So, you've booked your boat, cancelled the cat, put the milk out etc. - time to go boating !

Although there are some routes - and even complete canals, that have no locks most people are likely to see them as a feature of the holiday, a chance for all of the crew to participate. Additionally you are almost certainly going to deal with bridges, tunnels, aquaducts, mooring and of course, steering. Separate to navigation but worthy of a special mention are anglers, all of whom will appreciate your doing things right.

Your hire base will spend some time on the boat with you and will explain how to work locks. Most will take you through your first one to make sure that you get the idea. Your hire paperwork will often include information on how to work locks, moor up etc. too so make sure you take time to study this. By far the best way to learn how to work a lock is to do it yourself with expert guidance, the next best way is to watch someone else do it. Watch someone who doesn't rush - they have almost certainly got it right.