There are a couple of companies that hire small boats for a full day that enable you to cruise the Leeds\Liverpool Canal in and around Skipton.
The boats, known as Day boats, give you the opportunity to explore Skipton from the canal that runs breezes through it.
Day boats can take up to 10 people and come equipped with a galley, a sitting\dining area and a loo. On long summer days, you can cruise as far as Gargrave in the west and Five Rise Locks in the east.
They are usually pretty popular, and often get booked up well in advance. The costs vary between operators and boats, but when split between a group of people represent a reasonable outlay for a full days entertainment. As a taster of the local waterways, these day boats represent a different type of day out.
Suitable for almost all weather conditions, there is no better way to see the town of Skipton and the surrounding areas served by the canal.
No boat experience is necessary to pilot these barges. The operators gives you full instruction and will provide life jackets for anyone who wishes.
http://www.snaygillboats.co.uk/day-boat-hire.htm
http://www.penninecruisers.com/day-boat-trip-hire/
http://www.canaltrips.co.uk/day-boat-hire-skipton/