Back on the Road! A Philosophical NARROWBOAT Cruise | The Voyage of Lydia - Episode 10

I'm Joe, and I'm swapping the fast-paced and chaotic existence of a university student for life afloat onboard a narrowboat on the UK canals and rivers.
After dropping my phone in the water and being cut off from the world for several days, I get back on the road and take a short hop from Wolseley Bridge to Great Haywood. I get through two locks and take a minute or two to chat about lonliness, something I and I think a lot of solo boaters sometimes battle with. Also features bin bag throwing and toilet emptying.
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[@jo-anneallan8838]

So difficult for mam and dad to watch this one as we also struggled with the situation, just glad we could whatsapp on a computer each evening. However a few challenges later saw you up and running again to continue this adventure with resolve and determination 👏 So proud of you ❤😊

[@gaffercat]

I think it's a good thing to talk about. You've also come through a flurry of activity and excitement over the new boat, packing up, starting a new job, and now there's a let-down of sorts. At least you're in touch with how you feel about it, and once you've reached your new area you'll be able to see how it all settles out with co-workers and the local community.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

It's certainly good to be open and honest about things like this! This journey really left me a lot of time to reflect as well.

[@narrowboatersatlarge]

Definitely a worthwhile topic to consider and bring awareness of to the wider community. Boating isn't always Tim and Pru and canalside pubs. For people struggling there is a network of waterways chaplains who can offer support and advice. Thanks for raising the issue. Having experienced it before you will have a degree of resilience. You do have a support from family and friends and now you are part of the boater community. Most of us are always up for lending a hand or putting the kettle on.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

It definitely isn't always that idealistic! That's something I want to try and capture, a fool bumbling his way through boating 😆😆 It's great to know there's folks out there that are on hand and willing to help out!

[@mylifeandwhatitbrings9972]

Such a lovely and Heartfelt vlog. Xxx

[@diggerdi46]

It sounds heavenly to me. I absolutely love my own company and I have lots of hobbies to keep me busy. My mum was the same after my dad died, and my sister too. Unfortunately I am NEVER alone since my husband retired. He has no hobbies and just sits in front of the TV all day every day, but he doesn't like me going out alone, he always wants to come with me. He is partially disabled so there are things he can't do. I can honestly say that since he retired 8 years ago I have never been in our house alone except for twice when he was in hospital. It drives me crazy😔.

[@ForeverNeverwhere1]

You just described my parents life exactly, except they beat you to it by 20 years. I don't think my dad left the house once after he retired without demanding my mom accompany him. When he passed it left my mom a bit direction less and lacking decisiveness. Not a whole human, but half a couple. Part of the reason I never got married, I am 54 and have spent 90% of my life living alone, and I love every minute of it. My only worry if I moved onto a narrow boat alone would be are the canals too busy for me?

[@diggerdi46]

I don't mind busy as long as I don't HAVE to interact. We have a motorhome and I will chat to other campers but don't tend to "join in" with events and coffee mornings etc.

[@douglascolman4501]

You won't realize how lucky you are until you are truly alone. You should rejoice in his company because one day he won't be there.

[@diggerdi46]

​@@douglascolman4501not everyone has a truly happy marriage despite outward appearances.

[@LindaJones-dk3fz]

You have almosr 3000 followers! I understand what you're saying and its nice you wish to alert others to it. However, for you, your peace of mind in beibg alone will come with advancibg years. I used to be scared of being alone but following some experiences and working through them solitude became my peace! You're young ( not wishing to be condescending) your experiences at school still fresh in your mind as that is all you can reflect on but as you advanxe now you will have many different experiences to refer to other events and so your life and the events throughout it will be subject to so many changing experieces andcyour perception of them. You're a lovely young man - never forge that - and donit all with a smile and one daybyou will reallise itbis something you need every so often! X

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

I'm a communal person most of the time but I do appreciate the downtime when it comes along. That's so kind of you to say, thank you so much!

[@Fraserpearsonfilm]

Loneliness can be one of the greatest fears for human. I have this fear and I think it’s one of my greatest, but from my years of experience, there is always someone you can talk to about it. There is someone you can cry to, laugh to and chat to. It’s why I cherish my friendship with Joe as he was around when I was going through a tough break up and he helped me get through it. And I hope he knows that he’s always in my thoughts, especially when he’s on his voyages! P.s also sorry im late to the party! I’ve had a busy couple of week 😂

[@malcolm4233]

You are making thousands of friends now. Lovely channel tonight. I know what you mean about loneliness. I am going through a bitter divorce and I have isolated myself from everyone. Good luck with your travels I enjoyed watching your channel

[@Alan_AB]

Sorry to jump in on your comment, mate. I've been through what you're going through. Please, don't isolate yourself. There are thousands of other people who are going through the same thing you are and would just love a bit of company who knows and understands how it feels. Get out and mingle.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

I'm so incredibly grateful to this little community that's sprung up here! Glad you're enjoying the vlogs!

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

@@Alan_AB I definitely wouldn't say I'm isolated, I've got a great job alongside some fantastic people! I'm also in regular touch with friends from University as well!

[@malcolm4233]

@@Alan_AB don’t apologise. I had been so hurt by certain people in my life, I have come to that stage where I can’t trust anyone anymore. And maybe I am safe being on my own. But then it becomes lonely. My self esteem is well low. There is nobody to praise you. There is nobody asking how has your day been and so on. It is tough. It was a good topic tonight and making people aware. Take care

[@Alan_AB]

@@malcolm4233 I'm guessing that with the rawness of your emotions that the experience is fairly recent and the pain is still real. Each day is a new day to make a step forwards on your journey. It'll take time but stick with it. You'll get there in the end.

[@tangie777uk]

Love your videos, its all a learning curve, either you will learn to love it or you will hate it. I would absolutely love it myself but am not in the right situation to be able to. I think you will meet a lovely person or if you are an animal lover get yourself a doggy friend I have two and would never be without them. Very nice to see you handling the boat so well. I love to watch the narrowboat vlogs. I hope you will learn to love it.

[@ainsliejones3764]

Cheers from Australia,you do it real. Thank you

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Thank you so much! ❤

[@maureengilbert5063]

As a Mum, the honesty is humbling keep strong. ❤

[@liswhiteland3387]

Fantastic vlogs! Your content is very different from most and it’s refreshing real, raw and truthful! And your accent makes it a very soothing to listen to! Keep being you and doing what you’re doing!

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Thank you! I'm so happy you're enjoying the episodes! I do my best to keep things honest and truthful 😊❤

[@SarahPutnam-q1h]

Wait till you get to know other boaters. 😊 the warmer weather is coming!❤

[@SarahPutnam-q1h]

Oh god walking round the school corridors ashamed that people would see me all alone ! 😢

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Can't wait for the sun to start shining!

[@sandrakent8049]

Just come upon your channel. Love to hear you put such a common problem over that some men won't admit it's easier to talk! My husband will soon be 69 he's been retired two years and me one year. Point is for two years he's done nothing much but spent time on social media watching political channels doesn't like main media, has no friends, won't join men with sheds and had mini stroke 6 months after he retired but has lost interest in stuff and he says he's not depressed but I think otherwise but can't convince him. Will carry on watching cheers x😊

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

It's definitely something that I think needs to be talked about more amongst everyone, particularly men. I hope you enjoy the previous episodes and the ones to come!

[@SarahPutnam-q1h]

I was just thinking you make the locks looks so easy ! 😊

[@annanadiajohnson6590]

Hello Joe, great to watch your vlogs ! Keep posting and thankyou for keeping me company . Safe travels , love Anna xx

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Cheers Anna! I'm glad they've helped in any way at all!

[@allantavener7378]

Take it from an older man, you don't necessarily have to be on your own to be lonely, I've been with someone for 20+ years and yet still get lonely from time to time, and that is as deep as I'm going to get, keep up the vlogs they are excellent viewing, even if only to see if you lose yet another phone in the canal, and good luck.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Thank you mate, I'm glad you're enjoying the videos! Here's hoping I don't lose another one!!!

[@carolduell7629]

Here’s to finding a crew mate!

[@susanb4481]

Being alone does not have to be lonely, too many people think that being alone must equal lonely. Talk to people you meet, get a dog, stay in contact with friends, be friendly yourself. Even 5 minutes with someone is contact, contrary to what social media projects, you don’t need numerous friends to have community! Yes humans are basically social beings , but you don’t need a large group to be social.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

You're absolutely right, being alone doesn't always result in true isolation! I'm in pretty frequent touch with people friends from home and from uni too! I'd love nothing more than to get a dog! Sadly my work situation doesn't really allow for one just yet!

[@Pootz1000]

I know exactly where youre coming from. I had 1 proper friend all thecway through school. I have had no friends around me for the last 25 years as my only friend passed away and the mother of my daughter "found someone else " My brother doesn't bother with me and my daughter has her own life to live. Im at a loss as i haven't the confidence to go out and meet other people. Its s horrible way to live but unfortunately theres so many people going through lonely times. Please make sure you have contact with people as much as possible as its important, not only for your mental well-being but also your physical too. Good luck with the new job and safe travels.

[@franadams6389]

Great video! Get some airfreshener to use when emptying down the loo 🌺

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Think I need some Aloe Vera scented cotton buds to put up my nose!

[@franadams6389]

@@Voyage_of_Lydia 😄 could work! Good luck, take care!

[@darrendonges311]

keep up the good work love watching your blogs

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Cheers Darren!!

[@applecounty]

Some seek the solitude that Canal cruising offers. The modern world does not condition us for solitude.

[@zulustu8214]

Mate! I’m in exactly the same boat as you.. I’ve just bought a new boat.. exciting as it is the seclusion is concerning at times… I’ve only been at it for 5 weeks or so and You hit the nail on the head…. Glad you have raised this before I will down the track when I start the channel.. It’s very important you natter about this stuff as you go along.. Well done and keep it up

[@ernestwilbur188]

Wonderful video. I'm old enough to be your grandfather and I find such pride in what you are doing. You are young, energetic and brave. Not to mention insightful, and very profound your comments. It's great to see young folk out there doing this. Can't wait for the next one. Have a good week young man.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Proper put a smile on my face reading your comment Ernest, that's very kind of you!

[@tel1184]

Loving your journey, touched by your honesty and sincerity 👏👏👍🏻

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Thank you so much! It's a first for me, putting a lot of myself out here like this 😅

[@Jax240jk]

​@@Voyage_of_Lydiaso glad you have. I have 3 son's all a little bit older then you. I live on a narrowboat and they love the way i live. I wish they would do the same but its not for everyone. Keep up the great video's 🙏

[@dinmorejunctionmodelrailway]

Hey Joe. Throughout life, you will experience times of loneliness, but because you're physically on your own, it doesn't mean you are on your journey of life.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Agreed, time spent alone does not automatically equal lonliness, but it can be an easy slope to slip down.

[@Andy-oz8it]

Me and another boater just came from tixall wide, just after great Haywood. Heading back there once the stoppage at the junction ends to head down the shrops and Worcester. You'd be welcome to join our convoy if we catch you. No need to be lonely :) Andy. NB. Sanctuary.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Cheers mate I'll remember that! (Spoiler) I made it to the marina just before Christmas but I'm hoping to be back out on the network sooner rather than later!

[@caroledrury1411]

So honest and so real and such heartfelt commentary. I hope that the next time you drop your phone in the water you’ll be able to connect with this KZbin channel and its comments in the meantime! I have always wondered if it helps with loneliness to speak into the camera and create Vlogs? It’s a bit like when I write in my journal I feel less lonely.Very much like your Vlog

[@fraserrowedianekincaid6988]

Think how much you have learnt already in such a short space of time. You have a lot to be proud about. Be careful getting a pet as they do tie you down and they are a commitment - especially a dog. Yes, they give you so much but you have to be fair to them and give them time. Give yourself time to settle into your new life in Cheshire before you go down that road. With work you will make lots of friends and your life will become very busy. We have met lots of solo boaters when we have been on the canals and we can see it is tough - not just physically, but not being able to share adds to that feeling of loneliness. You have already experienced the comradery of marina life and there is great support amongst the boaters. Very much enjoying your vlogs.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

It's always fantastic to hear that people enjoy these daft escapades so much! I'll be on this learning curve for years to come, and I can't wait to see what's round the next bend! Sharing things like this on here is a great outlet too! I'd love to get a little rescue dog, but sadly work doesn't really allow for it at the mo.

[@carycoombe3380]

We love watching you "do silly things". May I suggest getting a WW2 gas mask for emptying your toilet cassette. I had one when I worked an awful job, for minimum wage, and it was marvelous at avoiding the stink.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

A gas mask sounds like a cracking idea!

[@jo-anneallan8838]

As his mam, we've definitely had a conversation about wearing a mask ! 😷 😊

[@Jax240jk]

Its time to get yourself a compost toilet. I couldnt stand emptying those cassette toilets. I had 2 so didnt have to go so often to empty them. I made a compost toiket until i bought a proper one. I bet your parents are so proud of you.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

When the time comes to rip out the bathroom I'm really considering it! I've got three cassettes, but I empty them whenever I'm passing a facilities point even if it's not full 😆🤢

[@jo-anneallan8838]

We certainly are, we have always encouraged him to grab any opportunities that may arise, thats the way to find out what you like and what makes you happy or to find out what you're good at. Joseph has achieved a lot so far in his young life and has many challenges ahead and opportunities lined up to add to these achievements, hes quite modest with it too ❤😊

[@terrylee7551]

Good luck with your phone I’m in the same boat lost mine I would’ve particular company who said it will be up and running again with a new chip within 24 hours. That was last Tuesday still not working can receive calls can’t make calls all the best mate

[@KevanHall-h8z]

Enjoy your life journey 😅

[@davidpiper3652]

Surprisingly difficult to watch, but I admire your honesty.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Hope it did'nt put you off! I'm all good now, this was a while ago haha 😆

[@swirlgalaxy]

Howdy Joe!! Too bad the Fraser had to leave!! He was a good helping hand for you! The great beard suits you!! Can't image that your dance card is very empty!! Line forms to the left!!! LOL!! A good looking bloke like you should never be alone! You're never a "no body!" Big hugs & tugs from Kenny Ohio USA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Great to hear from you again Kenny!! Big thanks to you bud!

[@GuyMillar-w8j]

Great channel very honest

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Thank you so much!

[@gilliansmyth7167]

👍😘

[@brianoleary639]

nice....thank u ,appreciate ur insight n sincerity :)

[@bethiakittify]

Spelling error on your title screen - should be Loneliness not Lonliness. Love the channel, really enjoying following your adventures!

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Spelling error amended! Thanks for spotting that! 😁

[@katevann9878]

I love your channel. You are refreshingly honest.

[@chrislaunders8283]

Lovely to see the scenery in it's autumn/winter colours, here's hoping you don't get too lonely. In at the deep end.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

It was the scenerey that got me thinking about things like lonliness! I'm 100% not lonley anymore, I've got some people around me that are really great!

[@davidfisher7541]

Single life on board a boat, sounds great but who ever you are there’s going to be times when you are feeling down and low,that’s the human side ,

[@JaquiG61]

Aww tearjerker episode Joseph 🥺🥺 xx

[@Alan_AB]

Hi Joe. I've watched all your videos but this is my first time commenting. I watch a few other narrowboat channels and I can tell you that your thoughts on loneliness are nothing new. Ecery cruiser who is single person seems to mention it at some point or another. So, I'm sorry to inform you mate - You're entirely normal in that respect. Keep doing what you're doing. It'll all work out ok in the end.

[@christinetaylor6897]

We watch you because we have followed you and we care. I love my own company and I don't have any friends outside of work, not sure how that happened, but it did and I try not to let it bother me too much, you can't make people like you. But we viewers like you. Loving your journey, what is your new job? Best wishes Christine x

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Reading everyone's comments has really given me a boost, even weeks after this was filmed! Knowing that so many people are out there with similar experiences and are willing to lend a hand or an ear is so freeing! Glad you're enjoying the voyage! I work on and around the water 😊

[@GuyMillar-w8j]

Great vlog

[@tanyabishop5647]

Enjoy catching up on your journey. Loneliness is a good topic. Hopefully doing your vlog helps. I'd have to have a dog for company.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Thanks Tanya! It definitely helps to to share the experience and get it out in the open ☺

[@Boating_David]

Theres a lovely network of boaters online either X or Insta are my usual places and I'll sometimes make a point of meeting up if I'm on a cruise about even if it's just along the canal to the pub ! I quite like the solo boating bit though, maybe not when i want a cup of tea at the helm though 😂

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Bang on David! The online and real-world canal community was and has been a real boon for me since I came into this! You might appreciate my method for almost unlimited tea while steering solo in the next episode haha

[@lorraineheywood5252]

Your the captain of your ship , losing your phone must have been so hard ,by a spare ,

[@grahamlewis6062]

And maybe get some good boots!😄

[@nathanberry4339]

Hi mate I can understand how it could be lonely being a solo boater but I'm a solo boater I have two dogs so I'm not completely alone but I absolutely love being out on the cut on my own I find it awkward being stuck in the marina like when I first bought serenity and was in the marina over Christmas and early new year I also keep two mobile phones on board with two separate SIM cards and both phones have big batteries and are rugged and waterproof and I have them both set up for me ready

[@nikolasheasby2572]

I think you have set off on your own at a bad time of year for loneliness once March comes along and people aren’t all hungered down in front of their fires I think it will feel better for you and if you are stressed, tired or a bit anxious etc don’t you things all feel worse being alone, you have lots going on. Hope you find some niceties on the way to keep you on the up, take care and I am looking forward to the next episode 😃

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Quite right Nikola, while it's incredibly beautiful at times isn't the best time for towpath socialising. I've taken some solace in the peace and quite as well as the scenery!

[@sharonhiggs3248]

Loneliness is not always about being alone . It’s a subject that more guys need to be open about - thank you for that . On a lighter note why don’t boaters wear a mask when emptying the cassette 😫?

[@julieblackstock8650]

Another NB Vlogger Chris Mears he talks about loneliness too He was in the forces a long time so you get used to that net work. I am sure winter doesn't help. Chin up, soon be spring

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

Winter for sure isn't the best time to be looking for contact on the canals I will admit 🤣

[@TheMandy97365]

It might help to get to know the other boaters you moor next to. You could hang out with them wherever you moor for the evening.

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

A good idea! I'm sure in the summer it's easier to mingle on the towpath, winter weather ain't the best for socialising 😆

[@TheMandy97365]

In winter, boaters meet up with each other in canal side pubs or marinas.

[@Fraserpearsonfilm]

You need a dog 😂

[@janelou458]

You sound exactly like my son-in-law sounded while changing diapers. You'll get used to it. Breathe through your mouth not your nose. :)

[@carolduell7629]

What is your new job? Do you have a lot of workmates?

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

I work around the water ☺ I've got a fantastic crew as well which is amazing!

[@martyndavison5259]

Get a dog ! its amazing how much company a dog can give you .

[@RascalandClog]

Get a dog .

[@gianniqccanada6545]

a video of just blablabla,,, not an interesting channel,,, bla bla bla

[@MiesterMC]

Always one isn't there, this time its you.

[@jojosapien3451]

shut up don't watch the videos then!

[@narrowboatersatlarge]

Ps do you have a Facebook page?

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

I have an instagram account! @the_voyage_of_lydia !

[@dick8193]

Love the scenery today!

[@Voyage_of_Lydia]

If it's helped in any way at all, I've done something right, thank you mate!