“Yes it was a good time on boat although we are older and did find it fificult getting on and off at the stern and cooker wouldn't turn on but all in all a pleasant trip”
“It was nice the children enjoyed it so that was the main thing. Couldn’t find anywhere to moor up to go to a pub and it would be helpful to have a little booklet explaining the rules of boating mooring up, who to pay, a map etc as we were completed novices
Left a star off because we had to come back an hour early as we were told there was running water and there wasn’t. It was a hot day and our dog needed more water.”
“We really enjoyed our 4 hours on the picnic boat the check in was easy and a quick lesson on the use and rules we good however, we had booked the picnic boat so we could cook some breakfast on our trip with our granddaughter but, the cooker didn't work !!! When we got back the lad who checked us in told us he had checked it the night before, not sure he had !! The canvas cover was folded over to the front which meant we had to stand up to steer the boat and to see where we were going so when we stopped we tried to move the cover to the back of the boat like most of all the other boats this proved to be very difficult, when we got back the lad said "oh yes this one is broken " these little things did spoil our few hours a bit (the toilet we didn't use as we weren't sure that would work ether!!) we enjoyed our 4 hours but they were spoilt by sub standard equipment being allowed to be used. We are planning on another trip for the whole family on a bigger boat later in the year but we have think about using a different company unless we are offered some serious recompense for this trip.
Kind regards
Mike Jones”
“We were disappointed with the boat - the toilet door did not shut - the gas was not connected - the kettle was so full of scale we couldn't make a drinkable cup of coffee despite trying 4 separate times - and the GPS didn't work - when we turned back and informed staff we were told 'it's faulty - just don't make too much white water' - this left us stressed about our speed throughout the day. The Broads are amazing and the boat worked but we felt we'd spent a lot of money for not a lot”
Dear Ann
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback – I’m really sorry to read about your experience.
What you’ve described isn’t the standard we expect, and it’s clear we let you down on this occasion. The issues with the toilet door, gas connection, kettle, and GPS should all have been picked up before you left the yard, and I completely understand how that would have taken the shine off what should have been a relaxing day on the water.
To be completely transparent, this was the first time one of our newer team members had prepared this particular boat, and unfortunately it wasn’t checked as thoroughly as it should have been. That’s on us, not you.
I’m also sorry for the response you received regarding the GPS – being told to “just don’t make too much white water” isn’t especially reassuring when you’re trying to relax. Just to reassure you, boats on the Broads typically travel at around 4–5 mph, which is really just a brisk walking pace or gentle jog, so there was no need for you to feel under pressure about your speed throughout the day.
The Broads really are a special place (as you kindly said), and it’s frustrating for us as well when the boat doesn’t match the setting.
I’ve already arranged for the kettle to be replaced/descaled and the toilet door to be fixed immediately, and we’re reviewing our handover checks to make sure this doesn’t happen again – especially when team members are new to a boat.
Thank you again for your honest feedback – it genuinely helps us improve. If you’d be happy to give us another go in the future, we’d love the chance to show you the experience we’re actually known for.
Kind regards, Sara Thwaites
“I had a fantastic day on the Broads thanks to Barnes Brinkcraft. I rented a Picnic day boat for the day. The staff were very friendly and helpful, going through all of the safety points and controls with me. The boat was clean and tidy and well equipped for our needs. The gas stove worked well and the toilet was very handy. I would recommend Barnes Brinkcraft and I will be visiting them again next year.”
“as I have already stated a very poor experience, little or no care for my 98 year old father who seriously struggled to get out of the boat whilst your staff looked on”
Dear Catherine,
Thank you so much for sharing your feedback! We're glad to hear that you enjoyed your trip overall, but we’re sorry to learn about the issues with the engine noise and gas. We always strive to provide a smooth and enjoyable experience for our guests, and your input helps us improve.
If you ever need assistance or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you have an even better adventure next time!
Warm regards,
Team Picnic
