News of the World - August 2006

There were a few nerves when we first saw our home for the weekend.

It might be a narrowboat, but it was long. But after a bit of expert tuition, we were soon confidently on our way.

Traditional on the outside, the boat had all mod cons - a DVD player, TV, kitchen, comfy seats, two bathrooms and two double cabins.

Although taking four days to travel the 35 miles from Gayton, Northants to Watford Locks and back might sound slow, a canal holiday is all about sitting back and reliaxing.

However careful you are, you'll have some close calls. We ran aground twice and got wedged against the towpath countless times, but the information folder and other friendly canal folk proved a great help - and that's all part of the adventure anyway.

All in all, taking a narrowboat trip is a great way to escape and we all agreed we'd be back next year.

Boating tips

Narrowboats are a love/hate holiday. Luckily we loved it. It's not for people who want to laze around sunbathing, or go places fast. It's hard work , but fun.

Take gardening gloves to protect your hands.

Buy a guide book for the route you'll be taking. That way you can see how far you've travelled and plan good places to stop.

Visit one of the canal museums at Stoke Bruerne, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, or Gloucester Docks to learn the history of our waterways.

Drinking and driving a boat is subject to the same laws as on the road. Waterways police can even breathalyse you, so save the drinks for when you're moored.

Take basic provisions. You won't always be near somewhere to buy milk or teabags. Also remember warm jumpers and waterproofs.