ian

hello, what are the differant stages of boat build? ive heard phrases like shell, sailaways and fit out. how do all these differ and in what order do they relate? im hoping to buy a narrow boat soon and wondered which stage to buy at? i am quite handy at DIY but could not attempt a full fit out on a bare shell. any advice. thank, ian

Hello, I’ve always wanted to live aboard a canal boat and now I think my time has come. I live and work in Sheffield. The chance to sell my house and buy a narrow boat seems to good to miss. I’m new so all advice is most welcomed. Think I will have about £40000 maybe a little more to spend. What should I look out for, boats, engines, electrics, boat design and what should I avoid? What are the hidden charges to living aboard, council tax, mooring fees, boat maintenance. How about your post. Do I need a PO box? as I say I'm a complete newbie so just tell it all as it is, good and bad. This is a big step for me and I don't want to cock it up. Thanks, Ian