This past Sunday we spent an afternoon on an English Canal Boat. And I kindof fell in love, a little bit.
I spent much of my youth RV (rather than tent) camping, and this is basically camping, but with less woods, more waterways.
We all know that the essence of camping is alternating relaxing, adventure, tomfoolery and naps between meals. And the waterways of the Canal and River Trust seem like a perfect way to do that.
The boats are fitted pretty similarly to how I remember our RV; small galley, head, fold-down dinette that converts to a bed. The bigger boats have dedicated bedrooms and bigger lounge areas. Many have aerial antennas and small TVs.
And you’re not confined to the canals. Pull up next to a pub to stop for lunch (there are many directly on the canals). Consult the local ordnance maps and stop next to an access point for a stroll or cycle along a public right-of-way. Or just throw stale bread to the ducks off the bow. Mix up a jug of Pimms and remain just sober enough to operate the locks along the way.
It’s entirely civilised.
So who wants to go boating next summer?
Yes! Can we do this in April? 🙂
Sounds like a great time! Was the boat difficult to pilot? Did you run into anything?
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December 10th, 2012 at 4:49 pm
We didn’t actually do any of the piloting – that was left to Neil’s dad. He assured us though, that it was pretty straightforward (no pun intended).