Canal Boat Club at Alvechurch Marina

Cruising from Alvechurch Marina delves into the varied landscape of five Midlands counties with a rich mixture of sights and scenery - modern & historic, rural & industrial. Locks are met in majestic flights in this part of the country, so be prepared for some good bursts of activity.

Suggested routes and timings are approximate and will be affected by available cruising hours, weather conditions and amount of traffic on the waterway. More detailed advice will be given when the boat is collected. Each boat at Alvechurch Marina in Worcestershire is fully equipped with everything you would expect to find in a high quality holiday cottage. From kettle to cheese grater and bedding to umbrella, each home comfort has been thought of in the comprehensive inventory. Boats range in length from 25 ft to 70 ft. There is no itinerary - you set your own agenda. In a week by canal you are likely to cover the distance you could cover in an hour by car. No previous experience is necessary, as our boats are extremely easy to handle and full tuition is given at the start of every holiday.

The basic skills of canal boating are quickly learned, studying for the RYA Inland Waterways Helmsman's Certificate can give extra confidence to the first timer or develop skills of even an experienced boater. Comprehensive cruising information is in a manual on the boat and details are sent out with the holiday documents to introduce you to the theory of locks and the 'rules of the road'. Pets are welcome on the boats. There are buoyancy aids available free of charge for both children and adults at the marinas (compulsory for children under the age of 18 and non-swimmers). They do not need to be booked in advance and should be requested upon arrival at the Marina so the correct size can be fitted.