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Accessible Boating

The Accessible Boating Association (ABA) is a Charity managed by volunteers offering opportunities for disabled people or those with mobility difficulties to go boating on the Basingstoke Canal from Colt Hill Wharf, Odiham in Hampshire, UK.

We operate two boats: DAWN, a day boat and MADAM BUTTERFLY, a self-drive holiday boat.
Both craft are specially designed and equipped to cater for people with disabilities or reduced mobility together with their carers and supporters. Hydraulic lifts give easy access for all wheelchair users and both boats have accessible toilets.

DAWN is usually hired with a crew provided by the ABA. She is also used for our many scheduled cruises throughout the season.

Self-drive hire is also an option, if your group has at least two adults without any disability or mobility problems able to crew the boat.

Holiday bookings on MADAM BUTTERFLY are managed on our behalf by Galleon Marine Boatyard LLP and all enquiries should be directed to them. Boat details and information on how to contact Galleon Marine are below.

Both boats are easily accessed at Colt Hill Wharf in Odiham and everyone will be met on arrival. A large car park for the use of all our customers is adjacent to the wharf.

ABA wishes to recruit a number of
enthusiastic volunteers to help crew the two boats.

If you are interested, please email the chairman.
Full training is provided for those who wish to crew
and no previous experience is required.

Dawn

DawnDawn is a day boat offering covered accommodation for ten passengers plus two crew. Provided with central heating, a hob for a kettle, electro-hydraulic lift from deck to saloon and a flushing accessible toilet. There is space for up to four wheelchair users on any trip but, due to weight restrictions, the passenger capacity is reduced by one for each powered wheelchair carried.
There are three ways to enjoy a cruise on Dawn; hire for four or more hours with a crew of ABA volunteers, hire and self-drive, or book on one of our scheduled trips for a two and a half to three hour cruise (individually or in small groups of up to four).

Further details on options, boat facilities and how to book are HERE.

Scheduled trips on Dawn in 2018
Once again we are offering places on
scheduled cruises on Dawn from Odiham
aimed at those with mobility issues and their carers.
Further details HERE.

Feedback from a scheduled trip:
Wow what a great start to the season
and our planned  boat trips.
I would like to say how wonderful and helpful the
crew were.  They are a real asset to your team.

Madam Butterfly

ButterflyMadam Butterfly is a self-drive holiday boat with seven berths, including a full-sized hospital bed with hoist. It has hydraulic lifts fore and aft, galley, accessible toilet and shower and many special features to assist the party to have an enjoyable cruising holiday.

Further details and how to book are HERE.