Motorboat Month 2026: Four free Zoom talks to inspire your next cruising adventure

Thinking of buying a motorboat, switching from sail to power, or exploring new cruising grounds? Discover the possibilities with the Cruising Association’s four free live Zoom talks this November, offering practical advice, expert insights and inspiration for your next adventure afloat. Everyone is welcome - members and non-members.

From Europe's beautiful rivers and canals to coastal passages and adventures at sea, motorboat cruising offers endless opportunities to explore. But choosing the right boat and knowing where to start can be daunting.

The CA's Motorboat Section and European Inland Waterways Section have joined forces to host Motorboat Month, sharing their extensive cruising knowledge to help newcomers and experienced boaters. Whether you are new to motorboating, considering a move from sail to power, or looking to cruise further afield, you will find useful advice to help you plan with confidence.

Four free Zoom talks

Each talk starts at 19:00 GMT (UK time) and includes an opportunity to ask questions:

• Tuesday 3 November - What motorboat to choose?
  Which motorboat is right for you? Explore the key considerations, including hull design, size, range, budget and intended use, to help narrow down your options and choose a boat that suits your cruising ambitions.
• Tuesday 10 November - Introduction to the European Inland Waterways
  Discover the pleasures and practicalities of cruising Europe's rivers and canals. From choosing a suitable boat to navigating locks and bridges, learn what you need to know to start exploring this remarkable network of waterways.
• Tuesday 17 November - Choosing a motorboat for sea cruising
  What makes a good motorboat for coastal and offshore cruising? Explore the features and practical considerations that matter when choosing a boat for adventures at sea.
• Thursday 26 November - Buying a second-hand boat: a practical guide
  Thinking of buying a used motorboat? Learn what to look for, how to assess a boat's condition, the importance of surveys and the essential paperwork involved, helping you avoid costly mistakes

Advice from experienced cruisers

One of the CA's greatest strengths is the wealth of first-hand knowledge shared by members who have spent years cruising inland and at sea. Motorboat Month brings that experience to a wider audience, offering independent, impartial advice to help you make informed decisions.

Each talk includes a live question-and-answer session, giving you the chance to learn from experienced cruisers, ask your own questions and discover how the CA supports cruising under sail and power.

Book your free place

All four talks are completely free and open to everyone. You do not need to be a CA member, own a motorboat or have previous motorboating experience.

Take part live on Zoom and discover where motorboat cruising could take you:

Tuesday 3 November - What motorboat to choose?
Tuesday 10 November - Introduction to the European Inland Waterways
Tuesday 17 November - Choosing a motorboat for sea cruising
Thursday 26 November - Buying a second-hand boat: a practical guide

Find out more

Motorboat Month is just a taste of the knowledge, experience and support available through the CA. Explore our Motorboat Section and European Inland Waterways Section to discover more and how the CA will help you make the most of life afloat.