Find out some easy ways you can make your visit to the Broads National Park a green one.
The Green Boat Mark
The Broads Authority has established the Green Boat Mark, an eco-accreditation scheme for motor cruisers that helps you choose more sustainable boating options. The scheme has been running since 2011 and is the first eco-accreditation scheme for motor cruisers in Europe. Boats are graded on 25 different criteria including sewage water disposal, use of phosphate-free cleaning products and information given to customers, making this a scheme that you can trust. So look out for that green mark! There’s also now plenty of choice when it comes to electric day boats, with companies such as Broads Tours, Barnes Brinkcraft and Richardson’s offering more environmentally friendly options.
Put the wind in your sails
Motor cruisers might be the most popular boating option on the Broads but don’t forget that sailing boats are available too. With a sailing boat you’re closer to the water, learning a new skill and are pioneering the eco way! Whether you’d be learning from the start or are already an old hand, look into sail-boat hire companies for inspiration.
Possible sailing boat companies include: Eastwood Whelpton, Martham Boats and Waterways Holidays. Check out our sailing listings for many more.
For the sheer hull of it
One way to make an environmental difference whatever vessel you might be on is to choose one with a low wash hull. The size and shape of the hull can make an enormous difference to the impact of the craft upon the riverbank, with badly designed hulls leading to serious erosion with regular use. Short full bows give high boat waves, while longer finer bows reduce this effect. If you can’t avoid using a vessel with a high wash hull, then being cautious with your speed is another thing you might wish to consider…
Take it slow
Speed is incredibly detrimental to the crucial riverbanks along the Broads. The wash causes erosion and can also be disturbing to other boaters and wildlife. There are clear speed limits indicated along the river systems to guide boat users as to their maximum speed. If there was ever a location perfect for taking it easy, then the Broads National Park would be it, so what’s the rush?
There’s lots you can do to make a difference to the places you love, and these are just a few simple tweaks to help you do your bit. Because a Broads National Park which is well looked after is a Broads National Park you can return to again and again.