BY TIM HEDGLEY, GROUP TRAVEL EDITOR

According to Statista, eight in ten Brits are opting for a staycation in 2025.

Le Boat holidays on the River Thames and Caledonian Canal, it’s easy to see why, from royal castles and riverside pubs in England to remote lochs and mountain views in Scotland, there’s no shortage of scenery, heritage and adventure to enjoy.

Le Boat, the No. 1 provider of self-drive boating holidays on inland waterways across the UK, Europe, and Canada, is offering up to 25% off river cruises departing in April and May 2025, when booked before 06 May 2025.

River Thames, England 

For those wanting to stay closer to home, the River Thames offers a fantastic introduction to boating, with countryside, towns, traditional English pubs and plenty of family-friendly attractions. With no locks to navigate for the first stretch from Benson, it’s an easy, stress-free option for beginners. 

Cruisers can explore Windsor Castle, enjoy a day at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, or wander the historic halls of Hampton Court Palace. Moor up in Henley-on-Thames to visit Cliveden House or stop in Marlow for a riverside picnic, or dine at the Michelin-starred pub, The Coach.  

A seven-night self-catered stay on the River Thames, starting and finishing at Le Boat’s base in Benson, on board a Consul sleeping four, arriving 30 May 2025, is priced from £375 pp / £1,499 per boat (was £1,979, saving £480). No experience necessary. Transport to and from the base is not included. 

Caledonian Canal, Scotland 

For those seeking a more remote escape, Scotland’s Caledonian Canal offers a memorable experience. Setting off from Le Boat’s base in Laggan, guests can cruise 62 miles of tranquil waterways that link Loch Ness, Loch Oich, and Loch Lochy, all while keeping an eye out for red deer and golden eagles along the way. 

A standout highlight is Neptune’s Staircase, an eight-lock marvel of Victorian engineering that raises boats 64 feet, with spectacular views of Ben Nevis in the distance. Guests can also board the Jacobite Steam Train from Banavie, one of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys, made famous by the Harry Potter films. 

A seven-night self-catered stay on the Caledonian Canal, starting and finishing at Le Boat’s base in Laggan, on board a Cygnet WHS, sleeping four, arriving 28 May 2025, is priced from £231 pp / £923 per boat (was £1,193, saving £270).

No experience necessary.

Transport to and from the base is not included. 

For more information, visit: http://www.leboat.com/enor call 020 3608 6043. 

See more here: Le Boat YouTube