We haven't taken a boat out before!
Our
boats are easy to handle. We will give you a guided tour of your boat and take
you out on a very short practice run before you set off. You will be sent a
copy of British Waterways Boaters Handbook which we recommend you familiarise
yourselves with and there is a further copy on board but feel free to ask any
questions at the handover stage. We are unable to demonstrate the operation of
a lock because of our location but there is ample information contained within
the book and we will talk you through the correct safe procedure.
What is on board?
All bedding is included. Our kitchens are
fully equipped with items such as saucepans, frying pan, colander, casserole
dishes, glasses plates, cutlery etc. Also included is tea towels, toilet rolls,
washing up liquid and cleaning items. PERSONAL TOWELS ARE NOT INCLUDED UNLESS YOU ARE A VISITOR FROM OVERSEAS
We
would suggest you bring soft-soled, non slip shoes waterproofs, umbrella and
your torch for finding your boat if you go ashore in the evening. But don't
worry if you forget something - we can usually help you out.
Each boat has
a colour TV on board, however TV reception can be intermittent on the canal. We
now provide free of charge a video on our Duchess and Princess class boats and
a DVD player on our Countess class boat. There is also a CD/radio on all boats
and socket for charging your mobile phones.
What about water and fuel?
A
full tank of water (which can be topped up on route), gas for
your cooking and heating and a full tank of diesel fuel is provided
at the start of the hire.
Where can I park my car?
You are
welcome to park at the Marina. Vehicles are left at their owners risk.
Can we use hair dryers and shavers?
The electricity supply on the boat is 12 volt therefore any domestic appliance that works on 240 volt at home will not work on the boat and adaptor plugs will not work either.
Mobile Phones?
We have mobile phone charger points on board but you will need to bring along the charger that you use in your car.
Where can we moor?
Anywhere on the
towpath side of the navigation, providing you are not causing an obstruction.
What kind of insurance do we need?
The hire
fee includes cancellation insurance as per our terms and conditions. Your boat
will be insured but you must pay either a non-refundable damage waiver of £40 or a refundable security deposit of £150
(in addition £50 per person for single sex parties). We recommend that you take out
personal holiday insurance.
When can we start our holiday?
Our holidays start on a Saturday at approximately 10am or Tuesday at 2pm. For a
little extra cost it is sometimes possible to add Friday night to a Saturday
start date. Once you have stored your personal items on board you will then
receive tuition on the operation of the boat and safety measures. On a busy day
this may delay your start a little. Please bear with us - we will get you away
as soon as possible.
What about Pubs along the way?
There
are some lovely Pubs along the way although they may be a short walk from the
canal. There is a map of the canal on board and the Pubs locations are marked.
How do we find Galleon Marine?
Once you enter the High
Street of Odiham village keep a look out for The Odiham Clinic on the junction
of the High Street and Old London Road. Turn down Old London Road also
signposted WATERWITCH PUB/BASINGSTOKE CANAL. Follow this road for about half a
mile and you will see our green sign opposite the Waterwitch. Take the lane by
our signpost to the car park and report in to reception. If you get lost just
ask for the Waterwitch - most people know where the Pub is!!