We're a TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Winner 2024!

TRIPADVISOR awarded NARROWBOAT DAY HIRE

Why Narrowboat Day Hire is officially among the top attractions worldwide – and why your perfect London area day out starts here.

We're absolutely over the moon. Had to tell you straight away. Narrowboat Day Hire has just bagged the 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award. Yep, really. This one's special—because it's not handed out by a panel. It's awarded by the people - you lot - The travellers. The cruisers. The curious. Millions of voices worldwide said this experience—ours—is top tier. Top 10% globally, top 1% locally. Let that sink in.

What does that even mean, though?

Good question...

Every year, TripAdvisor combs through reviews, ratings, and saves. You know—the stuff people say when they've finished an experience and are still buzzing (or sometimes not!). They look for consistency. Not just one great day but dozens. Businesses that keep showing up with heart. That care. That delivers—again and again. That's what this award says. We don't just float; we shine.

We're moored up at Cowroast Marina. It's quiet here. Peaceful. Tucked right into the folds of the Hertfordshire countryside. Nothing showy, just honest beauty. Trees nodding over the water. Towpaths whispering stories. You push off from the jetty, and suddenly, you're no longer in the big city. You're somewhere else. Somewhere slower. Somewhere that smells of trees, fields of damp earth, and wildflowers. Within no time, you're coasting under brick bridges towards Marsworth's flight of locks. People wave. You wave back.

Now, maybe you've never steered a boat before. That's okay. Most haven't. We're ready for that. No jargon. No pressure. Just a walk-through, a warm smile, and a push-off. People tell us it's the calmest they've felt in months. Years, even. One lady said she forgot her own birthday. True story. The boat rocked, the water moved, and she was suddenly here. That's the magic of it.

No laptops. No pings or buzzes. Just trees and fields. And the lapping of water along the hull.

Pub stops. A pint. A scone. Someone laughs. You drift. You glide. You forget where your phone even is. This canal does that to people. Makes them look up again. Meet each other's eyes. It's gentle, but it's powerful. That's why they keep coming. That's why they bring their mates the next time.

We don't think it's just the boats. It's not just the scenery, either. It's us. The crew. The way we care. We're not just chucking you the keys and disappearing. We're walking with you—well, not literally, the towpath would wear us out—but we're with you in spirit. Our love for the waterways runs deep. So deep we sometimes dream in ripples. We want you to feel it, too. And once you do,… you'll never see a canal the same way again.

Book your Award-Winning Adventure Today

There's never been a better time to discover the joy of a narrowboat day out. Whether you're planning a birthday treat, a romantic escape, or need a breather from the fast lane of life, Narrowboat Day Hire has you covered.

Departing daily from Cowroast Marina, Tring

Cruise through the stunning Chiltern Hills and canal-side

No experience necessary – complete instruction provided

Perfect for families, couples, and small groups

Don't Just Take Our Word for It...

"Absolutely fantastic experience. The views were stunning, and the boat was super easy to handle. It's now our go-to family day out!" – TripAdvisor Review, 2024

"Booked for my partner's birthday – everything went perfectly. Staff were friendly and helpful, and the boat was in great condition. Highly recommend!" – TripAdvisor Review, 2024

Join the Top 10% and Cruise with the Best.

Winning the 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award means the world to us—but even more, it reminds us why we do what we do: to help people make memories, connect with nature, and experience the timeless joy of canal life.

So why not treat yourself? Come and see what all the fuss is about.

Book your unforgettable journey today – and sail into your own five-star story!

Check availability & book online now.

Let us know in the comments—have you cruised with us before? Do you have a birthday, anniversary, or special event coming up? We'd love to hear how we can help make it magical!