Boating Essentials

BW provides a range of basic services for boaters, including water points, refuse disposal, toilets and Elsan emptying points throughout the waterway network. These are generally free to licence holders. Access to sanitary facilities is by a special Yale BW facilities key, available from the Customer Service Centre. Where paid-for facilities such as electric charging points are available, payment is by digital card available from the local office. BW pump-out machines are set to run for 10 minutes per cycle.

BW is not the only provider of these facilities. You will also find them, and much more, at the marinas and boatyards throughout the network. As well as, pump-outs, boat sales, boat servicing and repairs and moorings, many have shops and chandleries. A good place too to stop for local information, waterway maps and guidebooks and often basic groceries.

Our Customer Services Centre is able to give you information on most matters relating to the waterways. If your enquiry is of a local nature you may prefer to contact or visit one of our local offices for more detailed information about a particular area or service.

Boaters Updates

To sign up for your free monthly e-newsletter, simply email your title, first name, surname and postcode to boatersupdate@britishwaterways.co.uk