- Pets
- Fishing
- Bikes
- Parking
- Cash
- Wildlife
- Entertainment
- Occupancy
- Control
of the boat
1. Pets
Whilst we recognise that some people might
wish to bring their dog we must stress that, with the exception
of guide dogs, this is not possible. Members and guests
have a right to expect a clean and healthy environment and
some residual animal hairs are an inevitable consequence
of allowing a pet on board. In these circumstances, an allergic
reaction could spoil the holiday of the next occupant and
this is a risk we are not prepared to take. The rule therefore,
is no pets, and this is not negotiable.
2. Fishing
The company is unable to reproduce all current fishing byelaws. We will however, whenever possible, update our website with the latest information available to us. Fishing, where permitted, should only take place from the towpath side of the canal. Where fishing rights are not owned by British Waterways (i.e. crown estates) or are licensed out to angling clubs or individuals the licensee's permission MUST be sought before you start fishing. Permission in some cases is granted by purchase of a day ticket or membership, if available, though this can in no way be guaranteed. In such circumstances, that is on an unassigned stretch of canal, permission from British Waterways is deemed to be granted. Whether the fishing is carried out there, or on an assigned stretch with the permission of the Angling Club, the advice is that for insurance reasons, it should be conducted from the towpath and NOT from the boat (even if it is moored to the towpath) or a structure crossing the canal such as a bridge. Many sections of the canal system are covered by Angling Clubs and some of these MAY issue day tickets. Enquiries concerning these permissions should be directed to BW West Midlands, whose email address is, enquiries.westmidlands@britishwaterways.co.uk You will need to know where and when you will be at a particular location in order to determine which club to direct your request for a day ticket to.
3. Bikes
The towpath and the country lanes, which cross
the canals are an ideal place to cycle. You may bring your
own bikes at your own risk, but we suggest no more than two. These can be stored on the roof of the boat, provided they do not create a safety hazard. Please bring a mat to protect the paintwork.
4. Parking
Parking is available at all our sites, but
in some locations is limited. Try therefore to avoid bringing
more than one car if you can, as you are likely to be charged
for parking a second vehicle.
5. Cash
Whilst pubs and larger grocery stores will
accept credit cards, most smaller shops and village Post
Offices will not. If you can, bring as much cash as you
think you will need, or plan your cruising to pass a major
supermarket, the majority of which will have on-site ATM
machines.
6. Wildlife
You will be traveling through a rich landscape
of woods and water meadows, fields and farmland and you
can expect to see a wide variety of the natural flora and
fauna of these islands. Consider buying one of the many
handbooks available and, if you have a pair of binoculars,
bring them too, as you'll find you will see much more. Remember,
however, that it is illegal to pick wildflowers or disturb
nesting birds. Don't forget too, to bring enough film for
your camera. If you run out, it may not be easy to get more.
7. Entertainment
If you like quiet pubs, in rural settings
you will be spoilt for choice, but if you want organised
entertainment you should look elsewhere. A few good books
are a must and a pack of cards can be worth its weight in
gold on a wet day. If you have children, perhaps some jigsaws
or board games might be a good idea, but don't bring the
Scalextric! Don't forget also, that each boat is fitted
with a television and DVD player, so a selection of
DVD's might prove invaluable if the weather is inclement.
8. Occupancy
Your boat is designed, licensed and insured
for either four or six berths, depending on its size and
no more than that number may sleep on board. Whilst it is
sometimes possible for additional people to be admitted
to land-based timeshares it is not negotiable on a boat
for legal and safety reasons. If you turn up at the marina
with five people or more for a four berth or 7 people or
more for a six berth you willnot be allowed to occupy the
boat. Children, of whatever age - including babies - count
as part of this complement. Please don't tell us that additional
passengers will find alternative accommodation along the
way, as others have been afforded this concession in the
past and abused the privilege. It is therefore a firm rule
that only the prescribed number (or less) will be allowed
to take the boat.
9. Control of the boat
You will need a minimum of two fit and
active adults, or one adult and a child over the age of
16 years for a 4 berth boat although it is easier with three.
For a 6 berth boat three adults. If on arrival you do not
meet these requirements you will not be allowed to cruise
and will be offered the choice of remaining in the marina
or seeking an alternative land based holiday through the
RCI exchange system (availability cannot be guaranteed).
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