Day Hire from £180 - £345 - Evening Hire From £160 - see full pricing

Date days on the waterways
A Romantic Escape on the Grand Union Canal
If you are looking for an anniversary celebration, a unique date idea, or simply a way to unplug and spend genuine quality time together, a private narrowboat day out offers something truly special.
Step aboard your own floating retreat at Cowroast Marina and leave the crowded restaurants and busy city streets behind. With the Grand Union Canal as your backdrop, the day is entirely yours to shape.
A Slower Pace, Made for Two
Life slows right down out on the water. There's no rush, no queue for a table, no one else's conversation drifting over from the next booth — just the gentle hum of the engine, the canal ahead, and each other's company for the day.
On the water, you can:
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Drift through open Chilterns countryside, well away from traffic and crowds
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Watch for herons, swans, and the occasional kingfisher along the bank
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Moor up at a canalside pub or café whenever you fancy a stop
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Share a picnic on deck, just the two of you
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Work a lock together, if you fancy a little hands-on adventure along the way
Couples say it's less like "doing an activity" and more like properly switching off together. No phones buzzing, nowhere else to be.
A Relaxed, Private Getaway (No Experience Needed)
Most couples who hire with us are complete beginners. Before you cast off, we will give you a full safety briefing and show you exactly how to handle the boat.
Because our marina is situated on the 2.5-mile lock-free Tring Summit, you can begin your date with a completely stress-free, easy cruise. If you want a more hands-on adventure together, you can continue your journey to navigate the historic locks as a team.
Check out our canal map to see what's on the routes from CowRoast Marina
Choose the Perfect Boat for Two
While our boats can accommodate up to 10 people, they are wonderfully spacious and private for just two. You can choose the vessel that perfectly matches your date:
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For Sunny Days (Lavender & Hay Day): Our 35ft narrowboat, Lavender, features a "cruiser stern" with a large, open rear deck. It is the most sociable steering position in our fleet, allowing you both to stand comfortably at the tiller together, enjoying the sunshine and the views. Hay Day, our 30ft boat, featuring a roll-away canvas cover and long, shaded, foredeck with seating.
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For Cosy Winter Escapes (Albert & Victoria): Don't let the colder months stop your date. Both Albert and Victoria are equipped with central heating, keeping the cabin cosy for a private winter retreat.
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For Golden Hour Hires (Albert): Albert is our exclusive boat available for Evening Hire. Cast off late in the afternoon and enjoy a peaceful, romantic cruise as the sun sets over the water (available until August 31st).




All our boats are fully equipped for an effortless romantic day out:
A full galley
Fridge, 4-burner hob, kettle, plates, and glasses for picnic convenience
Comfort
Flushing toilets, table with seating, and heating on Albert and Victoria for year-round coziness
Tech
2x USB charging points to keep your phones ready for scenic pics
FAQ





