No interest in narrow boating non, zero, nada but just watched 36 minutes and five of this, now i'm watching the shopping forecast. Great channel, just fascinating
If you are looking for a second income while you’re aboard your narrow boat, I would think you would be fabulously successful at reading for Audible Books. Your voice is relaxing and a pleasure to listen to. I often pop one of your videos on and listen as I begin my to wind down for the night. Keep up the great work.
So the thing about doing voice over work, whether narrating for audiobooks, animation voices, or general voice over work like for documentaries or televisions shows that have a narrator (wonder years or young Sheldon for an American example, can’t come up with a BBC version in the middle of the night with cold meds kicking in) standard contracts mean you are paid based upon the number of minutes your voice is in the final cut, not on how long it takes to record
I've spent this time sitting at the Department of Motor Vehicles in the U.S. Current wait time is approximately 2.5 hours.This video was a much needed distraction. Thank you
The length of the video was very fortunate because my coffee had been consumed prior to your Meerkat Mooring the Cut comment and demonstration. Had I still been trying to drink it, I likely would have had an accident.
As a Floridian who had no idea these locks even existed before your channel extremely randomly came up one night while I was drinking and browsing TH-cam, I simply adore your content. Keep doing what you do man.
Why am I watching this? Why have I watched hours of your videos and also your van ones too? I blame lockdown. I do think you are an excellent presenter and your subtle but consistent enthusiasm for living on a boat/in a van has kept me entertained during this rather strange year.
You should do kore of these videos. They are great. You do a great job with the vlogs, but I like the ones when you do them in the boat. It gives us a sense of what it’s like living in it. Thx
I have to say, I started (binge-watching) your videos just yesterday and have found myself really enjoying your videos! Your format and clarity, with the right mix of humour, is really wonderful! Thank you for your content!
Hi Dave, I live in Pennsylvania along the Monongahela River about 60 river miles south of Pittsburgh. I have thoroughly enjoyed your v-logs, and through them learned a lot about your Country and canals and narrowboats. Being a boater here, I have found it all very interesting. For all the time you've put into it, Thank you very much.
Best tool for clearing condensation from windows in a caravan, motorhome or narrowboat is a Kärcher Window Vac, absolutely brilliant. We used one in our caravan for many, many years, we even lived in it for 3 years, at -15 degrees one winter, and it was invaluable. 💐💐
Thank you so much for your reflections over the passed 3 years which my wife and I have enjoyed and so grateful to you. We have been reviewing so many designs of boat layouts, did enjoy ticking the box which we are sold on and interesting are yours. The only item you we also care about is having a cross bed to enjoy the extra width. Thank you so much for providing the reality of life aboard including raising the bar of a washing machine that actually is fit for purpose. Thank you Dave
Fascinating video for those of us that dream in minute detail. Thank you! Yes, yes, yes, reverse layout seems ideal! The bedroom would have a private deck and gets the bedroom as far from guests as possible. And guests are near the tiller in the salon or galley/dinette.
I am just coming up to one year living on my 59 foot traditional stern boat so this discussion was very interesting. I have a Beta 43 engine with two alternators and a Travelpower 230v generator and yes a 35-38 hp engine would be fine. The travelpower is great for doing the laundry in my washing machine while travelling but I wouldn't pay the serious cost to have one fitted. The engine room is great for storing my folding bike but I do appreciate the appeal of a semi-trad stern. I have a utility area in front of the engine room for the washing machine and storage cupboard above and it is really useful. I had a 'pointy' cratch and had a new one made, widening the point from 5" to 16" and the difference in usable space is amazing. I saw many boats on the Shropshire Union canal last summer with the extended steel roof line over the well deck and they looked very nice and practical. I could go on but I'll just mention one more thing, I have a centre-mounted fridge/freezer with an eye level oven and grill above. When I face it the 4 ring gas hob is on my left and the kitchen sink is on the right - and it works really well. I have done three course roast dinners with that layout (as long as you wash up as you go). I hope this and your video helps any aspiring boaters out there ☺
To help with your dust problem use a spray bottle of water to dampen the ash before you move it. This is what we would do during the winter when we had a wood stove in the house.
There was a big oversight with this video David. You recommend Jaffa Cakes but did not adjust the duration of the video to account for the reduction in total Jaffa Cakes found in a standard box. I spent the final 5 minutes of the video craving for more Jaffa Cakes.
You are a new find for me David. Your channel is my new happy place! It brings about a feeling of lightness. And this vlog - in particular - is blooming brilliant. I’m not a boater (yet) and it answers so many questions that I already had, as well as a few I’d not even thought about. Thank you for sharing your journey - and wisdom/reflections - with us. :)
I've just watched this (for a second or perhaps more time). We (my much better half and I) are toying with the idea of buying a narrowboat to be able to spend a few months every year exploring the network. Because of residency and taxation rules, it would have to be a "six months less a day" boat. We've been surfing the various brokerage sites but not finding anything that ticks most of the boxes. The whole COVID-19 nightmare is another story. I have taken to drawing out rough sketches (my artistic skills are several levels below your canal route planning maps) of what I (think) I would like...and this video of yours has been quite helpful... So... moving from stern forwards... 57 foot(ish) semi trad with lockers/seats either side... Pullman dinette (elevated) at the stern with 90 degree steps down from stern.Big windows either side U-shaped galley... oh yes... under floor wine cooler and food cool storage panels! Big windows either side Bathroom (walk through with lav and hand basin behind a sliding door). I'm still torn between pump out and cassette. (portholes either side) Bedroom... cross bed or fixed double....hmmm... (portholes either side) Saloon... enough space for a couple of chairs and a diesel fired stove.(Big windows either side) Maximum use throughout of under gunwale storage/shelves/cupboards. Bow thruster... had a 42 foot hire boat and really like the idea of being able to turn the bow around. Now all I have to do is fully retire and sell the house and find somewhere to live for six months a year and figure out how/where to store a narrowboat for six months and.....
Engine space? Old school shipyard design the living spaces at the rear of the boat with the traditional stove to keep the tiller man warm, remember how many times in the old canal films the tiller man is standing just inside the hatch letting the warm air easily keep you comfy. In the engine room is anybody still building a two or three cylinder diesel but with modern updates? The large over square design allows it to create gobs of torque, plenty of power to run two alternators and provide more than sufficient hot water to heat your domestic hot water and then use a large storage tank so you could turn on the cast iron/steel radiators to warm up the boats interior. Open two thermostatic valves to prevent the water from getting too hot and overheating the engine. Manually open the two valves for summer operations. Food for thought. Cheers!!!!
Sounds very logical. We've only just found narrowboats maybe a year or more ago and fell in love with them and the canals. Hope to visit one day and never leave!
This is a comment on your whole series, not just this video (as I have just finished watching your entire series ... to date). David, I have really enjoyed your videos. I am from Canada and spent parts of two summers narrowboating in England (2002: Milton Keynes - Braunston - return; and 2004 Market Harborough - Napton - return). I loved the pace of vacationing at 3 mph. In Canada 3 mph would be boring (and would take forever to get anywhere), but in England there is a village (and pub) about every 3 miles so I felt like I was seeing a lot of England that one would not get a chance to see any other way. I am nostalgic for those trips and would love to do it again, even to retire to England's canals at least part time. Your videos are informative, entertaining and feed my nostalgia for the canals. Thank you. Please keep the videos coming.
I've never seen a narrow boat in my life but somehow I love your channel! even if it's just talking about the best boat layout. Also i really liked the vlog about lock gates and the one with the boat lift. It's good to see there's more than 200 vlogs now, lot of catching up to do.
I tease myself with the idea of canal boat living. This was great as it answered many of the simple questions. Even alone I think I too would be a fan of an off corridor loo.
Ahoy David, I am a marine electrician in Port Charlotte, Florida. The concept of two alternators on one diesel is evidently unique to Europe. I have never seen it in a US boat. It is something I would tend to discourage because of added complexity in the system, \another add-on restricting access to the block, the need to isolate house and starting battery systems, and the added expense of sheaves, mounts, and the extra alternator. I think it would be better to simply increase the size of the original alternator. Take special care - an increase in current places a heavier load on wiring and it is almost always necessary to increase wiring size and add circuit protection.
Ed Wiser I would disagree that two alternators are more complex than a single one. Yes, you have another belt to worry about, but keeping the starter and domestic electrics simplifies wiring greatly. How would you manage charging two battery banks with one alternator? Possible yes, but complex. With two alternators and two systems you can at least jump the engine off the domestic system in an emergency. You are also unlikely to deplete your starter battery to the extent that it won't start the engine. The space taken up is hardly a consideration, alternators are not big and generally mounted above or to the side of the engine which is usually centrally located in the engine bay, so there is empty space to both sides.
Wouldn't you just know it. It wasn't until I left a part of the country with nice rivers and streams and moved to the Mojave desert that I found your channel. Well, I still greatly enjoy it, and always look forward to watching a few of your episodes a day. Thanks.
How I like my boats; Stern. Big open deck for company while cruising. Bow. Private veranda for morning tea. (Bedroom at front) I got chatting to a nice boater on the tow path and asked the age-old question; "What size boat would you recommend for a new boater?" His answer was "Ten foot longer than however far your wife can shout. That's why mine is 60ft!" After the laughter subsided I told him I was in fact single and he said "Oh well 30ft would do." Shortly after that he showed me his moonshine still! You meet some folk on the canals, I tell you!
I agree with so many of your points, I have a list of likes and dislikes from all the boats look at online. I have a dream boat all planned out. Of course I have no clue really I'm in Australia, never even been on a narrow boat but a girl can dream! But first things first I believe I will need to get my hands on some Jaffa Cakes...
I have watched every second of this video! One thing I realized from the video... the need for outside sitting area with friends.... or day guests. You don't want them going through your bedroom! I'll consider just a little mod of the engine room "compartment". Maybe cut away some sides and refit a new "rear" wall.... and in the bookshelf area have a second cassette toilet for guests. I watched video No 1 - 20 today and from last to this one. Awesome stuff! Great Q&A video production and very informative! Well done!
Thank you for taking me to the other side of the world with class. Needed the amazing informative vlog. Super interesting. Very well done. And Yes. You are sociable.
I can’t sleep. OMG, I’m laughing at 4:52 AM. “Meer cat”! “Curtain twitcher”! You are not only educational, but hilarious. Good morning (or good night) from Minnesota, USA.
My wife and I lived three years on our Carver 380 Santego. It was as near perfect as we could wish for. We moored in Kemah in Texas which is near Houston. We loved cruising at night in Galveston Bay, it was amazing how well you can see at night on the open water. It was never too cold there.
I'm American, and it's been 35C, now down to 20C, so I'm drinking iced tea and eating Cheddar Pringles. I could snag some Jammie Dodgers... But I do like the discussion of narrowboats. The layouts have things in common and different from RVs. Popping up to check things out of prairie dogging here, because they pop up from their holes to check things out. I do look forward to your new vlogs and occasionally visiting the old ones.
Very well thought out and very interesting. I have my imaginary narrow boat constructed in my mind with just the right set of features and the perfect layout. Now I'm just waiting for our government to construct a network of canals here in the US.
garyabc we have some nice canals here in NY and then you have access to the entire gorgeous upstate from NYC to the Great Lakes. I taught my kids to fish on the locks of the historic Erie Canal and there are such lovely picnic areas along most of the locks. Summer finds many festivals along both the Hudson and the Mohawk Rivers as well as some of the feeder canals including the Tugboat Festival in the fall. While I do not recall seeing narrowboats here, there are every other sort and many folks living on them for the season. Obviously, the rivers are iced over in the winter and boats either go south or into dry dock.
@@farmwife7944 Yes, I see that there is a marina in Macedon, NY that rents narrowboats on the Erie canal. On the Erie canal boaters just call on the radio and the staff operates the lock for you. Also, as you know, there's are connected lakes with clean water for swimming and fishing, some without speed limits. But somehow the UK canal network is calling me. We may try a few weeks with a hire boat this summer. Looks like the cost for us would be about the same NY or UK.
@@rareairvideos3070 It's a shame. There used to be a canal and aqueduct near us in Connecticut but they are long gone. Replaced first by the railroad and now "rails to trails" paved bike and hiking path.
Just have been watching your Episode 162. It's quite the life. If I were alone, I'd come to the UK and at least take on a narrow boat for a couple of summer months. I cannot do that at this time and we Americans don't have such lovely waterways to cruise on. Thanks for sharing your life and your home with us.
You come across as a very genuine, down to earth nice person. I have enjoyed your videos. I appreciate the approach you take. The best video so far has been the one on the river Avon.
Fascinating presentation . I almost followed your thinking .. my friend Pete Emerson had a lovely narrowboat with a fully equipped workshop in the front 1/3 .. Keep up the enthusiasm . and drive / steer responsibly . His single bed served as the couch . The mooring he was at in Brownhills was well served with full workshops for hull blasting and mechanical servicing .. the owner of the moorings had a full sized Jet Ranger helicopter . There was even a side lock where the boats could be floated onto trestles allowing for hull servicing and any under waterline servicing . Enjoy .. Best regards Richard and Jane in Portugal ..Previously . Hinckley Leicestershire UK.
Every year or two, I come across a channel that initially is just mildly interesting - but then I get hooked and end up having to go back and binge-watch every single video from the very beginning. Here we go again...
Great video again. I recommend spraying the coal dust with a little water before moving. It stops the majority of the dust settling on your very clean furniture.
"This is going to be *way* more than just a one cup of tea vlog. ... This is an entire pot of tea with tea cozy..." I fully support the Tea-scale for measuring vlog length. (and 9:32 really needs to be a gif)
Kettle is on the boil, looks to be a good long one, Thank you ... Sir... I appreciate hearing any live aboard messages, be that fireside or not.... but quite nice that way, mine is a wood burner on the bulkhead, I use pellets..... I live aboard; and that in it self is a reason to think about its accomodations.... BRAVO....I agree, the social area in me boat is the cockpit... the area where most socializing happens , my PCC, is forty six foot Cutter....and the Cockpit is almost 12 ft. and six wide with couch seats, and wood trim... its a marvelous place to have a happy hour even dinner for six, ....and still can steer a long tiller of more than four ft w/ extension.... Cheers....
Semi Trad prices now go up... lol I live a stressful life and your vids help me relax and enhance my wellbeing. Educated rambling on a subject I know noting about and probably will never get a chance to live.
Hi David - just caught up with this particular video: we have a semi-trad and totally agree with your comments about the sociable aspect although I sometimes wonder whether access to the engine might be better on some other layouts? Also a couple of other points: Firstly I would certainly recommend a diesel stove, we have a Bubble corner stove which works very well, is very controllable when correctly set up and has a back boiler to circulate heat through radiators. Of course you can have a dry Bubble stove as well, and there is virtually no mess or dust - it runs for weeks without cleaning out - but you might have to give some thought to the fuel supply depending on the position in the boat. We have a separate diesel tank in the bow because our stove is at the front (we don't have reverse layout) but the radiator arrangement ensures the heat is well distributed. Secondly, we don't have a cratch cover but I have recently seen some boats with squarer covers on the front supported by aluminium frames like a pram-hood, which appear to give a much better shaped internal space and would be much easier to add to an existing boat than a steel roof extension. But as our saloon is at the front we like to sit out in the open well deck anyway and we have a little camping table that just fits in there for the sunny day lunch/evening drinks! Regards - Nigel (NB Concorde)
This vlog was very informative and aligns very much with how I would design a narrow boat, namely a cruiser stern (preferably squared off), reverse layout and with bow area roofed (and kept to a minimum since the larger area at the stern would render that redundant.) I think I'd dispense with the dinette in favour of more space in the galley, saloon and bedroom, but use a gate leg table with captains chairs like yours. 4 smaller folding dining chairs would do for when visitors are round for a meal - just push the captains chairs out of the way on such occasions. I also feel an inflatable mattress should cover the odd occasion people stay over (in lieu of a sofa bed or convertible dinette). I hate the idea of a sofa staring at the side of the boat. If sat talking to someone you are either talking without looking at them or you are twisted awkwardly to see each other. I also like the idea of a Houdini Hatch or skylights. I'm 6 feet tall and it looks like the light tends to be better for shorter people in a narrow boat. Now for the questions (and sorry they are so long): 1. I note the Norfolk Broads boats often have lower gunnels so when seated inside you can see out horizontally, not just the sky Great for watching water birds and passing boats. I have also seen one narrow boat on another vlog (merely as they passed it by) with a lowered gunnel roughly where I expect the saloon to be. Do you think that could catch on? Is there a reason against it? 2. Motive power. I know you have been asked this but the vlogs you refer back to are now some years old and since electric power, or more importantly battery and charging tech have progressed so far so fast. Would you think that a boat with a soundproofed genset plus loads of solar and electric propulsion is feasible yet? I hate the sound of diesels chugging and also note that it is necessary to only run at about 1,300 to 1,500 rpm which is way below the peak efficiency for these engines. It seems to me that a generator that is only used when necessary that when running is at it's peak designed efficiency could be a good option. If you are alone perhaps a chugging diesel is okay but for couples/families/groups not having to shout when communicating from galley to helm seems good, as does the ability to listen to the sounds of nature while on the move. I do wonder about the initial cost difference and then the running costs. As a bonus, using the generator at the right times to replenish the traction batteries could give heating for the boat via a heat exchanger and also offer electric heating perhaps. Lots of maths involved there to work out practicalities. I could do the number crunching but I don't have the parameters to work with. 3. Water tanks size. I see all manner of choices here but then also so many people running out of water. What is the maximum tank size you feel should be considered for a narrow boat? Especially if a pump out is being chosen (since I believe that would mean extra water usage). Also, have you encountered anyone using canal water for flushing the toilet on a pump out? (Canal as the source, not the destination). 4. Water source. Sailing yachts often have water makers onboard. I've heard of them being installed on wide beams. They are very compact. Have you looked into the practicalities, cost and running cost for a narrow boat? Sailing boats often run them off solar, but more so in warner climates. It could potentially save the size of the volume of the water tank to offer extra storage, though I expect a small tank would still be needed depending on the speed the unit can 'make' clean water from canal water. 5. While other vessels have evolved over time to have better rudder designs the narrow boat appears to have a rudder that James Brindley would recognise. I note tugs often have a cowling round the propeller - provides more efficient power but is not suitable for high speeds - not an issue on a narrow boat. This is sometimes made to double as the rudder by joining the cowling to the tiller so it turns as a normal rudder but with the propeller there inside - almost acting as a directional nozzle, perhaps the forerunner to waterjet propulsion. This means the rudder is a little further forward being round the propeller rather than behind it. I could imagine that being a good thing in locks - easier to keep clear of the sill. I'm just not sure whether it would help or hinder with weeds. It would protect the propeller from solid objects like supermarket trolleys thrown in the cut. Something to ponder now the evenings have drawn in and the weather has cooled down in UK.
Very interesting once again. I have had caravan experience and feel quite a few ideas could be adapted to the narrowboat. You are so easy to listen to, and have a great 'style'. Happy deciding.
Semi trad all the way Dave! It’s the best use of space. No argument. You also have the lockable seating and still plenty of room for engine access. Pram cover is easier to take down and put up than a cruiser stern. Buying our boat we made sure it had the bedroom near the bow. There’s nothing worse than keep walking through the bedroom to grab a quick cuppa. Ours boat has the lounge at the rear, then L shaped dinette, and also L shaped galley, then walk through bathroom. Best use of space once again. We would highly recommend this layout. We also have 2 roof windows which help a lot with extra light. They aren’t hatches but the extra light is a real benefit .We have a 60 foot incidentally. We are researched a lot as well. We wouldn’t, change from this. Good luck mate.
My Dad has a Semi Trad boat with removable benches and a cover for when it is moored. Seats 4 people over the engine cover plus the driver doing their - stuff tillering. Very sociable.
To reduce dust when emptying the dustpan of the stove use a household plant water spray. We have a stove in our kitchen and dampening down the ashes will help reduce dust.
I am new to this chanel but say i realy enjoy it. Being a Swede living in London i been look at the narrowboats and your chanel got me to dream :) This video was realy nice to understand some of the diffrences of the layouts. Been looking at alot of boats latley on the net. One day i can get my own. Ps Sorry about the spelling. Ds /A viking in London
The important thing I took from all of that was that it's best not to proffer custard creams when jaffa cakes have already been theoretically accepted. It took me a full minute before I was able to pay full attention again...
A great vlog, thank you. We hire (4 people) several Narrowboats in September to November, so we also know the problem of condensate on the single glazed windows. Nothing is more terrible than dropping five ice-cold drops of water on your neck in the morning. That's why we bought transparent foils with two-sided adhesive strips at the hardware store and glue most of the windows for this cold time, but not in the bathroom and in the kitchen. The air between the pane of glass and the film serves as thermal insulation, as it is in the normal apartment windows. Sufficient to prevent condensation to about -3 degrees, I think. Cooler we had not experienced it, only ice and hoarfrost on the roof. Also, when using mostly fresh air is organized through the doors, some of which also have forced ventilation. Simple and easy to go. best regards from river Spree, Berlin Tiergarten
I know what you mean about trad sterns. Some of the most memorable times I have had on canals, is when sitting out on a cruiser stern after sunset, watching wildlife.
I reckon the second alternator wouldn’t make much difference when you’re cruising, because the engine is running for so long anyway, but it would allow you to charge the batteries a lot more quickly by running the engine while moored.
David, while I can see the diesel stove is more efficient, the charm of the wood/coal stove in my opinion far outweighs the diesel's advantages. The "fireside chats" would be very different as "dieselside chats"! Wood fireplaces give a warmth that goes beyond the BTUs (your units, remember!), one that can't be had with diesel, propane or petrol. Just my $0.02. I love your term, "curtain twitcher" - when I was a teen I'd work on cars in our large driveway. We had a nosy neighbor your term reminded me of, and she called the police on my one evening when I was changing the starter in my dad's car. By the top the police arrived I was finished and inside the house when the two officers knocked at the door. Since I'd recently eluded the police on my motocross bike that day, I thought it wise to NOT answer the door and have my dad do so. I overheard the conversation as an officer explained "your neighbor saw..." and chuckled, as it was simply that neighbor again, and I chatted with the officers, laughing about the situation. In that case she was a "curtain twitcher" who often let her mind take her away when she'd see some innocent occurence!
As a boater on the chilly Puget Sound who spends many a night anchored out, the comfort, convenience, and reliability of a diesel heater is a requisite. So compact and thermostat equipped, the warm air quietly flowing from multiple ducts is a welcome relief after a long day sailing to remote locales. Plus, I haven’t the space to accommodate a wood stove!
I found your two seasons on a streaming channel and loved it. You're a wonderful storyteller and your voice is lovely. I would want a shorter boat, around 40 feet. I admire your ability to manage a 57-footer.
@@CruisingTheCut , that's fantastic and I'll be watching. I'll bet the collection blood pressure of your viewers goes down whenever they watch one of your videos.
Hi David. Just a tip for you. I saw you did a vlog on cleaning your canvas cover some time ago and you realized the chemical you used should not drain into the canal. I use baking soda and white vinegar. It has a multitude of uses for cleaning around my boat; it's cheap and is completely environmentally friendly.
Just watching your, ( once again fantastic) vlog and you mentioned about the dust created when cleaning your fire. Not quite sure if this would work but how bout giving it a quick fine spray of water to prevent dust rising? Just thinking. Gary
Nice video, David. My vote is for diesel heating, but then I’m not you. No mention of bow thrusters, too expensive? Glad to hear your weather is nice. Looking forward to your next post. Take care my friend
There are very few occasions when a bow thruster would be needed, I think. All the navigations on the canal, even the tight corners can be easily turned by using the tiller, as can most maneouvres such as mooring. A thruster could come in handy for tight spots in some marinas but generally it's not a necessary item but a luxury so it's not on my "must have" list.
David, I think i have binge watched 99% of your vlogs during this pandemic. Day and night. All the time my good lady suspicious,wondering of what on gods earth is he (meaning me). Watching and so smiley about. I have never commented on any of your vids. Only, I had to come back and comment on this one. You say you have to wait until your lovely boat is sold before you can buy. I just want to say that if anybody happens to see how well you care and maintain this boat, i would presume you would sell in a moment. Therefore no chain, as in a mortgage for instance. I for one would be very interested. I loved Vandemonium too but a different vlog. May i also take this opportunity to say thank you for making my lockdown so entertaining, tranquil and somewhat educational. Cheers!
Just now getting, chronologically, to this episode, and was always wondering about the advantages (or disadvantages) of your trad stern. It certainly does seem you gain some covered storage space, versus a couple of low lockers, but I had in fact noticed that you are very cozy with guests that want to spend time with you at the helm. Thank you for solving the mystery. I also am not a big extrovert, but if I were to enjoy someone’s company enough to invite them into my floating home, I would probably like them at the stern with me. Actually, same reason I like the reverse layout boats. If the are not actually on the stern, they are close enough to pass up a Boodles martini! Love the VLOG. Thank you for taking so much time to share the joy of the canals.
Top tip....Use a pump action spray bottle and mildly soak the ash before removing...thats what i do...works a treat...love my woodburner...free heat, except obviously when using coal 👍
In reflection, I must praise the sheer crafting of these videos, which does not go unnoticed and is the reason for 55.000 subscribers on what must admittedly be a "specialist" interest. The thumbnail for instance, with the boat in question "reflected" in the depths of the cut in question; the interposed illustrations of the points being made (cratchcover, trad stern etc.); in other videos the alternation between direct on-video speech and voiceover. I think TV lost a great talent here which is YT's gain. I just hope YT knows that and can resist the EU's attempts to push corporate copyright interests at the expense of normal TH-camrs. Apparently, some "compromise" has been reached, which sounds threatening.
I stumbled across these video's a few months ago, and find them absolutely fascinating. They have turned my time in lockdown to almost a pleasure. I have now started viewing them from the start, but often cheat when I see a clever title on a newer one that intrigues me.
Just bought a boat and am pleased that a lot of the decisions that I made as to what seemed appropriate are the ones you recommended. (Yes watching the video after the purchase was a bit daft). Given it is a second-hand boat I couldn't have everything I wanted but I'm looking forward to being on the boat at the end of April 2020.
I could listen to you all day. I hope you do get your second boat and take us along!!
No boat ok.
No interest in narrow boating non, zero, nada but just watched 36 minutes and five of this, now i'm watching the shopping forecast. Great channel, just fascinating
Hahaha thank you ;-)
I have absolutely zero chance of ever getting a boat yet I watched the entire vid!
same here til I retire in 40 years .. by time government lets you you have to be past 80 in 2050
These vlogs are like a comfort blanket following a stressful day. Not sure why, but they are for me. Thanks.
Same for me! They are a blissful retreat.
If you are looking for a second income while you’re aboard your narrow boat, I would think you would be fabulously successful at reading for Audible Books. Your voice is relaxing and a pleasure to listen to. I often pop one of your videos on and listen as I begin my to wind down for the night. Keep up the great work.
If Audible want to give me a call, they'd be very welcome indeed!
Excellent choice! I would love to listen to some audiobooks read by him.
@@CruisingTheCut I keep hearing you as a bit of John Cleese, with an occasional visit from Oliver Postgate.
So the thing about doing voice over work, whether narrating for audiobooks, animation voices, or general voice over work like for documentaries or televisions shows that have a narrator (wonder years or young Sheldon for an American example, can’t come up with a BBC version in the middle of the night with cold meds kicking in) standard contracts mean you are paid based upon the number of minutes your voice is in the final cut, not on how long it takes to record
I've spent this time sitting at the Department of Motor Vehicles in the U.S. Current wait time is approximately 2.5 hours.This video was a much needed distraction. Thank you
I hope at least by the time you read this reply you have managed to exit the queue!!
The length of the video was very fortunate because my coffee had been consumed prior to your Meerkat Mooring the Cut comment and demonstration. Had I still been trying to drink it, I likely would have had an accident.
approx m:ss
1:57 how long 3:35
4:02 stern 6:50
8:33 saloon
10:35 dinette
11:20 side hatch 12:30
13:00 bathroom 14:20
14:40 galley
16:35 solar
18:35 wind turbines
18:49 water tank
19:45 galley \ underfloor storage
20:40 rear hatch
21:33 workshop\utility
23:22 alternators
25:05 engine
26:55 coal storage
28:45 welldeck roof
31:45 curtain twitching
32:03 dogbox\hatches\windows\condensation
34:18 summary
As a Floridian who had no idea these locks even existed before your channel extremely randomly came up one night while I was drinking and browsing TH-cam, I simply adore your content.
Keep doing what you do man.
Thank you!
Why am I watching this? Why have I watched hours of your videos and also your van ones too? I blame lockdown. I do think you are an excellent presenter and your subtle but consistent enthusiasm for living on a boat/in a van has kept me entertained during this rather strange year.
You should do kore of these videos. They are great. You do a great job with the vlogs, but I like the ones when you do them in the boat. It gives us a sense of what it’s like living in it. Thx
I have to say, I started (binge-watching) your videos just yesterday and have found myself really enjoying your videos! Your format and clarity, with the right mix of humour, is really wonderful! Thank you for your content!
Thank you
Well, as long as you keep your very useful, relaxing, precise, informative, nice, etc vlog videos coming... well, count me in... many thanks.
“Curtain twitcher”. What a fabulous description. That’s what i feel like when i sit on my front porch.
David, I hope, you win the lottery. Having a boat built, they way you wanted, would be outstanding! "Carry On, Win The Lottery"
The passion with which you address the alternative stern alone makes it clear that you absolutely do need a new boat with that option!
Hi Dave, I live in Pennsylvania along the Monongahela River about 60 river miles south of Pittsburgh. I have thoroughly enjoyed your v-logs, and through them learned a lot
about your Country and canals and narrowboats. Being a boater here, I have found it all very interesting. For all the time you've put into it, Thank you very much.
isn’t 60 miles south of pittsburgh west virginia ?
A "boating" video with nearly zero actual boating, and yet one of the most interesting of your vlogs. Well done, sir.
You are such a nice person who has given me a whole new way of looking at life and planning my future. See you on the cut.
Best tool for clearing condensation from windows in a caravan, motorhome or narrowboat is a Kärcher Window Vac, absolutely brilliant. We used one in our caravan for many, many years, we even lived in it for 3 years, at -15 degrees one winter, and it was invaluable. 💐💐
My adventure life, I live thru these vlogs, and I mean that in the most positive way! Love it!
David: “I’m not very social...” LOL! Love your droll humor on your fascinating videos!
Your narration is very peaceful. I put your video on and listen while I work a dream of narrow boats
Agree!
Thank you so much for your reflections over the passed 3 years which my wife and I have enjoyed and so grateful to you. We have been reviewing so many designs of boat layouts, did enjoy ticking the box which we are sold on and interesting are yours. The only item you we also care about is having a cross bed to enjoy the extra width. Thank you so much for providing the reality of life aboard including raising the bar of a washing machine that actually is fit for purpose. Thank you Dave
Before you go to take the ash out of the stove, spray the tops of the ash with a simple water bottle. Works great.
Well, with the popularity of your channel, I would have to imagine a bidding war if your boat went on the market. Cha-ching!💲!
Just love your honesty, insight and journalist touch, fantastic to watch!!
I find you entirely delightful and I so enjoy riding along with you on the canals. Thank you 😁
Fascinating video for those of us that dream in minute detail. Thank you!
Yes, yes, yes, reverse layout seems ideal! The bedroom would have a private deck and gets the bedroom as far from guests as possible. And guests are near the tiller in the salon or galley/dinette.
Curtain twitcher; priceless. Rock on dude, 10/9. And 11/9 for presentation.
gyrojomo LOL reminded me of a monty python skit
I am just coming up to one year living on my 59 foot traditional stern boat so this discussion was very interesting. I have a Beta 43 engine with two alternators and a Travelpower 230v generator and yes a 35-38 hp engine would be fine. The travelpower is great for doing the laundry in my washing machine while travelling but I wouldn't pay the serious cost to have one fitted. The engine room is great for storing my folding bike but I do appreciate the appeal of a semi-trad stern. I have a utility area in front of the engine room for the washing machine and storage cupboard above and it is really useful. I had a 'pointy' cratch and had a new one made, widening the point from 5" to 16" and the difference in usable space is amazing. I saw many boats on the Shropshire Union canal last summer with the extended steel roof line over the well deck and they looked very nice and practical. I could go on but I'll just mention one more thing, I have a centre-mounted fridge/freezer with an eye level oven and grill above. When I face it the 4 ring gas hob is on my left and the kitchen sink is on the right - and it works really well. I have done three course roast dinners with that layout (as long as you wash up as you go). I hope this and your video helps any aspiring boaters out there ☺
Great info! Cheers
To help with your dust problem use a spray bottle of water to dampen the ash before you move it. This is what we would do during the winter when we had a wood stove in the house.
There was a big oversight with this video David. You recommend Jaffa Cakes but did not adjust the duration of the video to account for the reduction in total Jaffa Cakes found in a standard box. I spent the final 5 minutes of the video craving for more Jaffa Cakes.
Final 5 minutes????........the first box would have been gone in the first minute ;)
You are a new find for me David. Your channel is my new happy place! It brings about a feeling of lightness. And this vlog - in particular - is blooming brilliant. I’m not a boater (yet) and it answers so many questions that I already had, as well as a few I’d not even thought about. Thank you for sharing your journey - and wisdom/reflections - with us. :)
It has been an amazing three years. Thank you for all of your VLOGs and "not" a VLOG videos. Looking forward to many more.
I've just watched this (for a second or perhaps more time).
We (my much better half and I) are toying with the idea of buying a narrowboat to be able to spend a few months every year exploring the network.
Because of residency and taxation rules, it would have to be a "six months less a day" boat. We've been surfing the various brokerage sites but not finding anything that ticks most of the boxes. The whole COVID-19 nightmare is another story.
I have taken to drawing out rough sketches (my artistic skills are several levels below your canal route planning maps) of what I (think) I would like...and this video of yours has been quite helpful...
So... moving from stern forwards...
57 foot(ish) semi trad with lockers/seats either side...
Pullman dinette (elevated) at the stern with 90 degree steps down from stern.Big windows either side
U-shaped galley... oh yes... under floor wine cooler and food cool storage panels! Big windows either side
Bathroom (walk through with lav and hand basin behind a sliding door). I'm still torn between pump out and cassette. (portholes either side)
Bedroom... cross bed or fixed double....hmmm... (portholes either side)
Saloon... enough space for a couple of chairs and a diesel fired stove.(Big windows either side)
Maximum use throughout of under gunwale storage/shelves/cupboards.
Bow thruster... had a 42 foot hire boat and really like the idea of being able to turn the bow around.
Now all I have to do is fully retire and sell the house and find somewhere to live for six months a year and figure out how/where to store a narrowboat for six months and.....
Engine space? Old school shipyard design the living spaces at the rear of the boat with the traditional stove to keep the tiller man warm, remember how many times in the old canal films the tiller man is standing just inside the hatch letting the warm air easily keep you comfy.
In the engine room is anybody still building a two or three cylinder diesel but with modern updates? The large over square design allows it to create gobs of torque, plenty of power to run two alternators and provide more than sufficient hot water to heat your domestic hot water and then use a large storage tank so you could turn on the cast iron/steel radiators to warm up the boats interior. Open two thermostatic valves to prevent the water from getting too hot and overheating the engine. Manually open the two valves for summer operations.
Food for thought.
Cheers!!!!
Sounds very logical. We've only just found narrowboats maybe a year or more ago and fell in love with them and the canals. Hope to visit one day and never leave!
Exceptionally clear and concise as usual....great job.
This is a comment on your whole series, not just this video (as I have just finished watching your entire series ... to date). David, I have really enjoyed your videos. I am from Canada and spent parts of two summers narrowboating in England (2002: Milton Keynes - Braunston - return; and 2004 Market Harborough - Napton - return). I loved the pace of vacationing at 3 mph. In Canada 3 mph would be boring (and would take forever to get anywhere), but in England there is a village (and pub) about every 3 miles so I felt like I was seeing a lot of England that one would not get a chance to see any other way. I am nostalgic for those trips and would love to do it again, even to retire to England's canals at least part time. Your videos are informative, entertaining and feed my nostalgia for the canals. Thank you. Please keep the videos coming.
I'm glad you have such marvellous memories and that you've enjoyed the videos. Cheers!
I've never seen a narrow boat in my life but somehow I love your channel! even if it's just talking about the best boat layout. Also i really liked the vlog about lock gates and the one with the boat lift. It's good to see there's more than 200 vlogs now, lot of catching up to do.
I tease myself with the idea of canal boat living. This was great as it answered many of the simple questions. Even alone I think I too would be a fan of an off corridor loo.
Can you do another ‘Thoughts’ vlog again? I don’t know why, but it’s enjoyable listening to your thoughts sitting next to the fire. What a life!
One day!
I haven't got a river boat, don't plan to live in one but I have just spent 36 min listening to your experiences about living in one!!!
Haha thank you
Ahoy David,
I am a marine electrician in Port Charlotte, Florida. The concept of two alternators on one diesel is evidently unique to Europe. I have never seen it in a US boat. It is something I would tend to discourage because of added complexity in the system, \another add-on restricting access to the block, the need to isolate house and starting battery systems, and the added expense of sheaves, mounts, and the extra alternator. I think it would be better to simply increase the size of the original alternator. Take special care - an increase in current places a heavier load on wiring and it is almost always necessary to increase wiring size and add circuit protection.
Ed Wiser I would disagree that two alternators are more complex than a single one. Yes, you have another belt to worry about, but keeping the starter and domestic electrics simplifies wiring greatly. How would you manage charging two battery banks with one alternator? Possible yes, but complex. With two alternators and two systems you can at least jump the engine off the domestic system in an emergency. You are also unlikely to deplete your starter battery to the extent that it won't start the engine. The space taken up is hardly a consideration, alternators are not big and generally mounted above or to the side of the engine which is usually centrally located in the engine bay, so there is empty space to both sides.
Wouldn't you just know it. It wasn't until I left a part of the country with nice rivers and streams and moved to the Mojave desert that I found your channel. Well, I still greatly enjoy it, and always look forward to watching a few of your episodes a day. Thanks.
How I like my boats;
Stern. Big open deck for company while cruising.
Bow. Private veranda for morning tea. (Bedroom at front)
I got chatting to a nice boater on the tow path and asked the age-old question; "What size boat would you recommend for a new boater?" His answer was "Ten foot longer than however far your wife can shout. That's why mine is 60ft!" After the laughter subsided I told him I was in fact single and he said "Oh well 30ft would do." Shortly after that he showed me his moonshine still! You meet some folk on the canals, I tell you!
Well done 👍. You definitely are a professional in front of the camera. You are most enjoyable.
Thanks so much 😊
I agree with so many of your points, I have a list of likes and dislikes from all the boats look at online. I have a dream boat all planned out. Of course I have no clue really I'm in Australia, never even been on a narrow boat but a girl can dream! But first things first I believe I will need to get my hands on some Jaffa Cakes...
I have watched every second of this video! One thing I realized from the video... the need for outside sitting area with friends.... or day guests. You don't want them going through your bedroom! I'll consider just a little mod of the engine room "compartment". Maybe cut away some sides and refit a new "rear" wall.... and in the bookshelf area have a second cassette toilet for guests. I watched video No 1 - 20 today and from last to this one. Awesome stuff! Great Q&A video production and very informative! Well done!
Very interesting 36 minutes. I'm not a boat owner, just sitting in my chair daydreaming, but I really enjoy your vlogs. Keep up the good work!!
Me too
Thank you for taking me to the other side of the world with class.
Needed the amazing informative vlog.
Super interesting.
Very well done.
And
Yes.
You are sociable.
I can’t sleep. OMG, I’m laughing at 4:52 AM. “Meer cat”! “Curtain twitcher”! You are not only educational, but hilarious. Good morning (or good night) from Minnesota, USA.
Very funny I thought too
I'm with you, keep the head SEPARATE from the rest of the boat.
My wife and I lived three years on our Carver 380 Santego. It was as near perfect as we could wish for. We moored in Kemah in Texas which is near Houston. We loved cruising at night in Galveston Bay, it was amazing how well you can see at night on the open water. It was never too cold there.
Interesting Q &A David,we need to see one of your famous sketches of your new ideal boat,Chris
I'm American, and it's been 35C, now down to 20C, so I'm drinking iced tea and eating Cheddar Pringles. I could snag some Jammie Dodgers...
But I do like the discussion of narrowboats. The layouts have things in common and different from RVs.
Popping up to check things out of prairie dogging here, because they pop up from their holes to check things out.
I do look forward to your new vlogs and occasionally visiting the old ones.
Very well thought out and very interesting. I have my imaginary narrow boat constructed in my mind with just the right set of features and the perfect layout. Now I'm just waiting for our government to construct a network of canals here in the US.
garyabc we have some nice canals here in NY and then you have access to the entire gorgeous upstate from NYC to the Great Lakes. I taught my kids to fish on the locks of the historic Erie Canal and there are such lovely picnic areas along most of the locks. Summer finds many festivals along both the Hudson and the Mohawk Rivers as well as some of the feeder canals including the Tugboat Festival in the fall. While I do not recall seeing narrowboats here, there are every other sort and many folks living on them for the season. Obviously, the rivers are iced over in the winter and boats either go south or into dry dock.
Same here. What congressperson do we have to lobby?
@@farmwife7944 Yes, I see that there is a marina in Macedon, NY that rents narrowboats on the Erie canal. On the Erie canal boaters just call on the radio and the staff operates the lock for you. Also, as you know, there's are connected lakes with clean water for swimming and fishing, some without speed limits. But somehow the UK canal network is calling me. We may try a few weeks with a hire boat this summer. Looks like the cost for us would be about the same NY or UK.
@@rareairvideos3070 It's a shame. There used to be a canal and aqueduct near us in Connecticut but they are long gone. Replaced first by the railroad and now "rails to trails" paved bike and hiking path.
Just have been watching your Episode 162. It's quite the life. If I were alone, I'd come to the UK and at least take on a narrow boat for a couple of summer months. I cannot do that at this time and we Americans don't have such lovely waterways to cruise on. Thanks for sharing your life and your home with us.
You come across as a very genuine, down to earth nice person. I have enjoyed your videos. I appreciate the approach you take. The best video so far has been the one on the river Avon.
Thank you. That was my favourite journey so far too.
Fascinating presentation . I almost followed your thinking .. my friend Pete Emerson had a lovely narrowboat with a fully equipped workshop in the front 1/3 .. Keep up the enthusiasm . and drive / steer responsibly . His single bed served as the couch . The mooring he was at in Brownhills was well served with full workshops for hull blasting and mechanical servicing .. the owner of the moorings had a full sized Jet Ranger helicopter . There was even a side lock where the boats could be floated onto trestles allowing for hull servicing and any under waterline servicing . Enjoy .. Best regards Richard and Jane in Portugal ..Previously . Hinckley Leicestershire UK.
Stove dust mitigation - Mist the ashes with water from a spray bottle.
Informative video David. I did follow all the way through.
Every year or two, I come across a channel that initially is just mildly interesting - but then I get hooked and end up having to go back and binge-watch every single video from the very beginning. Here we go again...
Hahaha welcome along
Absolutely brilliant Vlog with plenty of food for thought, the questions were great and the answers complete and well thought out.
Great video
Great video again. I recommend spraying the coal dust with a little water before moving. It stops the majority of the dust settling on your very clean furniture.
Who needs delta waves, mindfulness meditation when you have this channel.
Wow...well done for answering all those questions. So informative and very interesting and so beautifully presented. Thanks
Glad you enjoyed it!
I WISH YOU A BRAND NEW BOAT WITH EVERYTHING YOUR HEART DESIRES.
"This is going to be *way* more than just a one cup of tea vlog. ... This is an entire pot of tea with tea cozy..." I fully support the Tea-scale for measuring vlog length. (and 9:32 really needs to be a gif)
Kettle is on the boil, looks to be a good long one, Thank you ... Sir... I appreciate hearing any live aboard messages, be that fireside or not.... but quite nice that way, mine is a wood burner on the bulkhead, I use pellets..... I live aboard; and that in it self is a reason to think about its accomodations.... BRAVO....I agree, the social area in me boat is the cockpit... the area where most socializing happens , my PCC, is forty six foot Cutter....and the Cockpit is almost 12 ft. and six wide with couch seats, and wood trim... its a marvelous place to have a happy hour even dinner for six, ....and still can steer a long tiller of more than four ft w/ extension.... Cheers....
Semi Trad prices now go up... lol I live a stressful life and your vids help me relax and enhance my wellbeing. Educated rambling on a subject I know noting about and probably will never get a chance to live.
Hi David - just caught up with this particular video: we have a semi-trad and totally agree with your comments about the sociable aspect although I sometimes wonder whether access to the engine might be better on some other layouts?
Also a couple of other points: Firstly I would certainly recommend a diesel stove, we have a Bubble corner stove which works very well, is very controllable when correctly set up and has a back boiler to circulate heat through radiators. Of course you can have a dry Bubble stove as well, and there is virtually no mess or dust - it runs for weeks without cleaning out - but you might have to give some thought to the fuel supply depending on the position in the boat. We have a separate diesel tank in the bow because our stove is at the front (we don't have reverse layout) but the radiator arrangement ensures the heat is well distributed. Secondly, we don't have a cratch cover but I have recently seen some boats with squarer covers on the front supported by aluminium frames like a pram-hood, which appear to give a much better shaped internal space and would be much easier to add to an existing boat than a steel roof extension. But as our saloon is at the front we like to sit out in the open well deck anyway and we have a little camping table that just fits in there for the sunny day lunch/evening drinks!
Regards - Nigel (NB Concorde)
Thanks for that, good to hear about the diesel heater especially. Cheers!
This vlog was very informative and aligns very much with how I would design a narrow boat, namely a cruiser stern (preferably squared off), reverse layout and with bow area roofed (and kept to a minimum since the larger area at the stern would render that redundant.) I think I'd dispense with the dinette in favour of more space in the galley, saloon and bedroom, but use a gate leg table with captains chairs like yours. 4 smaller folding dining chairs would do for when visitors are round for a meal - just push the captains chairs out of the way on such occasions. I also feel an inflatable mattress should cover the odd occasion people stay over (in lieu of a sofa bed or convertible dinette). I hate the idea of a sofa staring at the side of the boat. If sat talking to someone you are either talking without looking at them or you are twisted awkwardly to see each other. I also like the idea of a Houdini Hatch or skylights. I'm 6 feet tall and it looks like the light tends to be better for shorter people in a narrow boat. Now for the questions (and sorry they are so long):
1. I note the Norfolk Broads boats often have lower gunnels so when seated inside you can see out horizontally, not just the sky Great for watching water birds and passing boats. I have also seen one narrow boat on another vlog (merely as they passed it by) with a lowered gunnel roughly where I expect the saloon to be. Do you think that could catch on? Is there a reason against it?
2. Motive power. I know you have been asked this but the vlogs you refer back to are now some years old and since electric power, or more importantly battery and charging tech have progressed so far so fast. Would you think that a boat with a soundproofed genset plus loads of solar and electric propulsion is feasible yet? I hate the sound of diesels chugging and also note that it is necessary to only run at about 1,300 to 1,500 rpm which is way below the peak efficiency for these engines. It seems to me that a generator that is only used when necessary that when running is at it's peak designed efficiency could be a good option. If you are alone perhaps a chugging diesel is okay but for couples/families/groups not having to shout when communicating from galley to helm seems good, as does the ability to listen to the sounds of nature while on the move. I do wonder about the initial cost difference and then the running costs. As a bonus, using the generator at the right times to replenish the traction batteries could give heating for the boat via a heat exchanger and also offer electric heating perhaps. Lots of maths involved there to work out practicalities. I could do the number crunching but I don't have the parameters to work with.
3. Water tanks size. I see all manner of choices here but then also so many people running out of water. What is the maximum tank size you feel should be considered for a narrow boat? Especially if a pump out is being chosen (since I believe that would mean extra water usage). Also, have you encountered anyone using canal water for flushing the toilet on a pump out? (Canal as the source, not the destination).
4. Water source. Sailing yachts often have water makers onboard. I've heard of them being installed on wide beams. They are very compact. Have you looked into the practicalities, cost and running cost for a narrow boat? Sailing boats often run them off solar, but more so in warner climates. It could potentially save the size of the volume of the water tank to offer extra storage, though I expect a small tank would still be needed depending on the speed the unit can 'make' clean water from canal water.
5. While other vessels have evolved over time to have better rudder designs the narrow boat appears to have a rudder that James Brindley would recognise. I note tugs often have a cowling round the propeller - provides more efficient power but is not suitable for high speeds - not an issue on a narrow boat. This is sometimes made to double as the rudder by joining the cowling to the tiller so it turns as a normal rudder but with the propeller there inside - almost acting as a directional nozzle, perhaps the forerunner to waterjet propulsion. This means the rudder is a little further forward being round the propeller rather than behind it. I could imagine that being a good thing in locks - easier to keep clear of the sill. I'm just not sure whether it would help or hinder with weeds. It would protect the propeller from solid objects like supermarket trolleys thrown in the cut.
Something to ponder now the evenings have drawn in and the weather has cooled down in UK.
Very interesting once again. I have had caravan experience and feel quite a few ideas could be adapted to the narrowboat. You are so easy to listen to, and have a great 'style'. Happy deciding.
Semi trad all the way Dave! It’s the best use of space. No argument. You also have the lockable seating and still plenty of room for engine access. Pram cover is easier to take down and put up than a cruiser stern. Buying our boat we made sure it had the bedroom near the bow. There’s nothing worse than keep walking through the bedroom to grab a quick cuppa. Ours boat has the lounge at the rear, then L shaped dinette, and also L shaped galley, then walk through bathroom. Best use of space once again. We would highly recommend this layout. We also have 2 roof windows which help a lot with extra light. They aren’t hatches but the extra light is a real benefit .We have a 60 foot incidentally. We are researched a lot as well. We wouldn’t, change from this. Good luck mate.
Cheers Malcolm, good info for me to ponder.
My Dad has a Semi Trad boat with removable benches and a cover for when it is moored. Seats 4 people over the engine cover plus the driver doing their - stuff tillering. Very sociable.
To reduce dust when emptying the dustpan of the stove use a household plant water spray. We have a stove in our kitchen and dampening down the ashes will help reduce dust.
I tried that and while it soaked the top layer of ash, all the rest still made a mess as I tipped it into the dustbin :-(
wrote something similar then looked down at comments see your comment third/fourth down. lul
I enjoy your show. It would be nice to see you spec out your own narrow boat.
I'd enjoy that too!
Exciting times ahead! I look forward to seeing how things develop. Great video.
for a couple considering moving to narrowboat later on this is a very useful video - thanks very much
I am new to this chanel but say i realy enjoy it.
Being a Swede living in London i been look at the narrowboats and your chanel got me to dream :)
This video was realy nice to understand some of the diffrences of the layouts.
Been looking at alot of boats latley on the net.
One day i can get my own.
Ps Sorry about the spelling. Ds
/A viking in London
Welcome aboard!
Hello bud,
I been following you from the start, ur vids are fantastic, honest and real, 👍👍👍👍👍
Cheers for making them
👍
The important thing I took from all of that was that it's best not to proffer custard creams when jaffa cakes have already been theoretically accepted. It took me a full minute before I was able to pay full attention again...
A great vlog, thank you. We hire (4 people) several Narrowboats in September to November, so we also know the problem of condensate on the single glazed windows. Nothing is more terrible than dropping five ice-cold drops of water on your neck in the morning. That's why we bought transparent foils with two-sided adhesive strips at the hardware store and glue most of the windows for this cold time, but not in the bathroom and in the kitchen. The air between the pane of glass and the film serves as thermal insulation, as it is in the normal apartment windows. Sufficient to prevent condensation to about -3 degrees, I think. Cooler we had not experienced it, only ice and hoarfrost on the roof. Also, when using mostly fresh air is organized through the doors, some of which also have forced ventilation. Simple and easy to go. best regards from river Spree, Berlin Tiergarten
I know what you mean about trad sterns. Some of the most memorable times I have had on canals, is when sitting out on a cruiser stern after sunset, watching wildlife.
I reckon the second alternator wouldn’t make much difference when you’re cruising, because the engine is running for so long anyway, but it would allow you to charge the batteries a lot more quickly by running the engine while moored.
David, while I can see the diesel stove is more efficient, the charm of the wood/coal stove in my opinion far outweighs the diesel's advantages. The "fireside chats" would be very different as "dieselside chats"! Wood fireplaces give a warmth that goes beyond the BTUs (your units, remember!), one that can't be had with diesel, propane or petrol. Just my $0.02.
I love your term, "curtain twitcher" - when I was a teen I'd work on cars in our large driveway. We had a nosy neighbor your term reminded me of, and she called the police on my one evening when I was changing the starter in my dad's car. By the top the police arrived I was finished and inside the house when the two officers knocked at the door. Since I'd recently eluded the police on my motocross bike that day, I thought it wise to NOT answer the door and have my dad do so. I overheard the conversation as an officer explained "your neighbor saw..." and chuckled, as it was simply that neighbor again, and I chatted with the officers, laughing about the situation. In that case she was a "curtain twitcher" who often let her mind take her away when she'd see some innocent occurence!
As a boater on the chilly Puget Sound who spends many a night anchored out, the comfort, convenience, and reliability of a diesel heater is a requisite. So compact and thermostat equipped, the warm air quietly flowing from multiple ducts is a welcome relief after a long day sailing to remote locales. Plus, I haven’t the space to accommodate a wood stove!
I found your two seasons on a streaming channel and loved it. You're a wonderful storyteller and your voice is lovely. I would want a shorter boat, around 40 feet. I admire your ability to manage a 57-footer.
Thank you. It's honestly no harder to manage a 57-footer than a 40-footer. PS Season Three is coming soon then I'll start on Season 4 ;-)
@@CruisingTheCut , that's fantastic and I'll be watching. I'll bet the collection blood pressure of your viewers goes down whenever they watch one of your videos.
Thank you for doing your show. I live in Orlando, Florida USA and find what your do great.
Hi David. Just a tip for you. I saw you did a vlog on cleaning your canvas cover some time ago and you realized the chemical you used should not drain into the canal. I use baking soda and white vinegar. It has a multitude of uses for cleaning around my boat; it's cheap and is completely environmentally friendly.
Just watching your, ( once again fantastic) vlog and you mentioned about the dust created when cleaning your fire. Not quite sure if this would work but how bout giving it a quick fine spray of water to prevent dust rising? Just thinking. Gary
Nice video, David. My vote is for diesel heating, but then I’m not you. No mention of bow thrusters, too expensive? Glad to hear your weather is nice. Looking forward to your next post. Take care my friend
There are very few occasions when a bow thruster would be needed, I think. All the navigations on the canal, even the tight corners can be easily turned by using the tiller, as can most maneouvres such as mooring. A thruster could come in handy for tight spots in some marinas but generally it's not a necessary item but a luxury so it's not on my "must have" list.
David, I think i have binge watched 99% of your vlogs during this pandemic. Day and night. All the time my good lady suspicious,wondering of what on gods earth is he (meaning me). Watching and so smiley about. I have never commented on any of your vids. Only, I had to come back and comment on this one. You say you have to wait until your lovely boat is sold before you can buy. I just want to say that if anybody happens to see how well you care and maintain this boat, i would presume you would sell in a moment. Therefore no chain, as in a mortgage for instance. I for one would be very interested. I loved Vandemonium too but a different vlog.
May i also take this opportunity to say thank you for making my lockdown so entertaining, tranquil and somewhat educational.
Cheers!
Just now getting, chronologically, to this episode, and was always wondering about the advantages (or disadvantages) of your trad stern. It certainly does seem you gain some covered storage space, versus a couple of low lockers, but I had in fact noticed that you are very cozy with guests that want to spend time with you at the helm. Thank you for solving the mystery. I also am not a big extrovert, but if I were to enjoy someone’s company enough to invite them into my floating home, I would probably like them at the stern with me. Actually, same reason I like the reverse layout boats. If the are not actually on the stern, they are close enough to pass up a Boodles martini!
Love the VLOG. Thank you for taking so much time to share the joy of the canals.
Top tip....Use a pump action spray bottle and mildly soak the ash before removing...thats what i do...works a treat...love my woodburner...free heat, except obviously when using coal 👍
In reflection, I must praise the sheer crafting of these videos, which does not go unnoticed and is the reason for 55.000 subscribers on what must admittedly be a "specialist" interest. The thumbnail for instance, with the boat in question "reflected" in the depths of the cut in question; the interposed illustrations of the points being made (cratchcover, trad stern etc.); in other videos the alternation between direct on-video speech and voiceover. I think TV lost a great talent here which is YT's gain. I just hope YT knows that and can resist the EU's attempts to push corporate copyright interests at the expense of normal TH-camrs. Apparently, some "compromise" has been reached, which sounds threatening.
Thank you!
I came prepared with a full on cooked dinner (ok a chicken pie and mixed baked veg, not a joint of meat) but now I don't half fancy a Jaffa cake.
I stumbled across these video's a few months ago, and find them absolutely fascinating. They have turned my time in lockdown to almost a pleasure. I have now started viewing them from the start, but often cheat when I see a clever title on a newer one that intrigues me.
Many thanks for a most informative video. Very useful for us wannabe boaters!
Just bought a boat and am pleased that a lot of the decisions that I made as to what seemed appropriate are the ones you recommended. (Yes watching the video after the purchase was a bit daft). Given it is a second-hand boat I couldn't have everything I wanted but I'm looking forward to being on the boat at the end of April 2020.