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Take a 1-Hour Public Cruise from Leeds City Centre

Experience a laugh-packed 60-minute canal cruise in Skipton led by award-winning comedian Dave Spikey (of Phoenix Nights and 8 Out of 10 Cats), where his trademark Northern patter turns a recorded whistle-stop tour into an entertaining history lesson; between the jokes you’ll hear surprising stories about the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and how it delivered the lifeblood of the industrial revolution across Yorkshire, making this a refreshingly different sightseeing option for tours, food-and-drink lovers and groups alike - with food and drink on board it’s a fun twist on your lunchtime break and a lively way to enjoy the outdoors without letting planning or poor weather spoil your plans.

About this activity in Leeds City Center

Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a lively one-hour canal cruise in Skipton led by award-winning comedian Dave Spikey - expect sharp Northern patter and plenty of laughs.
  • Hear entertaining, recorded commentary that blends humorous stories with real canal history about how the Leeds & Liverpool Canal shaped the region.
  • Relax with food and non-alcoholic drinks available onboard for a fun lunchtime outing that works in any weather.
  • Perfect for families and groups - a spirited, easygoing way to explore the waterways and local sights without complicated planning.

Important Information

  • The experience lasts approximately 60 minutes, so plan nearby travel or activities before or after your trip.
  • The commentary is presented as a recorded whistle-stop tour by Dave Spikey; you’ll get historic points of interest alongside the jokes.
  • Light refreshments are offered onboard; alcoholic drinks may be available to purchase separately from the vessel.
  • Arrive a few minutes early to board smoothly and secure your preferred seating; the cruise runs regardless of typical weather conditions.

Meeting Point

Meet at Skipton Canal Basin by the main boat moorings in the town centre - look for the tour boat and staff on the towpath ready to check you in.

Includes

  • Enjoy a one-hour boat ride operating from Leeds City Center - a relaxed, scenic experience you can book here
  • Use restroom facilities as needed during the experience for added convenience

Excludes

  • Alcoholic drinks are not included; you can purchase alcoholic beverages on site
  • Other drinks are not included in the price
  • Gratuities for crew or staff are not included

Other

  • You may bring service animals; assistance animals are welcome to accompany you
  • Public transportation options are available nearby for easy access to the boarding point
  • The activity is suitable for all physical fitness levels, making it accessible to most guests
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the experience
  • Minimum drinking age is 18 years for any alcohol purchases

Customer Reviews

9/10
Based on 10 Reviews
hobbesEngland
Oct 16, 2025 01:18:28 PM
Summary: Excellent trip. Everyone is assigned a seat, so no pushing to be first on. The crew were all friendly and helpful, the boat trip was really relaxing and the recorded commentary from Dave Spikey was very amusing and informative. We had a hot chocolate each, very reasonably priced. Snacks and alcohol were available too. Would definitely recommend it!
carolaT8692SB
Oct 14, 2025 07:40:44 AM
Summary: We all enjoyed the trip. Friendly staff, answered children's questions without loosing patience as can happen. Will do this again.
Stay06129127732
Oct 5, 2025 05:41:04 AM
Summary: Despite awful weather we still enjoyed our hour's journey. The crew were very friendly and helpful. We would go again, hopefully when the sun was shining.

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Know more about Leeds City Center

You get a one-hour canal ride led by award-winning comedian Dave Spikey, combining laugh-out-loud entertainment with fascinating Leeds & Liverpool Canal history. It’s a lively sightseeing experience that mixes comedy, local stories and points of interest for an unforgettable hour of historic escapism.
Yes - food and drink are available on board so you can enjoy a fun lunchtime twist during the canal tour while listening to Dave Spikey’s recorded whistle-stop commentary.
You’ll be on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal for a full hour, enjoying on-water views and outdoor ambiance while hearing stories about the canal’s role in the industrial revolution, making it a compelling Water-Based, Outdoor & Nature experience.
Yes - the 60-minute canal trip is family-friendly and designed to entertain both children and adults with humorous, accessible commentary and engaging canal history, making it ideal for Group-Friendly and Family & Kids outings.
Absolutely - the mix of live-feel comedy narration and scenic canal views creates a playful entertainment experience that works well for couples seeking a light-hearted outing or for anyone booking Shows & Entertainment near Skipton.
Yes - the lively format, accessible one-hour duration and onboard food and drink make it a convenient, Group-Friendly option for social gatherings, team outings or event-based bookings that want a mix of entertainment and local history.