How GoBoat works
GoBoating does not require any license or sailing experience and, at a leisurely pace of 3 knots (3.5 mph), it's easy to steer the boat - making it perfect for first-timers! Our crew will give you a tutorial before your departure to explain how GoBoat works.
On a GoBoat, you are your own captain, with each boat carrying up to 8 people including babies and children. You can even bring your dog! Captains must be 18+.
You'll also be given a map to guide you on your journey and our team will explain the rules of the water before you set off.
Safety
Sailing with GoBoat is safe. More than a million people have sailed with us in over 15 locations around the world.
Life jackets are available on arrival in a variety of different sizes. All children must wear life jackets while onboard.
Each GoBoat has safety equipment stored onboard. Before you depart on your GoBoat adventure, our crew will provide you with a full safety briefing. If you have any questions, please speak to our friendly and helpful team.
Find out more about what to expect during your GoBoat experience here.
Sailing a GoBoat
At GoBoat we have 4 main rules: 1. We ask that you don’t bring a speaker onboard. 2. Jumping off the boats or swimming in the water is not allowed. 3. Customers are recommended to use a toilet before going on GoBoat 4. Alcohol restrictions apply: a maximum of two beers/ cans or half a bottle of wine per person. The captain (driver) must remain sober at all times. (Paddington is strictly alcohol free).
At GoBoat we have 4 main rules: 1. We ask that you don’t bring a speaker onboard. 2. Jumping off the boats or swimming in the water is not allowed. 3. Customers are recommended to use a toilet before going on GoBoat 4. Alcohol restrictions apply: a maximum of two beers/ cans or half a bottle of wine per person. The captain (driver) must remain sober at all times. (Paddington is strictly alcohol free).
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Before heading out we recommend studying the map. You will be given a map to take onboard, if you find yourself without please ask a member of staff.
Before heading out we recommend studying the map. You will be given a map to take onboard, if you find yourself without please ask a member of staff.
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Before you set off a crew member will provide you with a brief overview of how to operate the boat and final recap of all important safety information.
Before you set off a crew member will provide you with a brief overview of how to operate the boat and final recap of all important safety information.
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To steer a GoBoat, place your dominant hand on the steering tiller. Keep in mind that the boat will move in the opposite direction to which you push the tiller. To move forward, twist your wrist to the right and to move in reverse, twist your wrist to the left.
To steer a GoBoat, place your dominant hand on the steering tiller. Keep in mind that the boat will move in the opposite direction to which you push the tiller. To move forward, twist your wrist to the right and to move in reverse, twist your wrist to the left.
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Operating a GoBoat is easy and no prior experience or license is needed. Our crew will provide you with a brief tutorial on how to manoeuvre the boat before setting off on your journey.
Operating a GoBoat is easy and no prior experience or license is needed. Our crew will provide you with a brief tutorial on how to manoeuvre the boat before setting off on your journey.
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A quick GoBoat safety video
Safety rules at GoBoat
How old do you have to be in order to sail a GoBoat?
The captain (driver) of the boat must be 18 years old or over. There is no age restriction on being a passenger in the boat.
How many people can be in a GoBoat?
The GoBoat has a maximum capacity of 8 person. This number also includes children and babies.
What about life jackets?
Lifejackets are available at all locations. Lifejackets for adults are located in the storage compartment of each boat. Lifejackets for adults are optional although we do advise it. All children aged 16 and under are required to wear a lifejacket.
Do I need a license to sail a GoBoat?
No previous experience or license is necessary to sail a GoBoat. They are easy to control. The only requirement is that any captain of the boat is 18 years or older.
You will receive a full boat handover from an experienced member of staff before you set off to ensure you have all the information and skills necessary to enjoy the experience safely.
Do the boats drive themselves?
Our boats do not drive themselves - you are the captain! Each boat is tiller-controlled and you will need to nominate someone in your group to be the captain. The boats are easy to control and our crew will provide a full driving tutorial and make sure you are comfortable steering before you head off on your adventure!
Got another question that's not covered here? Head to our FAQ page for more information.