Cruise the serene River Ant and Barton Broad in a traditional seven-seater diesel boat with Sutton Staithe Boatyard Ltd. Discover peaceful waterways, rich birdlife, and historic landmarks on a flexible day trip for families and friends.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–7.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
The Norfolk Broads were formed by medieval peat diggings flooded over centuries, creating the unique wetland landscape we know today.
Conservation
Sutton Staithe Boatyard promotes sustainable boating practices to protect this sensitive fenland habitat and its resident wildlife.
Sutton Staithe Boatyard Ltd
Cruise the serene River Ant and Barton Broad in a traditional seven-seater diesel boat with Sutton Staithe Boatyard Ltd. Discover peaceful waterways, rich birdlife, and historic landmarks on a flexible day trip for families and friends.
Sutton Staithe Boatyard Ltd is a limited company based in Sutton, England, operating boat and paddlecraft hire on the Norfolk Broads. The business offers kayak and canoe hire plus a range of electric and diesel day boats from the Sutton Staithe launch point. Trip options include single-seater kayaks, three-seater canoes, a six‑seat electric day boat, diesel day boats seating seven or eight, and a twelve‑seat Electric Picnic Boat with onboard stove, toilet and sink for self-contained outings.
Trips depart from Sutton Staithe and navigate the River Ant with easy access to Sutton Broad RSPB Reserve, Barton Broad, How Hill and Ranworth. Routes are suited to paddlers and boaters seeking wildlife viewing opportunities; otters and kingfishers are specifically noted in trip descriptions. The variety of craft supports solo paddlers, small groups and larger families or groups up to twelve.
Sutton Staithe Boatyard Ltd describes its fleet options clearly, allowing visitors to choose eco-friendly electric boats or traditional diesel day boats depending on preference. Equipment offerings include picnic-style amenities on the Electric Picnic Boat that support day trips and relaxed exploring of the Broads. The business focuses on providing access to well-known Norfolk Broads destinations while listing specific craft capacities and features for transparency. Visitors planning a Broads excursion from Sutton can select craft that match group size, desired comfort and wildlife-viewing priorities.
Information about each trip includes destination highlights, capacity limits and onboard features so visitors can plan routes to How Hill, Ranworth, Barton Broad and Sutton Broad RSPB Reserve easily.
Location
Sutton, England
Based on the Norfolk Broads
Trips Offered
6 trip types
Kayaks, canoes, electric and diesel boats
Largest Capacity
12 seats
Electric Picnic Boat fits 12 people
Wildlife Access
Sutton Broad RSPB
Close to otter and kingfisher sightings
Reserve kayaks, canoes or day boats for River Ant routes, Sutton Broad RSPB Reserve and trips to Barton Broad, How Hill and Ranworth.
Check the weight limit
Make sure your group’s combined weight does not exceed 750kg to ensure safe operation of the boat.
Wear weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear to stay comfortable during variable weather on the Broads.
Bring a map and plan your route
Use the provided map and suggested itineraries to navigate easily and discover the best stops like How Hill and Ranworth.
Keep dogs leashed while on site
Dogs are welcome aboard with life jackets, but must be kept on short leads when around the boathouse area.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against spring showers and wind on open water.
spring
Sunscreen
Essential to avoid sunburn during long, exposed daytime boating.
summer
Binoculars
Helpful for spotting birds and wildlife from the boat.
Non-slip shoes
Provides safety when boarding and moving around the boat.