When Hiring a boat from York Marina you may have many questions about what you can and can’t do and what training or help you may need. We have tried to answer most of these below but failing that, please feel free to fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page.
How far can I travel and where can I go?
York Marina boat hire cruising area is from the lock at Naburn to Linton Lock. Hire boats are NOT permitted through either of the locks. A river guide is supplied with every boat. Naburn Lock is 15 minutes down river from us (30min round trip). York city centre is 55 minutes up river (2 hour round trip), Linton lock is the furthest cruising point up river. It takes 3 hours to get to Linton (6 hour round trip).
Do I need a licence and what are the rules?
You don’t need a licence to drive a boat. However, there are a few basic rules you need to follow. These are all explained in the manual which we provide. Our Staff will also advise you when you are given your handover tuition. You must be at least 18 years of age to drive the boat.
Are there any age restrictions?
You must be at least 18 or over to hire a boat. We regret that due to insurance purposes we cannot accommodate children under the age of 3.
Can I drink alcohol?
You are not allowed to drink alcohol whilst hiring a boat. It is an offence under local bye-laws and you could be prosecuted along with your insurance being void. Please do not arrive with large quantities of alcohol as you will be asked to leave it behind. It is OK however for your passengers onboard to drink.
Where can I Moor up?
The manual on board your boat has plenty of information about mooring places, and you will be shown how to moor up. The most popular moorings are those closest to waterside pubs, restaurants, and museum gardens in the centre of York.
What Do I do if I breakdown or have an accident?
You will be shown on handover what to do in case of a breakdown or accident.
What is included in the hire price?
Fuel and insurance along with life jackets are all provided in the advertised price. There are no extras to pay unless you damage the boat whilst out on the river. All damages must be paid for as part of our terms and conditions. A credit card is required for a pre-authorisation prior to hiring the boat.
What about safety? Do I need special equipment or training?
All you need to bring with you are sensible non-slip shoes and appropriate clothing. You will receive all the training about safety you need from our staff when you arrive. We recommend buoyancy aids for children and non-swimmers – these are provided free of charge when you pick up your boat. The boat manual on board your boat also contains all the safety information you will need.
Can I bring my pets along?
We are sorry but pets are not permitted onboard York Marina hire boats
What time do I need to arrive?
We recommend arriving 30 mins before your hire start time. This will allow us to organise lifejackets and go through the handover procedure.
Where can I park my car?
Car parking is free of charge for your car for the duration of the hire period.
Can I smoke on board the boat?
No smoking is allowed onboard.
Are there any speed limits?
Yes the speed limit varies from 4-6 kts dependant on the stretch of river. All local byelaws, rules and regulations must be followed throughout the hire period.
Visitors with limited mobility?
Please contact our booking team if you have limited mobility. Although some boats maybe suitable some have steep steps and it may not be easy for you to board a boat from the pontoon. Gangplanks cannot be provided or used. If we feel unable to properly accommodate the particular needs of the person concerned we reserve the right to decline or cancel the booking.
Do you allow single sex groups?
The Company’s general policy is that it will not enter into Hire Agreements for school parties, youth groups, hen or stag parties or for any commercial purpose without more information about the members of the party and the purpose and nature of the hire occasion. We do occasionally make exceptions please contact us.
What should I take with me?
Please be prepared for the conditions on the day. Non slip flat sole footwear must be worn, high heels are not permitted. Please be aware that conditions are changeable and it tends to be cooler on the river whilst underway. Sun cream is essential on hot sunny days as the bimini (Sun shade) only partially covers the boat. You are welcome to bring drinks and picnics etc for your trip. We also have a café on site should you wish to join us for breakfast or lunch.
How many people can I bring with me?
When making your booking, you should declare how many people the booking is for, as well as their ages. These details can be altered by contacting us up to a week before your booking. If there are substantial changes we reserve the right to charge an administration fee.
it is forbidden for unauthorised or undeclared individuals to board the boat, and to have a higher number of people onboard than the boat is hired for, as it nullifies you insurance in case of an accident. You will therefore be responsible for all costs incurred in such a situation.