The Reservoir Boat in Blue Prince is one of the few means of travel around the immediate area, and it is not easily accessed: it requires water pumping to attain a proper level. This aspect deepens the mystery that surrounds the Manor and Mt. Holly pushes players to traverse a convoluted layout that changes forever in their quest for the all-elusive Room 46. It even has a distinctive stepped system with regard to which amount can be accessed per run; so it’s best to avoid unintentional actions if you want to explore the entire play area efficiently. It involves the optimum way of accessing and riding the Reservoir Boat in action in Blue Prince, in this article.
Riding the Reservoir Boat in Blue Prince
To sail the Reservoir Boat in Blue Prince, you’ll need to manipulate the water levels using the Pump Room—though this is easier said than done. The challenge lies in two parts: first, figuring out the correct water levels, and second, adjusting them accordingly within the Pump Room.
We’ve broken this guide into two parts. First, we’ll highlight the clues for those who prefer to solve puzzles independently. Then, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of completing the objective.
Note: The Pump Room plays a central role in this process. Don’t stress if you can’t return to the Reservoir immediately due to limited steps—your Pump Room configuration is preserved across multiple days or runs unless you alter it again.
Reservoir Water Levels Clue
If you’re aiming to ride the boat, your first task is discovering the Reservoir’s ideal water levels. You’ll find a vital clue in the Underground, just beyond the Red Door. Rotate the large gear mechanism to access the opposite side of the area. Look through the windowpane to spot the water level markers.
The key levels are as follows:
- Dock Level: 13
- Entry Level: 6
- Fully Drained: 0
Think of the Reservoir’s levels like a math puzzle: a full Reservoir has 14 units (or “pips”) of water. To progress, you’ll first need to reduce it to 13 (dock level), then later down to 6 (entry level).
Dock Level: Moving the Boat Across
This part is relatively straightforward, assuming you have access to the Pump Room. It’s similar to the process of draining the Fountain, but you’ll only need to remove one unit of water from the Reservoir—from +14 down to +13.
Additionally, ensure you can access the Reservoir’s western side in the Underground, where the boat starts out. You can reach it via paths from the Fountain, Tomb, or the Blue Flames Elevator.
Once done correctly, you’ll be able to interact with the boat. This triggers a cutscene where Simon sails it across to the Foundation side of the cavern.
Entry Level: Pump Room Configuration to Board the Boat
To actually ride the boat, you’ll need to lower the water level further—from +13 (dock level) to +6 (entry level). Here’s how to get it done using the Pump Room assuming that the Reservoir is currently at +13:
Drain the Reservoir using Tank 1 (-4)
→ Water level becomes +9.
With the Reservoir at +9:
- Fill the Fountain using both Tank 1 and Tank 2 (both tanks must be empty afterward).
- The reserve tank should now have two units.
Fully drain the Kitchen using Tank 2.
Switch the Reservoir to Tank 2 and drain once (-1)
→ Water level becomes +8.
Use the reserve tank to refill Tank 1 by two units.
Drain the Reservoir using Tank 1 (-2)
→ Final water level: +6 (entry level).
What Happens After You Board the Boat?
With the water set to +6, return to the cavern via the Foundation or Basement. Descend the wooden steps and interact with the boat to sail.
Without giving too much away, here’s what to expect next:
- Capture screenshots of any notes, documents, or maps you find—they contain crucial clues for other puzzles.
- Don’t forget to collect the Sanctum Key from the crate.
With everything in place, you’re ready to sail the Reservoir in Blue Prince.
