GoBoat London, Merchant Square Paddington

Aiming to provide locals and tourists alike with a way to explore London from a fresh perspective, GoBoat are giving people the opportunity to take themselves on tours of the city’s waterways for the first time, in this innovative experience.

Moored in Paddington Basin, these eco-friendly boats – made from 80 per cent recycled plastic bottles and with electric engines – can comfortably fit up to eight people, and groups do not need to be accompanied by a captain or tour guide. The boats cruise at a speed of approximately 4mph, making for a leisurely trip, and groups are allowed to bring their own food and drink onto the boats at no extra charge.

The favoured route follows Regent’s Canal to Little Venice, cruises past London Zoo and up towards Camden Lock, where skippers can about turn and return to Paddington Basin. However, the self-guided boats give passengers the freedom to be their own captains and enjoy London’s canals and waterways in their own ways.

GoBoat has been brought to London following the incredible success of the concept in Copenhagen and looks set to be popular, with opening times from 10 am until dusk for seven days a week, up until late autumn.

With prices starting at £55 for one hour on the boat, meaning a group of 8 would be paying less than £7 per head, GoBoat promises to be a fun and unique day out for everyone.