Types of Canal Boats: A Guide for the First Time Buyer
As a first-time canal boat owner, carefully selecting the type of boat you purchase is vital. You need to take into consideration your needs and aims as a narrow boat owner. Our guide explains three common types of canal boats on UK Inland Waterways: Traditional Stern, Cruiser Stern, and Semi-Traditional Stern, to help you choose the best type for you.
Traditional Stern
Many modern canal boats have a small deck at the back with no protection. This deck allows the crew to easily step onto land from the rear doors. Although you are capable of operating the boat from this counter, it's an unsafe practice due to the danger of being in close proximity of the propeller.
The length of the "tiller extension" allows you to stand in a safer position on the top step, located ahead of the rear doors, when steering. On a working vessel, this step would have previously rested on top of the coal box.
During colder weather, the operator can even shut the rear doors behind them, allowing relative comfort with their lower body within the cabin warmth. Only their upper body faces the elements from the hatchway.
On nicer days, many traditional-stern steerers perch on the edge of the hatchway, benefiting from the elevated viewpoint that allows visibility in all directions.
On traditional boats, the "well-deck" at the bow forms the primary viewing area, as the smaller traditional stern doesn't allow anyone, apart from the steerer, to stand on it securely.
Cruiser Stern
Designers specifically create cruiser stern narrow boats to accommodate more people on the deck. This type of boat positions the hatch and rear doors further towards the front compared to traditional boat designs. This results in a spacious open deck situated between the counter and rear doors and is shielded by a railing, potentially featuring seats, on the back and sides.
The back portion of a "cruiser" narrowboat differs from conventional boats. The larger rear deck serves as a great social area or an outdoor dining space. However, during less favourable weather conditions winter, the person steering the boat remains exposed to wind and rain.
The boat does not have an engine room. This means that the engine does not generate heat on the boat. Additionally, there is extra space above the deck. The term for this design originates from how the broad open rear deck resembles a cockpit, commonly seen on fiberglass river cruisers.
The "cruiser" stern design places the engine under the deck, unlike traditional-stern boats where it is inside the cabin. This design allows for more space in the cabin. The engine is located in a separate compartment, making it easier to access for maintenance. The overall layout of the boat is more efficient and practical.
Semi-Traditional
A semi-traditional stern represents a middle ground, attaining certain "social" advantages of a cruiser stern, while upholding a more traditional design layout and allowing some shielding for the steerer during adverse weather or colder months.
Similar to the cruiser stern, the deck is extended towards the back from the hatch and rear doors, however, the majority of the deck is safeguarded on the sides by walls that extend from the cabin sides. This arrangement creates a more sheltered space for the steerer and crew, often featuring lockers that serve as seating.
The engine is positioned beneath the deck, similar to a cruiser stern design, enabling a separation between the cabin and the engine compartment. The steps leading down to the cabin are typically situated beyond the false sides of the "semi-traditional" communal zone.
Ensure that you have insurance.
Cruising a canal can be an incredibly relaxing and rewarding past time, or even an excellent alternative to regular housing. However, with most things in life, there are risks and situations where incidents can occur. Once you have selected the correct type of narrow boat, and made your purchase, we advise that you make sure you are properly covered by an insurance policy before you set off in your vessel. Contact us today to speak to a broker and arrange a quote…
Reference: UK Canal Boating