We have used your company several times and first had Willow. We were so enthusiastic we have since had to hire boats with more berths to take others with us! I think there is definitely room in the market for the heritage fleet, but they do need an overhaul. Willows engine was very smelly, and the boatman's cabin wasn't very comfortable. I agree that the diesel stoves are a bit of a pain, but if you installed an inverter and supplied kettle, toaster and microwave it would be ok. We had two springer spaniels, so were quite happy she wasn't too plush! You could make a point of being dog friendly , use lino more and offer dog cages if people need them?
The other boats were more modern but also more boring! We have been trying out different styles of boat to help decide what to buy eventually! You could make this a selling point for the company? Maybe offer weeks which let people swop and chop? Or let people have a long winter hire for a reduced rate?
You definitely need new bedding to make it more cosy and comfy. We have spoken to other boaters and they none of them knew about your heritage range. Advertise! If you think about the number of people who go mad for the trad boats with lister etc engines - well. pro rata there must be a market for Willow and the others!
We booked with you because your prices are easy to understand, no extra for this that and the other, and the location is great with plenty of routes. Your staff have always been lovely, helpful and practical and friendly. But we first found your company on a last minute site, not from your own advertising!
Good luck with it all.
