MARTHAM BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Glide the Norfolk Broads aboard Comet — a compact, all‑ages day boat from Martham
A concise guide to hiring Comet from Martham Ferry Day Boat Hire: what the boat provides, who it suits and the practicalities for a safe, comfortable trip on the Broads.
Glide the Norfolk Broads aboard Comet — a compact, all‑ages day boat from Martham.
Adventure brief
Glide the Norfolk Broads aboard Comet — a compact, all‑ages day boat from Martham
On the slow, reed‑lined waterways of the Norfolk Broads, the Comet is a straightforward day boat built for easy handling and quiet cruising. Kept by Martham Ferry Day Boat Hire and designed to carry families, small groups and dogs, the Comet pairs basic onboard comforts with flexible hire windows so you can take half‑day escapes or longer stints on the water.
The Norfolk Broads, a sprawling network of rivers and lakes in eastern England, offers a quintessential escape into nature’s calm and scenic beauty. Among the best ways to experience this tranquil landscape is aboard the Diesel Comet, a family-friendly boat rental that makes cruising on these historic waterways accessible and enjoyable. The Comet is a versatile vessel designed with comfort and convenience, featuring amenities like a toilet, heating, and a sliding roof that opens to the sky, making every trip flexible and fun regardless of weather.
Cruising the Norfolk Broads promises wildlife sightings, charming villages, and lush reed beds that thrive in the waterway’s unique ecosystem—an abundance of herons, swans, and ducks, often visible from the boat. The Broads itself is a designated national park, established in 1989, famed for its diverse birdlife and scenic landscapes. Many come for day trips or longer adventures, savoring the peaceful pace and natural elegance that make this destination a standout in outdoor water activities.
The experience is perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed yet engaging outing. Whether you're piloting the boat yourself or enjoying the ride with a captain, Diesel Comet’s flexible rental durations allow you to tailor your journey. Bringing pets onboard is welcome, adding to the fun for land animals.
For those planning their trip, bring gear suitable for variable weather—layers, sun protection, and waterproof jackets—since the climate can change quickly on the water. Photographers will love early mornings and late afternoons when soft light enhances the reeds and waterfowl, especially from vantage points around Wroxham or Horning.
The Norfolk Broads National Park, with its historic waterways, diverse wildlife, and scenic vistas, remains a top destination for water-based adventures. Renting the Diesel Comet offers a chance to enjoy this exceptional landscape comfortably, making it a memorable highlight in any outdoor recreation itinerary.
Route Schematic
Typical route schematic
A hire aboard Comet centers on boarding at Martham then cruising the local reaches of the Norfolk Broads before returning to base.
Boarding at Martham
Arrive at the launch site in Martham to board Comet and receive basic handling instructions before departure.
Cruise the Norfolk Broads
Spend the bulk of the hire gliding through the Broads' interconnected waterways, taking advantage of the boat's sheltering roof, heating and onboard conveniences.
Return to base
Conclude the hire by returning Comet to the Martham berth and completing the handover.
Arrive 30 minutes before your hire for a mandatory safety briefing; the operator supplies full instructions for handling Comet and may ask you to call if you need specific availability or a 2‑hour off‑peak booking.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A practical little cruiser with essential comforts
Comet comes fitted with a toilet, heating, a sliding roof and basic galley kit including a gas ring, kettle and running water — conveniences that keep a day on the Broads relaxed whatever the weather.
Slow, family‑friendly time on the water
Easy to handle and supplied with full instructions, Comet is suited to groups who want a calm, accessible cruise through the Norfolk Broads without the complexity of larger craft.
Flexible hire, group‑friendly and dog‑friendly
Hires range from short off‑peak stints to week‑long bookings; Comet accepts up to ten people (including children and babies), and pets are welcome — making it a straightforward choice for mixed family groups.
What the day feels like
What it feels like to hire Comet
Boarding at Martham, you set off into the soft, winding channels of the Broads aboard a compact, user‑friendly craft. With a sliding roof for low light or rain, simple cooking facilities and a toilet, the Comet lets small groups linger among reedbeds and village backwaters while remaining self‑contained and easy to pilot.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this boat suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Arrive 30 minutes before your rental for a safety briefing. Crockery and basic cutlery are provided; if you want hot drinks bring your own milk, tea and coffee. The onboard kettle, gas ring and running water are available for use.
There is free parking on site for hirers; arriving early ensures you complete the safety briefing and boat check before you depart.
Off‑peak hires run from two hours up to a week; in peak season you can book half‑day or whole‑day slots — phone the operator if you need a 2‑hour hire or cannot find availability online.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long can I hire Comet for?
Off‑peak you can hire from two hours up to a week; in peak season the options are half‑day or whole day. For 2‑hour hires you may need to phone the operator to book.
How many people can Comet carry?
Comet carries up to ten people, including children and babies.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes — pets are welcome aboard Comet.
What facilities are on board?
Comet is equipped with a toilet, heating, a sliding roof, a gas ring, a kettle and running water; crockery and cutlery are provided.
Do I need to bring tea, coffee or milk?
Yes — while the boat has a kettle, you should bring your own milk, tea and coffee if you intend to make hot drinks.
Is there parking and a safety briefing?
There is free parking on site and you should arrive 30 minutes before the start time of your rental to complete the safety briefing.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-28T00:45:03.980Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.