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. It includes a wealth of information, including advice on different types of boating holidays, where and when to go, starting a first trip, the necessary preparation, boat handling, negotiating locks, bridges, tunnels and aqueducts, safety on board, potential problems, boating in Ireland and Europe, and buying a boat and boat ownership. Appendices cover walking and cycling along the waterways, communication on board, where to get more information, boat shows, events and rallies, waterway guides, magazines and videos, glossary of boating terms, and a 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.