Holidays afloat are becoming more and more popular with each year that passes. In this country we are fortunate that wherever we live, or holiday, we are never very far from water - either the coast, rivers, canals, Lakes or Lochs. The ever changing face of water can never be boring. It can be sunny and dappled, with boats gently bobbing up and down or sliding through still waters; or it can be wild, exhilarating and challenging.

Breaks - varying in length from 1 day to many weeks - can range from the 'learn how to' canoe or sail variety; to those on hotel-boats with all your needs catered for; to the hire of a narrowboat for a family cruise; to off-shore charters; plus many more not even mentioned!

Such holidays on water can offer a chance to escape from the pressures of 21st century living. Some can offer the challenges of taking the helm, and with only the wind in the sails and water all around, travel from one destination to the next. Still with the wind in the sails but with land in sight, nothing could be better than days afloat in the Lake District. For those wanting a more sedate mode of transport then a holiday on a cruiser on the Broads or a narrowboat on the canals must be considered. Many hire fleets operate in both these areas and offer a range of boats that will suit every taste.

A holiday afloat offers the chance to step aside from the rat-race.