Frequently Asked Questions – Cruising on the Wessex Rose Hotel Boat
What is included in the cruise?
The Wessex Rose offers a fully inclusive, all-inclusive cruising experience. Your stay includes luxury en-suite accommodation, all meals, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and a four-course dinner, wine, spirits, beer, and soft drinks, daily refreshments. We also provide full crew service, ensuring you have a stress-free and relaxing experience.
What type of accommodation is available?
Our 5-star luxury wide-beam hotel boat features 3 beautifully furnished en-suite cabins, each designed for maximum comfort.
What are the cabins like?
Each luxury cabin has a king size double pocket sprung quality mattress for maximum support that is fully interchangeable to either a twin or double setting.
All cabins have flat screens TV’s, DVD players. Your en-suite bathroom includes a powerful shower, wash hand basin, flushing toilet and heated towel rail.
All cabins have full tea and coffee making facilities.
Luxurious duvets and Egyptian cotton bedding ensure you of a comfortable night’s sleep.
240 volt sockets are provided in each cabin and throughout the boat so you can bring electrical items along.
We provide toiletries, face cloths, hand towels and bath sheets, hair dryers and robes in your cabin and a limited range of other essentials are available on request. Each cabin is equipped with a 110v/240v shaver socket for razors and electric toothbrushes.
Can I take a walk?
Yes. Each day is a new start point for a fabulous walk. You can walk the stunning countryside and tow-paths along the river and canals. We are happy to help you with information as well as where to get off and on the boat should you decide to walk while the boat moves. Remember to pack good walking shoes as well as a waterproof jacket.
Where do your cruises go?
We operate on the River Thames, Grand Union Canal, and other surrounding waterways, offering four-night short breaks to seven-night cruises. Our itineraries take you through stunning countryside, historic towns, and famous landmarks, including Oxford, Windsor, Little Venice, and beyond.
Do I need any boating experience?
You don’t. The Wessex Rose is fully crewed, so you can sit back and relax while we handle all the navigation, locks, and mooring. As a guest on the Wessex Rose, you won’t need to operate the boat. The professional crew manages all operations. Should you wish to learn more or try your hand at steering under supervision, the crew can provide guidance.
What can I expect from a typical day on board?
A day on board is all about relaxation and exploration. You’ll start with a hearty breakfast, followed by cruising through picturesque waterways. There are opportunities to disembark and explore historic towns, countryside trails, or famous landmarks. Lunch is served onboard or at a selected waterside location, followed by afternoon tea. Evenings include a delicious four-course dinner, with time to unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
What is the dining experience like?
Our onboard skipper/chef prepares fresh, gourmet meals daily, using locally sourced ingredients. All meals are included, along with complimentary wine, spirits, beer, and soft drinks. Dietary requirements can be catered for – please let us know in advance.
Breakfast is your choice of cereals, yoghurts, fresh fruit, pasties, and a full English, with eggs how you like them.
Mid-morning, hot or cold beverages including coffee and tea, with biscuits.
Lunch is typically light, maybe quiche with salad or a charcuterie board.
Afternoon Tea, or freshly ground coffee, served with cakes or scones and jam.
Pre-dinner drinks served on the top deck weather permitting.
Dinner: 4 courses with a delicious starter, main course, desert and a selection of cheese and biscuits.
All wine, spirits, beer and soft drinks available throughout the day, as well as with the meals are included.
Each menu is specifically designed taking all dietary requirements, likes and dislikes into consideration.
How physically active is the cruise?
Our cruises are designed to be as relaxing or active as you wish. While you can explore on foot during mooring stops, there is no strenuous activity required. If you prefer, you can simply enjoy the journey from the comfort of the boat.
What should I pack?
Dress on-board is casual and relaxed. We recommend comfortable clothing, layers for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes/trainer, non-slip footwear and a waterproof jacket. Bring a camera or binoculars for the stunning scenery and historic sights!
Remember to pack essentials such as sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are also important.
We provide toiletries, face cloths, hand towels and bath sheets, hair dryers and robes in your cabin and a limited range of other essentials are available on request. Each cabin is equipped with a 110v/240v shaver socket for razors and electric toothbrushes.
What about parking?
We do advise on parking options on request. Parking is generally either at marinas, train stations, some private parking options, hotels or, occasionally, multi-storey car parks.
How do I get back to my car?
Our cruises start at one place and finish at another. If you are arriving by car we will ask you to park either at the start or end of the cruise. Our moorings are either a short walk or a short taxi ride from the nearest parking. On arrival please call the Wessex Rose on 07881 287320 where we will be able to advise you on the exact mooring location and meet you, play porter and show you to the boat. If you arrive earlier you are welcome to leave your bags with us whilst you explore the local area.
Where do we join the boat and how?
Full joining instructions will be sent to you before your cruise start date giving you time to make the necessary travel arrangements.
On arrival please call the Wessex Rose on 07881 287320 where we will be able to advise you on the exact mooring location and meet you, play porter and show you to the boat. If you arrive earlier you are welcome to leave your bags with us whilst you explore the local area.
Typically on the last day we request guest to disembark by 10:00am after breakfast, unless otherwise advised. We are happy to store your bags for you if you wish to explore the area further or do some last minute shopping.
Is Wi-Fi available on board?
Yes, while we offer Wi-Fi connectivity, please note that signal strength can vary depending on the cruising location. We encourage guests to embrace the slow pace of life on the water and unwind.
How do I book a cruise?
You can book directly through our website e-mail link, via email, or by calling us directly.
What time does the cruise start and end?
Check-in is typically in the afternoon on the first day, and guests disembark after a hearty breakfast on the final morning (usually around 10:00 a.m.). Specific times will be provided in your booking confirmation and joining instructions.
What if I have dietary requirements or allergies?
We are happy to accommodate dietary needs with advance notice before your cruise starts. Each guest will receive a request to provide us with their specific dietary requirements, likes and dislikes before their cruise starts in order for us to prepare our menus.
All food is freshly prepared on board using locally sourced produce where possible.
Do you allow pet onboard?
Taking all guests and crew into consideration and to ensure the comfort and safety of all, the Wessex Rose does not allow any pets on board.
Is the Wessex Rose suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely! We welcome solo travellers and offer a warm, friendly atmosphere onboard. There’s plenty of opportunity to socialise with fellow guests while also enjoying personal space and privacy.
Can I steer or operate the boat?
You may operate the boat, under supervision from our skipper, Roland. Should you want to help with the operation of locks or swing bridges we will be very happy to brief you.
Can I smoke on the boat?
No. Unfortunately smoking is not allowed inside the boat, you may smoke outside the boat or on the tow path.
Are there any risks associated with canal cruising?
Canal cruising is generally safe and relaxing. However, potential risks include slips or trips due to wet surfaces. It’s important to be cautious around locks and when moving about the boat. The Wessex Rose crew is experienced and will provide guidance to ensure your safety throughout the journey.
How many guests can the Wessex Rose accommodate?
The Wessex Rose is designed to accommodate up to six guests in three spacious en-suite cabins. Each cabin can be configured as either a double or twin setup, ensuring flexibility and comfort for all guests.
What safety measures are in place for passengers?
Passenger safety is a top priority on the Wessex Rose. The boat is equipped with necessary safety equipment, and the crew provides a safety briefing at the start of each cruise. Guests are advised to wear appropriate footwear, avoid leaning over the sides, and be mindful when navigating the boat. Life jackets are available if needed, and the crew is trained to handle emergencies.
Is insurance required for a canal boat trip?
While the Wessex Rose is fully insured for its operations, guests are encouraged to have their own travel insurance to cover personal belongings and unforeseen circumstances. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to ensure adequate coverage during your trip.
If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to assist! 🚢✨
