A Unique Canal Cruise with a Twist in Leeds
When you think of exploring the Yorkshire Dales or Leeds, the last thing that might come to mind is a drinks-focused canal cruise. But that’s exactly what makes Drinks Ahoy stand out. For just over $50 per person, you get a roughly two-hour journey aboard a charming narrowboat, with the chance to sip on your favorite gin, whisky, cocktails, wine, craft beer, or cider while cruising along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.
This experience is particularly appealing if you’re seeking a relaxed, social outing that combines scenic views with the pleasure of good drinks and good company. The host makes it easy to enjoy yourself, pouring drinks as you sit back and take in the surroundings. Plus, the historic setting of the starting point—an 18th-century warehouse—adds a layer of authenticity and charm.
We particularly love the casual, party-like atmosphere that appeals to groups and friends wanting something different from the usual pub crawl. The scenic route offers lush Yorkshire countryside views, and the informative commentary about the canals and boats adds a touch of local history.
One possible consideration might be the strictly adults-only policy, which makes it unsuitable for families or children. Also, the tour tends to book well in advance—about 98 days on average—so planning early is essential if you want to secure a spot.
If you’re into social experiences that blend sightseeing and tasting, this cruise could be just the ticket. It’s especially great if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable way to spend an evening with friends.
Key Points
- Unique combination of canal cruising and drinks tasting
- Ideal for groups and celebrations
- Scenic Yorkshire views along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal
- Informative commentary about canal history and boats
- Adults-only experience, strictly for those 18+
- Pre-book early as it’s popular, booked on average 98 days in advance
Planning more time in Leeds? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Detailed Review of the Drinks Ahoy Canal Experience
The Setting: Historic and Scenic
The tour begins at Skipton Boat Trips’ ticket office, housed in a building dating back to 1774—a Grade II listed site that once served as a warehouse for canal goods. Standing outside, you’ll see large cranes, a nod to the building’s past. From here, you board the narrowboat, which exudes a cozy, welcoming vibe. The route itself follows the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, a peaceful stretch of water lined with trees and rural Yorkshire scenery.
The itinerary includes a brief visit to historic sites such as the site of Winterwell Hall, a medieval manor now lost to history but remembered through local stories. Not far from the starting point, you’ll also find the remains of a Bronze Age enclosure, adding a layer of ancient history for those interested in the land’s past.
The Experience: Drinks, Views, and Company
Once aboard, the fun begins. The host encourages you to select your favorite drink—be it a gin, whisky, cocktail, or cider—and then pours it with a flourish. As you cruise along, you can enjoy relaxed commentary about the canal’s history, the boats, and the local landscape.
Reviewers rave about the friendly staff and well-organized nature of the trip, with one noting, “the drinks were great, despite not being a cocktail fan,” and the staff “really helpful and fun.” The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, making it perfect for celebrating a birthday, catching up with friends, or just enjoying a different kind of evening out.
The Scenic Route and Key Stops
The highlight is undoubtedly the scenic route along the canal, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the countryside’s tranquility. The boat’s size—capped at 46 travelers—ensures a cozy environment without feeling crowded.
Though the tour is short, the views are worth the price, and the informative commentary helps you appreciate what you’re seeing. Many reviews mention how clean and well-maintained the boat is, which adds to a feeling of safety and comfort.
The Food and Drink: The Real Highlight
The drinks menu is flexible—you can bring your own or choose from what the host supplies. Many travelers mention the good quality and strength of the drinks, making the experience both fun and satisfying. As one reviewer put it, “the drinks were spot on,” and they enjoyed trying different options.
This focus on quality and variety makes the cruise feel more like a private party than a typical tour. It’s a great way to try new spirits or enjoy your favorites in a charming setting.
What We Love and What to Consider
One of the biggest compliments from reviews is the value for money—many found it an excellent deal considering the included drinks and scenery. The music played onboard was just loud enough to set a lively tone without overpowering conversations, a detail many appreciated.
A potential consideration is that the tour is adult-only, so it’s not suitable if you’re traveling with children or teenagers. Also, given the high demand and planned bookings, it’s wise to secure your reservation well in advance.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This cruise is ideal for groups of friends or couples looking for a relaxed, fun way to enjoy Yorkshire’s waterways. It’s perfect for celebrations, casual get-togethers, or anyone eager to combine scenic views with craft drinks. If you enjoy social atmospheres and don’t mind the adults-only rule, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding.
It’s also suited for those interested in local history, as the commentary provides nuggets about the canal’s past, the boats, and nearby landmarks. If you’re after a lighthearted, memorable outing that offers both relaxation and entertainment, Drinks Ahoy could become a highlight of your trip to Leeds.
The Value for Money and Overall Impression
At $50.50, the price reflects a good value for a two-hour cruise that combines scenery, drinks, and light education. The quality of the drinks and friendly atmosphere make it stand out from typical sightseeing tours. Plus, the pre-booking requirement ensures you’ll have a confirmed spot, avoiding disappointment during busy seasons.
The reviews consistently praise the experience, highlighting the well-organized nature and friendly staff. Many mention how much fun they had, even in less-than-ideal weather, which speaks to the tour’s ability to foster a lively, convivial environment.
In short, Drinks Ahoy delivers a distinctive, enjoyable way to explore Yorkshire’s waterways, blending scenic beauty with social fun in a way that feels authentic and well worth the price.
FAQs
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, giving you enough time to relax, enjoy your drink, and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.
What drinks are available?
You can choose your favorite from gin, whisky, cocktails, wine, craft beer, or cider. The host pours your selected drink, making it easy to indulge during the ride.
Is this activity suitable for children?
No, the tour is strictly adults-only, and participants need to be 18 or older to partake.
Can I bring my own drinks?
Most reviews suggest that you can enjoy the drinks provided, but it’s best to check with the provider if you plan to bring your own, as policies may vary.
Where does the tour start and end?
The starting point is Skipton Boat Trips, The Wharf Office, 3 Coach St, Skipton. The tour ends back at the same location.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Final Thoughts
For those craving a different kind of Yorkshire adventure, Drinks Ahoy offers a relaxed, convivial way to enjoy both the landscape and a good drink. Its small group size and informative commentary make it engaging without feeling overly touristy. The historic setting and scenic waterway views add authenticity, while the focus on delightful drinks guarantees a memorable, fun outing.
This experience suits groups of friends, couples, or anyone wanting to combine local history, beautiful scenery, and craft beverages in a cozy, social environment. Its high ratings and positive reviews suggest it’s a safe bet for a memorable Yorkshire outing that’s well worth the price.