Hillingdon Narrowboats Association (HNA) offers you the opportunity to complete the residential part of your gold DofE with up to 7 other young people and 3 qualified instructors (1 female) All our instructors have been DBS checked and hold a current first Aid Certificate.
On the residential trip you will learn how to steer a narrowboat along the canal, work locks and pass through tunnels.
You will be working towards your Boat Handling Certificate, following the syllabus of our governing body, the National Community Boat Association (NCBA). This certificate is recognised by many community projects including Scouting and the Canal & River Trust and can qualify you for further volunteer activity on the inland waterways if you so wish.
During your trip you will learn how to
• steer a 72’narrowboat,
• Operate locks
• Organise and lead the crew
• Ensure the boat is ready for use and “put to bed” properly at the end of the day
• Boat responsibly and safely
You will also learn something of the history and culture of the canals, get involved with the general housekeeping, cooking and cleaning of the boat, and work and socialise as a team with your fellow candidates
Our intended route is along the Grand Union Canal Main Line and Paddington Arm, and through the Regents Canal to Limehouse. We will then cruise up the tidal Thames through Central London to Brentford before returning to Harefield via the Grand Union.
Be aware that closures on the canals for maintainence can sometimes force us to change our plans at short notice.
The accommodation will be hostel style, in bunks, onboard one of our boats..
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