Celebrate the holiday season with a cozy candlelit canal cruise that combines scenic waterway views, festive dining, and a touch of adventure. Discover why this cruise is a standout holiday activity in the city.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; just a willingness to sit and enjoy the scenery.
Wildlife
History
The canal was originally built in the 18th century as part of the city’s trade route, now offering a scenic route lined with historic buildings.
Conservation
The cruise company is dedicated to environmentally sustainable practices, including waste reduction and use of eco-friendly fuels.
Kittywake Canal Cruises
Celebrate the holiday season with a cozy candlelit canal cruise that combines scenic waterway views, festive dining, and a touch of adventure. Discover why this cruise is a standout holiday activity in the city.
Kittywake Canal Cruises operates from Wigan, England, offering a collection of themed canal trips on the historic Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The company runs small-group cruises that combine scenic cruising with dining experiences, including Afternoon Tea, Sunday Roast, Karaoke nights, Festive Dinner voyages, and the distinctive Chippy Tea aboard heated cabins.
Each cruise is designed for comfort and enjoyment. Afternoon Tea features sandwiches, scones, desserts and a glass of bubbly on a 2.5-hour cruise with a lock experience. The Sunday Roast Cruise delivers traditional roast dishes and homemade desserts during a 2.5-hour leisure cruise. Karaoke Cruise departs from Wigan Pier for three hours of entertainment with the first drink included. Festive Dinner Cruise offers a cosy candlelit two-course meal and holiday ambiance. Chippy Tea provides fish and chips in a booth while navigating a working canal lock, with a licensed bar available on board.
Safety and professionalism are priorities: vessels operate on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal under standard safety practices, with heated cabins and attentive service noted in trip descriptions. Booking is reservation-based to manage group sizes and seating. The business highlights local waterways and heritage by operating from Wigan and using the Elleswake for selected trips.
Guests choose Kittywake Canal Cruises for themed dining on the water, accessible boarding from Wigan Pier, and memorable lock experiences that combine hospitality with canal history. Ticketing, trip dates, and specific menu details are provided at booking and through the business's official channels to ensure accurate guest information and timely updates.
Location
Wigan, England
Departures from Wigan Pier
Typical Length
2.5 hrs
Most themed cruises approximate this length
Tours Offered
5
Afternoon tea to karaoke nights
Onboard Bar
Licensed
Drinks available on select cruises
Book Afternoon Tea, Sunday Roast, Karaoke, Festive Dinner, or Chippy Tea — reservation-based seating from Wigan Pier.
Arrive early for seating
Getting to the dock early ensures you have the best seats and can enjoy the onboard ambiance without rush.
Dress warmly
Bring layers and a scarf; canal cruises can get chilly, especially in the evening.
Bring a camera
Capture the scenic views and festive lights along the canal for lasting memories.
Book in advance
Holiday cruises fill up quickly, so reserve your spot early to secure your preferred date.
Warm clothing
Layer up to stay comfortable during the evening cruise.
winter
Camera
Capture scenic views and festive moments along the canal.
Lip balm and sunscreen
Protection from wind and sun during the cruise.
Comfortable shoes
Wear shoes suitable for boarding and walking around the dock.