Richardson's tips for a Norfolk Broads boating holiday

Richardson’s Boating Holidays, based out of Stalham Marina, has been offering boating holidays on the Norfolk Broads for 80 years, and has plenty of top tips to help you plan your perfect Broads escape.

Before you go

The first thing you might be curious about is the boat itself. If you’ve never sailed before, you’ll be pleased to know you don’t need a licence to drive a boat and no experience is necessary. 

When you arrive at Stalham Marina, you will be given a full demonstration and a trial run to ensure you are comfortable driving and mooring the boat. You’ll also be given a manual with useful information, safety reminders and instructions on operating your cruiser.

Richardson’s visitor information app has all sorts of features to help you make the most of your holiday (Image: Richardson's)

Richardson’s fleet of more than 210 boats is the largest on the Norfolk Broads and has something to suit everyone, from couples to families. They all come equipped with a cooker, fridge, shower, toilet, bedding, TV, Wi-Fi, warm air heating and hot and cold water. There are many dog-friendly options too!

Take a tour of Richardson’s range of boats here.

Richardson’s visitor information app will help you get the most out of your boating holiday, with details on events, places to eat, attractions, local shopping, wildlife and flora, and more. You can download the app here.

When it comes to packing, rubber-soled shoes, matches, a first aid kit and a torch will come in useful. 

As Richardson’s boating holidays are self-catering, you’ll need food, drink and cleaning materials (unless you are planning to stop off at some of the fantastic broadside pubs, restaurants, cafes, shops and delis). 

A boating holiday is great fun and you don’t need a licence to drive one (Image: Richardson's)

Some waterproof clothing is advisable in case the weather takes a turn and, if you’re bringing your pup, don’t forget their luggage too.

See more advice for first-timers on the firm's website.

On the water

A boating holiday is great fun, but it is important to remember to wear your buoyancy aids and to stay safe on the water at all times. Be sure to check the Norfolk Broads Boat Hire Safety Code before you go.

Remember to be considerate of other craft and people on the Broads and at the moorings. Richardson’s has put together a series of how-to videos to help you and your family get the most out of your boating holiday and remain safe at all times. Watch them here.

Where to go

With plenty of top attractions, rare wildlife and a rich heritage to discover, the Norfolk Broads are a truly unforgettable holiday destination.

You can travel about 30 miles per day aboard your Richardson’s cruiser, meaning that during a break of one week or longer, any point on the navigable Broads is within reach.

You could explore Robert Richardson’s original Broads boating route down to Beccles, or the seven-night Town and City Route to take in the sights of the Broad’s surrounding towns, villages and the city of Norwich. 

Richardson’s shares top places to visit on its website (Image: Getty Images)

There are also several dog-friendly routes. You can find all these and more here.

Richardson’s top moorings include Wroxham, known as the capital of the Broads. There are lots of shops and exciting attractions to be found here and in Wroxham’s sister village Hoveton. 

Nearby Horning also has some wonderful pubs, shops, restaurants and tea rooms, and the lively Pleasure Beach at Great Yarmouth is always worth a visit. There is even a public mooring at Great Yarmouth Yacht Station, just 30 minutes’ walk from the beach.

If you’re interested in booking a 2024 boating holiday on the Norfolk Broads and want to find out more, fill in the guest enquiry form at richardsonsboatingholidays.co.uk/contact-us or call 01692 668981 to speak to the friendly team.