A practical, usable guide to getting afloat on Britain's canals and rivers. The authoritative advice and information will inspire confidence and allow everyone to enjoy a successful, relaxing and safe experience on the water.

Contents
* Advice on what type of boating holiday.
* Where and when to go.
* Booking your boat.
* The necessary preparation.
* Starting your first trip.
* Boat handling.
* Negotiating locks, bridges, tunnels and aqueducts.
* Safety on board.
* Problems you may encounter and how to deal with them.
* Those extra-special places to see and things to do.
* Boating in Ireland and Europe.
* Buying a boat and boat ownership.
* Appendices cover walking and cycling along the waterways; communication on board (mobiles and laptops); where to get more information; boat shows, events and rallies; waterway guides, magazines and videos; glossary of boating terms; bibliography.

Illustrations clearly explain the practical points, photographs show the special nature of the waterways and their features, and maps illustrate the entire inland waterways system and individual canals and rivers.