Wigan Pier Boats Ltd

Kittywake Canal Cruises offers private boat hire from Wigan Pier, turning a canal cruise into a distinctive venue for celebrations and organised events. Event planners can choose between two boats, with capacities of up to 40 and 50 passengers. Both provide seating, a bar and a dance floor, while the larger Elleswake also has a lift for wheelchair access.

The boats are available for birthdays, hen parties, weddings and corporate occasions, including client entertaining, meetings and team celebrations. Each cruise is crewed and led by a qualified captain. Organisers can discuss entertainment such as a DJ, karaoke or drag performances, and arrange food options ranging from afternoon tea to buffets and pies. A fully stocked, licensed bar is available on board.

The experience takes place on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, with cruises departing from the historic Wigan Pier area. This gives guests a chance to enjoy the surrounding waterways together while keeping the event in a private, enclosed setting. The operator also arranges tailored trips for coach and tour groups, with options such as interactive local history talks, original artefacts and canal lock experiences. Educational cruises are offered for schools and other learning groups.

For event planners, the boat itself is the setting, while the cruise, crew, food, drinks and entertainment can be discussed as part of the booking. This makes the service suited to groups looking for a moving venue rather than a conventional function room. Enquiries can be made to check availability, passenger capacity and suitable arrangements for a particular occasion.