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On the Norfolk Broads in particular you will come across speed limits of between 3 and 6 miles an hour on certain stretches. This is usually in narrow or busy stretches of water. Anyway, with all that wonderful scenery passing you by, why rush?
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I
have never driven a boat before – does this matter?
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Many first time holidaymakers arrive to take over a boat every week. You do not need a license and the controls are quite simple with just the wheel and a single throttle lever for both forward and reverse. You will also be taken out onto th river by an experienced staff member who will instruct you how to manoevre and to moor.
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Norfolk Broads boat electric systems will not be able to handle domestic appliances such as heated rollers, travel irons or heaters unless it has a 240v inverter fitted (the boat descriptions will tell you) and even in these cases, it is wise to contact the boatyard before you bring along a particular "must have" peice of equipment. Items such as bycicles and canoes are not normally allowed on your boat without permission, though you can trail a dinghy behind your craft if required.
Again, contact the boatyard in question for clarification.
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You will find a skippers handbook onboard your boat filled with do's and don'ts to keep you safe. Lifejackets are provided free of charge on demand at your boatyard. Wear rubber soled shoes whilst on deck and keep a watch on children whilst underway.
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Can we fish on all rivers?
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The close season is from mid March to mid June. All other times you are allowed to fish without restriction. However, you will need an Environment Agency licence which can be obtained from a post office. Pleae obtain it before you come on holiday.
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How far can we travel
on an average day?
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At an average of 5 miles per hour, cruising a couple of hours in the morning and the same in the afternoon, you will find you have plenty of time to visit onshore towns and villageds and should cover around 80 to 100 miles on a weeks holiday. Take a look at our map and village directories to see what is available within your cruising area.
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Normal take over time is around 2.30pm if you are on a short break and between 2 and 4pm if you are on holiday for a week or more. If you are going to arrive later than these time, you must telephone the boatyard to let them know and to make arrangements for take-over.
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The boat will be insured through the damage waiver system (see our costings page for more information) and this will have been included in the overall boat hire cost. Naturally, you are expected to look after the boat and not to put it (and possibly your crew) in any danger. You will also be offered Propeller Insurance against the cost of a diver being required in teh eent it becomes entangled
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Booking Deposit/Cancellation
Cover
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Our holidays include cancellation protection which will give cover for loss of deposit and booking charges should the reason for cancellation fall within the terms of the insurance.
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Can we bring pets aboard?
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Yes, up to two pets are allowed on board our cruisers, though a small fee is payable which will be added to your invoice cost. Very large dogs may be restricted so it is wise to contact your boatyard to check if you can bring them.
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Where can we stop overnight?
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75% of moorings are free to stay overnight and include Blakes and Hoseasons boatyards, most pub moorings and village staithes. The remainder such as the local authority moorings at Norwich and Yarmouth will charge a small fee for overnight moorings.
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What about fuel and
water?
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Your diesel tank will be full on takeover as will your water tanks. You will need to top up with water every few days from one of the many points along the system. Gas will be provided by bottles and under normal useage, there should be enough for cooking etc to last the length of your holiday.
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Do all boats have toilet
facilities?
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All cruisers
are fitted with flushing, sealed unit toilets, similar to
those in aircraft. If the boat's tank requires a pumpout during your holiday, approach one of the many boatyards which provide this service for a fee of between £8 and £15 per toilet serviced.
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