Accessibility

If you have any difficulty reading this website please call 0330 3330 590 (local rate) and you can discuss your requirements.

If you have hearing difficulties please email us with your requirements. If you have any special requirements or need information about the suitability of our boats, or a canal boat holiday, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Canal boat holidays can be, and often are, enjoyed by those with special requirements, or who are less mobile. However, for reasons of safety at least two of the crew on each boat should be active enough to operate the boat and locks etc. (Beginners are welcome as instruction in operation of both the boat and waterway are provided).

The cabins on narrowboats are accessed by steps inside the front and rear doors. The stern with its flat deck is normally easier to access from the bank, but has four steep steps down into the cabin. The bow is harder to access from the bank as you have to step over the gunwale and down onto the deck, but from here there is only one or two small steps into the cabin. Once inside the boat the floor is flat with lots to hold onto for those with less mobility. 

It has everything you need for normal use so you can remain onboard the boat if getting on and off is difficult. The inside of our boats are not suitable for wheel chairs due to the restrictions caused by the width of bulkheads and doors.

If you or your crew need help accessing the boat please contact us in advance and we will try to position the boat for easier access. Our staff will also, on request, be pleased to help you on and off the boat at our Marinas.

ABC Boat Hire do not currently operate any weekly or short break boats specially adapted for wheel chair users or those with severely restricted mobility.

If you're interested in hiring a boat for the day, we have a wheelchair friendly day boat based at Goytre Wharf. 

If you have any difficulty or require more information you can contact Canal and River Trust customer services on 01923 201120.

You can also obtain information from The Community Boat Association by clicking here or by calling on 02476 397400. They represent 125 boats and facilities suitable for use by disabled and elderly individuals or groups, or for educational purposes.