Marine Cruises (Narrowboat Holidays)

Home
Marine Cruises (Narrowboat Holidays)

Marine Cruises (Narrowboat Holidays) Marine Cruises offer luxury boating holidays in England Scotland and Wales. Photography provided by our lovely customers, Ali Holland and ReDi Fotografie.

Hiring a canal holiday narrowboat from Marine Cruises makes a great holiday or short break for families or for groups of friends. Families can enjoy a real holiday together, all ages can take part, and the family pet can come too! Kids can help with the locks and maybe steering the boat, under supervision of course. Everyone can enjoy the countryside, fresh air and wildlife, maybe relax with a boo

k or practicing a hobby such as drawing or photography. Groups of friends can get properly reunited, not just sending texts and emails but enjoying each other’s company, relaxing together from work pressures, taking long walks and visiting lots of canalside pubs! And even if it occasionally rains there’s warm and cosy shelter close at hand to continue the bonding and watch the occasional DVD! Canal holidays are also a great way to appreciate our wonderful British countryside and heritage, away from the motorways, hotels and organised campsites that normally involves. You can moor your comfortable floating home almost anywhere, in the middle of fields with only the hills for neighbours or in the middle of a city like Chester with shopping, restaurants and things to do on your doorstep. And canal holiday cruising is a hassle free holiday too. No need to worry about overnight flights, airport parking, exchange rates, foreign languages and strange continental food and plumbing! Your Marine Cruises canal boat comes with full size beds, central heating, hot and cold water, showers and toilets. You can do your shopping in your local supermarket before you come, or visit local shops while you are cruising and enjoy local produce. All normal cooking facilities are on board. Or just eat out in pubs and restaurants! photo credits - Alison Holland and Rene Schubert

01/03/2025

🌊 Thank You for Your Support! 🚤

A huge thank you for all your bookings and for choosing our small, independent family business! It truly means the world to us—especially at this time of year when we’re busy getting the boats freshly painted and ready for the season.

We’re sorry if some dates are already booked up, but if you have your heart set on a trip, don’t wait—secure your holiday now while our savings are still available! ✅

Need a little reassurance? Check us out on TrustPilot—our ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reviews and loyal returning customers speak for themselves!

We can’t wait to welcome you aboard for an unforgettable 2025 season! ⛵✨

28/02/2025

Spring is on the way! ☀️🌿

Get ready to set sail—our Swanley base on the Llangollen Canal reopens on 22nd March! 🚤✨ Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure on the water, there’s no better way to experience a narrowboat holiday with the fresh blooms of spring.

Our Scottish base opens 1st April.

Book your holiday now our contact details in the comments below.

Our last weekend of Winter discounts and it’s pay day! Just a 25% deposit to secure your dates.

We have huge savings for our early bookers.

27/02/2025

Eeeeeek first emails of the season going out today for customers for March and April. Any questions just drop us an email back.

We do have albeit it limited some April availability but dates across the season are extremely busy with some months completely fully booked so if you need to book don’t leave it, get intouch.

February discounts are almost done and our best offers and discounts are in pre season.

If you’ve been quoted including these discounts they will change form the 1st March.

Anyone needing a brochure please let me know and I will pop you one in the post. We’ve only got a limited amount left now, so when they’ve gone they’ve gone!

25/02/2025

I don't know anything with certainty, but seeing the stars makes me dream. ”

Vincent Van Gogh

24/02/2025

🌿🚤 Spring is in the Air! 🚤🌿

The birds are singing, the greenery is bursting into life, and spring is just around the corner! 🌸☀️ It’s the perfect time to set sail and explore as everything awakens from hibernation.

With stunning ring routes, world heritage sites, and a mix of city & countryside cruising, our Cheshire base on the Llangollen canal gives you access to some of the most breathtaking waterways, including routes through North Wales. 🌊🏞️

✨ Book your spring escape today! Live availability & booking 24/7 via our website.

22/02/2025

🚤 Experience Scotland’s Stunning Canals with Marine Cruises! 🌿✨

✅ Cruise the Forth & Clyde Canal – a historic 35-mile (56km) waterway from the River Carron at Grangemouth to the River Clyde at Bowling, once a bustling shipping route. 20ft canals that gives a totally unexpected Nordic feel.

✅ Explore the Union Canal – stretching from Falkirk to Edinburgh, this peaceful, scenic canal takes you through breathtaking countryside and even across a motorway at a relaxing 4mph!

✅ Visit The Kelpies – Stand in awe beneath the iconic 30-metre-high horse-head sculptures, beautifully illuminated at night, right beside the Forth & Clyde Canal. Why not visit after your holiday by car or taxi, enjoy some cake and coffee dwarfed by these wonderful creations.

🌍 Eco-Friendly Holidays – Our canal cruises have a low carbon footprint, heated water from the engine, and we proudly support canal conservation & Fairtrade products.

🚤 Hassle-Free Cruising – Your boat comes fully prepared and ready to go, with a fully comprehensive handover to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

📺 As seen on Great Canal Journeys!

If you love canal cruising, please like or comment on this post and help us reach more people! 🌊💙

21/02/2025

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, often referred to as the “Stream in the Sky,” is a remarkable feat of engineering and a testament to the ingenuity of the Industrial Revolution. Here are some intriguing facts about this iconic structure:

* Record-Breaking Dimensions: Completed in 1805, the aqueduct stands at 38.4 meters (126 feet) high and spans 307 meters (1,007 feet) in length, making it the longest aqueduct in Great Britain and the highest canal aqueduct in the world.

* Engineering Marvel ~ Designed by renowned civil engineer Thomas Telford, the aqueduct features 18 slender stone arches supporting a cast iron trough that carries the Llangollen Canal over the River Dee.
* Construction Feat ~The project took ten years to design and build, with construction spanning from 1795 to its opening on November 26, 1805. Remarkably, only one fatality was recorded during its construction, a testament to the meticulous planning and safety measures implemented.

* World Heritage Status: In 2009, UNESCO inscribed the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and its surrounding canal as a World Heritage Site, recognizing it as “a masterpiece of creative genius.”

The aqueduct’s use of both cast and wrought iron was pioneering at the time, allowing for the construction of arches that are both lightweight and strong, resulting in a structure that is both monumental and elegant.

Today, visitors can also walk across the aqueduct or cruise across to experience the breathtaking views of the Dee Valley, making it a popular destination for tourists and engineering enthusiasts alike.

20/02/2025

✨ Transversing the Falkirk Wheel in your very own narrowboat – an engineering marvel like no other! Watch in awe as your boat is lifted 35 meters, seamlessly connecting the Union Canal to the Forth & Clyde Canal. This stunning rotating boat lift is not just a feat of engineering, it’s a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, the Falkirk Wheel is a must-see on your Scottish canal journey. 🌍🔧

Whose adventure is this in 2025?

For those who have boated before, was your favourite cruising the Union canal or the Forth & Clyde?

19/02/2025

A narrowboat holiday in Llangollen is a fantastic way to explore the stunning Welsh countryside, and it’s a popular choice for those seeking a peaceful escape along tranquil canals. The Llangollen Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the main route for narrowboats in the area, and it’s known for its scenic beauty.

Here are some highlights and things to consider when planning your narrowboat holiday in Llangollen:

1. Llangollen Canal: The canal stretches from the Shropshire Union Canal in England to Llangollen in North Wales. The route offers picturesque views of the Welsh hills, tranquil countryside, and charming villages.

2. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: One of the most famous and breathtaking parts of the Llangollen Canal is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, an impressive 18th-century structure that carries the canal 126 feet above the River Dee. It’s a highlight of any trip and offers magnificent views.

3. The Llangollen Town: The town of Llangollen itself is a lovely stopover with historic sites like Llangollen Railway, Plas Newydd, and a selection of cafés, restaurants, and shops. You can enjoy a bit of culture and history while you’re there.

4. Itinerary: Depending on the length of your holiday, you can choose from different routes. For ten days or longer you can incorporate the Montgomery canal too.

5. Weather and Time of Year: It’s worth considering the season when planning your trip. The best weather is usually during spring and summer (May to September), but autumn can offer some beautiful colors along the canal. Winter can be cold and quiet, so check the weather forecast before packing, we always recommend layering up.

6. Locks and Navigation: The canal includes several locks, which can add to the adventure. If you’re new to narrowboating, don’t worry—we offer a fully comprehensive handover and instructions, and you can always ask for help along the way.

A narrowboat holiday in Llangollen offers a peaceful and unique way to experience Wales’ natural beauty. Would you like help with more details, such as booking a boat or recommendations for things to do while you’re there?

18/02/2025

It’s half term so we are going off grid so to speak for a little family time with little Oscar, sadly not boating season quite yet for us!

The boats are currently getting painted and all interior repairs and upgrades, so they are ready for the season start.

Coming soon 360 videos of the boat interiors

Don’t forget our fantastic half term offers

Early bird offers and pay in full ending very soon.

Live online availability and discounts 247.

17/02/2025

💚 Why not schedule that catch-up and spend quality time with friends? 💚

Just like these amazing ladies, it’s the perfect time to get back together for an unforgettable weekend! Whether it’s canalside walks and laughter, relaxing, or simply enjoying each other’s company, a boating weekend is the ultimate way to refresh your mind and soul.

Don’t wait – plan that much-needed getaway and recharge together. 🌸✨

16/02/2025

🌸 Easter Getaway on a Luxury Narrowboat🌸

Still haven’t booked your Easter holiday? We’ve got a few spaces left aboard our stunning luxury narrowboats! Cruise through the breathtaking canals and waterways of Scotland, England, and Wales in 2025.

✨ Why choose us?

• Scenic routes through picturesque landscapes
• Comfortable, beautifully appointed boats
• Perfect for families, couples, and friends

📅 Limited availability – book now to secure your spot!

You can easily book online via our website or get in touch:
📩 DM us
📧 Email us
📞 Call us

For more details, check the comments below.

Already booked for 2025? 🎉 Let us help with any planning questions you might have. We’re here to make your trip unforgettable!

15/02/2025

🚤✨ Fun for the Whole Family!

Looking for a unique family getaway? Narrowboat holidays are the perfect choice! Cruise along scenic canals, explore charming villages, and enjoy quality time together in a relaxed, peaceful setting. Whether it’s fishing, picnics, enjoying the locks and boating life, yoga by the water’s edge or simply soaking up the countryside or city views, there’s something for everyone.

✅ Spacious boats with family-friendly amenities
✅ Relaxed pace perfect for all ages
✅ Plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures
✅ A chance to unplug and reconnect with nature

Set sail on a memorable journey this year. Family fun is waiting just around the corner! 🚢🌳

Our availability and current discounts are live online 247 or you can call one of our team Monday to Friday or DM us.

14/02/2025

Welcome aboard
Our Suzanne class 6-8 Berth
Offers a flexible layout of doubles and singles along with a beautifully spacious layout.
Available in Scotland, England and Wales.

10/02/2025

🚤 Boating to Chester on the Shropshire Union Canal! 🏙️

Set sail on a stunning journey through the heart of rural England all the way to Chester! 🌿 The Shropshire Union Canal offers a relaxing and scenic route, and the historic city of Chester awaits with its Roman history, charming shops, and riverside views. 🌳

What to expect:

• Gliding through picturesque countryside 🚤
• Passing peaceful villages and wildlife 🦆
• Exploring Chester’s ancient streets, Roman Walls, and the iconic Chester Rows 🏰

Perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer exploration! 🗓️

Book your canal boat adventure today online and experience the perfect blend of nature and history!

5🌟reviews

Just a 25% deposit to secure your dates.

See all our offers and discount online.

📞 Contact us for more details and availability.

06/02/2025

🌍 What an adventure! 🚤 Crossing the iconic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a true marvel of engineering! Built by Thomas Telford starting in 1795, this World Heritage site stands 126ft high, and it took 10 years to complete. 🌉

Ready to experience history from a whole new perspective? Book your trip now and enjoy breathtaking views while crossing this historic aqueduct. 🌿✨

Don’t forget you might even get lucky, crossing Chirk aqueduct with the towering viaduct and a train crossing overhead.

Don’t miss out—let’s make memories! 📅 Click the link to book your adventure today!

Address

Opening Hours

Tuesday	09:30 - 17:00
Wednesday	09:30 - 17:00
Thursday	09:30 - 17:00

Telephone

+441244373911

Website

http://www.marinecruises.co.uk/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Marine Cruises (Narrowboat Holidays) posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Marine Cruises (Narrowboat Holidays):

Videos

Autumn boating is just special, vivid colours of nature, cosy nights under the stars in big soft fleece blankets, canalside meals all snug in our beautifully heated boats. We still have a few slots available in October with some late availability discounts for 2024 and some brilliant early booking discounts for 2025 too! Check us out on TrustPilot.

Boating in Autumn, this is what it looks like………

We may have the prettiest boats and shiniest engine bays but we also, with so many longer hires have got all the routes you need! #endless

Autumn boating, no filters.

No filters required late autumn boating.

Golden hour in late October

No filters required.

Cruise with us across the Pontcysyllte aqueduct

Take a look round our Narrowboats.

Which boat would you like to see? This is Kimberley class 4-6 berth.

Did you spot us?

It was a suprise to us too, spotting ourselves on National Geographic Channel. How fabulous and to see the wheel in all its working glory with brilliant explanations of how it works for anyone unfamiliar. Ps Happy Bank Holiday don’t forget we won’t be open today due to family time but you can book online still and pay balances. We will be intouch for anything else tomorrow when we reopen. Wowzers National Geographic totally geeked out 💙

I never get fed up of this view! #Debbieclass #marinecruises #Scotland #england #wales #llangollencanal #boatingholidays

Shortcuts

Address
Telephone
Opening Hours
Alerts
Contact The Business
Videos
Claim ownership or report listing
Want your business to be the top-listed Travel Agency?

Country:

City: