Backwaters Cruising was formed in 2017 to pioneer the development of cruise-and-stay holidays exploring the thousands of miles of lesser-scaled inland waterways across Europe which cannot accommodate large hotel cruisers.   The Backwaters model uses the limited on-board space available on these smaller rivers and canals to operate as an air-conditioned “observation lounge”, where guests enjoy their cruise exploration by day and then return to a comfortable local hotel for the night.   Cruise ranges meander and we are slowed by locks, so we only average a gentle walking pace and travel no excessive distance.  Guests usually stay in the same hotel throughout their holiday.

In describing our cruises, we like to say that our guests don’t so much enjoy the intimate and close-up scenery, they become part of it.   You will see the kingfishers, herons and damsel-flies.   You will hear the nightingales.  And if it takes your fancy you can (subject to safety considerations of course) hop-off the boat at a lock and wander the towpath before re-boarding further on.  

Another USP of growing importance is our environmental attraction.   For our UK broad-beam specification the boat engine has a single screw served by separate HVO “green diesel” and electric drives.  

our post-pandemic vision re-emerged around a fresh start on UK the UK broad-beam waterways, starting in 2025 with short- and long-break cruise & tour programmes along the non-tidal Thames and the Kennet & Avon navigation.   In subsequent years we aim to extend out of the Thames Valley and on to the network of English broad-beam navigations across the Midlands and North.   And in time we will be returning to the continental waterways – watch this space!

Website update in the next month to present the full 2025 cruise programme

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