Occasional stretches of the system are high banked, artificial cuts, but the majority is beautifully rural, with some pretty villages, ancient churches, atmospheric pubs, windmills and a Roman fort. Night clubs are practically non-existant, friendly moorings near pubs are common, mooring miles away from nowhere is easy. Wild life abounds and the natives are amazingly friendly. There are many boatyards that rent out boats. Diesel engine, gas cooking and heating, small electric fridge, flushing toilet.
Sailing yachts are also available.
Boatyards ususlly give newcomers about an hour's worth of instruction - then you are on your own. Hoseasons and Blakes both operate on the Broads as agents for many of the boatyards. Although the Thames is connected to the canal system, it is so different in character that it is usually looked upon as a separate cruising ground. Between Teddington Lock and Oxford, the locks are all worked for you by knowledgeable and helpful lock-keepers. In between all this there are the wonderful pubs and hotels, and some of the best restaurants in the world.