Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is included in the rate?
A. Our rates include boat insurance, Lock tolls, mooring permit, gas, turf for the stove, linen, towels, guides to the waterways and a portable BBQ.
Q. Is Fuel included in the hire rate ?
No, There is a Fuel Surcharge. It is based on your choice of boat and route and is charged at the start of your journey. (From Euro 80 to 120.00)
Q. What about insurance ?
A. You are covered for damage to the boat and third party claims for any accident involving the boat. You are responsible for the first Euro 500.00 of any claim for damage to or loss of equipment and repairs.
For personal injury or loss of property we advice you to take out your own travel insurance before leaving home.
Q. What is the electric Power on Board?
A. The boats are all run on 12volt power. While you are moving the engine charges the batteries. There is a 12v socket, like the one in a car, to charge equipment such as cameras/phones. The CD/MP3 radio has Bluetooth USB, SD and Aux input for your ipod connection.
Q. Can we hire Bicycles.
A. Yes, we have top quality mountain bikes for hire. At least one bike is useful to explore towns or go along the towpath in advance to a lock.
Q. Can we fish?
A. Yes, coarse fishing on the Canal is free with Bream, Perch, Rudd, Tench and Eel.
Pike can be fished in the canal and river. Trout can be fished on the River.
Q. What if we have a breakdown?
A. This can happen on a boating holiday but Canalways Ireland pride themselves in quality boats and on an excellent service record. In the occasional event of a breakdown all repairs are carried out by our own staff as fast and efficiently as possible.
Q. Are there any hidden costs?
A. No. The only extra cost is fuel.
Q. How do we get to Canalways Base ?
We offer a direct transfer service from the Airport or other location to and from our
base. This is a very convenient way to travel to us. You can also make your own way by train or bus to Kildare town and onward by Taxis. For travel information see www.irishrail.ie or www.dublincoach.ie & Kildare Cabs 045 530815.
Q. What about the car ?
A. Parking is provided free of charge at our base.
Q What do we need to bring?
A. Storage space on the smaller boats is limited however there is storage under all the seating, most of which convert into a bed at night. We recommend you travel as light as possible. Please include a warm jacket, waterproof non slip shoes or boots, sun visor and sun cream, woolly hat, gloves and binoculars. We advise thermal under-cloths for spring and autumn cruising. Waterproofs and wellingtons are available at our base. All Linen, Towels, dish cloths and cleaning materials are provided. The Galley is stocked with your everyday basic food items.
Q. How do I book?
A. Please email us [ canalholidays@eircom.net ] with your details, size and make up of your party, first choice of boat, and intended dates. We will confirm availability. You can book by sending the booking form by email, or snail mail along with your booking deposit, 50% of the total hire fee.
Our confirmation/ information letter will be sent by post or email to all confirmed guests.
– Click Here for Booking | – Terms and Conditions
Relevant information on the booking form to include:
- Name, Address. Tel / Email. Number of party (Adults/Children – Please give children’s age/s).
- Your intended route & Previous boating experience (If any).
- Any Special Requirements or questions.
- Tick payment options on the booking form.
- Weekly holidays commence on Saturday and Wednesday. We offer one and two week cruises, Long Weekends and 5 day Mid Week Breaks. Minimum Hire in the Summer period is 5 day.
- We are a small company and offer friendly and efficient service for all our Guests. Flexible arrangements can be made to suit your holiday needs.
- Boats are provided with all necessary equipment and information for your safety and comfort.