There is hardly a better way to spend a balmy summer’s evening than to cruise down the Kennet and Avon Canal, with a glass of fizz in hand, the warming early evening sun overhead and the beauty of the riverbank and water to enjoy.
It was a Friday evening and my family and I were on board Champagne Jenny, a 12-seater charter boat owned by Rich Froud and his partner Hazel. Rich and Hazel launched their bespoke boat service just two years ago when they themselves decided to leave life on land and live on a narrow boat.
Our journey began at Darlington Wharf in Bathwick where Rich welcomed us on board. His laidback nature made us feel instantly relaxed. Rich is an experienced skipper and pilots all the boat trips, so all we had to do was settle back on the comfy cushioned seats and enjoy the view.
Champagne Jenny has seated sections at the front and back, which works well as the kids had an area to themselves, while the seats can be moved into different configurations to suit your group. There is also a small round table ideal for snacks.
As the boat cruised towards Bathampton, we waved at fellow boaters and passersby, spotted ducklings and even a Heron. Across the valley we could see Brown’s Folly in the distance.
The kids had a great time standing on the swing bridge as it opened and also throwing food, kindly provided by Rich, to the ducks. We then tucked into the picnic we’d brought along with us with included pizzas, strawberries and bubbly!
The trip took us down almost as far as Warleigh Weir, still a popular spot for wild swimming, before the vessel meandered its gentle way back to the starting point, waving along the way to Hazel who was working on the roof of their house boat.
As the kids wound down by playing a game of cards at the back, we adults took in the beauty of the river bank as we watched the evening sun glisten on the water. Our trip lasted about two hours and was just perfect.
Rich and Hazel’s service is truly bespoke. Trips can start anywhere between Semington in Trowbridge to Bath Top Lock. You can book a range of durations from just one hour to the whole day (£400). The summertime feed-the-duck cruises (one hour) are popular with young families and cost £60, duck food is provided.
For 12 passengers and a skipper, the trips are excellent value. There’s also an option to break up longer trips with lunch or drinks at The George Pub in Bathampton. The boat is completely open so trips are, of course, weather dependent so be sure to pack sunscreen and layers for hot or changeable weather. And do note that there’s no toilet on board.
Our boat journey felt like a real treat and not only because we’d miraculously timed it with a mini heat wave. What makes the difference is Rich’s passion for life on the water which is infectious. It’s obvious he wants his customers to really enjoy themselves. We certainly did and we’ll be booking again!