The boat rental company has launched a new ‘winter pod’ at Canary Wharf this year, offering a one-of-a-kind way to experience the capital.
As someone who often fusses about the weather during winter, I was excited when I heard about this new cosy way to get around.
The winter pod takes the traditional self-drive rental boats and covers it with a polycarbonate roof.
It gives clear panoramic views of the skyline as you cruise around the wharf.
Of course, I took the opportunity to be captain to steer around the Docklands.
While I’ve had no boating experience, it was fairly easy to pick up thanks to a short and simple tutorial.
From there we were left to our own devices after being given a recommended route.
The winter pod is spacious to fit up to eight people, or you could go with just your special someone.
Inside there’s atmospheric lighting, blankets and throws to wrap up in along with heated seating.
As you go around, you can connect to the provided Bluetooth speaker, enjoy the complimentary mulled wine and munch any snacks or non-alcoholic drinks you’ve brought from home.
I cannot state enough that anyone interested in trying out the boat should visit during the evening, as you can see the beautiful lit-up buildings reflect onto the water.
It felt magical as we slowly travelled five miles per hour – the boat’s speed limit – taking in Canary Wharf at all different angles.
You get up to two hours, which ends up being plenty of time after you master the technique of turning the boat.
The beauty of the winter pod is that you can actually have a scenic outdoor activity despite the cold, potential rain or snow.
However despite the wraparound protection around the boat, there was still an ever-so-slight breeze coming through a little gap behind the tiller handle.
At one point it seemed the seated heating turned off by itself, but this was quickly resolved after fiddling with some buttons.
Notably, we never felt uncomfortable at one point, but you should remember that while it is fairly warm enough, you won’t feel 100% toasty inside.
Regardless, GoBoat is offering a perfect and memorable activity in London during the cold season.
Bookings are either at £199 during certain slots – £24.86 each if divided by eight people – or £299 during other times, which is £37.38 each when split by eight.
The winter pod can be booked until the end of February next year.
