Could I start sailing in the afternoon on the day we picked up our houseboat?

It will depend on what time you arrive at the base and when the boat is ready to depart. After you arrive, we’ll need to spend a little time with you to complete the check-in procedures, and we’ll let you know when you’ll have your pre-departure briefing. You may not be able to leave the dock right away, but we’ll help you get settled and ready to depart as soon as possible that evening or the next morning. You may also be limited by the operating hours of the locks.