Thanks to donations from hundreds of people to the Canal & River Trust’s appeal to support small waterway-based charities, the Trust has been able to award £31,500 in grants shared across 43 local charities based on inland waterways in England and Wales. As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, these charities, which provide vital support . . . read more

In line with the latest government advice for England issued today (23 June 2020), we are pleased to say that from Saturday 4 July 2020 all boaters can stay overnight on their boats and take extended cruises. Holiday hire boat companies will also be able to freely operate, taking precautions around safe practise, such as . . . read more

Now that navigation on most parts of the network is possible, many boaters have been able to enjoy a cruise on their boat. However, for others, this hasn’t been realistic because overnight stays on boats (if it’s not your primary residence) are not currently allowed. We continue to speak with Government about this point and . . . read more

Things to know before commencing a longer journey on your boat after 1 June (different rules apply in Wales): All Government guidelines, including those in Wales, should be followed – this includes; regular handwashing, especially before and after using any facility or structure, social distancing and only members of your household being on your boat. . . . read more

The Government has now set out some detail about the first stages of easing the current Coronavirus lockdown. These first steps come in to force tomorrow (Weds 13 May). With a view to boating, your two main questions are likely to be: Can I visit my boat? And, can I go for a cruise on . . . read more

With the Government announcing a first step in lifting restrictions on outdoor activities, and allowing people to drive to spend time outdoors with members of the same household, from Wednesday, the Trust is lifting any remaining restrictions on boat owners visiting their boats though the Trust advises against travelling long distances unless it is essential . . . read more

I’m getting in touch to give you an update on the Boat Safety Scheme – you’ll find this below. With a long weekend ahead, and fine weather forecasted, please remember that the Government’s instruction to stay at home is still in force. The Prime Minister is expected to make an announcement on any changes to . . . read more

5 May 2020 CANAL & RIVER TRUST LAUNCHES APPEAL TO SUPPORT SMALL CHARITIES ACROSS ITS NETWORK The Canal & River Trust has today, 5 May 2020, launched a fundraising appeal to help support the dozens of small waterway-based charities across its network which have been adversely impacted by the impacts of coronavirus. Launched on Giving . . . read more

30 April 2020 CANAL & RIVER TRUST: NATIONAL BOAT COUNT NUMBERS The Canal & River Trust’s annual national boat count shows that licence compliance on its waterways remains high with 96.2% of boaters holding a valid licence (2019: 96.4%). This is the fourth highest compliance figure in the last 10 years and is the eleventh . . . read more