All aboard as eco-boat hire scheme hits city’s canals
AN ECO boat hire company is launching a new operation on Birmingham’s canal network. GoBoat was founded in London in 2017 and rents out the electric boats which can accommodate up to eight passengers.
It has now struck a deal to begin operations in Birmingham from April 8, basing itself at the Brindleyplace estate which adjoins the canal.
This is the first time the business has opened a base outside the capital where it carried more than 100,000 visitors last year.
The boats, which are both child and dog friendly, are self-driven, travel at speeds of 4mph and can be booked for trips of up to three hours long.
GoBoat’s co-owner Grant Sweeney said: “Birmingham has such a rich history with its waterways and, when we launched the business in 2017, we always wanted to expand and Birmingham has always been at the top of our list as a second home. And with the city linked so closely to its historic waterways, we couldn’t be more excited to launch in such a vibrant and thriving city.
“Brindleyplace is the perfect location for us, it’s a vibrant hub within the city and we’re looking forward to becoming part of their growing family.”
Matt Long, head of tenant engagement at Brindleyplace, said: “GoBoat is an established provider working in the boating leisure market, with a proven track record across a number of sites in
London, and we’re tremendously excited to welcome them here to Brindleyplace and the heart of Britain’s canal network.”