This, unfortunately, is the reason I have not returned to the Broads. I've hired a narrow boat before and had a great family holiday a few years ago on a large Herbert Woods boat. My wife had a knee injury that preventing her from helping much of the time. My boys were, I think 11 and 8 at the time - all the mooring was done with the help of my eldest.
My attempts to book a short stay with my two sons were met with a definite no or no response at all from the boatyards that I contacted. The eldest has just turned 15. Any idea at what age they are considered as an adult?