Black Prince Holidays 2013

2013

NEWBOATS

& BASES FOR 2013

****

www.black-prince.com

NARROWBOATHOLIDAYS

across Britain

Discover a new way to holiday onboard a luxury Black Prince narrowboat

CALL

OU

R EXPERTS

OR BOOK ONLIN

E

There are so many things to do along our beautiful waterways, from idling away an hour or two through

picturesque villages, a trip to the theatre, cafés and restaurants, or simply a quiet stroll to the pub for a pint.

Whatever the age of your party, a voyage along the vast network of waterways allows access to some of

the most diverse, beautiful and historic venues across the United Kingdom- the perfect way to enjoy a holiday with a difference.

Our continued investment ensures a first class journey onboard the youngest and most luxuriousnarrowboat fleet in the UK. All of our boats are built by us to our exacting standards and offer all the

comforts of home including flat screen TVs, Freeview and DVD players, USB chargersand of course, central heating.

2013 sees the opening of our new base at Ely in Cambridgeshire and the introduction of the

Princess 6 to our fleet. Wherever you choose to explore and whatever the size and age of your party,

our team of experts are always on hand to help you and our website www.black-prince.comhas plenty more information and ideas for you to view.

The number of returning visitors every year tells us we’re doing things right

and we hope that you’ll join us soon for a waterways adventure. Happy cruising!

Stuart Attridge, Director

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2013?

NAPTON

FALKIRK

THE PEAK DISTRICTCHIRK

ACTON BRIDGE

Skipton

Leeds

Wakefield

Huddersfield

Goole

Stainforth& Keadby

CanalSheffield &

South YorkshireNavigation Doncaster

Sheffield

Leeds &Liverpool

Canal

Burnley

Blackburn

Wigan

LymmLiverpool

BridgewaterCanal

PeakForestCanal

Whaley Bridge

Macclesfield

MacclesfieldCanal

Ellesmere Port

Chester

Barbridge Junction

Whitchurch

Whixhall

Llangollen Nantwich

Audlem

ShropshireUnion Canal Stafford

Trent & Mersey

Canal

Froghall

Leek

CaldonCanal

Hardings Wood

ErewashCanal

Newark

Nottingham

CanalRiver

RiverTrent

Loughborough

RiverSoar

Snarestone

Burton upon Trent

Great Haywood

Fradley Junction

AutherleyJunction Ashby

CanalCoventryCanal

B’ham &Fazeley

Canal

Tamworth

MarstonJunction

FazeleyJunction

Coventry

Hawkesbury

WelfordRugby

BraunstonJunction

Peterborough

Warwick

StratforduponAvon

Worcester

StourtonStourbridge

Worcester &Birmingham

Canal

Grand UnionCanal

SouthOxfordCanal

StratfordCanal

KingswoodJunction

Birmingham

Dudley

Wolverhampton

Evesham

LeightonBuzzard

Tewkesbury

RiverSevern

RiverAvon

Gloucester

Banbury

Middlewich

Hurleston Junction

LlangollenCanal

Manchester

Northampton

Oxford HemelHempstead

LONDON

Kingston Upon Thames

River Thames

Marlow

Windsor

Cambridge

Stoke Bruerne

Earith

LittleVenice

Hertford

Bishop’s Stortford

Reading

Weybridge

STOKE PRIOR

ELY

CRUISE THE COUNTRYSIDEfrom one of our eight bases

Leicester

Foxton

Chirk

NaptonEly

The Peak District

Stoke Prior

Falkirk Wheel

London

Acton Bridge

Enjoy a short break from any one of our eight UK bases.

Stourport

PLANNING YOUR HOLIDAYthe adventure starts here...

SELECT A BASEChoose where you’d like to begin your journey,from one of our eight UK bases.Each base will show you the routes available, including shortbreaks,along with suggested places of interest.

DECIDE WHAT TYPE OF HOLIDAYLong or short breaks are available from each base, simply choose how long you’d like to takeand the route times are shown for each journey.

CHOOSE YOUR ROUTEEach base has a choice of suggested routes fromwhich you can choose, depending on how far you’d like to travel and what you’d like to see on your holiday.

DECIDE ON A BOATSelect the type of boat you’d like to travel on - there are various configurations to suit your party.Individual boat specifications begin on page 38.A full inventory of what’s onboard can be found on page 37 so you’ll know exactly what you’ll need to bring.

BOOK YOUR ADVENTUREYou can book online, use our booking form onpage 47, or call us to talk to one of our experiencedteam. Prices are shown on page 46 and start fromas little as £81* per person. *Based on a short break startingMarch 16th for 10 people onboard a Duchess 8, including Damage Waiver.

1

2

3

4

5

Short breaks areavailable from eachof our eight UK bases,ideal if you’ve nevertaken a canal holiday

before, or you simplylike the idea of a relaxing

weekend on the water.

SHORT BREAK

Call our experts on +44 (0)1527 575 115

check online for ourlatest offers and

special breaks

Whether you’re holidaying as a couple, with family

or a group of friends, a narrowboat holiday offers

something for everyone. Whatever the age of

your party, drifting along the canals is the perfect

way to while away a day and it’s just as much fun

for your pets - why not bring them along

too. We’ll happily accommodate

pre-booked pets to make your

holiday as easy as possible.

We do of course operate pet-free

boats if you prefer.

Try a

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE...

If you have a smartphone and a QRreader app, you can scan the codesused throughout the brochure to seemore information on our web pages.

We’ve tried to include as much

information on the following pages

as possible, including some typical

frequently asked questions.

Our expert team is always on hand

to help, but you’ll find plenty more

information on our website, including

videos, latest news, current offers

and online booking.

Visit www.black-prince.com

CALL

OUR EXPERTS

ORBOOK ONLI

NE

5

an introduction Welcome Aboard 6Getting Started 7

choose your baseActon Bridge 8-11Chirk 12-15The Peak District 16-19Stoke Prior 20-23Napton 24-27London 28-31Ely New for 2013 32-33Scotland 34-35

select a boatOn Board the Fleet 36-37The PRINCESS (sleeps 2-6) 38-39The DUCHESS (sleeps 2-10) 40-42The LAUTREC (sleeps 4-5) 42-43The SHAKESPEARE (sleeps 4-6) 43

book your adventureYour Questions Answered 44-45Special Offers 45Prices 46Booking Form 47-48Legal Information 49Boat Sales 50

WELCOME ABOARD!there is nothing quite like a narrowboat holiday

6

Fun for all...Children find narrowboat holidays fantastic fun - working the locks,cycling along the towpaths, helping to steer the boat and making friendsalong the way. It’s an ideal holiday for children – a perfect mixture ofactive fun and relaxing down time. A TV, DVD and Freeview may not bethat important to you on an outdoor holiday, but the mod cons on aBlack Prince boat are there to keep all the family happy!

If you simply fancy a quiet getaway for two, or sharing the fun withfriends we have a boat to suit you. From a 2 berth to a 10 berth boat, witha variety of options for single or double bed configurations. Then it’ssimply a case of choosing where to go and packing the bags!

Watch our ‘introduction’ video on our website

If you’ve never been on a canal holiday before, we understand the prospect of a holiday on the water canbe a little daunting – especially when it comes to being in charge of your own boat and operating the locks.

Firstly, let us reassure you that our expert team at Black Prince will meet and greet you on arrival at one ofour bases, and are on hand to give you a full induction. We’ll talk you through the facilities on board, howto drive the boat, how to operate a lock and everything else you need to know for your holiday. Our handoversare industry accredited to ensure you leave us feeling confident and fully prepared.

Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you like and to make you feel more comfortable, we can evenstay on board for the first stretch of your journey until you feel confident. Once you have set off, there is adetailed boat manual on board and round-the-clock assistance should you need help.

7

13•3•5

12•1

5•7

13•23•8

6•35•7

6•0

•2

6•0

•2

7•0•2

RiverSevern

Worcs & B’ham Canal

Stourbridge

Kidderminster

STOURPORTRING Alvechurch

KingsNorton

BIRMINGHAM

13•29•9

STOKE PRIOR

Stourton

STOURPORT

Droitwich

For each route you will see thetotal number of miles, locks andsuggested hours per day travellingfor the complete holiday.

Along each section of the map youwill also see a set of 3 figures whichdenote the number of miles, locksand time for each leg of the route.

13•29•9

READING THE ROUTE

GETTING STARTEDunderstanding your route...

We have tried to include as much information as possible to help you plan your holiday. As well aswhere to start from and which route to take, we have included some additional detail to our route mapsso that you’ll have an idea of how long each leg of the journey will take, how many locks there are and an average day’s cruising time. (We’ve put a little reminder of how to use the guides throughout.)

76 •105 •7miles • locks • hours

TOTAL FOR THE JOURNEY

BASE INFOTHERE’S MORE AT:

BLACK-PRINCE.COM

WELCOME TO...ActonBridge

DROUTE

CROUTE

AROUTE

BROUTE

Wigan &Return

Chester &Return

Cheshire Ring

Four CountiesRing

Audlem

Stone

Beeston

PenkridgeBrewood

AutherleyJunction

Market Drayton

Norbury

Etruria

Trent &Mersey

Canal

MacclesfieldCanal

Trent &Mersey

Canal

THE PEAK DISTRICT

Stafford

ShropshireUnionCanal

LlangollenCanal

GreatHaywood

CHIRK

FOUR COUNTIES

RING

CHESHIRE RING

Nantwich

Middlewich

EllesmerePort

Hurleston

Northwich

Anderton Lift

Lymm

Leigh

Stretford

Dukinfield

Marple

Macclesfield

Congleton

PrestonBrook

Wigan

ACTONBRIDGE

BridgewaterCanal

Barbridge

Based near Northwich, Acton Bridge is a great place for exploring a number of routes.Travelling north, you meet the canal where it all started – the Bridgewater Canal, whichtakes you lock-free to Manchester. From there you can travel to the Leeds-Liverpool Canal,or continue on the Cheshire Ring via the Peak Forest and Macclesfield. As well as the vibrantcity of Manchester, this is a beautiful route with constantly changing scenery. From south ofthe base you can travel on the Four Counties Ring, or meander up to Chester and beyond tothe Ellesmere Port Boat Museum.

MANCHESTER

Staffs &WorcsCanal

HardingsWood

8

Chester

Chester

The Lowry Gallery

Salford Quays

ROUTES FROM ACTON BRIDGE...Mow Cop

BASE INFO

THERE’S MORE AT:

BLACK-PRINCE.COM

MontgomeryCanal

9

SHORT BREAK

from Acton Bridge

Try a

BOAT AVAILABILITYfor long and short breaks

AndertonLift

Northwich Trent & Mersey

Canal

Why not try a short break from Acton Bridge? You can enjoy 3 or 4

days from either Saturday afternoon to Tuesday afternoon,

Wednesday morning to Saturday morning, Friday afternoon to

Monday morning or from Monday afternoon to Friday morning.

Prices are shown on page 46, but start from as little as £81 per person.

Acton Bridge Short Route....Locks: 16

Cruising Time: Around 20hrs return

Travel south from the base on the

Trent & Mersey Canal, turning at

Middlewich onto the Middlewich

arm to Barbridge Junction. The route

is glorious Cheshire countryside,

taking in the town of Middlewich.

R

ACTON BRIDGE

Acton Bridge

Middlewich

Barbridge

ACTONBRIDGE

Sat Wed Fri Mon2.30pm 9.30am 2.30pm 2.30pm

to Tue to Sat to Mon to Fri2.30pm 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am

Princess 2 4 4

Princess 4 4 4

Duchess 2 4 4

Shakespeare 4 4 4

Duchess 4 4 4 4 4

Lautrec 4 4 4

Princess 6 4 4

Duchess 6 4 4 4 4

Duchess 8 4 4

You may also take longer breaks from Acton Bridge from any of the times shown.

See boat details on pages 36 to 43

www.black-prince.com | +44 (0)1527 575 115

LATESTOFFERSCHECK ONLINE:

BLACK-PRINCE.COM

AROUTEone week

A very pleasant and easy run with many miles of lock-free cruising. Leavingthe base you travel on the first British canal built by the Duke of Bridgewaterto transport coal to Manchester. On this you can see the mine entrances,together with the Barton Swing Bridge over the Manchester Ship Canal,where the canal is swung to let large ships through. At Wigan, the PierMuseum and Trencherfield Mill Steam Engine (the world’s largest), are wellworth a visit.

Museum of Science and Industry | The Lowry | Old TraffordBarton Swing AqueductWorsleyWigan Pier and MuseumTrencherfield Mill Steam Engine

A

A

B

B

C

C

D

D

E

E

BROUTEone week

A slightly more active route, but still easily manageable at about five hoursper day, this trip includes varying canals and countryside. Travelling southwardspast the old salt mines to Middlewich, you turn onto the Middlewich arm tojoin up with the Shropshire Union Canal. The trip to the Medieval city of Chester is particularly pleasant with the canal built next to the old city walls. You should also have time to visit the boat museum at Ellesmere Port.

Salt MinesChester | Zoo and Gardens | ‘The Rows’ Shopping Area | Roman RuinsBoat Museum

ABC

A

C

Chester AND RETURN

Wigan AND RETURN

Northwich

Lymm

Anderton Lift

Leigh

Stretford

Wigan

MANCHESTER

ACTONBRIDGE

BridgewaterCanal

PrestonBrook

Trent &Mersey

Canal


Middlewich

EllesmerePort

Hurleston

Anderton Lift

Leigh

Stretford

PrestonBrook

Wigan

MANCHESTER

ACTONBRIDGE

Lymm

Beeston

Barbridge

Nantwich

B

7•2•311•0•4

11•0•4

10•0•4

3•1•

1

5•0•2

10•4

•410

•4•4

5•5•3

12•9•6

Northwich

10

Chester

Middlewich

Trent &Mersey

Canal





Preston Brook Chester

Wigan

Anderton Lift

Harecastle Tunnel


per each leg of the route

REMINDER!example:

11

Staffs &Worcs

Canal

Audlem

PenkridgeBrewood

AutherleyJunction

Market Drayton

Norbury

Etruria

Trent &Mersey

Canal

THE PEAK DISTRICT

Stafford


HardingsWood

GreatHaywood

Nantwich

Middlewich

Hurleston

Barbridge

CROUTEone week

An active route of around eight hours per day, the Cheshire Ring is one ofcontrasts. Travelling northwards over the Bridgewater Canal and lock-freeto Manchester, where the city’s canals are currently being improved. After this,into the Peak District on the Macclesfield Canal, with its pretty stone villages.Just north of Stoke on Trent, you meet the Trent & Mersey Canal travellingthrough the many locks to Middlewich and its history of salt, then home.

Museum of Science and Industry | The Lowry | Old TraffordBarton Swing AqueductLittle Moreton HallMow CopHarecastle Tunnel

ABCDE

AB

C DE

RING

DROUTEtwo weeks

A relaxing fortnight, travelling southwards to Stoke on Trent via Middlewich.Passing through the red-watered Harecastle Tunnel (the result of local ironworkings) and continuing past the Wedgwood factory to Stone and GreatHaywood, joining the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal. Just north ofWolverhampton, you meet the Shropshire Union Canal with its extravagant cuttingsand embankments, carrying you up to Barbridge and the Middlewich arm. If time permits, a diversion along the Caldon Canal is well worthwhile.

Salt MinesHarecastle TunnelWedgwoodStoneShugborough HallChurches MansionNantwich

ABCDEFG

A

B

C

E

FG

THE

RINGFourCounties

CheshireACTON BRIDGE

MacclesfieldCanal

BridgewaterCanal

Trent &Mersey

Canal

PeakForestCanal

THE PEAK DISTRICT

Northwich

Anderton Lift

Middlewich

Lymm

Stretford

Dukinfield

Marple

Macclesfield

Congleton

ACTONBRIDGE

HardingsWood

PrestonBrook

MANCHESTER

NorthwichAnderton Lift

ACTONBRIDGE

5•1•2

11•1•4

11•5•5

6•17•5

8•5•4

1•0•1

10•4

•4

5•0•2

13•31•10

10•4

•4

5•0•23•1•1

10•0•411•0•4

10•27•8

8•16

•511

•0•4

11•1

2•6

6•1•3

10•4•4

13•31•10

6•0•2

10•6•4

10•5

•5

11•7•5

DStone

9•12•5

141 •102•5miles • locks • hours




Bridgewater Canal

The Lowry Gallery

Shugborough Hall

Middlewich

WELCOME TO...Chirk

DROUTE

CROUTE

AROUTE

BROUTE

Chester &Return

Llangollen &Whitchurch

Llangollen Canal

Four CountiesRing

LlangollenCanal

MontgomeryCanal


Staffs &WorcsCanal

Trevor

Frankton

Whixall

Wrenbury

Chester

Beeston

Hurleston

Audlem

Nantwich

Stafford

Ellesmere

CHIRK

Barbridge

Stone

Penkridge

Brewood

AutherleyJunction

MarketDrayton

Norbury

HardingsWood

Etruria

Trent &Mersey

Canal

Middlewich

GreatHaywood

FOUR COUNTIESRING

THE PEAK DISTRICTWhitchurch

Llangollen


River Dee

Ellesmere Port

Holt

Based on the breathtaking Llangollen Canal in North Wales, Chirk’s lovely marina is situatedon the site of the Chirk Golf & Country Club. With much to offer, the Llangollen Canal meandersgracefully through the beautiful countryside where the World Heritage Site – the PontcysyllteAqueduct - spans across the Dee Valley. Such a feat of engineering is sure to take yourbreath away. Cruise the Montgomery Canal, recently reopened to boats for the first time inover fifty years, where a four mile length of the canal has been restored giving you thechance to cruise this once dormant, sleepy waterway.

12

ROUTES FROM CHIRK...

Chirk Castle

Ellesmere

Chester

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct


BLACK-PRINCE.COM

SHORT BREAK

from Chirk

Try a


Why not try a short break from Chirk? You can enjoy 3 or 4 days from

either Saturday afternoon to Tuesday afternoon, Wednesday

morning to Saturday morning, Friday afternoon to Monday morning

or from Monday afternoon to Friday morning.


Chirk Short Route....Locks: 4Cruising Time: Around 16hrs return.

See the best part of the Llangollen

Canal, crossing the Pontcysyllte

Aqueduct and travelling along the

Dee Valley to the marina. Then back

past Chirk to Ellesmere through 2 locks,

and over the Chirk Aqueduct.

R

CHIRK

Chirk

Frankton

Llangollen

Trevor

Ellesmere

13

CHIRK



Princess 2 4 4

Princess 4 4 4 4 4

Duchess 2 4 4

Shakespeare 4 4 4

Duchess 4 4 4 4 4

Lautrec 4 4 4

Princess 6 4 4

Duchess 6 4 4 4 4

Duchess 8 4 4

You may also take longer breaks from Chirk from any of the times shown.See boat details on pages 36 to 43


Llangollen Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Chester

Trevor

10•0•4

6•9•

4

1•0•1

5•5•3

12•9•6

AROUTEone week

A very pleasant and easy route. Travelling first to Llangollen, you cross thefamous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct 120 feet above the River Dee. After this thecanal perches on the side of the lovely Dee Valley up to Llangollen itself.Retracing your steps you encounter Chirk Aqueduct and through to the lovelysmall town of Ellesmere after passing through the only two locks on your trip.After Ellesmere you travel through the Shropshire Lake District with its meresto the market town of Whitchurch.

LlangollenPontcysyllte AqueductChirk AqueductEllesmere Whitchurch

A

A BC

CDD

E

E

BROUTEone week

A more challenging route, and you should not be disappointed if you do notreach Chester. Travelling down the canal, you pass through the towns ofEllesmere and Whitchurch to Grindley Brook with its staircase of three locks.From here the locks become more frequent, taking you down through lovelycountryside to the Shropshire Union Canal at Hurleston. The rural atmospherecontinues through to Chester. You should remember that the LlangollenCanal flows so it will take longer to return. A visit to Llangollen itself is alsowell worthwhile.

Chirk AqueductEllesmere WhitchurchWrenburyNantwich BunburyBeeston Castle and MarketChester - Medieval Town | Zoo and GardensThe Rows Shopping Area

A

A

BC

C

D

D

E

E

F

F

G

G

H

HAND RETURNChester

WhitchurchLLANGOLLEN AND

LlangollenCanal

Trevor

Frankton

Whixall

CHIRK

WhitchurchLlangollen

Ellesmere

River Dee

HoltBarbridge

Nantwich


Chester

Frankton

Whixall

Wrenbury

Chester

Hurleston

Nantwich

CHIRK

Barbridge

Whitchurch

ShropshireUnionCanalRiver

Dee

Holt

Trevor

Llangollen

LlangollenCanal

Ellesmere

8•10

•4

4•0•211•2•5

10•0•4

5•0•2

Beeston5•

0•2

B

Hurleston

B9•2•4

14

112•70•9miles • locks • hours


60•4 •4miles • locks • hours


WAL

KAR

OUNDOURBOATS

black-prince.comTour360

Harecastle Tunnel

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Chirk Aqueduct

Ellesmere

Staffs &WorcsCanal

Frankton

Whixall

Hurleston

Audlem

Barbridge

Stone

PenkridgeBrewood

AutherleyJunction

Market Drayton

Norbury

EtruriaTrent &Mersey

Canal

Middlewich

THE PEAK DISTRICT

Ellesmere

Stafford


LlangollenCanal

5•1•2

11•1•4

11•5•5

6•17•58•5•4

10•4

•4

13•31•10

9•12•5

10•6•4

10•5

•511

•7•5

9•2•4

4•0•2

10•0•4

5•0•

2

8•10•4

6•9•

4

1•0•1Hardings

Wood

A trip along the full length of this lovely canal. Travelling towards Hurlestonyou cross the Chirk Aqueduct and down the first two locks. After passingEllesmere and its meres, you come to the less hilly Whixall Moss to Whitchurch.Undulating countryside sprinkled with locks takes you down to Hurlestonwith its reservoir, which provides the water for Chester. Retracing yoursteps cross the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, and up the Dee Valley to Llangollen.A delightful week.

Llangollen Pontcysyllte AqueductChirk AqueductEllesmere Whitchurch

Llangollen CANALCROUTEone week

DROUTEtwo weeks

For the more experienced crew. Travel down the Llangollen toHurleston where you join the Shropshire Union Canal then travellingsouthwards through small towns and villages to join theStaffordshire & Worcestershire Canal. This canal meandersthrough pretty countryside up to Great Haywood. Here you jointhe Trent & Mersey Canal and travel towards the more built-uparea of Stoke on Trent. Continuing up to Middlewich through aseries of locks, you take the Middlewich arm to Barbridge, andback via the Llangollen Canal.

Chirk AqueductEllesmere Harecastle TunnelWedgwoodStoneShugborough HallNantwich

A

A

BCDEFG

B

C

D

E

F

G

THE

RINGFourCounties

CHIRK

A

A

BC

C

D

DEE

LlangollenCanal

Trevor

Frankton

Whixall

CHIRK

WhitchurchLlangollen

Ellesmere

River Dee

HoltBarbridge

Hurleston

Nantwich


Chester

Wrenbury

11•2•510•0•4

5•0•2

6•9•4

8•10•4

GreatHaywood

B

CHIRK

Whitchurch

Wrenbury

6•0•2

FOUR COUNTIES

RING

Nantwich

15

187 •136•7miles • locks • hours






REMINDER!example:

WELCOME TO...Peak District

DROUTE

CROUTE

AROUTE

BROUTE

The CheshireRing

The FourCounties Ring

Caldon & LeekCanals

Whaley Bridge

Northwich

Manchester ShipCanal Bridgewater

Canal

MacclesfieldCanal

PeakForestCanal

CaldonCanal

Trent &Mersey

Canal

Staffs &WorcsCanal

FOUR COUNTIESRING

CHESHIRERING

Hurleston

Middlewich

PrestonBrook Anderton Lift

Dukinfield

MarpleStretford

WhaleyBridge

Macclesfield

CongletonLeek

Hazelhurst

FroghallEtruria

Stone

PenkridgeBrewood

Audlem

MANCHESTER

Lymm

AutherleyJunction

MarketDrayton

HardingsWood

Situated on the re-developed National Garden Festival Site, this is one of the most popularBlack Prince starting points. On site, there is an exciting Water World, dry ski-slope, multi-screencinema, ten pin bowling and shopping centre . . . and that’s before you get on the water! The variety of routes is wide with the Cheshire Ring and Four Counties being favourites. You travelthrough some of the waterways’ most beautiful scenery, along with the pure contrast of thePotteries, Royal Doulton, Cheddleton Mill and Wedgwood industries. For the more energeticthere’s Alton Towers near the end of the Caldon Canal.

ACTON BRIDGE

GreatHaywood

Barbridge

NANTWICH

16

the

THE PEAKDISTRICT

ROUTES FROM THE PEAK DISTRICT...Stoke on Trent

Alton Towers

Market Drayton

Brindley’s Mill


SHORT BREAKfrom the Peak District

Try a


Why not try a short break from Stoke on Trent? You can enjoy 3 or 4

days from either Saturday afternoon to Tuesday afternoon,

Wednesday morning to Saturday morning, Friday afternoon to

Monday morning or from Monday afternoon to Friday morning.


The Peak District Short Route....Locks: 34


The Caldon Canal, taking in both wings to Froghall and Leek through

the Churnet Valley. A quiet canal through beautiful

countryside with very good canal side pubs.

R

THE PEAK DISTRICT

HazelhurstCaldonCanal

Etruria

Leek

Froghall

17

The Peak District

THE PEAK DISTRICT



Princess 2 4 4

Princess 4 4 4 4 4

Duchess 2 4 4

Shakespeare 4 4 4

Duchess 4 4 4 4 4

Lautrec 4 4 4

Princess 6 4 4

Duchess 6 4 4 4 4

Duchess 8 4 4

You may also take longer breaks from the Peak District from any of the times shown.



AROUTEone week

A more active route; you travel northwards through the Harecastle Tunneland join the Macclesfield Canal via a fly-over. This is a lovely canal throughCongleton, Macclesfield and Marple to Manchester. The canal here is currentlybeing improved, but has some way to go. A lock-free section of the BridgewaterCanal (where it all started) follows until Middlewich, passing the AndertonLift. A section with plenty of locks takes you back home to Stoke.

Harecastle TunnelMow CopLittle Moreton HallMuseum of Science and Industry

Mow CopShugborough

Great Haywood

ABCD

BROUTEone week

Another more active route, you travel southwards from the marina past theWedgwood factory and through the canal town of Stone to Great Haywood,where you meet the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal. Travelling westwards,you join the Shropshire Union Canal at Autherley. The ‘Shroppie’ with itsimpressive architecture, banks and cuttings, carries you northwards to theMiddlewich Arm. At Middlewich you rejoin the Trent & Mersey Canal whichcarries you back to Stoke through a number of locks and the Harecastle Tunnel.

WedgwoodStone Market TownShugborough HallChurches MansionNantwichHarecastle Tunnel

THE

RINGCheshire

ABCDEF

B

D

13•31•10

10•4•4

BridgewaterCanal

MacclesfieldCanal

Trent & Mersey

Canal

PeakForestCanal

CHESHIRERING

Anderton Lift

Marple

Macclesfield

Congleton

MANCHESTER

Lymm

ACTON BRIDGE

WhaleyBridge

C

HardingsWood

Middlewich

THE PEAKDISTRICT

THE PEAKDISTRICT

A

Etruria

Leek

8•1•3

PrestonBrook

10•0•411•0•4

10•27•8 8•16•5

11•0

•4

11•1

2•6

6•1•3

6•0•2

Dukinfield

Stretford

B

D E F

A

11•7

•510

•5•5

10•6•4

6•0•2

13•31•1010•4

•4

1•0•1

8•5•46•17•5


Staffs &WorcsCanal

FOUR COUNTIES

RING

Hurleston

Barbridge

Stone

PenkridgeBrewood

Audlem

NANTWICH

AutherleyJunction

MarketDrayton

Norbury

Congleton

HardingsWood

Froghall

Etruria

9•12•5

11•1•4

5•1•2

11•5•5

Middlewich

Hazelhurst

Leek

GreatHaywood

RINGTHE

CTrent &Mersey

Canal

18

Anderton Lift




TOTAL FOR THE JOURNEYFourCounties

BASE INFOTHERE’S MORE AT:BLACK-PRINCE.COM

Gnosall

Bosley Locks

CROUTEone week

An easy week down one of the most beautiful and quiet canals of them all.From the junction near the marina, you progress up the locks to the outskirtsof Stoke via factories and parks. Here you encounter progressively morepicturesque countryside as you enter the Churnet Valley. The Leek branchcontains no locks from the junction, whereas the Froghall branch descendsto the River Churnet. If time permits, a trip down the Trent & Mersey Canal toStone is well worthwhile.

Churnet ValleyFlint MillAlton TowersWedgwood

ABCD

A

B

CD

DROUTEone week

An easy week, travelling into the Peak District to the end of the Peak ForestCanal at Whaley Bridge. Travelling north through the Harecastle Tunnel, youjoin the Macclesfield Canal at Hardings Wood. The Macclesfield Canal skirtsthe edge of the Peak District through the small towns of Congleton,Macclesfield and Marple, before turning onto the Peak Forest Canal toWhaley Bridge.

Harecastle TunnelMow CopBosley LocksClarence Mill

ABCD

A

B

C

D

AND RETURNWhaleyBridge

THE PEAK DISTRICT

AND LEEK CANALS

Dukinfield

Leek

Etruria

WhaleyBridge

Macclesfield

Congleton

7•0•3

11•0

•4

11•1

2•6

6•1•3

MacclesfieldCanal

MANCHESTER

Middlewich

Hazelhurst

Froghall

CaldonCanal

THE PEAKDISTRICT

Marple

CHESHIRE RING

6•0•2

HardingsWood

CaldonCanal

Trent &Mersey

Canal

FOUR COUNTIESRING

Leek

Hazelhurst

Froghall

Congleton

Macclesfield

Middlewich

THE PEAKDISTRICT

10•9•5

3•0•1

8•8•5

Stone

Etruria

GreatHaywood

19

Harecastle Tunnel

Preston Brook




TOTAL FOR THE JOURNEYCaldon



REMINDER!example:

Situated in a lovely spot, Stoke Prior is the base for those who want a more active holiday,being at the bottom of the Tardebigge flight of locks. It is a base of contrasts, with routes takingin the Rivers Severn and Avon, as well as a number of different canals. Equally it coversbeautiful countryside as well as cities such as Birmingham and Worcester. Several rings can becompleted from here, with the Stourport Ring being the most popular.

WELCOME TO...Stoke Prior

DROUTE

CROUTE

AROUTE

BROUTE

Stourbridge

Kidderminster

Netherton Tunnel

Staffs &WorcsCanal

RiverSevern

RiverAvon

Worcs &B’hamCanal

North OxfordCanal

Grand UnionCanal

NorthStratford

CanalSTOURPORTRING

AVON RING

WARWICKSHIRERING

Droitwich

Pershore

Upton uponSevern

*** NEW ***The Mid

Worcestershire Ring

Kingswood Junction

Alvechurch

KingsNorton

Salford

Fazeley Tamworth

Nuneaton

MarstonHawkesbury

Brinklow

WORCESTER

TEWKESBURY

EVESHAM

STRATFORDUPON AVON

LEAMINGTON

COVENTRY

STOURPORT

BIRMINGHAM

WOLVERHAMPTON

RUGBY

Gloucester

WoottonWawen

Braunston

Stourton

Atherstone

The StourportRing

Stourton and Return

The Avon Ring

The WarwickshireRing

WARWICK

Bidford

20

Dudley

Farmer’sBridge

NAPTON

STOKE PRIOR

ROUTES FROM STOKE PRIOR...

Stratford Upon Avon

Birmingham

Warwick Castle

Tardebigge


BASE INFOTHERE’S MORE AT:BLACK-PRINCE.COM

STOKE PRIOR

SHORT BREAK

from Stoke Prior

Try a


Stoke PriorStourport

Droitwich

Bevere LockRiver

Severn

Worcester &B’ham Canal

R

STOKE PRIOR



Princess 2 4 4

Princess 4 4 4 4 4

Duchess 2 4 4

Shakespeare 4 4 4

Duchess 4 4 4 4 4

Lautrec 4 4 4 4 4

Princess 6 4 4

Duchess 6 4 4 4 4

Duchess 8 4 4

You may also take longer breaks from Stoke Prior from any of the times shown.


Why not try a short break from Stoke Prior? You can enjoy 3 or 4days from either Saturday afternoon to Tuesday afternoon,Wednesday morning to Saturday morning, Friday afternoon toMonday morning or from Monday afternoon to Friday morning. Prices are shown on page 46, but start from as little as £81 per person.

Stoke Prior Short Route....Locks: 44 towards Worcester / 52 towards StourportCruising Time: 16hrs to Worcester / 24hrs to Stourport

Worcester and the Severn.Southwards from the base, travelling though a succession of locks to Worcester. For themore active, a trip up the River

Severn towards Stourport is possible before returning.

Mid-Worcestershire Ring Short Route....Locks: 23 towards Worcester / 23 towards Stoke PriorCruising Time: 7.5hrs to Worcester / 12hrs to Stoke Prior

The Droitwich Canal link from the Worcester & Birmingham Canal tothe River Severn is now open. This pretty route, 1 of just 2 short-breakrings in the country, is easily reached from our Stoke Prior base.

Worcester

21

Dunhampstead

Stratford Upon Avon



BLACK-PRINCE.COM

AROUTEone week

Leaving Stoke Prior, you encounter the Tardebigge flight after which there is lock-free cruising to Gas Street Basin and the International ConventionCentre, via the very pleasant Birmingham University, Botanical Gardens andCadbury World. Cutting through Netherton Tunnel to Merry Hill and theStaffordshire & Worcestershire Canal, you encounter some beautiful countrysideleading to the River Severn at Stourport. At Worcester you leave the Severn,and climb gently back to Stoke Prior through open countryside.

Tardebigge FlightCadbury WorldGas Street Basin | International Convention CentreBullring Shopping CentreBlack Country Museum | Dudley Zoo & CastleNetherton TunnelMerry Hill Shopping CentreWorcester City | Cathedral | Cricket GroundRacecourse | Royal Worcester China | Commandery

Worcester

A

ABC

B CD

DEFG

H H

13•3•5

12•1

5•7

13•23•8

6•35•7

6•0

•2

6•0

•27•0•2

RiverSevern


THE

BROUTEone week

This is the most leisurely route from Stoke Prior travelling south to Worcester,turning upstream onto the River Severn, past Worcester Cathedral andcruising along the picturesque river for the next 13 miles. There are threemanned river locks on the journey to Stourport on Severn, before changingto the Staffordshire & Worcester Canal. On the way to Stourton the Cookleyand Kinver areas must be one of the most beautiful lengths of canal in thecountry - turn at Stourton and return on the same route to Stoke Prior.

Worcester City | Cathedral | Cricket GroundRacecourse | Royal Worcester China | CommanderyStourportKinver | Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses

A

B

C

A

BC

Stourton AND RETURN

22

Stourbridge

Kidderminster

Staffs &Worcs Canal


KingsNorton

WORCESTER

BIRMINGHAM

WOLVERHAMPTON

Dudley

Farmer’sBridge13•29•9

E

G

F

STOKE PRIOR

Stourton

STOURPORT

13•3•5

12•1

5•7

13•23•8

RiverSevern


Stourbridge

Kidderminster

Staffs &Worcs Canal


KingsNorton

WORCESTER

BIRMINGHAM

WOLVERHAMPTON

Dudley

Farmer’sBridge

STOKE PRIOR

Stourton

STOURPORT

Droitwich

Droitwich

Dudley Castle & Zoo

The Bullring

Stourport

Kidderminster

Stourport Ring76•105•6miles • locks • hours






REMINDER!example:

NIA Birmingham

Birmingham

CROUTEtwo weeks

Up the Tardebigge flight to the North Stratford Canal at Kings Norton, and ontothe South Stratford Canal, where the canal character changes with split bridgesand ‘barrel roofed’ cottages. At Stratford you can moor opposite the theatrebefore joining the River Avon. The Avon, different again, meanders down to Tewkesbury, through Evesham where you join the River Severn for a short trip up to Worcester, before returning home. Avon Licence required. An easy two week trip.

Tardebigge FlightStratford upon Avon | Shakespeare Theatre | Butterfly Safari | MuseumAnn Hathaway’s Cottage | Mary Arden’s House (canalside)EveshamTewkesburyUpton upon SevernWorcester City | Cathedral | Cricket GroundRacecourse | Royal Worcester China | Commandery

AB

CDEF

THE

RiverSevern

SouthStratford

Canal

RiverAvon

NorthStratford

Canal

Worcs& B’ham

Canal

RiverAvon

AVON RING

Pershore

Kingswood Junction

Alvechurch

WORCESTER

TEWKESBURY

STRATFORDUPON AVON

WoottonWawen

A

F

E

D

C

B

DROUTEtwo weeks

Up the Tardebigge flight to the North Stratford Canal at Kings Norton, you willthen continue to the Grand Union Canal. Travelling south, you progressthrough the Hatton Flight, via Warwick and Leamington Spa to Napton andBraunston. From Braunston, you travel on the North Oxford & Coventry Canalto Fazeley (perhaps taking in the Ashby Canal or Coventry itself), and thenhead into the centre of Birmingham via Farmer’s Bridge locks. Home downthe Worcester & Birmingham Canal via Tardebigge. A more active fortnight.

ABCDEF

G

THERING

North OxfordCanal

Grand UnionCanal

B’ham &Fazeley

Canal

CoventryCanal

NorthStratford

CanalWARWICKSHIRE RING

Kingswood

Salford

Tamworth

Atherstone

Nuneaton

MarstonHawkesbury

Brinklow

Leamington

COVENTRY

Alvechurch

RUGBY

Braunston

Fazeley

Avon RingSTOKE PRIOR

A

BC

D

E

FG

BIRMINGHAMKingsNorton

Farmer’sBridge

12•14•6

11•13•68•0•3

6•0•26•0•2

3•24•4

3•0•1

14•23•8

8•24•7

7•1•3

7•0•2

13•18•8

9•3•

4

6•0•2 13•18•8

6•18•6

18•1

0•8

13•23•8

11•4•5

14•3

•5

17•18•6

16•1•6 EVESHAMUptonupon

Severn

Bidford

WARWICK

KingsNorton

23

STOKE PRIOR

6•35•7

STOKE PRIOR

6•35

•7

NAPTON

5•0•2

Warwick Castle

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Tardebigge FlightHatton LocksWarwick CastleCoventry CathedralDrayton Manor Park & ZooGas Street Basin | Bullring Shopping CentreInternational Convention CentreCadbury World





Warwickshire


BLACK-PRINCE.COM

WELCOME TO...Napton

DROUTE

CROUTE

AROUTEBROUTE

Snarestone& Return

Warwickshire Ring

Stoke Bruerne& Return

Oxford & Return

NorthOxfordCanal

North OxfordCanal

Grand UnionCanal

River Avon

NorthStratford

Canal

Worcs &B’hamCanal

B’ham &Fazeley

Canal

KingsNorton

Salford

Fazeley

Tamworth

Nuneaton

MarstonHawkesbury

Brinklow

WARWICK

OXFORD

STRATFORDUPON AVON

NORTHAMPTON

BIRMINGHAM

RUGBY

Snarestone

Stoke Golding

Hinckley

Norton

Weedon

Fenny Compton

Banbury

Aynho

Lower Heyford

Thrupp

Wolvercote

London

EVESHAM

Bidford

WoottonWawen

KingswoodJunction

Marston

Gayton

Stoke Bruerne

Leamington Braunston

Atherstone

Alvechurch COVENTRY

WARWICKSHIRE RING

24

NAPTON

STOKEPRIOR


Warwick CastleBidford

Oxford

Stoke Bruerne

ROUTES FROM NAPTON...

Ideally situated at the head of the Oxford Canal, Napton is a base for a large number of interestingroutes. The Warwickshire Ring, for the more energetic, contrasts the beautiful countrysidearound Warwick with city life and industry through Birmingham and Spaghetti Junction. Trips of beauty and interest can also be achieved, including Stratford Upon Avon, Oxford,Snarestone, or a visit to the Waterways Museum at Stoke Bruerne, depending on the numberof locks you wish to negotiate.

SHORT BREAK

from Napton

Try a


Why not try a short break from Napton? You can enjoy 3 or 4 days

from either Saturday afternoon to Tuesday afternoon, Wednesday

morning to Saturday morning, Friday afternoon to Monday morning

or from Monday afternoon to Friday morning.


Napton Short Route....Locks: 26


Through Braunston on the Grand Union Canal, taking the Leicester

arm and branching off to Welford. Lovely countryside

with a few villages, encountering a tunnel

and a mix of broad and narrow locks.

R

NAPTON

Napton Braunston

Norton

Welford

Kilworth

25

NAPTON



Princess 2 4 4

Princess 4 4 4 4 4

Duchess 2 4 4

Shakespeare 4 4 4

Duchess 4 4 4 4 4

Lautrec 4 4 4 4 4

Princess 6 4 4

Duchess 6 4 4 4 4

Duchess 8 4 4 4 4

You may also take longer breaks from Napton from any of the times shown.



Brindley Place, Birmingham

AROUTEone week

An easy route for the first timer with only a few locks through rural England.Leaving the broad Grand Union Canal at the busy junction of Braunston, turningup the North Oxford Canal into narrow locks near Rugby at Hillmorton, wherethe Canal & River Trust Architectural Unit is based. At Hawkesbury youencounter the lock with the smallest lift on the system at 6 inches. The lock-free, rural Ashby Canal is very quiet and extremely peaceful, withfew boats to disturb you.

Market BosworthBattle of Bosworth BattlefieldCoventry CathedralCanalside Golf Course

ABCD

AB

C

D

AND RETURNSnarestone

BROUTEone week

Sometimes known as the Midlands Ring, this is a route of contrasts. Startingon the wide locks of the Grand Union Canal to the Hatton Flight, you continueinto Birmingham. Alternatively you can divert at Kingswood via the NorthStratford Canal through Kings Norton and onwards into the city. Leaving thecity via narrow canals to Fazeley, you return southwards past Coventry.Diversions into Coventry, Stratford Upon Avon, or onto the Ashby Canalshould be considered but don’t forget to allow extra time for this.

Warwick CastleStratford upon Avon - Shakespeare Theatre | Butterfly Safari | MuseumAnn Hathaway’s Cottage | Mary Arden’s HouseKnowleCadbury WorldGas Street Basin | Bullring Shopping Centre | International Convention CentreNational Sea Life Centre | Think Tank | Birmingham Museum & Art GalleryDrayton Manor Park & ZooCoventry Cathedral

A

B

D

F

THE

NorthOxfordCanal

AshbyCanal

Hawkesbury

Brinklow

SNARESTONE

Stoke Golding

Shakerstone

Hinckley

LEAMINGTON SPABraunstonJunction

COVENTRY

WARWICK

RUGBY

Marston

Grand UnionCanal

B’ham &Fazeley

Canal

SouthStratford

Canal

NorthStratford

Canal

CoventryCanalSalford

Fazeley

Tamworth

Marston

Hawkesbury

Brinklow

WARWICK

STRATFORDUPON AVON

RUGBYKingswood

LeamingtonBraunston

Atherstone

COVENTRY

G

AB

CDE

FG

13•0•4

9•0•33•0•1

7•1•3

7•0•2

9•3•4

5•0•2

14•23•88•23•7

12•1

4•6

11•13•6

8•0•3

3•0•1

7•1•3

7•0•2

9•3•4

RING

E

C

BIRMINGHAM

Kings Norton

17•17•9

26

NAPTON

NAPTON

5•0•2




TOTAL FOR THE JOURNEYWarwickshireWarwick Castle

Ann Hathaway’s CottageCoventry Cathedral

CALL

OU

R EXPERTS

OR BOOK ONLI

NE

AND RETURN

CROUTEone week

Another pleasant and easy route cruising on the broad Grand Union Canal wherethe locks are 14 feet wide, allowing you to share the work with another boat.The start of this trip is lock-free until you get to Braunston Junction; a hive of activity.Cruising onwards you encounter more locks and the turning to Northamptonbefore entering the 3,056 yards Blisworth Tunnel which opens out into thecanal village of Stoke Bruerne with its Waterways Museum.

Blisworth TunnelStoke Bruerne Waterways MuseumWeedon Antiques Centre

ABC

A

B

C

DROUTEone week

A busier week down the meandering Oxford Canal, which is one of the oldestin the country and follows the contours of the land. The only town on the wayis Banbury and there are some lovely villages such as Thrupp, Lower Heyfordand Shipton-on-Cherwell, with stone built houses, cosy pubs, ancientchurches and village greens.

Claydon ‘Bygones’ MuseumBanbury | Castle Quay Shopping CentreTooley's Historic Boatyard & Chandlery | Floating RestaurantBlenheim PalaceThruppOxford | University of Oxford | Bodleian LibraryAshmolean Museum | Botanic Gardens | Covered Markets

AB

CDE

A

B

C

D

E

NAPTON

Stoke BruerneAND RETURN

NORTHAMPTONWeedon

Banbury

Gayton

Stoke Bruerne

BraunstonJunction Norton

Grand UnionCanal Northampton Arm

South Oxford Canal

OXFORD

Fenny Compton

Banbury

Aynho

Lower Heyford

Thrupp

Wolvercote

5•0•2 4•6•3 5•7•3

8•0•3

5•17

•5

4•0•2

12•9

•6

11•13•67•4•3

6•3•312•8•5

3•2•2

27

NAPTON

NAPTON





Christ Church College

Stoke Bruerne

Blenheim Palace

Bodleian Library



REMINDER!example:

Oxford


BLACK-PRINCE.COM

ROUTES FROM LONDON...

WELCOME TO...London

DROUTE

CROUTEAROUTE

BROUTE

The LimehouseRing

Leighton Buzzard& Return

Hertford& Return

Reading& Return

28

Rye House

Enfield

Cowley

Windsor

Marlow

Berkhamstead

Rickmansworth

ThamesThames

Thames

READING

WATFORD

HEMELHEMPSTEAD

HERTFORD

LEIGHTONBUZZARD

MARSWORTH

Limehouse

VHF Licence is required for this route

Additional River Thames licence required (non-refundable)A licence is required for the upper Thames from Brentford.This is purchased from the lock keeper and prices canvary according to boat length and time of year.

Brentford

Weybridge

Bull’sBridge

LittleVenice


LONDON

Warwick Castle

Camden Lock

Houses of Parliament

St. Paul’s Cathedral & Millennium Bridge

Windsor

An ideal place from which to explore London and its attractions at an easy pace, combining thebest of the sights along with a more relaxed lifestyle. The Grand Union Canal Paddington Armwill take you through the heart of London, past many of the attractions of the big city andmany hidden gems conveniently accessed via the waterways. Through the excellent Londontransport links you can see Buckingham Palace, a vast array of museums and art galleries,Covent Garden’s famous markets or West End shows, leaving the city behind at the end of theday and returning to the peace of the waterways.

LONDON

SHORT BREAK

from London

Try a


RFri Mon

2.30pm 2.30pmto Mon to Fri

9.30am 9.30am

Duchess 4 4 4

Lautrec 4 4 4

Duchess 6 4 4

Duchess 8 4 4

You may also take longer breaks from London from any

of the times shown.See boat details on pages 36 to 43

LONDON

29

LittleVenice

LimehouseLondon

Why not try a short break from London? You can enjoy 3 or 4 days

from either Friday afternoon to Monday morning or Monday afternoon

to Friday morning.


London Short Route....Locks: 24


Travelling into the heart of London, through Little Venice, continuing

on to the Limehouse Basin with its great restaurants and pubs as

well as the Docklands Museum.

(There are 2 very useful

handbooks which can be found

on our website on the London base page:

‘London Cruising Guide’ and ‘London Tideway Handbook 1’)



BLACK-PRINCE.COM

AROUTEone week

Travelling clockwise into the heart of London, you will pass through Little Veniceto the Paddington Basin enabling you to visit Portobello Road Market,London Zoo, Regent’s Park and Lord’s Cricket Ground. Following the Ringonto the Limehouse Basin you will find great restaurants and pubs as well as theDocklands Museum. Onwards up the Thames (here you will require a validVHF radio licence) you can take in the famous bridges, the Tower of London,the Millennium Wheel, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Furtherupstream, you will reach Brentford, with the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kewand the Kew Bridge Steam Museum just a short walk away. From Brentfordyou will enter the Grand Union Canal, up the Hanwell flight and return to base.

Portobello Road Market | London Zoo | Regent’s Park | Lord’s Cricket GroundDocklands Museum | Canary WharfTower of LondonMillennium Wheel | Houses of Parliament | Big Ben | Westminster AbbeyRoyal Botanic Gardens | Kew Bridge Steam Museum

ABCDE

A

BCD

E

BROUTEone week

Travelling anti-clockwise from base you will join the Grand Union Canalmain line at Bull’s Bridge. This picturesque route takes you on via Uxbridge,a bustling outer suburb of London, following the course of the River Colneand on through to Harefield. Onwards you will travel through the tranquilscenery of the Chilterns. Continuing this route over the summit you willreach Leighton Buzzard - an historic market town which is located in thesouth west corner of Bedfordshire. It has some excellent waterside pubsand plenty of shops from where you can stock up on provisions.

30

THELimehouse RING

AND RETURN

Limehouse

Brentford

Bull’sBridge

LittleVenice

Cowley

Berkhamstead

Rickmansworth

WATFORD

HEMELHEMPSTEAD

LEIGHTONBUZZARD

MARSWORTH

VHF Licence is requiredfor this route

Bull’sBridge

13•0•4 8•13•6

17•0•56•12•4

8•11•4

7•15•5

14•29•10

9•8•4

4•0•1

PaddingtonBasinLONDON

LONDON





Buckingham Palace

Regent’s ParkRoyal Albert Hall

Leighton Buzzard

A

B

Rye House

Enfield

HERTFORD

Bull’sBridge

LittleVenice

CamdenLimehouse

Hackney March

7•4•3

8•9•

4

13•6

•5

9•13•613•0•4

LONDON

Royal Botanic Gardens

AND RETURN

CROUTEone week

Travelling clockwise from the base you will journey through Little Veniceand Camden Town and on to the Hertford Union Canal. From there it’s a shortdistance to the River Lee Navigation. This open waterway runs past wellknown parts of East London such as Bow, Hackney Marsh and Tottenhamand through the length of the beautiful Lee Valley Park. At Waltham Abbeyyou can visit the Royal Gunpowder Mills. At Rye Park if time allows, you canturn east and travel up the River Stort Navigation towards Bishop Stortford oryou can continue towards Hertford - a country town which holds markets inthe town twice a week, or soak up the historical atmosphere.

Portobello Road Market | London Zoo | Regent’s Park | Lord’s Cricket GroundWaltham Abbey & Royal Gunpowder Mills

AB

DROUTEone week

Travelling anti-clockwise from base you will join the Grand Union Canal atBull’s Bridge and will journey to Brentford - where you are within walkingdistance of Kew Gardens - and then on to join the River Thames. This is asuperb and historical stretch of the Thames. Continuing at a steady pace pastRichmond and on towards Hampton Court which dates back to the times ofHenry VIII. From there you will continue up the river at a gentle pace towardsWindsor Castle. This route takes you on through Henley, where the Regattatakes place during July and to Reading, where the Thames and the RiverKennet meet. Reading is a large town with its own abbey, theatres andmuseums - all well worth a visit.

Royal Botanic Gardens | Kew Bridge Steam MuseumHampton Court PalaceWindsor Castle

A

A

B

A

BC

LONDON

HertfordAND RETURN

31

Thames

READING

Bull’sBridge


14•5•5

13•6•5 16•4•6

6•12•4

17•6•6

Windsor

Marlow

Weybridge

Brentford

Additional River Thames licence required (non-refundable)

LONDON





London Eye

Camden Locks

Little Venice

Reading



REMINDER!example:

Begin your relaxing holiday from our base in Ely, in the picturesque heart of the Fenlandwaterways, overlooked by its magnificent cathedral. Our Duchess and Princess boats offer holidaysfor parties of 2 to 6 people and a selection of routes that will see you cruising through cities, townsand villages along the beautiful waterways, making Ely the ideal base to begin exploring.

ELY


RFri Mon

2.30pm 2.30pmto Mon to Fri

2.30pm 9.30am

Duchess 2 4 4

Duchess 4 4 4

Princess 4 4 4

You may also take longer breaks from Ely from any

of the times shown.See boat details on pages 36 to 43

32

AROUTE

BROUTE

Cambridge & Return

St. Ives& Return

CROUTE

St. Neots& Return

DROUTE

Bedford &Return

EROUTE

Cambridge toHuntingdon

& Return

FROUTE

Ely LinkELY

CAMBRIDGE

BEDFORD

BRANDON

BOTANYBAY

MILDENHALL

EARITHST. IVES

HUNTINGDON

ST. NEOTS

ROUTES FROM ELY...

Ely Cathedral

Bedford

Cambridge University

Butterfly Bridge


WELCOME TO...ElyNEW FOR 2013

ElytoSt.Neots AND RETURN

ElytoBedford AND RETURN

ElytoHuntingdon AND RETURN

ElytoMildenhall, CambridgeAND RETURN

ElytoCambridge AND RETURN

ElytoSt.Ives AND RETURN

AROUTEthree nights

BROUTEthree nights

CROUTEthree /four

nights

DROUTEone week

EROUTEone week

FROUTEtwo weeks

ELY

Why not try a short break from Ely? You can enjoy three full days from either Saturday afternoonto Tuesday afternoon, or from Wednesday morning to Saturday morning. Prices are shownon page 46, but start from as little as £83* per person. Routes A,B & C are all short breaks.*Based on a short break starting March 16th for 6 people onboard a Princess 4, including Damage Waiver

From our base in the city of Ely with its beautiful cathedral, you will cruise the unspoilt waters of the River Ouse toWicken Fen, a stunning wetland nature reserve. Continuing on the River Cam to Cambridge, visit its world famousuniversity and discover its cultural highlights, including King’s College Chapel and enjoy a stroll through the backstreets.

Cruise from Ely on the Old West River to Earith village where you can enjoy some wonderful birdwatching. Move onthen to the historic market town of St. Ives, with its 15th century Chapel Bridge and Norris Museum and Library.

From our base in Ely, take the Old West River and on to the historic market town of St. Ives, with its 15th centuryChapel Bridge, Norris Museum and Library and moving on to the Oliver Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon. From there,cruise on to Buckden with its famous Great Tower (where Catherine of Aragon was once imprisoned), ending at themarket town of St. Neots.

Taking the Old West River from our base in Ely, make your way to the historic market town of St. Ives, with its15th century Chapel Bridge, Norris Museum and Library and moving on to the Oliver Cromwell Museum inHuntingdon. From there, cruise on to Buckden with its famous Great Tower (where Catherine of Aragon wasonce imprisoned), ending at the market town of St. Neots. Continue on to Bedford where you’ll find a bustlingtown with great facilities for all the family, including ten-pin bowling, cinemas and a swimming pool.

Cruising from our base in the city of Ely with its beautiful cathedral, travel the unspoilt waters of the River Ouseto Wicken Fen, a stunning wetland nature reserve. Continuing on the River Cam to Cambridge, visit its worldfamous university and discover its cultural highlights, including King’s College and enjoy a stroll through thebackstreets. Return to Popes Corner and cruise south to the historic market town of St. Ives, with its 15th centuryChapel Bridge and Norris Museum and Library. Moving on through the pretty villages of Houghton, Wyton andHemingford Grey to reach Huntingdon, home to the Oliver Cromwell Museum.

From the charming city of Ely, with its huge cathedral, you can cruise the unspoilt waters of the Little Ouse,Great Ouse, Old West, Cam and Lark rivers stopping off along the way in Cambridge, with its famous university.Be sure not to miss King’s College. Other highlights include historic St. Ives, the Oliver Cromwell Museum inHuntingdon and the Medieval town of Mildenhall. Continuing on to Bedford, you’ll find something for the wholefamily, including ten-pin bowling, cinemas and a swimming pool.

33

SHORT BREAK

from Ely

Try a













WELCOME TO...ScotlandBased at the Falkirk Wheel, one of the most stunning backdrops anywhere on the canals, weare ideally sited half way between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Go up through the wheel andthree locks and then travel into Edinburgh on the long lock-free Union Canal. You will passover the magnificent Almond Aqueduct and travel through villages such as Linlithgow andRatho, home of the Edinburgh Canal Centre. For those going to Glasgow, the Forth and Clydehas more locks and swing bridges and meanders through splendid scenery and villages suchas Auchinstarry and Kirkintilloch to Cadder Village and on to Glasgow.

34

Forth & ClydeCanal

UnionCanal

UnionCanal

EDINBURGH

GLASGOW

Kirkintilloch

AuchinstarryBonny Bridge Linlithgow

Broxburn

Ratho

O

N

M

L

K

I H G

FD

E

C

B

A

J

20•0•46•0•1

2•0•1

2•0•1 7•0•2

12•3•412•0•3

7•4•2FALKIRK WHEEL

Almond Aqueduct

BROUTEone week

GlasgowAND EDINBURGH

ROUTES FROM SCOTLAND...

Edinburgh QuayRatho (Edinburgh Canal Centre)Almond AqueductNiddry Castle (Privately owned)Linlithgow Palace and LochAvon AqueductThe Union InnFalkirk Wheel, Locks & TunnelRough Castle (Roman Fort)BanknockAuchinstarryTwecharCadder ChurchPossil Loch Nature ReserveGlasgow - Kelvingrove Art GalleryScottish Exhibition Centre

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNO

Glasgow

Linlithgow Castle

Edinburgh CastleSCC Glasgow

AROUTEone week Edinburgh

AND RETURN






SCOTLAND

FALKIRK


RSat Wed

2.30pm 9.30amto Tue to Sat

2.30pm 9.30am

Princess 4 4 4

Shakespeare 4 4 4

Duchess 4 4 4

Lautrec 4 4 4

Princess 6 4 4

You may also take longer breaks from Falkirk from any of

the times shown.See boat details on pages 36 to 43

SHORT BREAK

from Falkirk

Try a

Why not try a short break from Falkirk? You can enjoy three full days from

either Saturday afternoon to Tuesday afternoon, or from Wednesday

morning to Saturday morning. Prices are shown on page 46, but start

from as little as £108* per person. *Based on a short break starting March 16th for 6 people onboard a Princess 6, including Damage Waiver.

Falkirk Short Route....Locks: 6Cruising Time: Around 24hrs return

Travel to Edinburgh, through the Falkirk Wheel and three locks and then

lock free to Edinburgh. You will pass over the Almond Aqueduct and

through pretty canal villages such as Ratho and Linlithgow.

Almond Aqueduct

Union CanalEdinburgh

Linlithgow

35

Falkirk


STEP ON BOARDthe finest fleet...Over the past few years, Black Prince has invested more than any other company in buildinga fleet of bespoke, modern, award winning boats, making our fleet the youngest in thecountry. This year sees the introduction of even more. All of our boats have water cooledengines, full central heating, airing cupboards, showers, superior macerator toilets, cookers,fridges (with small freezer unit), flat screen televisions with Freeview, radios, CD and DVDplayers and much more - all the comforts of home you’d expect.

Our boats have ‘Cruiser’style sterns.These aredesigned to give you safe,comfortable cruising.They provide integralseating with steel safetyrails, and all the controlswithin easy reach.

Double Bed

Seat/Double Bed Single BedSingle BedSingle BedSingle Bed

Single Bed

Double Bed

Double Bed


Single Bed

Double Bed

CHOOSINGthe right boat...

Apart from the Duchess 2, all of our boats have theoption of either single or double berth configurationswhich provide the widest choice to best suit the make-upof groups. Some boats can also sleep extra people

by using the lounge area at night. The different options available

for each boat can be seenon the next few pages.

The floor plan illustrations foreach boat show the differentsleeping configurations.

36

WAL

KAR

OUNDOURBOATS


In the Galley... 4 ring cooker, oven & grillStainless steel sinkWashing up bowlDish draining rackRefrigerator (4 cubic ftwith small freezer unit)1 Kettle1 Frying pan3 Saucepans & lids1 Pudding basin1 Colander1 Casserole1 Mixing bowl1 One pint jug1 Water jug1 Bread bin1 Bread board1 Bread knife1 Grater1 Mixing bowl1 Carving knife1 Carving fork2 Cooks knives1 Wooden spoon

1 Butter dish1 Sugar bowl1 Cruet set1 Teapot1 Fruit bowl2 Ashtrays1 Pair scissors4 Serving spoons1 Fish slice1 Tea strainer1 Tin opener1 Bottle opener1 Corkscrew1 Grillpan1 Enamel plate1 Pedal bin1 Potato masher1 Pair oven gloves1 Toast rack2 Tea towels1 DishclothWashing-up liquidSponge scourerSoapToilet paperMatches

On the Table...One of each per berth:Dessert knifeTable knifeDessert forkTable forkTeaspoonDessert spoonSoup spoonTea plateDinner plateCereal bowlCup & saucerMugEgg cupBeer glassWine glass

Bedding...Duvets and covers1 Pillow per berth1 Interior sprungMattress/cover per bed1 Set of linen1 Pillowcase per bed

For Cleaning...1 Toilet brush & stand1 Dustpan & brush1 Bucket1 Carpet sweeper1 First aid kit

Navigating...1 Boarding plank1 Boat pole1 Boat hook1 Water hose1 Life ring2 Mooring spikes1 Club hammer2 Double windlasses1 Umbrella

Extras at our Bases...Carving dishRoasting tinCafetiereExtra pillowsExtra windlasses(£5 returnable deposit)Cot Sides

Water and Washing...110 gallon freshwater tankRunning hot & coldwater by automaticpump to wash basin,shower & sinkFlush pump-out toilet& shower with fullheight bi-fold doorTowels (1 per person)

Heating...Central heating boiler& hot tank with airing cupboard

ElectricalEquipment...240v shaver point(for shaver only)Hair dryer12v/USB charger Electric lightingthroughout

Flatscreen TV +Freeview/DVD playerRadio/CD playerAll Princess classboats have a 240vsocket1kW capacity max &LED lightingthroughoutAll of our boats havea security safe

HeadroomOver 6' 1"

EngineWater cooled withsingle lever control

NB: Boats in the sameclass are similar in allessential respectsalthough details mayvary from boat to boat

ON-BOARD

37

home...HOME FROMWhat you’ll find on our boats

All of our boats benefit from: • Double Glazed front windows • Double beds 6’3" x 4’ and Single beds6’3" x 2’ both with interior sprung mattresses • Full central heating with radiators and airing cupboard Flat screen TV with Freeview/DVD player • Radio/CD player • Full size shower with bi-fold door • 240v Hairdryer • 110 gallonhygienic stainless steel water tank • 4 ring cooker/oven/grill • Electric fridge with freezer compartment • 12v/USB point forphone/camcorder/iPod/iPad charging • Security safe • Macerator toilets to discrete tanks • Cruiser stern • 100w inverters availableat base for computers, playstations, mobile phones etc. Interior finishes may vary slightly from those shown in the photographs.

PRINCESS 2:1

Length: 47ft | Sleeps: 2/4 | Double beds: 1*

Seating/Double Bed

Double Bed

*plus 1 optional in the lounge

The seating in the lounge area can be made into a double bed to

accommodate 2 extra passengers.



38

PRINCESSclass

Length: 52ft | Sleeps: 4/6 | Double beds: 1* | Single beds: 2

Seating/Double BedDouble Bed

Single Bed

Single Bed

PRINCESS 4:2


Seating/Double BedDouble Bed Double Bed/

2 Singles2 Singles2 Singles2 Singles



PRINCESS 4:3

Princess 22/4 berth / 47ftS


NEW FOR 2013

PRINCESSclass



39

PRINCESS 6:2

Length: 62ft | Sleeps: 6 | Double beds: 2*


PRINCESS 6:3

Length: 62ft | Sleeps: 6 | Double beds: 1* | Single beds: 2


Double Bed

Double BedSeat/Double Bed

Double BedDouble BedDouble Bed

Single Bed

Double BedSeat/

Double Bed Single Bed

PRINCESS 6:4

Length: 62ft | Sleeps: 6 | Double beds: 0* | Single beds: 4

Single Bed

Seat/Double Bed Single Bed

Single Bed

Single Bed

Single BedSingle BedSingle Bed




A disc bed can be added and used in the lounge area at night, enabling

1 extra person to be accommodated.

Duchess 44/5 berth / 58ftS

40

DUCHESSclass

DUCHESS 2:1

Length: 52ft | Sleeps: 2/5 | Double beds: 1* | Single beds: 0*

Dinette/Double

Double Bed

Fold Down Single

Dinette/Double

*fold down in the lounge

DUCHESS 4:2

Length: 58ft | Sleeps: 4/5 | Double beds: 2

DUCHESS 4:3

Length: 58ft | Sleeps: 4/5 | Double beds: 1 | Single beds: 2

Double BedDouble Bed

Single BedDouble Bed

Single Bed

The seating in the lounge area can be made into a double bed plus a single

bed to accommodate 3 extra passengers.


DUCHESS 6:3


Double Bed

Seat/Double Bed Double Bed Double Bed


DUCHESS 6:4


Double Bed


Single Bed

Double Bed


DUCHESS 6:5


Double Bed


Single Bed

Single Bed

Single Bed


DUCHESS 6:6


Seat/Double Bed

Single BedSingle BedSingle BedSingle Bed

Single Bed

Single Bed

Single Bed

Single Bed

Single Bed



41

DUCHESSclass




CALL

OU

R EXPERTS

OR BOOK ONLI

NE

LAUTREC class


42

DUCHESSclass

DUCHESS 8:5

Length: 70ft | Sleeps: 8/10 | Double beds: 3 | Single beds: 2*

Double BedSeat/

Single Bed

Seat/Single Bed

Double BedSingle BedSingle BedSingle BedSingle Bed

Single Bed

Double Bed

Double BedSeat/Single Bed

Seat/Single Bed

Double Bed Single BedSingle BedSingle BedSingle Bed

Single Bed

Single BedSingle BedSingle BedSingle Bed

Single Bed

The seating in the lounge area can be made into 2 single beds to


A disc bed can be added and used in the lounge area at night, enabling

1 extra person to be accommodated.


DUCHESS 8:6

Length: 70ft | Sleeps: 8/10 | Double beds: 2 | Single beds: 4*


Lautrec 44/5 berth / 62ftS

SHAKESPEARE 4:2


Double BedDouble BedSeat/

Double Bed


SHAKESPEARE 4:3


Double BedSeat/

Double Bed Single BedSingle BedSingle BedSingle Bed

Single Bed


LAUTREC 4:2

Length: 62ft | Sleeps: 4/5 | Double beds: 2

Double Bed Double Bed

LAUTREC 4:3

Length: 62ft | Sleeps: 4/5 | Double beds: 1 | Single beds: 2

Double BedSingle Bed

Single Bed

43

SHAKESPEARE class



Shakespeare 44/6 berth / 58ftS

WAL

KAR

OUNDOURBOATS


How can I make a booking? You can either book online or by completing the booking form in the brochure. We require 25%deposit to confirm the booking, with the balance due 8 weeksbefore your departure date. Once you submit the booking formonline or sign the booking form in the brochure, you are then

entering a legal contract and will beliable for the full cost of the holiday. It is recommended that you protectyourself by taking out our CancellationProtection Scheme, which will coverthe cost of cancellation due to sicknessor accident. Please see page 48 formore details.

What is included in the hire charge? A full inventory list is on page37 and the hire charge also includes gas, bed linen and VAT. We will also send you a grocery list which you can fill in and returnto the base and your groceries will be waiting for you when youarrive (£5 charge plus the cost of the groceries payable directly tothe base). This service is only available for Saturday starts.

What time is the boat available from? Boats are available between2.30pm and 4pm or from 9.30am on Wednesday departures.Boats should be returned and vacated by 9.30am, or 2.30pm onTuesday returns. If a boat is returned late or unclean, it will causea delay for the next hirer. In this event, we reserve the right tocharge additional costs.

Can I bring my pet? Well behavedpets are welcome, but please keepthem off the furniture and bedding.There is a charge of £30 each (max2 dogs) and you must state this onyour booking form in order to ensureboat availability.

Can I charge my laptop and mobile? There is a 12v/USB chargeron each boat and inverters are also available to hire from thebase, allowing you to use a normal plug (max 100 watts).

Will I have to fill up with diesel and water? The boat has a 110 gallonwater tank which should be refilled daily from water points alongthe canal. Your boat will have a full tank of diesel which is adequatefor 2 weeks. The diesel fuel you have used will be charged uponreturn of the boat and the cost per litre will be slightly lower thansupermarket prices. (2012 - average cost £10-15 per day). The boatswill typically use between 1.2-1.7 litres per hour depending ondriving style. The central heating systems are oil fired, which willalso use diesel during colder periods.

Where can I park my car? All of our bases have free car parking,but we are unable to accept responsibility for loss or damage tocustomer’s vehicles.

Can I buy a map? We provide a rangeof maps which are available to orderon the booking form prior to departure.Additional guides and maps includingPearson’s and Lockmaster Gatewayseries are available at our bases alongwith souvenirs.

Are bedding and towels provided? For every fixed bed we providean interior sprung mattress, duvet and cover, a pillow and pillowcase, a mattress protector and sheet. For beds made up in theevening in the lounge area, we also provide bedding. We provideone bath towel per customer.

Can I hire a buoyancy aid? Each boat is equippedwith a life-ring and buoyancy aids are availablefree of charge. These come in four sizes to suittoddlers to adults and will be individually fittedbefore you leave.

Can I go fishing? Fishing is allowed on rivers and canals providedyou have an Environment Agency rod licence, which is availableon-line or from any post office (except when fishing is prohibited onrivers between 15th March and 15th June). Many clubs will not objectto fishing from boats but some may require you to buy a day ticket.Live bait must not be taken onboard the boat.

RIN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING...your questions answered

44

So, you’ve seen the wonderful routes you can take,you’ve seen the fleet and hopefully we’ve answered mostof your questions - so why not book a narrowboat adventure?

Prices and booking details are overleaf and here aresome additional discount offers...

Do I need a licence to go on the river? An additional licence is requiredfor the River Avon, Thames and Nene. Further details can be givenat the base before departure. (Licence payment is non-refundable.)

Can I have a drink onboard? Of course we want you to enjoy yourholiday but please be responsible when handling the boat.

How old are your boats? We are the largestbuilder of hire boats in the UK and we introducenew boats regularly giving us the youngesthire fleet in the country.

Do you sell your boats? Yes! We regularly renewour fleet, a selection of our boats is retired atthe end of each season. For more informationvisit our website or call us on 01527 575 115.

We’re here to help...If you have any further questions, or would simply liketo chat through your plans, one of our experiencedteam will be glad to help you. Call us on:

+44 (0) 1527 575 115or you can find more information on our website:


45

GOLD CUSTOMER£100 off

your fifth holiday of one week or more if you’vealready taken 4 holidays with us previously

(this may be used in conjunction with any of the following offers)

DISCOUNT WEEKS10% off

your second and subsequent consecutive weeks

SPRINGERFor holidays commencing March 16th - July 13thinclusive, take your second consecutive week at

50% off Brochure Price

EARLY BIRDBook your 2014 holiday by 31st August 2013

and enjoy your holiday at

2013 Prices!Prices will be the same as equivalent week*(s) in 2013

+ £50 off one week holiday or -Take a 2nd consecutive week at HALF PRICE

(*Easter and Whitsun dates may vary)

AUTUMN SAVERFor holidays commencing

September 14th - October 12th inclusive, take your second consecutive week at

50% off Brochure Price

Only one money-off Special Offer per booking.

SPECIALoffers

Duchess 2Berths 2/4

Princess 4Berths 4/6


Prices in £’s per boat Week Short Week Short Week Short Week Short Week Short Week Short Week ShortBreak Break Break Break Break Break Break

March 16 634 412 686 446 808 525 861 556 915 595 1042 677 1162 75523 634 412 686 446 808 525 861 556 915 595 1042 677 1162 755

(Easter) 30 825 536 877 569 1049 682 1102 717 1156 751 1343 873 1501 976April 6 797 518 849 552 1015 660 1070 696 1124 731 1299 844 1452 944

13 797 518 849 552 1015 660 1070 696 1124 731 1299 844 1424 94420 825 536 877 569 1049 682 1102 717 1156 751 1343 873 1501 97627 856 557 908 590 1081 702 1134 737 1188 773 1386 901 1549 1007

May (May Day) 4 883 574 935 608 1113 723 1173 762 1226 797 1430 929 1594 103711 919 597 971 631 1146 745 1206 784 1259 819 1473 958 1642 106818 967 628 1018 662 1217 791 1278 830 1331 866 1561 1014 1741 1132

(Whitsun) 25 1066 693 1118 727 1386 901 1452 944 1505 979 1774 1153 1982 1288June 1 1052 683 1103 717 1315 855 1386 901 1439 935 1686 1096 1883 1224

8 1052 683 1103 717 1315 855 1386 901 1439 935 1686 1096 1883 122415 1052 683 1103 717 1315 855 1386 901 1439 935 1686 1096 1883 122422 1052 683 1103 717 1315 855 1386 901 1439 935 1686 1096 1883 122429 1062 690 1114 725 1315 855 1386 901 1439 935 1686 1096 1883 1224

July 6 1062 690 1114 725 1348 876 1419 922 1472 958 1730 1125 1931 125513 1062 690 1114 725 1348 876 1419 922 1472 958 1730 1125 1931 125520 1062 690 1114 725 1348 876 1419 922 1472 958 1730 1125 1931 125527 1062 690 1114 725 1386 901 1452 944 1505 979 1744 1153 1982 1288

August 3 1062 690 1114 725 1386 901 1452 944 1505 979 1744 1153 1982 128810 1062 690 1114 725 1348 876 1419 922 1472 958 1730 1125 1931 125517 1062 690 1114 725 1348 876 1419 922 1472 958 1730 1125 1931 1255

(Bank Holiday) 24 1062 690 1114 725 1315 855 1386 901 1439 935 1686 1096 1883 122431 919 597 971 631 1146 745 1206 784 1259 819 1473 958 1642 1068

September 7 893 581 945 615 1113 723 1173 762 1226 797 1430 929 1594 103714 830 539 882 573 1049 682 1102 717 1156 751 1343 873 1501 97621 776 505 828 538 982 639 1031 671 1085 705 1255 815 1402 91228 719 468 771 501 912 593 961 625 1014 659 1174 763 1310 852

October 5 687 447 739 480 878 571 928 603 981 638 1130 734 1260 82012 687 447 739 480 878 571 928 603 981 638 1130 734 1260 82019 687 447 739 480 878 571 928 603 981 638 1130 734 1260 820

(Half Term) 26 750 489 802 522 949 617 998 649 1052 684 1217 791 1354 881

LautrecBerths 4/5


Duchess 4Berths 4/5

Shakespeare 4Berths 4/6

Duchess 8Berths 8/10

Duchess 6Berths 6/8

R

Prices are valid from September 2012. Prices may be subject to change. All listed prices are in pounds, per boat, irrespective of number ofpassengers, and includes linen, gas, car parking, buoyancy aids and VAT. Diesel fuel is extra. (2012 - average cost £10-£15 per day)

SPECIALOFFERS

See ourPage 45

Prices 2013 for weekly and short breaks

Boats

46

MAPS AND GUIDE BOOKSCANAL GUIDES QTY TOTAL

Grand Union, Oxford & South East £16.50

Cheshire Ring £11.50

Welsh Waters (Shropshire & Llangollen) £11.50

Four Counties Ring £11.50

Stourport Ring £11.50

Severn and Avon £11.50

South Midlands & Warwickshire Ring £11.50

Oxford and Grand Union £11.50

The River Great Ouse & Tributaries £11.50

Geo Forth and Clyde & Union £5.50

For postage overseas please add £3.50 to the price of each guide.

I wish to pay by: (tick applicable box)

Card number:

Valid from: Expires end: Issue: (Switch only)

Security code: (These are the last 3 digits on the back of your card)

Name (if different to holiday booker):

Postcode and house number (if different to holiday booker):

1. Please charge my initial deposit now (balance due 8 weeks before departure)

2. Please charge the full cost of my holiday now

NB: A surcharge of 2% will be added for credit card payments and alloverseas card payments.

MM | YY MM | YY

Signature Date

I declare that I am 25 or over and agree to be held responsible for the balance shownon my booking confirmation. I have read and agree to be bound by the terms andconditions of hire as shown in this brochure.

DD | MM | YY

2013 BOOKINGformBlack Prince Limited, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4LA

You can also check availability and book online at:


HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT US?:

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE?:

PROVISIONAL BOOKING REFERENCE:

+44 (0) 1527 575 115fax 01527 575 116 | e: [email protected]

Cheque (payable to Black Prince Holidays Ltd.)

Credit Card Debit Card

PLEASE COMPLETE IN BLOCK CAPITALS

MR / MRS / MS / MISS INITIALS

SURNAME

ADDRESS

POSTCODE (essential)

DAYTIME PHONE

EVENING PHONE

MOBILE PHONE

EMAIL ADDRESS

BOAT CLASS

BASE

START DATE No. NIGHTS

No. of ADULTS No. of CHILDREN No. of PETS (Max 2)£30 each - payable on arrival

You must state on this form if you intend to bring pets as we also operate pet-free boats.

BEDDING REQUIRED: No. Double Beds No. Single Beds

D D | M M | Y Y

TOTAL HOLIDAY COST

Basic Hire Charge (see p.46) £ .

Discount 1 (see p.45)

Discount 2 (see p.45)

Repeat Voucher

Holiday Cost including discounts £ .

Damage Waiver (see p.48) £ 50.00

Cancellation Scheme (see p.48) £ .

Maps/ Guides £ .

Credit Card Charge (2%) £ .

Total Holiday Cost £ .

Deposit (25%) £ .

Balance to Pay £ .

£ .

£ .

£ .

£ .

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY:

ALL DETAILS CONTAINED WITHIN THIS SECTION WILL BE DESTROYED ONCE PAYMENT HAS BEEN TAKEN.

FOR OFFICE USE ONLYBOAT REFERENCE NO.:

CANCELLATIONPREMIUMS

Please ensure all passengernames are on your completedbooking form.

up to £600 £40.00£601-£800 £45.00£801-£1000 £50.00£1001-£1200 £55.00£1201-£1400 £60.00£1401-£1600 £65.00£1601-£1800 £70.00£1801+ £75.00

When booking a Black Prince Holiday, you will naturally be lookingforward to a relaxing break. Unfortunately, circumstances cansometimes intervene and so we therefore offer the Black PrinceCancellation Protection Scheme as detailed below.

Once a deposit has been paid and your booking confirmed, a contractexists which renders you liable for the whole of the hire chargeeven if you are prevented from taking your holiday. Black Princehas arranged a Cancellation Protection Scheme which offersprotection against this liability under the qualifying circumstancesdetailed below. In this event, all liability for any balance chargesdue will be absolved and if part or all of such charges havealready been paid, they will be refunded (less the cancellationscheme fee). This scheme only covers full cancellation and not apartial refund. If you choose not to take the Cancellation ProtectionScheme and subsequently have to cancel your holiday, we willtry to re-let your boat. If successful, we will refund your paymentminus a 15% re-letting charge.

Qualifying Circumstances1. Death, injury, illness or pregnancy (certified in all cases by a

qualified medical practitioner), jury service or witness call of any member of the party listed on the booking form at the timeof booking.

2. Death, injury or illness (certified in all cases by a qualified medical practitioner) of the spouse, partner, parent, step-parent,parent-in-law, brother, sister, children or step-children of thehirer or any member of the party.

3. Redundancy of the hirer, providing that the hirer qualifies for payment under the Redundancy Payment Act 1965.

4. Cancelled leave orders in respect of the UK police and military personnel.

WarrantyThis scheme is subject to a warranty at the time of completingthe proposal that each proposer and each person on whosestate of health the holiday depends; is in good health, free fromphysical or mental defect, not subject to any chronic or recurringillness, and is not under treatment of any kind.

If you would like to add the cancellation protection scheme toyour booking, then please add the cost onto your booking formand fill in the names below of all members in your party, includingthe person making the booking. Any names omitted will not becovered by the scheme.

PLEASE COMPLETE IN BLOCK CAPITALS

Name 1 (holiday booker)

Name 2

Name 3

Name 4

Name 5

Name 6

Name 7

Name 8

Name 9

Name 10

The Damage Waiver Scheme fee of £50 covers you in the eventof damage, loss or accident to your boat or its inventory duringyour holiday. It is non-refundable and avoids the requirementfor a damage deposit payment of £500 to cover the insuranceexcess pending any claims. Please ensure all passenger namesare on your completed booking form.

DAMAGE WAIVERSCHEME

Exclusions:1. Speeding (reported or witnessed. The limit is 4mph).

2. Malicious, negligent or intentional damage to the boat, its inventory,third party property, the canal or river and its structures.

3. Damage to the rudder, skeg or transmission due to cill damagein a lock.

4. Return of the boat late or in an unclean condition.

In the event of any of the above being reported, we shall claimthe full cost of repairs, replacement or compensation.

CANCELLATION PROTECTION SCHEMEIMPORTANT - PLEASE READ CAREFULLY.

HOLIDAY COST

CONDITIONS OF HIRE - PLEASE READ CAREFULLY1. Definitions: In these conditions and agreement: “The Company” means Black Prince Holidays Ltd. “The Hirer”means the person or persons named on the booking confirmation. Where there is more than one Hirer they shallbe individually responsible and liable under this agreement. "The Conditions” means the conditions set out inthis form. "The price” means the price for the booking set out in the booking confirmation. "The start date”means the date when the booking starts as set out in the booking confirmation. "The end date” means the datewhen the booking ends as set out in the booking confirmation. "The period of hire” means the period betweenthe start date and the end date.2. Booking Agreement: A booking is a legally binding contract. Submission of a completed booking form is anoffer by the Hirer and the booking agreement is made only if and when the company gives a written boat hireconfirmation. Telephone bookings do not create legal agreements and any offer by the Company to hold a reservationis not legally binding except where the booking deposit is authorised by the hirer by credit card when acceptanceby the company shall create the booking agreement though the hirer shall also complete a booking form. Thecontract includes these conditions which the Hirer accepts having read and agreed them.The entire contract between the Company and the Hirer is contained in these Conditions and the booking formand no representations, terms, warranty or condition expressed or implied shall be deemed to be or have beenmade or agreed or imported by reference to any other writing, advertisement or conversation. No agent, servantor representative of the Company has any right to alter or vary or waive any of these conditions. Nor is any suchperson authorised to undertake any liability whatsoever on behalf of the Company. These conditions can only bevaried with the written permission signed by a Director or the General Manager of the Company. The Hireracknowledges that no statement or representation which may have been made by or on behalf of the Companyinduced the Hirer to enter into the contract and that any such statements or representations do not form part ofthe contract.Any liability of the Company and any remedy of the Hirer in respect of any such statement or representationis excluded save in so far as liability in respect of any particular statement or representation may not be excludedby law. In accepting a booking, the company’s responsibility does not extend beyond the provision of the boatand in particular there is no warranty that any particular route will be available for navigation during the periodof hire. Where more than one boat is booked on the same booking form each boat shall be deemed to be thesubject of a separate contract. Bookings for optional extras are taken subject to availability on the start date.3. Group Bookings, Age Limits and Unsuitable Hirers: The Hirer must be aged 25 years or over. Though thereis no age limit for driving the boat, the Hirer warrants that whenever the boat is driven by a person aged undereighteen years they will always be under the close supervision of a competent adult. Where a boat is occupiedby a group comprising mainly young persons, the Hirer warrants that at all times a responsible person agedmore than 25 years will be in charge of the group. The Company may at its discretion cancel any booking madein contravention of this condition before or at the start date. In this event any money paid will be forfeit and anybalance payment will remain due unless the Company is able to re-let. If the Company is able to re-let the Hirerwill remain liable for 15% of the price to cover administration expenses. The company may at its discretion cancelthe booking and refuse to hand over the boat to any person or group who in its opinion is not suitable to takecharge on the grounds of age, inexperience, suspected influence of alcohol or drugs or any reason that mayadversely affect the safety of any person, or commercial interests of the Company. In this event (and providedthat the Hirer is not in breach of other parts of the agreement) the Company will refund any monies paid andthe contract shall be discharged without further liability on either party. The Company may repossess the boatat any time if in the opinion of the Company the Hirer is unsuitable for the reasons given above or if the Hirer isnot behaving responsibly or if the boat or any persons are at risk. In this event the Hirer shall remain liable topay the hire price and no refund shall be due.4. Cancellations and Changes: The agreement including the payment terms is a legally binding contract andmay not be cancelled or amended except as provided in the Conditions. Should the Hirer wish to cancel oramend the booking they must advise the Company immediately by telephone and at the same time send writtenconfirmation by Recorded Delivery post. The company reserves the right to levy an administration charge of £35for any alteration to a booking made by the hirer after it has issued a booking confirmation. In the event of acancellation, the deposit will be forfeited and the hirer will pay the balance price on the due date. The Companymay at its discretion waive the balance price if it is successful in re-letting the boat for the whole of the hireperiod. It is therefore strongly recommended that the hirers protect themselves against cancellation liability bytaking out cancellation protection. In the event of any claim being disallowed for any reason the hirer remainsliable for the full hire charges. In the event of the operator being unable to re-book the boat the hirer will remainresponsible for the full hire price unless covered by a cancellation protection scheme.5. Hire Period, Collection and Return of Boat: The hire period is as shown in the booking confirmation. TheCompany will endeavour to have the boat ready for the Hirer between 2.30pm and 4pm on the start date. Thehirer must notify the company of any likely delay in arrival as soon as possible by fax or telephone. Before theHirer departs with the boat the Company will give the Hirer such instructions, demonstrations and trials as itthinks fit and require the hirer to check and sign for the contents, inventory and Boat Acceptance. In the eventthat the boat is not available because of circumstances beyond the company’s control the Company may substitutea boat of similar accommodation but if no such boat is available the Company shall refund any payments madebut shall not otherwise be liable and the contract shall be discharged. The boat shall be returned to the company’shire base and be vacated in a clean and tidy condition no later than 9.30am on the end date. Hirers are responsiblefor ensuring that their cruising schedule allows time for unforeseen contingencies so as to permit their returnand vacation of the boat by the scheduled time. Breach of this condition will incur an additional charge of up to£75 per hour or part thereof. In addition, the Hirer will be liable for any extra costs and/or damages incurred bythe Company as a result of the boat not being available on time for the next Hirer. Where the Company has torecover a boat and return it to the base, the Hirer shall be liable for all the costs involved.Where operational circumstancesmake it necessary the Company reserves the right to require the boat to start from or return to a place otherthan its normal base of operation. In such circumstances the Company will where necessary provide transportto the original base. The Hirer is responsible to return the boat to its originating base. If the Hirer fails to do soexcept for unavoidable cause the Hirer will be liable to pay to the Company the cost of recovering the boat6. Prices and Payment: Prices are inclusive of VAT and are subject to any change in the VAT rate prior to thesettlement of the price in full. The booking confirmation and booking statement are not VAT invoices. Prices arein pounds sterling. The Hirer shall reimburse the Company on demand for any expenses incurred in the conversionof foreign currencies, bank charges, special clearance, re-presenting cheques, processing payments or otherwisein obtaining cleared sterling funds of the amount due on the due date. Payment is not made until cash or clearedfunds have been received by the Company. The booking deposit must be sent with the booking application andunless otherwise stated is 25% of the total price. The balance of the price is due not less than 8 weeks beforethe hire start date. Time of payment shall be of the essence of the contract. For bookings made within 8 weeksbefore the hire start date payment in full must accompany the booking form. Without prejudice to any otherrights of the Company it may charge interest (both before and after any judgement) at the rate of 3% over thecompany’s bankers base lending rate on any monies due from the due payment date until the date of paymentand interest shall accrue from day to day.7. Insurance: The company insures the boat and its equipment and inventory against public liability risks. Thecompany’s insurance does not cover personal accidents or loss or damage to personal effects. Hirers and theircrews are advised to take out their own personal insurance cover. The price does not include a compulsory accidentaldamage waiver per booking. Accidental damage waiver excludes damage arising from speeding, contact with alock sill causing damage to the rudder, skeg or stern gear, TV aerials, chimneys, malicious or intentional damageto the boat. Also excluded is malicious or intentional damage to other boats and property and the late return ofthe boat and return of the boat in unclean condition. The Hirer will indemnify the Company against all costs,damage, expenses, liability and claims howsoever arising from the negligence, neglect or default of the Hirer tothe extent that they are not covered by the company’s policy.8. Safety and Other Rules: The Hirer agrees to comply with the following rules at all times for the health andsafety of the persons on the boat and other persons and for safeguarding the boat and other property:-

Not to tow other craft or allow the boat to be towed except under professional assistance in the event of breakdownor emergency.

Not to cruise between sunset and sunrise. The boat is only equipped for cruising during daylight hours.To observe all speed limits, not to race and not to cruise at a speed which creates a breaking wash or disturbs

or inconveniences other waterway users.

Not to take or have on the boat without the company’s prior written permission any dinghies, canoes, inflatables,portable heaters, bicycles, vehicles, lighting equipment, TV sets, electrical appliances, (other than razors)inflammable liquids or substances, gas cylinders, barbecues, car batteries, fire arms or any other items whichmight create dangers or hazards.

Not to use the boat for business purposes.Not to allow on the boat at any time more persons than the maximum number of berths and under no circumstances

more than 12 persons.To give way to laden or unladen cargo boats, sailing craft, rowing boats and other human propelled craft.Not to take the boat to sea or on tidal waters.Not to have or carry any live fishing bait on the boat.

At all times to observe all byelaws, navigational limits or instructions and advice of Canal & River Trust and othernavigational authorities and the Company and their respective officers and employees. The Company reserves theright at its discretion without liability to restrict cruising areas or routes in the light of prevailing conditions.9. Accidents: The Hirer is in charge of the boat and is responsible for its safe navigation and return. In the eventof any accident or damage to the boat other craft or the waterway the Hirer must:-1 Obtain and record the name and registration number of the other boat and names and addresses of all partiesinvolved including the other boat owners and other hirers.2 Notify the Company by telephone immediately with full details of the accident including damage incurred.3 NOT IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCES ADMIT OR ALLOW OTHER PERSONS ON THE BOAT TO ADMIT LIABILITY TOANY OTHER PERSON.4 Not to carry out or have carried out repairs without the consent of the Company.5 Obtain and follow the company’s instructions.In the event of an accident the Company may repossess the boat and the hiring contract shall then terminatewithout liability on the Company. In the event that the Company’s insurance cover is prejudiced or invalidatedby any failure on the part of the Hirer to comply with the provisions of this condition the Hirer shall indemnifythe Company in respect of all liability claims, loss, damage or expenses incurred. The Hirer is liable for and shallindemnify the Company against any claim or charge made by any Navigation Authority for damage to waterwayproperty or loss of water.10. Maintenance, Repairs, Damage and Breakdown: The Hirer shall take reasonable care of the boat itsequipment and contents and shall return them at the end of the hire period in accordance with the company’sinstructions and in good clean and tidy order and condition. The Hirer shall notify the company in the event ofbreakdown, damage, theft or loss and shall provide full details and comply with the company’s instructions. TheHirer must not undertake or have undertaken any repairs, adjustment or service without the company’s priorapproval. Any repairs or replacements by the Hirer without the company’s approval will not be accepted. TheHirer shall be responsible for getting the boat off mud banks or other grounding and for removal of weeds, ropeand other matter from propellers. The Hirer shall notify the Company if any of these operations cannot be carriedout without risk of accident or damage. The Hirer shall have no claim on the company as a result of breakdownor failures of the boat and its equipment or for any delays caused by repairs to the boat. The Hirer shall complywith the company’s instructions; otherwise the Hirer shall be liable for any loss or damage incurred.11. Hirer’s Property: Vehicles may be left in the company’s car parks at the owner’s risk. The company will beunder no liability for any loss of or damage to vehicles or contents of the hirers or other peoples property on theboat or elsewhere or howsoever caused except by the company’s negligence or that of those for whom theCompany is responsible. Hirers are particularly advised not to leave any valuable or portable items in the car.The Company shall take such action as may be necessary to silence car alarms in the company’s car parks andto recover the costs from the Hirer. The Company may return hirer’s property left behind if claimed and followingthe receipt of payment for postage and packing (minimum charge £10). Property not claimed within two monthsfrom the end date will be disposed of by the Company.12. Fuel, Gas, Water etc..: The boat is handed over ready fuelled. The cost of the fuel is to the hirer's account,and will be charged upon return of the boat to the yard at the end of the holiday. As a result of an EU ruling thetax will be similar to normal road diesel, and the price charged is likely to be 10p to 15p per litre below averagesupermarket prices. The boats will typically use between 1.2 litres and 1.7 litres per hour depending on drivingstyle. In addition the central heating systems are oil fired, which will use diesel during colder periods. Whilstwater supply and moorings on the canals are normally free of charge, any costs incurred are the responsibilityof the Hirer. Where pump-outs are required to toilet tanks, the cost is the responsibility of the Hirer unless carriedout at the company’s base.13. Pets: Pets are allowed on the boat but you must state your intention to bring them at the time of booking as wealso operate pet-free boats and your pet could be refused to board. Hirers must provide their own pet baskets orblankets. All pets must be properly house trained or caged as appropriate, must not be left unattended, and mustnot be allowed on bedding or chairs. Pets are not covered under the company’s insurance policy and the Hirershall be liable for the cost of any damage or extra cleaning required. A maximum of two pets are allowed perboat - please state on the booking form. There is a charge of £30.00 per pet payable on arrival.14. Complaints: The Hirer shall check the boat its contents and equipment fully immediately after taking possessionof the boat. In the unlikely event of any alleged deficiencies or shortcomings the Hirer must notify the Companybefore the boat leaves the boat yard. The Hirer shall sign the Boat Acceptance form before departure and thereafterthe Hirer is completely responsible for the boat, its equipment and its operation until it is handed back to theCompany at the end of the period of hire. Any shortcomings subsequently discovered shall immediately be notifiedto the Company by telephone in order to give the Company the opportunity to take any necessary remedialaction. The Company shall not be liable in respect of any matter which is not so notified immediately and in anyevent shall not be liable in respect of any matter which is notified after the end of the hire period, as the boatmay then have been taken over by another hirer and may not be available for inspection.15. Exemption: The Company shall not be liable for any matters arising from any cause beyond the company’sreasonable control or not due to the company’s negligence or wilful default including (without limitation) deathor personal injury of Hirers their crew and passengers, loss or damage to property, nonfulfilment or interruptionof the booking or delays, breakdowns, mechanical problems, defects, damage, restrictions or obstructions,repairs or damage to waterways, non availability of routes, navigational works, storms, floods, droughts, ice,shortage of water or other weather conditions, rationing, shortage or non availability of fuel or in respect of anyconsequential loss, damage, expense, injury, or claim.Hirers are recommended to take out personal holiday insurance cover.16. Brochure: The specification of boats, their accommodation, facilities and equipment in the brochure isintended as a general guide but the Company shall not be liable in the event of any differences in the boat suppliedand reserves the right to make modifications. Layout plans are for guidance only and are not to scale and mayhave steps which are not shown. If the hirer’s party includes any infirm persons the Hirer should make relevantenquiries at the time of booking. The Company reserve the right to change boat specifications without prior notice.17. Disputes: Any dispute difference or question which may at any time arise out of the booking contract maybe referred at the company’s sole discretion to a single arbitrator to be agreed between the parties or failingagreement to be nominated upon application of either party by the President of the Birmingham Law Society.The decision of such arbitrator (acting as an expert and not as an arbitrator) including any direction as to paymentof fees and costs in the arbitration shall be binding on both parties.18. Jurisdiction: The contract between the Company and the Hirer shall be deemed to have been made inEngland and shall be governed in all respects by English law. The Hirer shall submit to the jurisdiction of theEnglish courts provided that the Company at its option may bring any legal proceedings against the Hirer fromcourts in any other country.19. Waiver: No indulgence, forbearance or delay by the Company shall constitute any bar to its enforcement ofits rights at any time and no waiver in respect of any breach shall operate as a waiver in respect of any othersubsequent breach.20. Third Parties: No person who is not a party to this Agreement may enforce any term of this Agreement. Theparties agree that the Contracts (Rights of third Parties) Act 1999 shall not apply to this Agreement or to anyagreement or document entered into pursuant to this Agreement.

49Black Prince Holidays Ltd., Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B60 4LA. Registered office: Latchmore Bank, Little Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford, Herts. CM22 7PJ. Registered in England No 2096218 VAT Reg. No. 974808572

BOAT SALESbuy from the youngest fleet on the water

We are the largest builder of hire boats in the UK, introducing new boats regularly to give us the youngest hire fleet

in the country. Built to our exacting specifications and equipped to the highest standards, our boats offer the very

best quality in cruising and comfort.

A virtual tour of our boats is available on our website where you will find a list of current ex-hire boats for sale,

none of which are more than five years old. A selection of our boats may be purchased from new.

If you would like more information regarding boat sales, please contact our Operations Manager, John Lucas

on: 01527 575 115 or email [email protected] or visit www.black-prince.com

BOOKING OFFICEMonday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm | Saturday 9am - 5pm (9.30-4pm in Winter) | Sunday 10am - 4pm

+44 (0) 1527 575 115 | www.black-prince.com | [email protected]

All maps and boat plans are illustrative and not to scale. Black Prince reserves the right to change specifications without prior notice.

Black Prince Narrowboat Holidays, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4LA

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