows customers to explore the UKs waterways at their own pace, with boats available for four weeks or more. This option includes exclusive access to specific vessels and is perfect for those seeking an extended canal adventure without the need for repeated packing.
Boatyard Services
Our boatyard provides comprehensive maintenance and repair services, including hull blacking, steelwork repairs, and electrical work. With skilled engineers and a slipway, we handle minor fixes to major refits, ensuring vessels meet safety and environmental standards for both private and commercial clients.
Mobile Repairs
Our mobile workshop offers prompt repair services across a wide area, covering everything from routine servicing to emergency breakdowns. Equipped for welding and major repairs, we ensure minimal downtime for clients, whether for private or commercial vessels.
Commercial Workboats
We provide commercial workboat hire and maintenance services, including tugs and general-purpose vessels. Our facilities support fleet refurbishment and servicing, with notable clients like the Canal & River Trust relying on our expertise for reactive repairs and ongoing canal network upkeep.
Questions
What types of boats are available for hire?
We offer self-drive narrowboats ranging from 2 to 8 berths, including models like Sunset, Buccaneer, and Cascade. Boats are available for short breaks, week-long hires, or long-term rentals.
Can I hire a boat if I have no prior experience?
Yes. We provide full instruction on operating the boat, including lock navigation and safety procedures, ensuring even first-time boaters feel confident during their trip.
Are pets allowed on the boats?
Yes, several of our narrowboats are pet-friendly. Up to two pets are permitted, though they must be kept off seats and beds during the hire period.
Do you offer maintenance services for private boat owners?
Yes, our boatyard provides services such as hull blacking, engineering, electrical work, and safety scheme certifications for private owners, using our slipway and skilled team.
What routes can I explore from your base?
Our Warwickshire base offers access to routes like the Oxford Canal, Grand Union Canal, and the Warwickshire Ring. Customers can plan out-and-back trips or circular 'ring' routes based on their hire duration.
Is winter boating possible?
Yes. Our boats are centrally heated, and winter cruising offers a peaceful experience with unique scenery. We recommend checking weather conditions and preparing accordingly.
