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Blue Otter Boats

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Blue Otter Boats

Blue Otter Boats offers bespoke self-drive holidays for 3 nights or more. Explore England's canal ne
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Blue Otter Narrowboats is a small, bespoke narrowboat hire company in the making. Based in Skipton on the Leeds to Liverpool canal, it is our objective to put you first and ensure you enjoy the canals with a holiday to remember and a boat you won’t easily forget. When you take the helm of Blue Otter and discover the canal life running through Yorkshire and Lancashire, a sense of freedom and explor

ation will overwhelm you. As you drift gently around each bend and under every bridge a new delight appears. Whether you’re looking for a holiday with a difference or just want to unwind and take life at a more tranquil pace, our luxury bespoke narrowboat provides a level of comfort and convenience for a memorable boutique getaway.

10/11/2024

Lest we forget.

On the quiet towpath of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal near the settlement of Low Bradley, south of Skipton, there is a memorial marking the site where a Wellington aircraft HZ251, flying from Skipton-on-Swale near Thirsk to Silloth in Cumbria, lost a wing and crashed into the canal embankment on September 23rd 1943.

Seven Polish airmen were killed instantly. Five of them were the crew of another aircraft which had been grounded, stranding them away from their base.

Read the full story here:

Polish Airmen’s Memorial, Bradley, North Yorkshire On the quiet towpath of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal near the settlement of Low Bradley, south of Skipton, there is a memorial marking the site…

27/10/2024

🌟 5-star Experiences on Blue Otter Boats! 🌟

We’re thrilled to receive such wonderful feedback from our guests! At Blue Otter Boats, we take pride in creating a unique and comfortable canal boating experience for everyone, whether it's your first time or a cherished tradition.

Here’s what our recent guests have to say:

💬 Sarah from Brighton: "A beautiful canal boat with a cozy bed, hot shower, and heating to keep us warm on chilly days. We had a lovely time exploring the canals despite the occasional challenge with mooring spots - which added a bit of adventure to the journey!"

💬 Mary from Dunoon: "Ben made us feel welcome with fresh fruit and wine on arrival, and gave us a great tutorial to get us started. Our dog loved every moment cruising the canals! Wish we had done this years ago."

💬 Recent Guest: "Fabulous week on Blue Otter!"

Thank you to all our guests who have joined us on the waterways this year! We are delighted to hear about your memorable moments and look forward to welcoming more of you aboard.

🛶 Ready for your next adventure? Discover the peace, charm, and beauty of a canal boat holiday with us. Book your stay and see why our guests keep coming back year after year!

Last minute getaways for November still available. Book here with Hoseasons https://www.hoseasons.co.uk/boat-holidays/blue-otter-skipton-bh2610

27/10/2024

More Kingfisher spotting from the Blue Otter. Autumn cruising is the way to go. Last minute November dates available on Blue Otter Skipton.

20/10/2024

November might not be the first month that comes to mind for a canal cruise, but there’s something truly special about gliding through the peaceful waterways as the autumn leaves give way to crisp, frosty mornings. With fewer boats on the water and a cosy atmosphere on board, November cruising offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the canals in a quieter, more reflective season. Here’s what our recent guests this week had to say about their canal holiday.

19/10/2024

This week’s boaters on Blue Otter Skipton are on their ninth canal holiday, and have always gone this same week in October. “The weather has always been great and we find it easier to spot the kingfishers against the autumn colours”.

This year was no different with wonderful sunny autumnal days. The route Skipton to Gargrave and beyond along the Curley Wurlies are where the kingfishers and otters hang out.
Binoculars, camping chairs and cameras at the ready!
Join us in November for autumn cruising.

13/10/2024

🍂 Escape to the calm beauty of canal cruising this autumn! 🍁 There’s no better time to explore the stunning canals than during October and November, when nature puts on a spectacular show of vibrant autumn colours. 🚤🌳

With crisp air, peaceful waterways, and fewer crowds, your canal holiday offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. 🍂

Whether it’s short break of 5 nights or full week cruising, prepare to fall in love with the tranquillity and beauty that surrounds you. 🌿✨

Book your narrowboat holiday with our agent and experience the magic of autumn from a whole new perspective!

06/10/2024

Today’s guests on Blue Otter Skipton have been on 8 canal boating holidays before, but this is their first time on the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

All the way from Durham, they were excited to be “heading towards Liverpool “. We are still taking bookings for this year throughout November for 6-night self-drive cruises.

04/10/2024

October cruising…and the leaves are only just starting to turn.
To experience this, book now on Blue Otter Skipton. Dates available from October 27th through November.

29/09/2024

Lovely review from our guests just departed from Blue Otter Skipton.

29/09/2024

🍂 Cosy Evenings Afloat 🍂

As the nights grow longer and autumn settles in, there’s no better way to unwind than in the warmth of our Blue Otter Skipton living room . 🕯️✨

Whether you’re sipping tea, stimming a guitar or diving into a good book, your perfect autumn break awaits aboard our cosy narrowboat. Extended cruise season from October 28th to end of November 2024.

28/09/2024

“🚤✨ Looking ahead to 2025! 🚤✨

Our Blue Otter boats are ready to take you on unforgettable adventures along the picturesque canals of Skipton. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape or a family adventure, now is the perfect time to plan your getaway. 🛶🌿

Secure your 2025 dates early and enjoy the beauty of Yorkshire from the water. With cosy accommodations, stunning views, and serene cruising, your next adventure is just a booking away!

📅 Limited availability – book now to guarantee your preferred dates. Click the link in bio or visit our website to start planning! 💙 ”

22/09/2024

🍂 Happy Autumn Equinox from Blue Otter Boats! 🍂

As the days grow shorter and the leaves start to turn, there is no better way to welcome the beauty of the season than with a peaceful canal cruise. 🍁

Our cosy narrowboats are the perfect place to take in the golden hues and crisp air, while you drift past autumnal woodlands. Whether you are on the water or strolling the towpath, we hope you are enjoying the magic of this new season. 🍃✨

Book your Autumn cruise here: https://www.hoseasons.co.uk/boat-holidays/blot

20/09/2024

🚤 Blue Otter Boats in the Spotlight! 📰

A lovely surprise to be featured in the latest edition of magazine, promoting the picturesque town of Skipton. Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, our base offers unparalleled access to the stunning canals that make this region so special. 🌿✨

From tranquil cruises to exploring hidden gems along the waterways, the beauty of the Leeds Liverpool Canal never fails to inspire. Come experience it for yourself with Blue Otter Boats – bookable through

15/09/2024

As well as a Blue Otter, our last guests in Skipton enjoyed animal spotting along the tow path, from pheasants, horses and sparrow hawks to kingfishers.

As the autumn chill creeps in, the boat is kept warm with the heating on. We have just extended the cruise season on Blue Otter Skipton through until end of November, bookable via Hoseasons

08/09/2024

🚤✨ Guest changeover day in Skipton, and guess what? Our boat was “otter-spotted” by friends on its way back to base yesterday! 🦦💦

A huge thanks to Ollie and Tree for the wonderful review! 🌟 We wish you countless more fun narrowboat adventures as you explore the canal’s “7 wonders”! 🚢💛

08/09/2024

🎄✨ Give the gift of adventure this Christmas with a Blue Otter Boats canal holiday voucher! 🚤💙

Treat your loved ones to a relaxing getaway, cruising along scenic waterways, exploring charming villages, and experiencing nature up close. Whether it’s a peaceful short break or a week-long adventure, our award-winning canal boat holidays are the perfect way to unwind.

🎁 Gift Vouchers Available Now! 🎁

✔️ Ideal for couples (Blue Otter Skipton) or families (Blue Otter Wootton Wawen) ✔️

This year, give the gift of memories that will last a lifetime. 🌟

Email: [email protected]

25/08/2024

We’re exploring New York - by boat of course.

New Yorkers would love a Blue Otter Canal Holiday. 😊

19/08/2024

Cruise diaries: Autumn 2023 on the Leeds Liverpool canal.

Address

Skipton
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Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm
Saturday	9am - 5pm
Sunday	9am - 5pm

Website

http://www.blueotterboats.com/

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Videos

Canal capers with our guests on Blue Otter Wootton Wawen this week. Baby aqueduct adventures , anyone? #summerholidays #canalholiday #blueotter #warwickshire #blueotterboats

🎁 Didn't get that boating holiday you wanted for Christmas? Let's rectify that with the Hoseasons Big 2024 January Sale. Pay just a deposit to secure your preferred dates. 📆 Book now for Blue Otter Skipton (couples + pets) https://www.hoseasons.co.uk/boat-holidays/blot 📆 Book now for Blue Otter Wootton Wawen (couples or families) https://www.hoseasons.co.uk/boat-holidays/boww 💡Find inspiration here: https://blueotterboats.com/journal-events/ #boatholiday #narrowboating #awardwinning #blueotterboats #canalboat #Englishholiday

To moor up or to cruise? There isn’t a wrong answer…on this occasion a half-day pause was followed by a half-day cruise. Rewarded with heron flights and shady spots to stop and snack before carrying on the journey. #bestofbothworlds #blueotterskipton #blueotterboats #autumn #autumncruising #leedsliverpoolcanal Hoseasons Canal & River Trust

Leeds Liverpool Canal Moo Spa

Even the cows are finding this September heat too much. Captured here just outside Skipton to the background of dramatic music from Classic FM radio.

Our latest guests in Skipton are from Australia and Sheffield. It didn’t take long (1 hr cruising) to meet another couple from Australia and they’ve paired up for a trip to Saltaire. #boatinglife #narrowboatlife #canalholiday #blueotterskipton

Sunset cruising on Blue Otter Boats. #narrowboatlife #NarrowboatHoliday #canalboat

Name your co-pilot for a summer cruise on Blue otter Skipton. #sunsetcruising #narrowboatlife #narrowboat #canalholiday

Blue Otter Skipton is ready to welcome the next guests, take a walk through with us. This is what you can expect to arrive to when cruising with us. #narrowboat #canalboat #blueotterskipton

Curious to see Blue Otter Wootton Wawen inside and out? Take a peek…

Welcome to our cruise season 2023! We look forward to welcoming our guests - this year coming from all over the world as foreign travel returns to the UK - all looking to unwind, slow down and take in the sights and sounds along our canals. Here's a teaser of what that might look like. Settle down with a brew and prepare to take "A Slow Boat Down a River to Nowhere", written and sung by our friend, Hannah Crown. Happy cruising! https://blueotterboats.com/ #travel #canalboatholiday #holiday #slowtravel

Welcoming in the May Bank Holiday from Skipton. Morris Dancers have travelled near and far from Leeds, Liverpool, Cambridgeshire, Staffordshire and beyond to spread some cheer. Give a wave when you see a Blue Otter Boat around Skipton and Stratford Upon Avon.

Slow down, relax and cruise the canals with Blue Otter Boats in Yorkshire and Warwickshire

Why go glamping when you can pilot a narrow boat? Learn new skills, immerse in nature, relax and enjoy a deep sleep under the stars. Full training given and within a few hours on board, you'll be cruising like a professional boater. All bookings are protected through our travel agent Hoseasons www.blueotterboats.com #wellbeingjourney #canalholiday #newskills #travel #narrowboat #boating Canal & River Trust

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Our Story

Blue Otter Narrowboats is a family-run bespoke narrowboat hire company with two boats fitted to a high standard of comfort. Beginning in Skipton on the Leeds to Liverpool canal, and from Wootton Wawen outside Stratford-upon-Avon, it is our objective to put you first and ensure you enjoy the canals with a holiday to remember and a boat you won’t easily forget. When you take the helm of Blue Otter and discover the canal life, a sense of freedom and exploration becomes your daily excitement. With each bend and under every bridge a new discovery is revealed, and you can decide whether you moor up and explore, or continue your journey. Whether you’re looking for a holiday with a difference or just want to unwind and take life at a more tranquil pace, our bespoke narrowboats provide a level of comfort and convenience for a memorable boutique getaway.

www.blueotterboats.com