A river cruise on the Severn might not be the most obvious idea for a staycation but it offers fine food, great sights, wildlife and a chance to make new friends
Life is beautiful when you are cruising at 4mph, surrounded by wonderful English sights and sipping wine in the sun. That peaceful scene pretty much summed up our perfect trip on board MV Edward Elgar.
She is the UK’s largest inland hotel boat and cuts a fine figure in cream with a bright red trim. The ship is 88ft long, boasts three decks, and has capacity for 22 passengers in 11 twin cabins. Routes run along the River Severn and Gloucester to Sharpness ship canal, with some itineraries including both waterways.
Our voyage took in the first half of the Severn Vale Discovery Cruise â a new six-night package for 2023 which features 90 miles of cruising and eight excursions. English Holiday Cruises, the team which owns and operates Edward Elgar, is a family business now in its 19th working season. The personal touch shone through at all times â with attentive staffing, great food and thoughtfully curated activities making it a memorable holiday.
Special service was evident from the off as we were welcomed at an introductory buffet in the company’s purpose-built canalside boathouse. Captain Matthew Shipman greeted passengers and presented his crew before we embarked and the engines got rolling.