About Our Holidays
Discover the essence of tranquillity with College Cruisers, nestled in the heart of the enchanting City of Oxford. Our canal boat holidays offer a respite from the demands of modern life, inviting you to meander through picturesque locks, bridges, and idyllic towns along the historic Oxford Canal.
With a fleet of ten boats available for short breaks or week-long getaways, we cater to every occasion, from intimate gatherings to special celebrations like birthdays and reunions. Tailoring experiences to your preferences is our specialty.
Immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of a canal boat holiday, perfect for bonding with loved ones amidst England's captivating waterways. Our strategic location at the southern tip of the Oxford Canal ensures easy access to some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes. Experience the leisurely pace of the Oxford Canal, dotted with charming villages, locks, and an abundance of country pubs.
Conveniently situated, Oxford provides seamless connections to major airports, with our base just a short distance from both rail and coach stations.
Our Boats
There are ten boats in the fleet ranging from 2 berth up to 12 berth, offering a range of facilities and each with a character of its own. All are named after the University colleges in Oxford and are painted Oxford blue.
We take pride in making sure that your chosen canal boat is spotlessly clean for your holiday. The boats are very well maintained with everything in working order before your arrival to ensure that you take home with you happy memories of your canal break with College Cruisers.
Our Holidays
At College Cruisers, our commitment to your canal holiday experience begins the moment you book with us. We're dedicated to guiding you every step of the way, ensuring your journey is smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
Whether you're a seasoned boater or embarking on your first canal adventure, our expert team will provide comprehensive training on boat handling, lock navigation, and essential tips to guarantee your trip's success. Over half of our guests are first-timers, and we take pride in offering ample support and guidance to make your experience stress-free and straightforward.
As members of the APCO Handover Scheme, we prioritize your confidence and satisfaction. Our friendly staff will personally assist you onboard, guiding you through initial maneuvers, navigating locks, and clarifying the do's and don'ts of canal cruising.
To further support your journey, we provide The Boaters’ Handbook by the Canal & River Trust, a valuable resource for boating basics and safety precautions. Additionally, we include a companion video covering boating basics, ensuring you're well-prepared for your canal adventure. With College Cruisers, you can embark on your canal holiday with confidence and excitement, knowing that we're here to support you every step of the way.
Families
A canal boat holiday offers endless excitement for young adventurers, free from the distractions of video games. Navigating the waterways together fosters teamwork and strengthens bonds with loved ones, creating cherished memories for children that will endure a lifetime. Shared meals become cherished family moments, whether enjoyed onboard or on the tranquil towpath as the sun sets.
At College Cruisers, we extend our hospitality to four-legged friends too, welcoming pets onboard with prior arrangement, we've even had a parrot join to complete the pirate captain look. Our resident furry friend, Bob, has curated a special guide to ensure a paw-some experience for your important companions during your College Cruisers holiday.
What's Provided
To view a full list of what’s provided aboard our boats, and for our recommended checklist of what you should bring with you, please click on the links.
Our Customer Reviews

Funafloat Ltd trading as College Cruisers Registered in England and Wales
No: 03469314
VAT: 685699260