Drinks Ahoy

Imagine cruising along the peaceful Leeds-Liverpool Canal, enjoying a drink of your choice while a friendly host pours your favorite tipple. That’s essentially what the Drinks Ahoy tour offers—a relaxed, social journey on a narrowboat that feels like a floating pub. With glowing reviews and a consistently high rating of 5.0 out of 5 from four reviews, this experience packs in scenic views, a fun atmosphere, and a good dose of Yorkshire charm.

What really catches the eye is the carefully curated drinks menu—you can choose from gin, whisky, cocktails, craft beer, cider, or wine. Plus, a lot of travelers mention how well-organized and friendly the staff are, making it a no-fuss, enjoyable outing. But it’s not all about drinks; the tour also offers interesting historical tidbits and stunning countryside vistas. However, it’s important to note that this is strictly adults-only, so it’s ideal for groups looking for a mature and laid-back experience.

One minor consideration is that the tour lasts about 2 hours, which might feel short for some, especially if you’re hoping for an in-depth exploration of the area. Still, for those after a lively, convivial outing with friends or a special celebration, this cruise hits the mark. Overall, if you’re seeking a fun, social way to enjoy Yorkshire’s scenic beauty with a drink in hand, Drinks Ahoy could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Cruise along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, enjoying tranquil countryside views.
• Custom Drinks: Choose from a wide selection, including gin, whisky, cocktails, craft beer, and cider.
• Social Atmosphere: Perfect for parties, get-togethers, or celebrating special occasions.
• Historical Setting: The starting point is a Grade II listed building dating back to 1774, adding historic charm.
• Expert Hosts: Staff are praised for their helpfulness and fun approach, creating an inviting environment.
• Adults Only: This experience is designed for grown-ups looking for a relaxed, adult-oriented outing.

Detailed Review of Drinks Ahoy

The Experience and Setting

The starting point for the tour is the historic Wharf Office in Skipton, a building that has seen centuries of canal activity since 1774. Surrounded by old cranes and cobbled parking, it immediately sets a tone of authenticity, offering a slice of Yorkshire canal history. The location is accessible via public transport, which makes it easier for visitors to hop on without hassle.

Once aboard the narrowboat, the atmosphere is lively yet laid-back. The boat itself is described as clean and well-maintained, and the environment is perfect for socialising. The music is at a level that encourages conversation, but not so loud that you can’t catch up with friends or fellow travelers.

The Route and Scenic Highlights

The cruise takes you along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, a route renowned for its peaceful, bucolic scenery. Travelers report that the views are simply lovely—rolling fields, quaint lock gates, and glimpses of Yorkshire’s natural beauty. Some reviews mention that the boat ride is an excellent way to see the countryside without having to hike or drive.

While the route is mainly about enjoying the surroundings, the real highlight is the informal chat about the canal’s history. The boat crew offers insight into the importance of the canal system and details about the boats themselves, which adds an educational touch to the relaxing cruise.

Drinks and Snacks

The real star of the experience is, of course, the drinks menu. The selection is geared towards adult tastes, with many reviews highlighting the quality of the beverages. You can pick your preferred drink—be it whisky, gin, cocktails, craft beer, cider, or wine—and your host will pour it for you. One reviewer remarked that although they aren’t usually cocktail fans, they still enjoyed the drinks on board, thanks to their well-chosen selection.

Customisation is straightforward, and the drinks are described as good quality and reasonably strong. The drinks experience is complemented by a relaxed, friendly environment that encourages conversation and laughter. Several reviewers mention that the staff are helpful and fun, making the outing feel more like a gathering with friends than a formal tour.

The Social Aspect

This cruise is best suited for groups—be it friends, family, or colleagues—who want to celebrate or simply enjoy each other’s company in a unique setting. It’s also an excellent choice for parties or special occasions, thanks to the convivial atmosphere. One reviewer shared that they went on a dark, windy night, yet the fun was “from start to finish,” emphasizing how the experience can brighten even bleak weather.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately two hours, which feels just right for a relaxed social outing. The price of $50.50 per person provides good value, considering the drinks are included and the scenic surroundings are free. The ticket is issued via a mobile ticket, adding to the convenience, and travelers can cancel free of charge if plans change more than 24 hours ahead.

Since the tour is strictly adults only, it’s not suitable for families with children. Also, the maximum group size is 46 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere intimate enough for meaningful conversation but lively enough to feel energetic.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

What makes this tour stand out, according to reviews, is the authentic Yorkshire experience. The historical building at the start, the scenic countryside, and the friendly staff all add to the genuine feel of the outing. Reviewers mention that the experience is well-organized and safe, with good COVID precautions in place.

Final Thoughts on Value

At around $50.50 per person, this cruise is seen as excellent value by those who want a fun, social, and scenic outing with quality drinks. The inclusion of drinks and the relaxed, friendly staff make it a memorable and worthwhile experience. The scenic backdrop provides the perfect setting for unwinding and socialising, which many find worth the cost.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for adults seeking a relaxed social experience—perfect for birthdays, hen dos, or just a fun night out. It suits those who enjoy scenic views without needing to hike or travel far, as well as anyone interested in a bit of local history. It’s also a good pick for groups wanting a memorable way to enjoy Yorkshire’s countryside with a drink in hand.

However, it’s less suitable for families or anyone looking for a longer, more immersive experience. If you’re after a lively pub atmosphere combined with scenic views, this cruise will deliver, especially if you value good drinks, friendly hosts, and beautiful surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Drinks Ahoy cruise suitable for children?
No, this experience is strictly adults-only to ensure a relaxed, mature atmosphere.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, providing enough time to relax and enjoy your drinks without feeling rushed.

What types of drinks can I choose from?
You can select from gin, whisky, cocktails, craft beers, cider, and wine. The menu is designed to cater to varied tastes.

Can I cancel my booking if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so more than 24 hours before the scheduled start time. After this window, the full amount is non-refundable.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the tour is near public transport and the meeting point is in a historic building—check with the provider for detailed accessibility info.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Skipton Boat Trips, The Wharf Office, 3 Coach St, Skipton, and ends back at the same point, completing the scenic loop.

Overall, Drinks Ahoy combines a charming historical setting, scenic canal views, and a well-curated drinks menu into a fun, adult-oriented cruise. It’s a great way to enjoy Yorkshire’s landscape with friends, good drinks, and a lively atmosphere—all in just a couple of hours. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want a unique way to unwind, this experience offers genuine value and memorable moments.