Here in the East of England there is an area of about 200 miles of inter-connecting lakes where wild-life and birds surround you and the boating is fun.

Just imagine, cruising along with all your home comforts, you won't have to sit in a draughty old hide to watch the birds and the ducks will even come on to your boat to be fed!

Sometimes all you'll see for miles are reeds and the sky. No wonder so many artists are captivated by the landscapes.

Should you tire of the quiet waterways, stop at one of the riverside pubs. You will find good local ales (Oooh the Adnams and the Woodforde's ) and great food. Lots of riverside activities, regular power boat racing and sailing regattas too. These vary from serious sailing to waterborne parties! Needless to say, even the most serious regattas are followed by a party.

If you are into fishing, there are some pretty good fish here. Catching them is sometimes easy and sometimes incredibly difficult.

Stop off in small villages and meet the locals, there are often fetes and carnivals. Don't miss the teddy bear parachuting contest from the top of Loddon church. There are prizes for the bravest teddies.

Or head for Norwich, You will find lots of great historical buildings, a castle, a fine cathedral and brilliant shops.

Large areas of the centre of Norwich have been rebuilt in the last few years so there are some fantastic modern buildings and facilities too.

Head for Great Yarmouth for FUN at the Pleasure Beach - mind you, you won't get me on some of those rides! A little further down the coast, plan to spend a day at New Pleasurewood Hills There is something for everyone there.

All the boats available for hire on the Norfolk Broads are rented on the bare boat basis, that means that you are your own skipper, not that it hasn't got anything on it! They all come full equipped, including the bedding but not personal towels. Norfolk Broads cruising is really very easy, tuition is always given, so even if you have never set foot on a boat before you can have a really good holiday.  maffett cruisers a family run boatyard  www.maffett-cruisers.com  2-berth traditional wooden boats.

Just send me an email and I will answer any questions you may have about this beautiful part of England.

Pete's Norfolk & Suffolk Broads Website, a very useful and interesting site featuring our waterways.

Gale Riverside Home Page