The UK must achieve a higher profile on the continent if it is to see a major rise in the number of tourists visiting for Canal Boat Holidays.

Mary Rance, chief executive at trade association UKinbound, said that it is crucially important that the UK is seen as a competitive destination if it is to bring in foreigners looking to enjoy its scenic waterways and Narrowboats.

She said that this will require a policy of action as the country exits the recession and highlighted the importance of the industry putting pressure on the government to give this the necessary attention.

Ms Rance said: 'It is ever more imperative in 2010 that UKinbound continue to lobby proactively on behalf of its members to champion the importance of inbound tourism.

'Her comments follow figures from the Office for National Statistics that showed the number of vacation visits to the UK rising eight per cent in the last 12 months.