Tom Paterson

You should join D.N.A. That's the ' National Association for Dyslexics' Sorry....

I guess BW aren't as up to speed as the DVLA. They don't miss a trick!!!

Good point!!!

I've looked at a few layout plans and I'm wanting to keep things open plan. The bedrooms and bathroom aside!!!

Just did a search - Found them!!!

Just remember theives are not the sharpest tools in the box!!!

Would you be up for building a bare 57' widebeam with engine? Give me a quote!!!

I guess an alarm system wouldn't be a bad idea to have on a boat - it could be linked to your mobile too. Or a large 'THIS BOAT IS ALARMED' sticker in the window. A bit like having the 'NO TOOLS LEFT IN THIS VEHICLE' sticker on your van.

The price of secondhand boats vary so much I wouldn't know where to start. Then there's getting them up to standard. I can get a brand new 57' widebeam shell with engine for around £30k. The fit out doesn't worry me I'm just going to be paying for materials. Unless a bargain boat came up secondhand I'll be buying new.

Thanks for the heads up. I wasn't trying to start a 'name and shame' thread - that's of no use to me. I just wanted to hear from others who have started from a bare shell and who built it for them. If there are more local builders to me (I'm in Leeds) that would save me a few quid in the transport fees alone!

I've been looking round for a boat builder to get an idea on cost for a bare shell. I am looking to do a fit out on a 57' widebeam barge. I found a Nottingham based firm (on ebay) (Dave Clarke) who gives a great idea of costs. Can anyone give me their own recommendations.

I'm with you on this one - theives will always go for the easy target. Living where I do you learn very quickly - lock it or lose it!!! The fact that a barge is just a big floating metal box should make them pretty secure in the first place. Windows and wooden doors are easily broken so I'd be tempted to have plexiglass windows and steel doors. You have to think like a theif - If you were locked out, how would you get in?

Explain...

Could you point me in the direction of the last one? No point starting a new one eh???

I'll take that as a yes then!!! I suppose as long as you don't take the p!ss and don't draw attention to yourself you'll be fine.