Narrow canals and
broad waterways
There are
nearly 3000 miles of waterway in one great connected
system. These are a mix of broad and narrow waterways.
The early Canal engineers mostly chose to build locks
which were 7’0 wide and would usually accept working
boat up to 72ft and became known as Narrowboats. With
improved engineering and water pumping techniques,
waterways were developed with bigger locks; these broad
waterways were the motorways of their day.Choosing a
boat
To navigate the entire waterways system you will require
a boat which can pass through all the locks, and that
will mean a narrow boat of 6’10 beam. Our boats are
beautifully fitted out for cruising - or as permanent
homes.
Many locks on the canal network are capable of taking a
boat up to 70 - 72ft in length, but some locks are
shorter, and a boat of 58 feet is able to cruise the
whole system.
Wide beam
boats
Wide beam boats are also available, and these have a
much bigger feel. If you feel that you want to cruise
only on the broad waterways or plan to live permanently
on your boat then should you consider a wide-beam boat,
these are between 10 and 12 foot wide.
The three main
styles of Boat
1. The traditional stern is taken from
the original working boats, hence its name. Here the
back cabin is taken as far back as possible with a short
rear deck usually between 3 and 4 feet.
2. Semi-traditional design (right) – these have more space by
increasing the size of the hatchway allowing room for
three or four people. The engine will be under your
feet, access gained by lifting the floor. There is
usually space underneath and storage for mooring ropes
and pins.
3. Cruiser stern -has even more space aft. A cruiser
stern usually has an aft deck of 8 feet or more,
completely open, with the engine underneath the deck.
Rails are fitted around the sides for safety. Seats can
be fitted on top of the rails or you can use chairs.
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