The type of boats generally used for recreational rowing and touring are based on the continental  "C" type coxed quads. They are wider and more stable than racing boats, whilst having the same "feel" and requiring similar technique to row.

The "official" specification of a coxed quad "C" gig is as follows:

• Length 11 metres
• Width 80 cm at the widest point
• Weight approx 80 kg

This is about 20 kg heavier than a racing four, but can still be lifted by 4 strong or 6 average people. A reasonably competent crew can average 10 km per hour, and of course, there's plenty of room for spare kit and refreshments.

They are cheaper than racing boats, though prices have gone up in the last year or so.  The Chinese boats typically cost around £10,000 ex VAT and the continental boats around 13,000 Euros ex VAT, so they are a bit more expensive but also more robust and likely to last longer.

Because this type of boat was promoted for British Rowing's "Explore Rowing" project, they are often referred to a "Explore Boats".

Here are links to various manufacturers, with their UK distributors if available

• BBG Berlin (Germany)
• Schellenbacher (Austria)
• Baumgarten (Germany)
• Wintech (China)
• Werner Kahl (Germany)
• Swift (China)
• Falcon (China)

Swift recreational single or double, with optional floats

Glide Boat (single) 

We can recommend the Glide Solo for use on rivers and lakes and the
Glide Tide for use on coastal waters - very stable and very economical! 
And it's made in the UK!

Lite Boat

Singles, doubles, triples and quads, suitable for all conditions.  Made in France.