The Trust has two canal boats, Kingfisher and Richmond, and offers both scheduled and charter trips throughout the year.
The boats ply the two-mile section of the canal between the Basin and Donnington; a beautiful stretch with excellent views and prolific wildlife. A lift is available on both boats for those who may not be able to manage steps.
To ensure trips depart on time please arrive no later than 15 minutes before departure.
SCHEDULED BOAT TRIPS
Kingfisher is our 22-seater canal boat which operates up to four scheduled trips, daily from spring to autumn. Passengers are offered a relaxing 75-minute trip with a friendly crew able to answer questions about the canal history, points of interest along the route, and the local wildlife.
CHARTER TRIPS
Richmond is a broad beam boat accommodating 32 passengers. She operates Charter cruises from March to October. The boat offers a venue with a difference: a continuously changing scene in the heart of the countryside. You are free to simply hire the boat and crew for a trip on the canal or we also offer a selection of catering options.
FISH AND CHIPS CRUISES
Fish and chips is a hot dish of British origin, it’s a common takeaway dish and an early example of culinary fusion. Fish and chips first appeared in the 1860s; by the 1930s there were over 35000 outlets. So it’s hardly surprising that our fish and chip cruises are really popular.
From Chichester’s own award-winning LA Fish, your boat trip includes a generous meal of Fish and Chips (other options available) as well as a glass of wine, real ale or fruit juice. Additional wine or beer is available to buy separately should you wish. Our cruise takes around 2 hours.
CREAM TEA CRUISES
Our Cream Tea Cruise is a 2-hour round trip and provides uninterrupted views of the countryside, Cathedral and the South Downs. Your boat trip includes a Scone, locally made jam, and clotted cream as well as a choice of tea or coffee.
You can enjoy the reflections on the water and the unique views of the cathedral and South Downs as you glide past the wild flowers and reed beds. Watch out for herons, kingfishers, swans, and mallards in their natural habitat.
EASTER TRIPS
Designed for families with younger children, our Easter boat trips take you on a 75-minute return journey up the canal into the countryside.
SPECIAL TRIPS
Celebrate special occasions with us at Chichester Canal, with our Catered Boat Trips.
Enjoy a 2-hour boat trip surrounded by the open countryside along the Chichester Canal.
BOAT ACCESS
There is a ramp from the Basin pedestrian area to the boat pontoon.
The boats have access and room for people in wheelchairs. There is also a lift available for those who may not be able to manage the steps.
Both boats offer toilet facilities; Kingfisher facilities are fully accessible by wheelchair