WILTS & BERKS CANAL TRUST

The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is fortunate to have a new trip boat, Dragonfly. This now enables us to offer regular trips to the public and for pre-booked groups. What a great way to see the restored sections of the unique Wilts & Berks Canal!

Dragonfly is of traditional construction, having a steel hull and superstructure. She can carry up to 12 passengers and 2 crew, has plenty of room inside and with heating and a table, is ideal for parties or meetings, even if the weather is poor. When the weather is good there is also plenty of room for passengers outside the cabin. She has a galley with hob, fridge and sinks also there is a toilet on board. The engine has sound reduction for a smooth, quiet experience.

Dragonfly was named by the Trust's patron, The Duchess of Cornwall on 8 Sept 2010 as part of celebrations to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Wilts & Berks Canal.

The boat trips have a number of important roles to play for the Trust. They raise awareness of the project and provide local people with a way of enjoying their area from the waterway. Without regular boat traffic the canal will quickly become over grown and become neglected.

In addition the boat trips hope to generate new members as well as funds for the Trust.

However if you would like to take a trip on the canal, we can help.

The Trust has two other smaller boats, which are used for events. Both these boats can be trailed to other restored sections, where it would be difficult to crane in Dragonfly. These 2 smaller boats are located in Melksham and maintained by MCC Branch.