Narrowboat living. More folks are cruising the UK canals than ever before. Find out what it’s like and learn how to plan your own canal escape.

Ah, the glamorous life of a narrowboat enthusiast – cruising along at a whopping four miles per hour, embracing the snail’s pace of existence. Jo Caruana, our narrowboat guru, paints a picture of idyllic tranquility, surrounded by baby ducklings and blooming flowers, as she navigates the intricate waterways of the UK. The allure of living on a solar-powered vessel, where your cup of tea is at the mercy of the elusive British sun, surely appeals to the masses.

For the adventurous souls contemplating a canal getaway, fear not! No boating background is required. Jo herself boldly admits to never operating a narrowboat before diving into this thrilling aquatic lifestyle. Cheryl Howes of Kate Boats reassures potential canal adventurers that the first few hours might feel like a “baptism of fire,” but fear not, dear novices, as you’ll eventually get the hang of it. It’s just like a caravan holiday on water, but with the added bonus of a confined space to truly test the strength of your relationships.

And if the thought of navigating a boat proves too daunting, you can always opt for a skippered getaway – because who wouldn’t want a seasoned boat professional to handle the arduous task of steering at a leisurely four miles per hour? So, if you’re itching to embrace the slow, nature-immersed lifestyle, hop on board a narrowboat. Just make sure you really, really like the person you’re with. After all, it’s not just a mode of transport; it’s a test of interpersonal endurance in a very small space. Happy cruising!