Introducing Our Hotel Boats
Snipe & Taurus are a type of craft that is unique to the inland waterways of the United Kingdom. They are each 70 feet long and 7 feet wide, which is the maximum size able to navigate Britain’s narrow canal network. Following in the footsteps of historical working narrow boats, Snipe and Taurus are gaily painted with traditional roses and castles and are resplendent with polished brasses and scrubbed white ropes.
We operate the boats as a pair using long established techniques. Snipe is the motor boat, powered by a quiet modern diesel engine, which complies with the most stringent exhaust and noise emission standards. It is housed in a sound-proofed compartment, to avoid it obscuring the sounds of the countryside.
Taurus, the "butty", is towed by Snipe - she is specifically designed for this, and therefore does not have an engine.The name 'butty' to describe such a boat is derived from an old phrase used in the north of England to mean a mate or partner, and which today may be recognised in the American term 'buddy'. Snipe and Taurus have been thoughtfully fitted out for their role as hotel boats;together they offer comfortable accommodation for nine guests in five single, one twin and one double cabin. Both the twin and double cabins have en-suite shower and toilet facilities.
Every cabin is self-contained and has a large opening window; there is a porcelain washbasin with hot and cold running water, a small wardrobe and separate luggage space. As you would expect in any other hotel, all your linens and towels are provided. In addition to the en suite facilities, there is a shower on Snipe, and flush toilets on both boats, as well as central heating.
The spacious lounge on Snipe has a drinks cabinet and cooler, facilities for guests to make hot drinks, a small library of good books and a supply of board games. On Taurus there is seating for all our guests in the dining room around our large family table, which stows neatly away to make another spacious lounge between meals. There is also room to sit outside in the covered well decks or for those who like the grandstand view, the cabin roof provides a panoramic outlook. Whether your cabin is on Snipe or Taurus, the facilities of both boats are there for all to enjoy.
Snipe - 3 single cabins, 1 twin cabin
Taurus - 2 single cabins, 1 double cabin
