Ben2542

We have recently taken delivery of our new boat, a part-fitted LB boat, and have been advised that after 20 hours of engine running we should get an engineer to carry out an alignment check on the engine and propshaft, in case things have 'settled'. We have an Isuzu 42 fitted with a PRM 150 gearbox. I would be grateful for any comments as to whether this is necessary, and if so, how big a job is it (and how much would be reasonable charge)? Many thanks in anticipation ... Ben

Matt, I don't know what the experienced reply is, but I too have been told that my first blacking should be after 12 months (presumably because they use the cheaper stuff on a new boat unless you specify something else?). Ben

I say "aye"

Fingers crossed here ... what suspense!!

I've been quoted a figure of approximately £700 for craning-in on the Leeds-Liverpool, which includes the full insurance cover, and apparently authorisation/consent/the informing of British Waterways?? Apparently the craning yard must have available 'method statements' etc. for a boat to be safely launched on the canals. Perhaps this is just fluff to justify the very high price, but it seems that if you do the job properly with all relevant insurances and documentation in place then it becomes expensive - and I suppose that most people look at other options?? Ben

The story made the national press this morning ... http://www.canalworld.net/forums/index.php...cmd=si&img=1008

Thanks Khayamanzi, that's a very useful insight into your NBC boat. The boats do seem to be extremely good value for money, and the short lead-time does tend to limit the fears which any boat buyer has about the company going insolvent - the period when you are at risk is so much shorter. From what I have heard the greater value is in the sailaways, and from there on in towards the other end of the spectrum (a fully fitted boat) the benefits and value for money becomes more marginal, and that's quite important in making our decisions. We had planned to get a part-fitted boat with quite a number of additions, but I'm less certain now, and would prefer to buy a more basic boat and do things incrementally. Ben

As mentioned, the Aqualine Range boats are made in Poland, and apparently have received rave reviews. The rest of the hull range is made by Liverpool Boats, and fitted locally by TNBC.

Hi, I have been around the forum for a couple of months now and it still astounds me how much useful stuff is in here - thanks to all for the contributions you make for newbies such as me. We are thinking about a part-fitted sailaway from the New Boat Company (having looked at a few other builders), as they seem to be extremely good value for money, and I would be very grateful to hear from any previous customers of TNBC who might be willing to share their experiences. Many thanks in anticipation ... Ben

Ooops ... I've never been in there ... will take a look now. Ben

By the way Daniel, did you see the large picture of Emily Anne in the latest edition of Towpath Talk (at the IWA Diamond Jubilee Event)? Ben

That's interesting gaggle - as you say, it seems like the Rufford Branch is going to become one big marina. I have enquired about moorings at St Mary's and Fettler's Wharf further north and they are both all but full, so it seems there's room for other marinas on that stretch.

Allie, Believe it or not, our boat is "Concerto" too, and I'll certainly keep a log and take some photographs to send on to you! We're off for our week shortly, and I'm very envious of you having two weeks - I hope you enjoy your break. Rose seem to be efficient and generally regarded in this forum, so fingers crossed. Best wishes.

Thanks very much for your very helpful comments so far ...

Hi - I'm new to this forum, and I hope that you might be able to help with what's probably quite a common question. We have booked a week's holiday in the mid to late August with Rose Narrowboats (which is near to Rugby on the Oxford canal), and I think I've narrowed down our best options to (1) go down the Oxford Canal through Banbury and go as far possible as Aynho, and return, or (2) go down the Oxford canal to Braunston and from there down the Grand Union as far as we can before making a return. We are brand new to boating, but are happy to tackle some locks. Are these by best options? - I would very much welcome your preferences. Are there any other routes which you would suggest are better than those above? Many thanks