Big Dutch Barge

This lovely Dutch 1929 one time sailing Tjalk is a beautiful shapely sea and river barge. Now converted into a comfortable cruiser and boasting a completely enclosed large saloon seating up to 50 passengers. You can view the beautiful countryside as we cruise along, through large open windows. There are toilets on board and a bar and gallery plus access to open decks at either end.

The Weaver Navigation is definitely in the Big League. On your PUBLIC OR CHARTER cruise you will se the old town quay and picturesque Northwich, Victorian swing bridges, the British Waterways maintenance yard.

Old shipyards & Quays, Boats and Ships. The massive bustling salt-related industries and the unique and historic Anderton Boat Lift connecting with the Trent & Mersey Canal 50ft above.

Travel the Barnton Cut 1,000 tonne ship canal and pass through or turn at Salterford ship locks in the heart of the Cheshire Valley's characteristic open pastureland.

Alternatively, you may choose the rural Vale Royal cruise southwards, under the busy railway viaduct to Hunts Lock. After passing under the Chester Road high above and the London main line on a great railway viaduct, we wander into the picturesque tranquility of the deep river valley where once Vale Royal Abbey stood. Founded in 1277 by Edward I sited in one of the most beautiful places in his realm.

The monks have gone, but herons and kingfishers now preside over this wild and unspoilt place. We turn within sight of Britain's only remaining salt mine returning again to Northwich Marina.

We provide Charters, ideal for private bookings. We can provide attractive cruises for parties of all types of social groups corporate entertaining, wedding receptions, christenings, birthdays, dinner parties, anniversaries, family reunions, coach tours, etc. Prices for chartering the craft for your exclusive use are available on request along with a very comprehensive menu for buffet food or three course hot meals.

The river - an all day cruise. Sailing from Northwich we cruise the whole navigable river downstream to the Manchester Ship Canal morning coffee and a salad lunch is included in the price and the river views are extremely pretty. We stop by the Ship Canal for you to enjoy the sight of passing shipping on the canal (if you're lucky) and stretch your legs.

Road Directions

Vale Royal Cruises operates from Northwich Marina, by the Hayhurst Bridge, in the centre of Northwich. Our normal departure point is from Town Bridge some 200 metres downstrea.