Richardsons Boating Holidays

Moorhens paddle between the hire boats while you sort through the paperwork for your week-long cruise around the Norfolk Broads. Richardsons has been putting families afloat on these gentle waterways for decades, and their marina operation shows the sort of well-oiled efficiency that comes from proper experience.

Boating novices shouldn't worry - they'll walk you through everything from reversing into tight moorings to working the locks. The boats themselves are properly kitted out with everything from bedding to life jackets, though you'll want to pack light as storage space gets tight quickly with a family aboard.

Expect to spend at least half a day getting familiar with your floating home before you're confident enough to navigate the busier stretches near Norwich. The real magic happens once you're out on the quieter reaches, where the only sounds are your engine puttering and the occasional splash of a jumping pike.

Families with teenagers often get the most from these holidays - there's something about being captain of your own boat that appeals to that age group. Younger children can get restless after a few days of slow cruising, though the frequent pub stops help break things up.

With Hickling Campsite and Norfolk Broads Country Park both within striking distance, you could easily combine a boating week with some land-based exploring around this corner of the Broads.