249. The cost of buying a canal narrowboat in 2021

Prices of used narrowboats have shot up in the last couple of years; what do you now get for your money compared to just a few years ago? I went to broker ABNB to find out.
My prior boat prices video: • 67. How much do canal ...
US couple buy narrowboat video: • 134. Can you buy a can...
Kindly note: this is not an advert for, or sponsored by, ABNB. They did not pay me or provide any compensation to me for this video, merely permission to film at their premises.
Info
Q&A: www.CruisingTheCut.co.uk/f-a-q/
Filming Gear: www.CruisingTheCut.co.uk/gear/
Contact Me
Twitter: / cruisingthecut
Instagram: / cruisingthecut
Facebook: / cruisingthecut
Web: www.CruisingTheCut.co.uk
If you have enjoyed the video, a tip can be left via
www.ko-fi.com/davidjohns
or / cruisingthecut
Get your Cruising the Cut mugs, t-shirts and other merch here: cruisingthecut.myspreadshop.c...
Theme music: "Vespers" by Topher Mohr and Alex Alena, from the KZbin music library
#narrowboat #canal #cruisingthecut #narrowboats #canals #liveaboard

[@hughcarson6837]

It's all your fault David, you have just made canal boat life sound too good, HAHA. Yes I do miss your cruising vlogs.

[@WilliamTheMovieFan]

I agree with you on both statements. His cruising videos are just delightful! That most expensive boat is the price of my house! I’d still probably buy it and sell my house though.

[@sprint955st]

Bit like the Techmoan effect, on retro electronics prices on eBay.

[@hatdude5138]

Cursing vlogs >> marina vlogs

[@jamesa7506]

Lol! And you'll be sending him the bill shortly.

[@davecasey4341]

I was thinking the exact same thing when he was talking about the prices of the boats going up. David is the problem! His videos have made it look so inviting. ;)

[@trep53]

That short cruise segment was perfect the only thing missing was a cheese sandwich and a cup of tea!

[@forbeshutton5487]

And the heron.

[@sherrie-deejenkins6504]

Really enjoyed this video, David. Still miss you cruising but I would enjoy any videos you make.

[@alanv2006]

ABNB- Andy Burnett narrow boats, if I remember correctly. I knew him when he started up back in the mid eighties, when I was based in Staffordshire, fitting out boats for a living. I lived on board first a 50’ trad tug style narrow boat, then a 70’. I was on the latter for 10 years to 1998. I had bought it as a shell and fitted it out myself- cost me around £20k all told at the time. After 10 years on it, I sold her for £35k. Was happy with that profit at the time, but god knows what it would be worth now! I even fitted both of the boats with ex-marine Gardner 2L2 engines, each of which I bought for around a thousand pounds. Wish I had sourced a few more of those (I could have done, they were going for peanuts in the eighties) and hung on to them, just imagine what they would be worth now - the beauty of hindsight!! Loved living on my boats, and quite understand people’s infatuation with them. Happy cruising all!

[@arthurkettle3010]

Add me to those who miss your cruising videos David....I found/find them very therapeutic....this is an excellent vid in its own right though...thanks for the continuing top notch content 👍

[@CruisingTheCut]

Cheers

[@susanmarker2164]

Wait i think I recall your name!! DAVID what a surprise! Good to see you Captain.!😊 My goodness boats are a hot item these days aren't they. ABNB chose the perfect salesman..I believe your audience appreciates this excellent discription of what a boat home may look like..and the relative costs.. Great informative vlog! Thank you for a bit of a trip down memory lane..with "Cruising the cut"😊

[@rogermac358]

Thank you so much for the cruising footage, David. Confirming once again that you are the very best videographer and editor of all the boat-tubers! Cheerio.

[@DrewBe59635]

I do miss your cruising videos. The history that comes with them makes them just more exciting.

[@davidtulloch5650]

I bought mine via ABNB in March 2021 from Australia after a live Zoom tour and researching the Market. Got back to UK to retire in July 2021 and now a liveaboard so it can be done.

[@mikemccartney7665]

What a wonderful surprise! And the inclusion of the cruising gave the whole video a really pleasant balance! Thank you for the joyful Sunday morning experience!

[@PKWeaver74]

Obviously nice to see a new video from you, I do miss the vlogs though.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Cheers, that’s why I included some cruising in this one 😀

[@billyslide7645]

Your VLOGs are, to me, the Gold Standard for boating videos, both in quality as well as content. Not only was this fun, it was rather timely, as I was updating my emergency, contingency plans, in case I win the gazillion pound/dollar lottery. It will help me decide what Narrow Boat and house with it’s own private landing/yard i’m going to need. If you’re going to plan for a gazillion pound lottery, you need to do it well :). Thank you David, well done.

[@oldbloke204]

Very similar sorts of things going on here it Australia but with different items. I saw a story the other day about a particular type of 4wd that people are paying up to 20k over new price for a second hand one simply due to supply issues and the fact that so many are holidaying locally due to restrictions. I saw another second hand one in a yard today that had to be at about what it cost new over 12 months ago. I could get back everything I have spent on mine over the last couple of years as well. Unheard of and caravans are in a similar situation as well. Regional homes in a lot of places have taken off in price as well. Strange times we live in. Thanks for the video, it is interesting to see things that aren't available here.

[@gavanwhatever8196]

Yep. For my 2002 Hilux 4x4 I can get what I paid for it ten years ago!

[@Graybear78]

Yes David, we do sincerely miss your cruising videos. Don't mean to offend, but others are just not the same.

[@Graybear78]

David, one of my favorite things to do, when things get overwhelming, is to find a grove of Quaking Aspen and just sit down in the middle and listen to the fresh mountain breeze in the leaves. All else just fades away. When you are cruising along those quiet stretches, with your music in the background, that is where you videos take me. That, sir, is a hint.

[@philiproseel3506]

I admit to being less interested in CTC, recently. I miss the cruising videos and quirky topics. I haven't stopped watching, I just tend to check in every once in a while. That working boat was amazing!

[@lars1701again]

I’ve never begged any vlogger for a video but now I’m close to begging you for a crushing video lol I so miss yours, no one compares

[@CruisingTheCut]

I don't enjoy cruising any more, see vlog 238 so won't be doing any on my own boat. I have done vlogs on others eg crossing the Wash.

[@lars1701again]

@@CruisingTheCut if I may ask do you plan to keep your boat or go with your RV?

[@CruisingTheCut]

I live on the boat. The van is for weekend and holiday travel.

[@stevenflebbe]

Thank you David. It was nice to get a bit of a cruise with you.

[@chrissayers7076]

Now I've watched the video, Great video David, I'm not surprised prices have risen, as you have mentioned with tv shows etc a life afloat has become popular, with that in mind I don't think prices will drop at all, I have to say that last boat you featured was just lovely, no wonder it's not listed anymore.

[@melodyhobert-mellecker4935]

Living in the US, thanks to you David, I have informed my husband there is a narrowboat holiday in our future, once international travel is safe again. I do miss your cruising vlogs very much but also enjoy the rare treat of one of these films.

[@Random-rt5ec]

Boston, Massachusetts: I am not in the market for a narrowboat & do not plan to be but enjoyed it so much I watched the whole video. My retirement home is in Northern, NH & Pre-Pandemic home prices in the village have almost doubled. Example the couple next door put their home on the market just as the pandemic began for $325,000 (twice what they paid for it 5 years ago) it sold sight unseen for almost $500,000 to an LGBTQIA+ lesbian couple from Boston who plan to use it as a place to escape to if the SHTF. Several other properties (5) in the village have also sold way above asking price. 3 retirees died & 2 decided to move to Florida & that’s why those 5 properties went on the market, the realtor told me they all sold sight unseen within days of being listed.

[@chrissayers7076]

A nice treat a new video dropping, thanks David.

[@AdamFitton]

I see you going back to your news journalist roots. Very good.

[@brianrees3697]

We bought our narrowboat from ABNB 4 years ago when they were Crick and so pleased with the service from Justin and staff we always say hello when at Crick show

[@2LaneTraveler]

It was lovely to see some footage of a quiet burble along the inland waterways. I'm a fan of your "not-a-vlogs", they are nice to have on in the background while working on designs or editing projects. In America it's RVs (Recreational Vehicles, such as camper-vans and caravans), and there are similar concerns about the scarcity of used RVs in good condition, and even new RV manufacturers are having a difficult time keeping up with the increase in demand. Owners also worry about potential fluctuations in price, should a massive crop of new RVers decide when things open up a little more that they don't really like RVing, and flood the market with used RVs.

[@flyfry09]

Great video once again. Happy to see you’d uploaded this one - I actually watched your original price analysis video yesterday so this couldn’t have been timed any better :)

[@mange2]

These new and exited narrowboaters, caravaners and motorhomers that are buying in their droves, are the 'it seemed like a good idea at the time' purchasers. Many have never spent a night away outside of a hotel room. I would suggest holding on to your money, because in the next 2 years the market will be flooded with hundreds trying to sell their current spur of the moment purchases.

[@bertiewooster3326]

Don't forget mate the UK population is nudging 75million plus unknowns ! so bigger demand by the grey mob who are loaded with spare cash after house downsizing etc.

[@SMlFFY85]

Baby boomers will continue making the world as unaffordable to their kids as possible, for as long as they have breath in their lungs.

[@tuckcuttertuck6802]

Always a happy time when you blog. Cheers.

[@jazziered142]

I can't believe it's been 6 years David. Wow!!! I'm waiting for another bread making video. 😁

[@majordolbyscat]

There was talk, from several "experts" and various brokers, this time last year, and after boat prices increased dramatically over lockdown, that the bottom of the market would fall out in 2022 / 23, but with the rising cost of living, more folks will be turning to narrowboats and camper vans to help survive, not only will this keep prices high... its showing no signs of decreasing at all!

[@majordolbyscat]

Its SO disheartening David. Way back when I caught your channel, sometime in 2018, I had very little money saved. I've rented so no house to sell. No assets. Now I have the equivalent savings you mention and what you could get four to five years ago and cannot find anything remotely liveable say with a 45 - 50ft narrowboat, and I am having to consider going as small as a 26ft - 36ft narrowboat! It is only just me, but I am still holding out that I will not have to make the bed up each time I go to sleep ;) All the best sir.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Ahhh that must be infuriating indeed. I do hope you find a nice boat soon.

[@ianwhitehead4728]

So pleased your making new videos to watch and this is another gem and so much better then the normal ones that are posted about there day to day more I’ve enjoyed this one a lot please keep them coming if you can

[@barrycarlisle4511]

Thank you for these!! I've seen all your videos at least a dozen times.

[@julienorton1067]

Really enjoyed this video. Those traditional boats were so beautiful. Thank you. Have missed your vlogs. 🐶🐾

[@markattardo]

Very interesting boats you showed. Those old engines are fantastic to see. Nice bonus cruise too.

[@rpkett]

Ah, how I miss the old cruising videos. Nice bit of reminiscing there. Thanks David!

[@cpelofske]

Such a lovely vlog. It brings to mind just how much I miss your regular cruising videos. Such relaxing memories. Thank you for sharing.

[@DougsMessyGarage]

Great summary of the current market David. Over here in North America, prices on recreational equipment have gone crazy too. If you see something you are interested in, you have to jump on the deal right away and often pay the asking price or more.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Very similar indeed

[@sidneybowerman558]

A lovely insight into narrowboats that I can't (and couldn't) afford. It was nice to have a look at what you'd get for your money. The relaxing short cruise was a bonus.

[@sabine8308]

Sunday surprise, thanks David. Very informative as always, and a little cruising on the side. Have a great day David and looking forward to what’s next to come on your vlog.

[@davidbaker3786]

Another excellent and very interesting video David. Thanks for taking the time to make it.

[@rhirsch81]

No doubt people binge watching your fabulous channel over the lockdown contributed to the rise in popularity, as well. I'd never heard of the British canal system before randomly landing on one of your videos. Thanks again David. Hope you're doing well down there.

[@BradHouser]

I also was not aware of the many canals in the UK that are maintained, used, loved, and homes for so many people. The videos document a return to a more relaxed time. Thank you for the introduction to a way of life that has endured.

[@hughcalder6156]

There are unwatchable TV shows with obscure "D" list celebs sipping wine but i prefer your vlog.. THANKS David

[@piratesalleycats2290]

Always delighted to see a new video from you. As usual, this was was very interesting. Thank you!

[@aaltruista]

I really like your classy, rich commentary, it makes everything interesting

[@jjjnettie]

:) Well hello again. :) We've missed your droll demeanor among the narrow boat vlogs. Take care and stay safe ye olde codger. :)

[@CruisingTheCut]

So old ☹️☹️

[@jjjnettie]

@@CruisingTheCut Pretty sure you're younger than me, so don't feel too bad. Men age like good wine, women age like a cheap wine that's turning into vinegar LOLOLOL

[@heilettelabuscagne403]

Thanks for a Cruising fix 💚

[@victorfebo2968]

Thank you again, David! I was already missing your canal videos! Thank you again!

[@CruisingTheCut]

Glad you like them!

[@haroldofcardboard]

nice to see another canal-esque video from you again. always enjoy. thank you!

[@cliveradvan3414]

Here in Australia the price of boats (in particular runabouts) has also jumped up in the last 18 months or so to almost double the price pre covid. As a result the value for money of some of these boats is just not there. I can only imagine the prices will settle down once boarders open up more freely and reliably.

[@thekitowl]

Great content as usual. Confirms what we’ve been seeing with prices recently although the fixer uppers don’t appear to sell that quickly .

[@garysmith280]

Isolating at home for last few days with Covid and been glued to these Vlog`s. Really interesting and I`ve learnt so much already being a fairly new narrow boat owner with a single season behind me. Please keep up the informative entertaining work. Bought my boat from ABNB by the way and found them incredibly helpful

[@persevere777]

Hello Mr Dave, always enjoy watching videos that show many different aspects of narrow boating, and these days giving potential boaters a heads up as to what to expect, or look for during this new surge of popularity 😁

[@OldFloatingSeaman]

I blame you wholeheartedly for the Cruising bug i now have. Been looking for that perfect Narrowboat but won't rush into anything. Thanks for all the info and guidance you have given over the last few years. My good lady watches Soaps whilst i watch KZbin Narrowboating Vlogs. 😀

[@jeg1972]

I do think that along with those older people who are buying a boat in retirement, that there are also younger people who can't afford a house, but still want own their own home... A boat can be that middle ground and for some is a much better alternative to renting.

[@gavanwhatever8196]

A canal boat isn't an alternative to renting unless you have a permanent mooring. Or a desire for the continuous cruising lifestyle and a job that is fully work from home.

[@rkeith4442]

This is my favourite You Tube channel of all time ! Thanks 🇺🇸😃

[@JohnyComeLately]

Nice to see you again. I enjoy the videos when you release them on the new plan.

[@heathturner548]

Great to see you back, more videos please,

[@CruisingTheCut]

Cheers, I produce as many as I realistically can

[@turbocat1984]

I am really missing your cruising videos truly.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Cheers but I don’t enjoy cruising anymore and there are loads of folk doing cruising videos so plenty to watch 😀

[@davidoickle1778]

Yes, but yours are "primo!"

[@chatchaweewong1071]

I just realized that I really missed your cruising video, Thanks for such a nice work as always sir!

[@CruisingTheCut]

Cheers

[@lissadark2063]

I really do miss your cruising videos. Found you in 2020 and your content was a highlight of what was truly my annus horribilis, what with everything that happened. Thanks for the little cheeky cruise! This is really informative and as someone who was looking at liveaboard life but got put off by the skyrocketing prices… it’s been fun watching everyone else enjoy the canals.

[@offthegridwithbert924]

We are seeing the same kinds of insane price hikes but with real estate here in Australia, things will pop soon though with prices going back down as people get to travel again, anyway I am hoping prices do drop on narrowboats as it's still the lifestyle I want to embrace soon once things open back up travel wise. Thanks again for a very informative and great to watch video.

[@zlojadmin]

I do miss your cruising videos indeed

[@robertchisholm9215]

I watch and have watched a staggering amount of Vlogs. But I have to say David yours are the best by a mile. Keep the good work up. Rob

[@caravanningmacs8009]

Hi David - great to have a canal vlog again - miss them. Very informative and helpful, especially to those in the market for a boat right now. It's a bit like the caravan market at present - a little crazy after lockdown etc. Great to hear from you. Thank you. George and Trish - CaravanningMacs

[@JohnEboy73]

Very much like caravans and motorhomes. I suspect in the next couple of years prices will drop. Bargains to be had!

[@hootowl6354]

I Knew this would happen. Too many people watching these videos and wishing they were on the cut.

[@JoshScott19]

Let’s get this man to 200K! Share a video with your family and friends!

[@craigrschulz]

I think it's safe to say that your vlogs, series and special reports are the finest of all that is out there. Relaxing, informative and very well presented with your unique style and perspectives makes for a documentary of your adventures that I can revisit over and over. Thank you David. God bless you :)

[@markrobinson1458]

Only one winner here, the broker, it's no longer the cheap tranquil life it was,unfortunately, I considered it and thought no, you do a good vlog, keep it up and best wishes 👍

[@CruisingTheCut]

Cheers

[@robertday8619]

More money than SENSE some people! What goes around comes around the market will re balance itself once a lot of these people realise life with/in a narrow boat is NOT all a bed of rose's! and you have to be a certain type which lots of these people are NOT. YES it is a bubble and the salesman of course would say otherwise.

[@tracynewton1208]

So nice to see a new cruising video. Thoroughly enjoyed it🙂

[@davidbower9025]

Thanks so much for yet another highly informative vlog! My wife and I will very soon be seriously looking for our first narrowboat, so this is very timely information for us, thank you!

[@170166]

Very useful update. Big thumbs up.

[@HeavyHaulagePilbara]

A great video for the times Dave, very high in relevance. I sure hope to see some cruising videos soon mate.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Cheers but I won’t be cruising on my own boat, see vlog 238

[@thekitowl]

@@CruisingTheCut time to try the cruiser you were considering in a previous episode?

[@CruisingTheCut]

Prices on those have gone up as well! Can't afford it

[@keykeypr8292]

7:20 and following was so lovely. Made me all nostalgic. I've been enjoying your occasional video this year, but looking forward to your next cruising season whenever it happens.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Ah that's unlikely to happen, see vlog 238

[@jrodd999]

Thank ya sir for van and boat vids im glad you are doing well in these crazy times!

[@tamaslapsanszki8744]

I'd love to go on a narrow boat cruise for a holiday! Here in Eastern Europe there are some navigable canals and of course the Danube and Tisa, but there are no equivalents to the narrow boat. Yeah, there are some cruises on the Danube but they're more like cruise ship, that is more eating and drinking, less silent boating. Sadly Boris is charging me 70 quid to enter the UK, which together with the increased flight price and f*** all currency devaluation drives the cost of the adventure way beyond what I am willing to cough up, so I guess I'll entertain myself by watching your videos for now. Maybe one day, be it rainy or sunny, I'll get the chance to go on a canal trip

[@jannerkev]

Yes David's back.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Slightly later than planned, oops

[@lockedin60]

I think narrowboat ownership is like most financial investments. It's rewards is in having it for the long haul. If a purchase is just because it is trendy the love affair will be short lived. As I have followed you your adventures have presented some idyllic settings but also the realities. I think within the last 10-15 years "tiny living" has stirred up all grades of options for so many people. The old traditional living accommodations have been redefined and repurposed. Gooday.

[@paulboden7850]

A lot of thought and effort goes into your videos. We appreciate it.

[@Ra-zor]

Afraid its not the 'lifestyle' people are buying in to anymore when they purchase a canal boat, its now just the fact that everyone is desperate for somewhere cheap to live as houses are no longer affordable... Owners know this and the great price hike has begun...

[@lisadefries6718]

Sadly price increase of boats has pushed my dream further away for now at least…… although I agree regarding even if there is a price bubble if you init for long term its probably not that relevant. Given all the costs of surveys etc probably best to be certain boat is in good condition and try and avoid being sucked into an impulse purchase on a sunny day. `Happy New Year and thanks for showing me a selection of boats its fun to view them and have your experienced commentary as you show us the layouts. Wonder how expensive new boats are now? Although I get impression waiting lists so long you would need to be patient for a couple of years even if you had the cash for one 😊 I have a scratch card sitting in wallet……….

[@davidgriffiths4844]

Very interesting David. Thank you for another excellent and informative video!

[@suecox2308]

Lovely to see you back on the cut David--

[@barrywiddowson7987]

The same thing is happening in the USA, all prices for traveling vans, trailers. and motor homes have risen way beyond normal. It is also harder to find a camping site as so many more are traveling in the camping fashion. I expect in another year or so there will be a bust in the system and we will get back to normal. What ever that will be.

[@VintageTexas59]

I agree, prices for camping sites gone up, much harder finding a good RV for decent money. Been looking buying a piece of land instead when hopefully lumber fall down to somewhat normal again.

[@dcallan812]

I live in a small seaside town and house prices here have gone mad! Glad I bought my home 15 years a go. But it makes you think where are the young local people going to live?

[@endeavour2968]

Loved the vlog, finally got to see what the interior looked like in the sister ship, that you went out in, identical to mine except one bedroom less but with a larger kitchen and lounge 👍

[@palmeraj70]

Definitely miss your cruising vlogs. Those years spent in front of camera certainly weren't wasted 😊 Hopefully you'll find the love for cruising again, in the not too distant future 🤞 Hope you're well and life's treating you the same way.

[@TechyBen]

I wanted to get a Sea Otter before covid hit. Prices were really good and reasonable. But rushed in and got a fiberglass boat. So glad I did, as prices are now £10-15k higher than before... Though if I had got the Sea Otter I could have just cashed in 1 year later. :/ But for now, I'm happy with my boat, but got no chance of getting a Sea Otter now. :(

[@CruisingTheCut]

Sea Otters were expensive even before!! 😀

[@TechyBen]

@@CruisingTheCut Oh, but they were hitting historically low prices IMO. I walked away from a very nice one going "I'll get one next year..." as the internet meme goes "Next year: ..." Now hoping to move into my plastic boat in 2 weeks time!

[@roadstar92220]

KZbin Success does have consequences. I can see how you had had enough, doing that solo especially with many, many more on the canals. Good luck on your van life ! You should come to America and travel here. We love our RV trips.

[@ABNBBoatBrokerage]

Great vlog David ... was lovely to catch up with you - hope to see you again soon :)

[@thomastrout9997]

Much thanks for the float down memory lane. Once again your journalistic acumen is on full display and I so enjoy all the effort to be informative AND entertaining. Would never miss one, of course, but this was a delightful birthday gift.

[@CruisingTheCut]

Happy birthday!

[@davidallen1418]

I would advice people to Wait until the upcoming crash happens & pick one up for half price or less like in the 2009 crash.

[@thekitowl]

Just thinking the same.

[@dorothydotson7154]

The antique boats are interesting but no thanks. Much too noisy and much too dark. I would not want an engine room. I do miss your cruising vlogs so thanks for that!

[@CruisingTheCut]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@mattevans-koch9353]

Thank you David. Very informative video and some very nice narrowboats. Have a great week ahead.

[@horstszibulski19]

Excellent as always, thx for taking us with you! :-D

[@andyraven]

I have a feeling most of the boats sold in the "pandemic" will be sold back soon after it "ends". Most will sell on once they're able to travel off around the world. The problem is Humans get bored fast especially if they have a bit of wealth behind them. I would love to own a narrowboat to live on but I will never be able to afford one.

[@keithtomey5046]

Prices are just about to come down with a rusty thump - all the people who could be duped into throwing £tens of thousands away have run out now and brokerages are attempting to sell rusty old boats for ridiculous prices. The market has gone predictably stagnant with all those who want to buy a boat at a reasonable price holding off now. Everybody knows that boats depreciate but you can't just throw huge wads of notes straight into the canal.

[@WeirdSeagul]

would be interesting to know the share between holiday homes and people retiring into a narrow boat. If the main buyers are retiring out of £200k+ houses they are not going to notice the price increase

[@terencejay8845]

I've resigned myself to the fact I'll have to commission a shell to my design and fit it out myself. Fortunately I have the skills to do so, but I'd rather buy a really nice one 'off the peg', but not at today's prices.

[@thekitowl]

@@terencejay8845 if you do build one make sure you film it & stick on YT.

[@Zwillix]

Again a very good video. I really do like this showing of selling and buying of narrowboats. I would like to see more of this.

[@johnsonslawnserviceministr4038]

Thank you for the cruising shot specially the one with the water running along the ships bow it was cool to see that with the sound of the water