easy
1–6 hours
Basic physical ability needed to handle boat controls and navigate locks
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.
Minimum captain age is 21 • Minimum participant age is 3 • 1 to 6 hours • Up to 6 people per boat
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.
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.
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:
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.
Plan to be at the launch site 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to complete the safety briefing and handling assessment.
Alcohol consumption and fishing equipment are prohibited on board to ensure safety and a serene environment.
Boats can hold up to six occupants—including the driver and children aged 3 and older—for comfort and safety.
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.
Teston Lock dates back to the 18th century and remains a working lock preserving traditional river navigation methods.
River Medway Canoes follows strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact, supporting ongoing riverbank habitat preservation.
Protects against spring rain and wind during your time on the river.
spring specific
Reduces glare from the water and improves visibility on bright days.
summer specific
Allows you to adjust warmth as autumn temperatures fluctuate.
fall specific
Keeps you comfortable during chilly winter boating sessions.
winter specific