This is an opportunity for Gold DofE Award participants aged 16-24, on board KACT’s narrowboat Lady Hilda, on the Kennet & Avon Canal. Participants may be able to achieve the NCBA Boat Handling Certificate.
On some of our courses we also welcome those taking part in Queen’s Guide Award up to the age of 30.
On board KACT’s 62ft narrowboat, Lady Hilda, you will learn how to work the locks and swing bridges and drive the boat. Working with other participants, you will plan and cook meals using our fully equipped kitchen (gas oven and hob, fridge, hot and cold running water). Evenings give time for relaxation and games, and a chance to recap what has been learnt during the day. No experience necessary.
Accommodation is in bunk beds. There are two flush toilets and a shower on board. Life jackets will be provided, to be worn while on deck or operating locks. Our course leaders are qualified CCBM skippers. Courses run from 10.30am on Saturday to 4pm on Wednesday, usually starting and finishing at Great Bedwyn (SN8 3PB) near Marlborough, and cost £240 (£60 deposit payable on booking, and £180 balance 3 months before your trip. Optional NCBA registration for Boat Handling Certificate is £35.)
Dates for 2025 are:
24th to 29th May 2025 (age 16 to 18 only) – FULL
9th to 13th August 2025 (age 16 to 18 only) – FULL
6th to 10th September 2025 (age 18+) – 2 places available
4th to 8th October 2025 (age 18+) – 4 places available
25th to 29th October 2025 (age 16 to 18 only) – 1 place available for a female participant only (due to bedroom spaces)
We may be able to accommodate Queen’s Guide participants up to the age of 30 on some of our 18+ courses. Contact us at dofe@katrust.org.uk if interested.
To book a place, please fill in the form below.
What people say:
A participant: I would rate this experience 5/5, it’s been very fun completing this as a part of my DofE Residential section, something I’ll never forget!
A parent: I can thoroughly recommend this residential. My daughter did it at Easter and it really brought her out of her shell. The leaders made the 5 days fly by and taught them so much.
APPLICATION FORM:
