Explore the Comfort and Charm of Our Traditional Diesel Narrowboats

A Fleet Named in Honour of Welsh Heritage

At Castle Narrowboats, we’re proud to offer a fleet of traditional diesel narrowboats, each one thoughtfully named after some of Wales’ most iconic castles. These narrowboats embody the strength and heritage of Welsh culture, while delivering all the comfort and convenience you’d expect for a relaxing holiday on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a couples’ retreat, or a peaceful getaway with friends, our narrowboats offer a range of sizes, berths, and amenities to suit your needs.

With over 20 years of experience in canal holidays, we know what it takes to ensure a comfortable, memorable journey. Our fleet includes both traditional diesel narrowboats and eco-friendly electric options, providing flexibility in how you explore this stunning canal route. No matter your choice, each boat is perfectly equipped and ready to make your canal holiday an unforgettable experience.

All the Comforts of Home on the Water

Step aboard one of our traditional diesel narrowboats and you’ll find a cosy, well-equipped space that feels like home from the moment you arrive. Every boat in our fleet is designed to provide the comfort you deserve, with full central heating to keep you warm during cooler days on the canal, as well as a television with DVD player for cosy evenings aboard.

The galley (kitchen) is fully stocked with all the essentials you’ll need to prepare meals, including a full-size cooker, microwave, toaster, and a larder fridge with a freezer compartment. So, whether you’re cooking a simple breakfast or a hearty dinner, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. We also provide freshly laundered bed linen to ensure you enjoy a restful night’s sleep, and the boat’s 240v power supply is perfect for running low-wattage items, so you can stay connected while still embracing the canal’s peaceful pace.

For a full list of everything included, check out our boat inventory here.

Impeccably Clean and Maintained to High Standards

We understand how important cleanliness and maintenance are to your holiday experience. Our boats are thoroughly cleaned and inspected to an exceptional standard before each hire. From a spotless galley to meticulously laundered linens, every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your time on the water. Regular maintenance checks ensure that each narrowboat is in prime condition, making your journey smooth, safe, and worry-free.

Perfectly Sized for Navigating the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

Our narrowboats are built with the winding Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal in mind. With cruiser sterns that provide easy access and ample outdoor space, they’re ideal for leisurely cruising through this scenic route. The size of our boats makes it easy to navigate the canal’s twists and turns, so even if you’re new to narrowboating, you’ll find our boats perfectly suited for the journey. Our diesel engines provide reliable, smooth propulsion, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about operation.

Personalised Briefing and Support to Get You Started

At Castle Narrowboats, we want you to feel completely confident and at ease before setting off. That’s why we offer a comprehensive, personalised briefing when you arrive. Our friendly team will walk you through everything you need to know – from steering and mooring to operating the galley and maintaining comfort aboard. We’ll take the time to answer all your questions, providing demonstrations if needed, so you can set off on your adventure fully prepared.

This one-on-one orientation isn’t rushed – we believe in ensuring you feel secure and knowledgeable. Our priority is that you leave our wharf ready to enjoy a fantastic holiday, with peace of mind that support is just a call away should you need it.

Why Choose a Traditional Diesel Narrowboat?

Our traditional diesel narrowboats offer a classic, reliable boating experience on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. They combine comfort with heritage, bringing a timeless charm to your holiday. The steady propulsion of diesel power adds an authentic feel to your journey, making it ideal for those seeking a traditional narrowboating experience in Wales’ most scenic settings.

With Castle Narrowboats, you’re not just hiring a boat – you’re stepping into a part of Welsh tradition, with modern amenities and exceptional service to make your holiday truly enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned narrowboat enthusiast, our traditional diesel fleet provides an inviting way to explore the canal, creating memories that will last long after you return to dry land.

Choose Castle Narrowboats for a narrowboat holiday that combines the charm of tradition with all the comforts you need for a wonderful getaway on the water.

We offer short breaks aboard our traditional narrowboats and you can travel either north or south along the canal. For a suggested short break itinerary please click here.