Mooring on rivers
Mooring on a river is a little more complicated because you should moor with the front of the boat pointing into the current. (You should also moor facing into a strong wind.) That means you may have to turn the boat around.
You may also need to add extra lines to secure your boat and you should ensure you have extra lines if planning to take your hire narrowboat on a river. Always tell your boat hire if you plan to take your boat on a river to make sure they provide you an anchor and extra lines.
When mooring on a river (with the boat pointing upstream), tie the bow line first. When leaving a mooring, release the stern line first.
Mooring on tidal rivers
It’s even more important not to moor against a bank on a tidal river for any length of time. The water may rise and fall considerably and you might find the boat hanging from its ropes. Always moor at a harbor or marina overnight on tidal rivers.
Currently hire narrowboats are not allowed on the tidal Thames (up to Teddington Locks between Kingston upon Thames and Richmond), although rules are subject to change. Ask your boat hire what restrictions apply if you want to do one of the London rings.
Stream advisories
You should check with the appropriate authorities what stream conditions are like before venturing onto rivers. A quick call to a phone number or a visit to a website will advise whether it’s safe to venture out (See http://narrowboatingforbeginners.com/wordpress/stream-advisories/).
