Traditional boating holidays on the Norfolk Broads
Plan your classic Norfolk Broads boating adventure
Your journey into the heart of the Norfolk Broads begins here.
Imagine waking to the gentle sound of water against a wooden hull… brewing your morning coffee as mist rises over the reeds… and setting off at your own pace along some of the most beautiful waterways in Britain.
Welcome to life afloat with Martham Boats.
Founded in 1946 and set on one of the quietest stretches of the River Thurne, Martham Boats has been offering classic motor and sailing holidays in the heart of the Norfolk Broads for generations. Whether you’re completely new to boating or a seasoned Broads enthusiast, there’s nothing quite like the freedom of Norfolk Broads.
Discover the Freedom of Yacht & Cruiser Hire on the Norfolk Broads
✓ Short breaks & full weeks
✓ Couples, families & groups
No previous boating experience needed – full handover and tuition included with every holiday.
Tell us when you’d like to travel and who’s coming – we’ll send tailored options within one working day.
Start your own adventure today.
Share a few details or call 01493 740249 for more
We never share your details. A member of our Norfolk-based team will respond personally.
Boating breaks for every pace of life
Choose the Norfolk Broads holiday that suits you
From long, meandering weeks afloat to relaxed long weekends, we’ll match your crew, budget and dates to the right traditional boating holiday.
3–4 night short breaks
Perfect for first-time boaters or a long weekend escape. Cruise between pretty villages, nature reserves and riverside inns without rushing.
- Ideal for couples & young families
- Simple circular routes – easy navigation
- Flexible Friday or Monday start dates
Typical guide price for a yacht from £573 per boat (low season, 4 people).
7 night classic cruises
Settle into the slower rhythm of the Broads. Explore both northern and southern rivers, from bustling Wroxham to peaceful, wide-open of Hickling Broad.
- Time to explore multiple Broads and villages
- Flexible, mix of quiet moorings & lively stops
- Popular in school holidays & summer
Typical guide price motor cruiser from £1232 per boat (low season, 4 people).
Extended stays & multi-boat groups
Whether you're organising a birthday celebration, anniversary, reunion, special occasion or simply a long-overdue escape with friends, Martham Boats offers a truly unique way to bring everyone together
- Multi-boat flotillas for larger groups
- Itineraries with must-see highlights
- Helpful local tips for every stop
Tell us your dates and group size and we’ll create a tailored quote and suggested route.
Traditional boats, modern comfort
Handpicked cruisers for the Norfolk Broads
At Martham Boats, we specialise in traditional, classic Broads cruisers offering a carefully chosen selection of beautifully maintained craft that combine heritage charm with modern practicality.
From cosy two-berth boats perfect for couples to spacious family cruisers ideal for larger crews, our fleet is designed to suit a range of holiday styles while staying true to the timeless spirit of the Norfolk Broads .
Boats sleeping 2–9 people
Warm heating and hot showers
Fully equipped galleys (kitchens)
Pet-friendly options available
Tuition and safety briefing included
Janet
Sleeps 4 • 2 cabins • Pet friendly
Comfortable family favourite with outside seating when the canopy is down for watching the world drift by.
Juliette
Classic lines with spacious interior, ideal for families or two couples sharing with plenty of storage.
Sleeps 7 • 3 cabins • 2 bathrooms
Tell us how many are travelling and we’ll send you example boats that fit your party and budget.
How it works
Planning your Norfolk Broads boating holiday is simple
Whether it’s your first time afloat or you’re coming back to the Broads, our Norfolk-based specialists make organising your trip effortless.
Start planning your Adventure by calling 01493 740249 and speak to one of our representatives
Why the Norfolk Broads?
An easy-going boating holiday with big-sky scenery
The Norfolk Broads are one of the UK’s most loved waterways – a peaceful network of rivers and lakes with gentle speeds, lock-free cruising and a warm welcome for first-time boaters.
Gentle, lock-free cruising
With no locks to navigate and low speed limits, the Broads are one of the most relaxing places to learn to handle a boat.
Wildlife & wide-open skies
Watch marsh harriers, swallowtail butterflies and vast, star-filled skies right from the comfort of your deck.
Waterside pubs & villages
Moor up directly outside friendly pubs, tea rooms and village greens – no need for taxis or timetables.
Memories that last
From children learning to steer for the first time to quiet evenings on deck, a week on the Broads quickly becomes a family tradition.
Reviews
Guests who keep coming back to the Broads
We hired “Palace” for a week, it is a great boat and was a pleasure to stay on. Exhilarating sail!!!!
The staff at Martham are very caring. They made arrangements for us to join the boat at midnight with bedding prepared on board. They were accommodating on the dates we wanted. Pilots & Technical staff were really helpful asking for help was really easy, they genuinely want to help make your holiday enjoyable. Typical of family owned business who have staff wanting to help.
Just finished my second trip this year. The first one on sailing yacht America with the boys and the second on motor cruiser Janet with my wife and two dogs. Both were fantastic. The team at Martham are fantastic - so relaxed and helpful. And so much nicer to be on a traditional broads boat than a white plastic caravan! We'll be back again soon!
Justin Byrne
Two boats Violet and primrose for the week / Monday to Friday three friends on each boat.Great sailing and Exceptional weather.Service and staff friendly helpful beyond reproach.Boats in good condition.
Highly recommended Martham Boats .
Ready to start planning your Norfolk Broads boating holiday?
Personal response from a Norfolk-based specialist
No call centres, no hard sell
Free advice even if you decide not to travel this year
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