Mike Bowden

Thank you. Yes, we viewed the first two boats. The first (older one) was beautifully fitted out but was looking a bit tired in places (damaged wood/doors not fitting etc etc). The second (Aqualine) is effectively new (2 years old) and with a high quality fit-out - the trad stern may not fit our needs through and the bed in the main bedroom needs extending.

Would you look at this though? Salty (whiltonmarina.co.uk)

That looks a good boat - agree the galley could do with an upgrade. Thank you - very useful information.

Yes, totally agree re service history/paperwork etc. Whatever I buy it needs to have been looked after properly - like I do with everything I own! James, I have seen that on-line and it is a stunning looking traditional style boat; and, importantly, looks like it has been looked after very well.

Thanks. I have a couple of options lined up. I would suggest you need to cut down on your wine consumption. What "cuts it" for me is obviously different to you. Thanks. Good info regarding what boats are well built - any other hulls/fit out companies that are generally considered good? Also, what ones are considered not so good?

Thank you 🙂

Thanks - we intend to do that!

Thank you for all your comments and advice - much appreciated! My reason for the budget I have allocated is that I want to minimise, ad far as possible, the work required to maintain the boat and maximise the time spent out on the cut. Being an engineer by profession I realise that time (and money) needs to be spent on maintenance (engine services/fault rectification/blacking etc etc). I am not rich as some have suggested - I have the money to do this because I don't have a mortgage anymore and have the funds from the sale of my late father's house. Also, I am now 60 years old and know that I won't be cruising for 10s of years - when we cannot manage it anymore we will just sell the boat on (yes, I know narrowboats depreciate in value). We are viewing as many boats as possible, as suggested (knowing pictures/YouTube videos don't give a true impression). I think I have confirmed that a 57ft boat will be best for what we want to do. BTW, we intend to just cruise on the K&A as we live within 5 miles of Devizes/Trowbridge. Also, I would rather buy a boat with more character/quality (eg, quality wood fit out) than just something that suits practically (hence willing to compromise). Also, I think I would compromise on stern design as long as there is somewhere on the bow to enable around 3-4 to sit outside. What do you all think of: Millettia Laurentii - 59' Cruiser Stern Reverse Layout 2011 JD Narrowboats - Rugby Boats or Bag End - 58' Reverse Layout Trad 2021 Aqualine - Rugby Boats

LadyG, my list is (although recognising the need for compromise): Cruiser stern 50-60 feet Reverse layout Top/middle of the road boat (price depends) Modern design Diesel Well looked after - especially hull/engine/engine bay Not fussed about gas free or not Narrow beam Holiday use Four berth Pullman dinette Diesel stove Main bed wider than 4ft (extender or cross bed) Pump out loo No MDF in fit-out Thanks Tigerr - all good points to bear in mind.

Thanks for the replies - yes, will definitely get a survey on anything I buy.

Thank you LadyG - I have done loads of research and hired boats to get experience of boating. Just getting to the stage where I want to buy and seeking advice.

Hi all, I am looking to purchase a narrowboat and have up to a £130k budget. Should I look at brokers or look to buy privately. For brokers, is Rugby Boats a good broker?