Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich
I was in Norwich a few months back and was absolutely blown away by its medieval charm. The pubs were a good addition to my stay, but, as usual, I was there for the boats on the Broads. I try to head out an enjoy the Norfolk Broads day boat hire in Norwich a couple times a year. I’ve been doing this sort of thing for around twenty years in and around the Norfolk broads.
Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich is a fairly simple process if you know where to look. And it’s not like the city is a destination you want to miss: vibrant arts scene, eclectic shopping options, and a rich cultural heritage. What’s not to love about it?
It’s also the only English city within a National Country Park, which automatically makes it an ideal place to start when visiting the Broads: many’s favorite network of 30 lakes connected by 200 miles of tranquil waterways.
However, planning a boating trip from the city comes with challenges: budgeting, rental selection, boat choosing– where do you even start?
Here. You start here in this comprehensive guide. To truly capture this city’s essence and have an even better idyllic trip than I did when visiting, here’s a starter pack that will align you seamlessly with the richness Norwich has to offer.
Types of Boats Available for Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich
Standard Day Boats
Rental companies available for Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich offer a variety of standard day boats equipped for the perfect Norfolk Broads adventure. Options include diesel-powered or electric boats, all in different models and varieties, left to the ultimate choice of your preference.
These boats, often small centre consoles or cabin cruisers, are perfect for groups ranging from 2-8 people. My group of six went on a trip down the Broads via Norwich in a cabin cruiser, and it was a fun trip; the space, the seating areas, and the beginner-friendly controls made angling fun and hassle-free.
You could rent a small electric boat capable of ferrying up to four people for as low as £25 per hour and a half-day seven-passenger diesel boat for £70.
Picnic Boats
Nothing spells relaxation like a picnic on the Broads; grass, who?
Designed specifically with fond memories in mind, the seating arrangement of picnic boats is exactly what you need if you plan to break bread with family and friends on the Broads.
Relax in one and feed the ducks, pop open the built-in coolers or refrigerators, and have a drink. Need to picnic? Fish? Sightsee? Sure thing. You can do all that and more.
Most rental companies also make sure their picnic boats are pet-friendly, so when we say bring the entire family, we mean it.
Solo/Duo Fishing Boats
Group trips are fun, but this is arguably my favorite kind of boat to hire when I’m on the Broads. It’s just me, my dog, my fishing rod, and a good book to while away the time.
If this sounds more like your speed, then there’s no point in hiring an 8-seater.
These small, sturdy options, such as bay boats, paddle boards, skiffs, and canoes, are perfect for day fishing and a relaxing cruise along the Broads. You can get them with a motor or with it for the good old exercise that rowing brings.
Rent a 3-seater canoe for as low as £25 for two hours.
Luxury Boats
I saved the best– and most expensive– for last. But, despite the higher price tag in comparison to other boats, going through the process of Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich without at least considering this option is a shame. Luxury boats offer an experience unmatched by any other.
For superior comfort, a larger group, and a trip worthy of the word ‘luxury,’ Norwich rental companies offer a wide range of luxury boats with varying amenities.
Ideal for special occasions or groups seeking a premium boating experience, luxury boats cater to those willing to invest more for an elevated journey on the Broads.
Best Fishing Spots To Enjoy When Hiring Out A Day Boat In Norwich
Although many of the most popular fishing spots in Norwich are lakes, like Taswood Lakes and Barford Lakes, which are privately owned lakes and ponds surrounded by parks and campgrounds, it doesn’t mean your Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich experience has to be a bad one.
Worry not. The River Wensum, which stretches through Norwich, offers a lot of free fishing spots to catch the abundance of Barbel, Bream, Brown Trout, Perch, Pike, and Roach that flourish in the river.
Bishop’s Bridge
Nestled at the western edge of Norwich’s Cathedral Quarter, Bishop Bridge spans the River Wensum. Built in 1340, it stands as one of England’s oldest active bridges. This historic location is a great spot for catching Pike.
The secret to catching pike is using lures to locate them. Move around, casting in different spots, until you identify hits or follows. Also, try out various baits, spinners, soft plastics, prawns, and live baits.
Another form of fishing is float fishing with maggots. Can’t really go wrong with maggots in this part of the river. Maggot will catch you anything
Carrow Bridge
Constructed in 1923, Carrow Bridge offers a scenic view and potential wildlife sightings. It’s a lifting bridge but I’ve personally never seen it lifted, if it ever is at all. There have been plans by the council to weld the bridge shut, though.
Whichever the case, a walk under the bridge will greet you with pigeons and the occasional dove in the spring. You’ll often find Swans in the water and Egyptian geese perched along the river bank.
Catch some Perch at this scenic location with maggots, lobworms, prawns, and live baits (if allowed). Strategically feed worms and place a worm or maggot hook bait over the introduced loose feed. With prawns, I’ve seen a big size 6 hook used and feed out maggots to draw the smaller fish in.
The Yacht Station
This boat storage facility located at Riverside Road, Norwich, is a great place to moor for affordable prices, get pump facilities, catch a break, and maybe a barbel! (Well probably not anymore)
Opt for luncheon meat, boilies, pop-ups, wafters, maggots, and paste as bait. What I’m trying to say, i’ve seen almost all species of fish come out from this part of the river. There’s something for all anglers so bring a collection of your favourite baits and fish for bites rather than species. Start with worm!
Consider mooring for a little while and take advantage of nearby to walk around the bridge and visit local shops and pubs.
Foundry Bridge
This single-span iron bridge, dating from 1880, carries Prince of Wales Road over the River Wensum in Norwich. Marvel at the historicity of this spot, and while you’re at it, catch some of the Bream and Roach that flourish in this river and have been known to catch the odd brown trout for good measure
With my research in the handful of For Brown Trout I know about, I’ve got a little info with bait. Try your hand at fly fishing with dry flies, nymphs, or streamers. Live bait like worms or minnows and lures like spinners or spoons are also effective. Don’t forget that around dawn and dusk are the perfect times to catch this fish.
As for Roach and Bream, the waggler technique is classic. Choose a float allowing you to catch on the drop and on the bottom, using an insert waggler with shot placement and a few No8 shots down the line.
Whether you choose the historical charm of Bishop’s Bridge, the scenic view at Carrow Bridge, the urban setting of The Yacht Station, or the historical Foundry Bridge, Norwich’s fishing spots offer a diverse range of experiences for anglers of all levels.
Cost and Considerations for Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich
Duration Options and Corresponding Prices
When planning Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich, it’s comforting to know rental companies offer flexible duration options to suit various preferences.
Prices vary based on the selected timeframe. Short durations, such as hourly rentals, are great for quick explorations, while half-day and full-day options cater to those seeking a more leisurely getaway. Expect hourly rates ranging from £25 for an hour to £60 for 4 hours, half-day rates from £70 to £120, and full-day rates from £120 depending on the type of boat chosen. You could even find weekly rates for about £500 and upwards.
Electronic Devices and Charging on Boats
Okay, you can’t live without your phone. Big deal.
But it’s not only phones that need charging nowadays; lamps, coolers and power banks, all need a plug.
Luckily, Norfolk Broads Boat rental companies in Norwich come with various boats that ensure your electronic devices stay powered during your trip.
Before setting sail, make sure to ask about available charging options. Some boats come equipped with charging stations, while others require portable chargers.
Group Size, Accessibility Needs, and Budget
Ultimately, the boat you take out while following this Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich guide will depend on your group size and your budget.
I’ve said this before, but I’ll say it again: a small group means cost-effective options without compromising on amenities.
Additionally, ask the rental about accessibility features for individuals with specific needs, and then, finally, ensure the chosen boat accommodates everyone comfortably while aligning with your budget.
Keep all this in mind, and a seamless and enjoyable boating experience on the Norfolk Broads awaits you.
Norfolk Broads Boat Hire Companies in Norwich
Herbert Woods
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Armed with a huge selection of boats, from picnic boats to houseboats to cruisers, this rental company knows how to keep their boats clean and their customers happy. They offer a wide range of plans from daily to weekly boat hires, and their rates, while a little bit more pricey, are well worth it.
JB Boat Sales
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Small company with an even smaller fleet, but that’s exactly what makes them endearing. Their picnic boats are kept in great condition, and the staff are warm and friendly. Prices are also affordable, but they do charge £50 as a late fee.
This service is great for a quiet day out with the family.
Bishy Barney Day Boat Hire
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Another small selection of electric and diesel boats that come at great prices and with great service. Their small, 4-seater traditional electronic boat is a personal favorite of mine, and it only costs £25 to rent for an hour.
Norfolk Boat Hire
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‘Nice boat, lovely friendly service, good prices,’ this is how one happy customer reviewed Norfolk Boat Hire, and I can’t help but agree. Although their website could use an upgrade, their boats are in perfect condition, and renting a boat from them should prove to be no problem at all.
Thorpe Island Boats
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Handmade authentic Canadian canoes, paddle boards, and kayaks are perfect for Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich.
Prices start as low as £25 an hour. The owner, Mark Harrison, is welcoming and knowledge,able and this company doesn’t mind giving you maps of the area to craft your own grand adventure. Gold stars all round.
Conclusion
Now you’ve got this Norfolk Broads Boat Hire in Norwich guide– go out, touch some grass, and dip your toes in the water. It’ll do you good.
Discover diverse boats and prime fishing spots, and, finally, may your journey be rich in fish tales, scenic wonders, and shared laughter.
