London: Boating on London's canal system

"Give way to everything" is the crux of the safety briefing at GoBoat's headquarters in Paddington Basin. London's canal system might not be the industrial thoroughfare it once was but there are still plenty of things to trouble the first-time boater. Fortunately, the top speed of the vessel I'll be captaining is only 6.5 km/h, so even if I do hit something, I shouldn't do much damage. At least that's the theory.

Founded in Copenhagen, GoBoat opened this London branch last year. From its base near Merchant Square, it's a a five-minute pootle from the junction of two major canals. Turn right and you're on Regent's Canal towards Camden Lock; go left and you're following the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union Canal towards Kensal Green.

Surprisingly, you don't need a licence to hire a boat and you can BYO food and drink (although there are limits and the captain must remain sober). For those without the resources or inclination to make a picnic (like me), there's also the option to purchase a hamper of Scandinavian delicacies from local restaurant, Kupp.

Orientation complete, we set off, remembering to stay on the right side of the channel as we chug towards Browning's Pool, where the two canals meet. Given the potential for mishaps here, I'm half expecting traffic lights but instead there's a very English roundabout.

We turn right and follow a scenic stretch of the canal lined with trees and colourful narrow boats. I suspect many permanent house-boaters weren't too thrilled about the GoBoat invasion but to their credit they don't show it – most people nod affably as we cruise past.

Soon we reach the trickiest part of the trip, the Maida Hill tunnel. This narrow 248-metre-long tunnel is only wide enough for one boat at a time so you have to ensure it's clear before entering. At first, motoring through the dark, dripping underpass towards a distant pinprick of light feels a little spooky. But gradually the experience takes on an intrepid Famous Five-esque air (well, as intrepid as is possible while travelling at walking pace and eating a smoked salmon sandwich).

Emerging from the subsequent 48-metre-long Eyre's Tunnel, we're greeted by Regent's Park and nine gorgeous riverfront villas, one of which is Winfield House, the residence of the US ambassador.