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Self Drive Motor Boat Hire with River Medway Canoes - Maidstone

Self Drive Motor Boat Hire with River Medway Canoes

Wateringburyeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–6 hours

Fitness Level

Basic physical ability needed to handle boat controls and navigate locks

Overview

Take control of your own motorboat along the scenic River Medway with River Medway Canoes. From Teston Lock to Hamstead Lock, enjoy flexible hire options with safety and expert guidance included.

Wateringbury, England

Self Drive Motor Boat Hire

Minimum captain age is 21 • Minimum participant age is 3 • 1 to 6 hours • Up to 6 people per boat

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About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of self-driving a motorboat along the picturesque river route between Teston Lock and Hamstead Lock. With flexible hire options from one to six hours, you can explore at your leisure. Enjoy a comprehensive safety briefing and handling assessment to ensure a confident and memorable adventure on the water.

Duration: 1, 2, 4 or 6 hours

We are excited to introduce the latest additions to our collection, Lady Celia and Three Little Ladies, our pre-book Self Drive Motor Boats available for hire.

Each boat has a maximum capacity of six people, including the driver and children. Hire is available for one hour, two hours, four hours, or a full-day hire of up to six hours, giving you the flexibility to explore the river at your own pace.

Highlights

The river route covers the scenic stretch between Teston Lock and Hamstead Lock, Yalding, providing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the water.

For customers hiring a motor boat for four hours or more, passage through Teston and East Farleigh Locks is permitted, extending your adventure further along the river.

Before setting off, you will receive a full safety briefing, demonstration, and handling assessment from one of our team members. They will guide you through the basics of maneuvering the motorboat safely on the water and conduct a handling assessment to ensure you feel confident.

Once you have successfully completed the assessment, you are free to enjoy your trip.

Includes

ON THE DAY:

Please arrive 15 minutes before your departure time to allow sufficient time for your safety briefing and handling assessment. This ensures you are fully prepared and can make the most of your time on the water.

Included in your trip is:

  • Fuel
  • Map
  • Safety briefing
  • Handling demonstrations
  • Service with a smile

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Our Self Drive Motor Boat hire is for families, couples and mature groups. We do not hire boats to young groups, Stag/Hen groups, groups in convoy or those looking for a 'boozy' experience.

Please read our Terms and Conditions for arrival.

Please note: We do not allow alcohol or fishing equipment on the boats.

Maximum 6 persons per boat, including the driver and children with a minimum participant age of 3 years.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Briefing

Plan to be at the launch site 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to complete the safety briefing and handling assessment.

No Alcohol or Fishing Gear

Alcohol consumption and fishing equipment are prohibited on board to ensure safety and a serene environment.

Max 6 People per Boat

Boats can hold up to six occupants—including the driver and children aged 3 and older—for comfort and safety.

Follow Lock Procedures

When passing through Teston and East Farleigh Locks (available on hires 4+ hours), follow lock gate rules carefully and ask staff for guidance if unsure.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Kingfishers darting along the river edges
  • Herons standing sentinel by the shallows

History

Teston Lock dates back to the 18th century and remains a working lock preserving traditional river navigation methods.

Conservation

River Medway Canoes follows strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact, supporting ongoing riverbank habitat preservation.

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Adventure Hotspots in Maidstone

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Protects against spring rain and wind during your time on the river.

spring specific

Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare from the water and improves visibility on bright days.

summer specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Allows you to adjust warmth as autumn temperatures fluctuate.

fall specific

Warm Hat and Gloves

Essential

Keeps you comfortable during chilly winter boating sessions.

winter specific