Good evening.
The name is Robert and I am thinking of joining the "afloat" people again.
A little history: Spent 12 years in the Royal Navy finishing after 7 years in small boats that sink. Obtained my HGV class 1 license and spent the rest of my life until 60 living in a small away from home in the truck, whilst working 15 hours most days. Latterly on the continent then driver assessment and training.
Since retirement at age 60 I bought a 28ft sailboat and kept it at Wells Next the Sea before selling due to lack of use and SWMBO having zero interest in boating. During this time I did delivery work and enjoyed trips from Venice in a 56 footer, Scotland to Eastbourne and various others.
We purchased a motorhome 5 years ago and changed it 3 years ago to one we liked better.
Having had the travelling bug for most of my life I enjoy the 2 month trips to Spain and France but now find it frustrating to have the moho parked up outside and not using it over the winter period, but again held back by the other half who dotes on the grandchildren so will not be away for any great length of time nor for too many periods in the year.
I now find myself looking at narrow boats and thinking I could spend most, if not all, the year wandering around the network. I realise this would mean many changes to the two of us but sure she could visit on occasions to suit her.
Obvious problems are the selling of the motorhome but also at the age of 69 I do wonder if I would be safe on my own. I am a little overweight but physically fit and mentally good to be on my own for long periods of time. I am mechanically minded so having a boat with problems would not be a bother.
I have been looking at brokers online and seen a few that would appeal although, so far, have not visited any to view but looking for a 40 to 40 ft narrow boat around the £30 - 35k mark.
Wondered if any boaters out there can see any problems or have possibly been in a similar position to me.