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FAQs

Self Drive FAQs

What is your address?

Our self drive is located at Penton Hook Marina. Riverscapes Self-Drive Boat Hire Mixmans Lane Off Staines Road (exit opposite Thorpe Park) Chertsey Surrey, KT16 8PY Do not enter through Gate 1 unless to Drop off or Pick up!



Is there a place to park my car?

Yes there is! However, parking is strictly prohibited in the main Penton Hook Marina Car Park via Gate 1. Before entry on Gate 1, there is a a layby on the right - or to the left beyond Gate 1 - for Riverscapes customers. See video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRzGRFX-vSA As there is very limited space, only one car per hire is recommended.



What is your cancellation policy?

We only accept cancellations or reschedules up to 48 hours in advance.



I didn't recieve my confirmation email?

If you have provided all the information on the booking form but did not recieve a confirmation, please check your junk folder.



What ID do I need to bring?

The lead hirer should bring a form of Government issued ID with them on the day.



How do I pay my damage deposit?

£100 can be paid via PayPal to payments@riverscapes.co.uk providing name and date of hire. Or you may pay by card on the day. We DO NOT accept cash. Deposits will be returned within 48 hours of your booking provided our T&Cs have not been breached.



Can I pick the boat of my choice?

Boats will be allocated on arrival and are unable to be selected by hirers.



What is the speed restriction?

Speed restriction on the river is strictly 5 miles per hour and all our boats are limited.



Where can we go on our self drive?

90 minute bookings are not permitted to pass through locks - area of travel is between Penton Hook Lock and Chertsey Lock ONLY 4 hour bookings can go through 2 locks up or down the river - area of travel between Old Windsor Lock and Sunbury Lock ONLY 8 hour bookings can go through 4 locks up or down the river - area of travel between Boveney Lock and Teddington Lock ONLY Enjoy the plenty of places of interest to visit in the area including historic monuments, market towns, museums, racecourses and theme parks. There are many riverside bars/restaurants and picnic spots (grasssy verges or sandy beaches) to stop off at either way too!



Who can I bring with me?

Anyone is welcome on our self drives. Babies are welcome - and free if they can't walk. Dogs are welcome too - but please keep on a lead!



Do I need to bring my own food and drink?

Bring your own - OR visit our RECOMMENDATIONS to arrange outside catering, graze boxes or picnics in advance



Do you provide life jackets?

Yes, life jackets are provided.



Do I need a skippers licence?

No licence or experience is required to drive our self drive boats. Guideance is provided and also see our video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmgHKlDiGMc



Where are you located?

Walk from the layby, through Gate 1 to our location just beyond the Yacht Club and check-in. See video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmgHKlDiGMc As we are some 250 away, dropping off belongings before parking in the layby is permitted. PLEASE do not ask for us at the main marina office or walk through the Yacht Club as this is for private members only! Furthermore, trespassing onto Berth Holder Pontoons/Walkways will not be tolerated! Please make your way to/from your hire without wondering around and looking into other peoples' boats.



Do you have a map?

We recommend using the "OPEN CANAL MAP" APP for directions and details during your cruise.