Canal Boat Hire Software, Smooth Cruising
Multi-day hires need different tools than hourly sessions. HireHelm handles weekly bookings, handover scheduling, lock briefings, and route planning.
Without HireHelm
Changeover days are chaos — one boat returns late and the next family is already waiting
Handover briefings take 90 minutes because you cover everything verbally
Pump-out and gas refill schedules are tracked on a whiteboard that nobody updates
Customers dispute damage they didn't cause because there's no photographic record
Booking enquiries come by phone, email, and web form with no central system
With HireHelm
Weekly & Multi-Day Booking
Manage Saturday-to-Saturday hires, short breaks, and day trips with flexible changeover day configuration.
Handover Checklists
Digital departure and return checklists ensure every boat is properly briefed, equipped, and inspected.
Fleet & Engine Tracking
Track engine hours, pump-outs, gas refills, and hull blacking schedules across your entire fleet.
Staged Payments
Collect deposits at booking, balances before departure, and damage deposits — all automated via Stripe.
Everything included
Everything You Need to Run Your Canal Boat Fleet
Every feature is included with your HireHelm plan. No add-ons, no hidden costs.
Changeover Day Management
Configure changeover days per boat. The system blocks bookings that would conflict and manages turnaround windows automatically.
Pre-Departure Briefing Pack
Send customers a digital briefing pack before arrival — lock operation, bridge heights, mooring guidance, and route suggestions.
Departure & Return Inspections
Photographic condition reports at handover and return. Timestamped evidence for any damage disputes.
Pump-Out & Gas Tracking
Log pump-out dates and gas bottle changes per boat. Set reminders so boats are always ready for the next hire.
Route Planning Resources
Share suggested routes, stopping points, and pub recommendations as part of the booking confirmation. Adds value without extra effort.
Seasonal Pricing Rules
Set peak, shoulder, and off-peak rates automatically. School holiday pricing, bank holiday premiums, and early-bird discounts.
Ready to Modernise Your Canal Boat Operation?
See how HireHelm handles multi-day bookings, handover management, and fleet tracking for UK canal boat operators.
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