interleaf2

I can confirm a 60' boat that is less than 7' wide will usually be able to pass the 57' 6" locks on the Calder & Hebble & Huddersfield Broad canals if they are in full working order. Salterhebble has the shortest of all and you will need to lie diagonally and you may need to use the lock backwards, remove fenders, clear rubbish, etc.), but it can almost always be done with a little determination. It all adds to the fun. The cills and overhanging gate platforms are also hazardous on these waterways and the longer the boat the greater the hazard. It is very easy to damage or even snap your swan's neck with these overhanging platforms. This all assumes you have the normal round stern and pointed bow. A square stern may be more of a problem and may not fit even diagonally.

I agree 100% with fuzzy. I also think David Mercer needs to send a written apology to Sue.

And did you see the email from David Mercer to Sue of "No Problem", on Sue's blog. A perfect example of how to come across like a sanctimonious pillock.

I think you should have read the blog more carefully. It is in BW's written policy to allow continuous cruisers to overstay the time limits if there is a mechanical breakdown beyond the owners' control, and I would expect EA to do likewise. It is dangerous to do otherwise. In this case the owners are trying to get repairs as fast as they can so they can then move on. You can see from their blog that they are genuine continuous cruisers in every sense and comply with BW CC policy. What would you suggest they do without a gearbox on a river navigation? I wish the best of luck to Sue and "No Problem" (name not looking so well chosen at the moment).

I saw this pciture on Flickr and thought it might be of interest: This shows a French narrowboat (berrichon) emerging from the Briare Aqueduct over the River Loire on the Canal Latéral á la Loire. The berrichon was designed specifically for the Canal de Berry and was about 1 foot wider than an English narrowboat. Note the back cabin for the boatman's family and the centre cabin for the motive power (a mule or donkey). The sheeting over the cargo looks familiar. How 'bout the lights and ornamentation on the aqueduct? The aqueduct is now only the second longest in the world.

Hey that's where I live!! Thanks for choosing Sedona for your boat's name.

I really think hiring first is essential to work out what your personal likes and dislikes are. That applies to the boat and the waterway too. The costs of making the wrong decision in buying a boat are much higher than the cost of a week's hire. And take your time!

Me too - Simon & his Dad built two boats for me. No complaints - sturdy, reliable and good looking boats that retained their value - I even made a profit when I sold the first one after 5 years. It's only the proof reading skills I would question!

Yes it's back now. Very interesting video, but I suggest in future turning up the Gary-phone and turning down (or off) the Gordon Lightfoot. It's quite hard making out your commentary over the music and it's the commentary that's useful. Thanks for posting this. And what is the music at the start of your "barge-style narrowboat" slide-show video? I'd like to hear more of this.

Video was no longer available on Youtube when I checked just now.

In the Piper Boats ad on page 135, it says "We have our bespoke line available for the more disconcerting client" According to my dictionary Simon is looking for clients who: 1. cause an emotional disturbance 2. frustrate plans by throwing them into disorder 3. are bothersome Has any other boatbuilder been so honest about his clients? Apparently Simon now wants customers who are even more disconcerting than normal.

The National Trust have all the information you need in this PDF: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-riv...boat_users.pdf You need a license issued by the NT, as a BW Gold License does not cover the Rver Wey

I suppose every bubble has its poster child - the narrowboat bubble just got one. But did it have to be so ugly? Those windows make my eyes squirm. JMHO.