Building a Narrowboat - Ask the Boat Builders! - Ep. 43

[@AAA-vk4wh]

Bickerstaffe's craftsmanship is truly stunning. The silver fox is the best looking narrow boat ove ever seen!

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thank you ! 👍🏻

[@GeeGee135]

Hurray! Been searching through your vlogs from the start as we're doing up Dessy our 1978 narrowboat. She's out of water at home at the moment, Vetus engine removed, had tlc (Bob's a mech/tech engineer) and replaced. We now have her new windows but lots to before fitting them....electrics! Inside panels have been removed and "YEAY" we found the MDF panels info we want on her, on your vlog 43. Thanks guys. Stopping at home due to Covid19 has enabled us to dedicate our time to Dessy but your vlogs have been invaluable, and we've been tickled pink at your giggles and antics, love you guys. Keep em coming. Our aim: to get Dessy back in the water from St Mary's Marina for next year (2021) 🤞. Love Bob & Glenda xx

[@FoxesAfloat]

Ah, guys! That's great, and launching in the same place we did 💜

[@kyliefan7]

With every venture, there is a correct way to proceed and a wrong way. Colin, Shaun, you both made the correct decisions form the outset to finish. The testimonials from the builders verifies every fine point.....Well done!.....now we all can’t wait for the next build.....let the fun begin!

[@FoxesAfloat]

Looking forward to the spring and summer! 👍🏻

[@doylee555]

Oh, thanks the vlogs. You're answering so many questions for me, as I research a liveaboard life, Great work!

[@FoxesAfloat]

Happy to help!

[@pootle2768]

Awwww Kev and Rob are lovely and you can see you have a genuine friendship. Thank you for another brilliant vlog x

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thank YOU for watching! ❤️

[@gordonchapman222]

If only I could have my own narrow boat, I would love to have one built to my spec. If I ever do I would definitely ask Bickerstaffe to build it for me. I did't think once they were talking with self promotion in mind, they come across as people passionate about their work. Hats off 👏

[@FoxesAfloat]

They are the best, Gordon. We knew as soon as we met them that they were incredible. xxx

[@gordonchapman222]

👍

[@painmagnet1]

Seeing how the paint was applied said it all. They are consummate professionals. Same with the widow company, doubt that it's done better anywhere.

[@gordonchapman222]

@@painmagnet1 👍

[@TheChrysler56]

Rob and Kev, those two must be well proud of narrowboat Silver Fox. What an amazing achievement. 👍

[@FoxesAfloat]

I'm sure they are proud :) x

[@jontisdall6248]

From what I've seen thus far, Silver Fox looks absolutely beautiful, quite simply magnificent, inside and out. Very tastefully fitted out, and the exterior...a perfect example of 'less is more', classy in the extreme. Congratulations. May the Gods help the first person who bumps you on the Cut.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Ha ha, thanks, Jon! She'll be in a lock within hours of launching, so loads of knocks to come :) x

[@jontisdall6248]

@@FoxesAfloat From all I've seen on the various narrowboat vlogs I know you're right but I'd be devastated to mar such a handsome boat, I applaud your real world attitude to the inevitable. On the subject of condensation can I make a suggestion, I have for some time used a type of dehumidifier/damp catcher thingy that can be bought for less than a pound apiece from the Savers chain of shops. They consist of a two section plastic container, the upper section contains what looks like white beads which absorb moisture and dissolve into the lower section and remain there in liquid form, there is a one way membrane to keep the two apart. They work really quite well. They aren't the most elegant accessory to leave around the place but in confined spaces, wardrobes, cupboards even lockers they'd do a job. Wishing you many happy years.

[@TheChrysler56]

Yep! Hats off to all the tradesmen. They do an amazing job to complement an already amazing boatbuilders. 👍

[@FoxesAfloat]

They are wizards, Gary! x

[@scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain]

A brilliant little Q&A with some great questions.

[@FoxesAfloat]

It was fun making this one x

[@suesmith6721]

It’s so lovely to see how you all get on. I think the team will miss you when you launch. Can’t wait to see Narrowboat Silverfox on the water! xx

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hi Sue! They won't be seeing the last of us I'm sure :) xxx

[@nigellapaul6787]

Colin and Shaun wish you both all the best was nice meeting you both at Stanley ferry , we will be back down there in another new boat in a couple of years , your boat is superb hats to you both and your builders .

[@FoxesAfloat]

Cheers guys! x

[@TazTaurus]

Love Hearing from the builders. If I want to get a narrow boat design it’ll definitely be bickerstaffe boating company. They have done an awesome job 😊 video 44 coming up next

[@FoxesAfloat]

Fingers crossed!

[@deanmills5106]

Not surprised to see how close the four of you have become. Without sounding to mushy, it's heart warming.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Awwwwww.....! Ha ha. Thanks, Dean! x

[@adamrant4138]

Hi chaps, nice to include the builders (outakes aswell). One question i have to do with the condensation issue, would double glazed units help on a narrowboat, at the very least regarding condensation on the windows (in the morning perhaps) ? Really nice that you were able to put a more personal touch this time as regards Bickerstaffe ! Love the bright modern scheme on such a limited space.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hey, Adam! Hmmmm... I'm scared of starting a debate on double glazing. Logical theory dictates that although double glazing may cut down on the amount of condensation forming on the windows, it doesn't actually solve the problem of moisture inside the boat. That moisture causes damp, mould and can spoil fabrics, bedding and carpets. So I guess all DG does is mask the problem. Luckily, we've done this before so are prepared to tackle the condensation issue! Cheers for the question :) xxxx

[@colinracheljustpootling7468]

This is flipping marvellous including the stars of the show is a winner. What you see is what you get with. Top quality and bloody nice people. Subtitles were definitely needed....couldn’t understand a bloody word Kev and rob said 😂😂

[@FoxesAfloat]

Ha ha! It took me 5 hours to do the subtitles 😂

[@ripvanwincle2258]

The guy's have done an amazing job Silver Fox looks fantastic.Can't wait to see you both cruising around.The dream is about to get real good luck to you both.I'm sure you're going to have a fantastic adventure.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hey hey! 👋🏻 Won’t be long now 😬

[@lilylou1513]

What a fantastic team that built your boat 👍😊

[@FoxesAfloat]

They're a great bunch of lads.

[@alanjackson4646]

Great video, I love to see men who are confident in their skills and proud of their achievements. The boat looks beautiful, can’t wait to see it out and about. Regards AJ

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thanks, Alan. I'm sure the team will be over the moon to read that. We should be launching within a couple of weeks :) xx

[@marianjacobs5597]

Another great post, thank you, boys ... can't wait till you launch and see how Silver Fox performs on the water.

[@FoxesAfloat]

0 - 4mph in 8 minutes! 😂

[@marianjacobs5597]

@@FoxesAfloat That fast WOW ... my mobility scooter does 18 km per hr SO THERE LOL

[@ianharriman4952]

Will be great to see her on the water, good luck guys 👍🏻

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thanks, Ian! We can't wait! xx

[@annie2950]

Hi Guys brilliant vlog. Rob and Kev such genuine Guys too. Xx

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hi Annie! Thank you! They are ace them boys :) xxx

[@lawrencehaguewood5857]

High quality work has been done on this vessel 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😊😊😊😊

[@FoxesAfloat]

It certainly has, Lawrence. The team have made a fantastic job of this, and all of their other boats! xx

[@PoppysMum2]

Cat litter in tights. Who’d have thought it? Defo gonna give that a go 😊 Another really fab-you-luss video guys xx

[@FoxesAfloat]

Ha ha! I know! Heard it all now! Thanks, Catherine xxx

[@sionbenjamin4513]

Brilliant Foxes!

[@FoxesAfloat]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@jackiejanetm]

Great video again! I really love you guys! Looks like you've made some good friends! All the best!

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thank you! 💙

[@beckyholmes8519]

Awesome guys thanks!

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thanks, Becky! ❤️

[@BrasherFox]

Great Vlog and having Scousers in the family, I know they say it as they see it and what a great job they do.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Brilliant! Thanks, Brian! xx

[@georgeh-w5041]

I can’t wait to see this on the water!

[@FoxesAfloat]

Neither can we, George! Not long now. A few weeks (or less) xxxx

[@carolynabramo7108]

So funny. Love it. Can't wait for the next vid.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thanks, Carolyn! xxx

[@robertcallander1065]

Brilliant just Brilliant 👍👍👍

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thanks, Robert :) x

[@duncancooper3711]

lovely boat....having recently had a boat built by a truly hopeless builder i wish i had gone with your crew....well done on a lovely end result

[@FoxesAfloat]

Aww, Duncan, no! Sorry you had a bad time. x

[@duncancooper3711]

@@FoxesAfloat thanks for your kind words.... my boat builders parting shot was to disconnect the fuel pipe to webasto, and forget to plug it, setting up a very efficient siphon and flooding boat with diesel, we were at the varnishing stage . and guess what no insurance ....moan over :)

[@sherrionboardsunflower97]

Fantastic! Thankyou!🤗

[@andykayll1414]

Amazing Vlog again Guys,

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thanks, Andy! x

[@andykayll1414]

@@FoxesAfloat Your both very welcome. x

[@ronbearman6783]

Hi guys Fantastic vlog guys great responses from ?s you 4 guys would make a great comedy set up Looking forward to next vlog

[@FoxesAfloat]

Ha ha, thanks, Ron! Tell ITV ;-) xxx

[@grahamlewis6062]

Oh yes interesting but I was REALLY hoping you’d be ON THE WATER!!?? We’ll be heading out soon before the family take ‘ St Christopher ‘ out over Easter maybe we’ll see you around 👍 I’m Joan Graham’s Mrs. I’m the one enjoying following your story. SO impressed by how you getting the information out.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hi Joan and Graham. I have to tie up my business before we can launch, which is taking a little longer than I expected. We still hope to be cruising before the Crick show. Have a fantastic time over Easter! xx

[@TwistedLi401]

I have an odd question... Can I buy a Bickerstaffe jacket/shirt? I like the green, and the green and black, and just love those guys. They're fantastic.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hehe! Better asking the guys at Bickerstaffe 👍🏻

[@sonic3333]

Carn't wait for the launch now

[@FoxesAfloat]

Neither can we! xx

[@stevecook621]

Hi Foxes 🙂🦊 Quick question, in the painting of the silver fox which is great, you didn't say anything about painting the bottom of the hull. If it's something that's not done what is the reason? I loved your explanations so indepth. Especially when doing the chalk drawing of the heating and using white chalk drawing red lines 🤭 It's great. Great boat and blogging thingy 👍😃 Steve

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hey, Steve. Nobody really paints the bottom because the canals are so shallow that the paint is worn off within days/weeks. This is why the base plate is 10mm+ thick.

[@hw476]

You chaps make my day. 😁Poshest tin can I’ve ever seen. Mine has Baked Beans in it. 🙄 What lovely tradesmen and so kind about you both. 😉🤣 Which celebrity have you got coming for launch day?

[@FoxesAfloat]

Tin can :-D Still makes me chuckle. No celebrities are available. Do you fancy doing it? xxx

[@hw476]

Foxes Afloat 😱 Would I !!! I’d be honoured 🤦🏼‍♀️ I’m no celebrity but I can brush up well. 😂. Shouldn’t it be one of your patrons though. 🤗

[@robbriggs2849]

Hey Guys - I have been following you for a little while and totally enjoy your travel and love Silver Fox. Just a question regarding. If you had to change and or alter anything from the design. What would that be ? Given that some time has now past since its been in the water. Thanks Rob

[@FoxesAfloat]

Honest answer...? We wouldn't change anything 👍🏻

[@summerking8659]

Ah missed seeing you chat to Ryan also, he had me with the painting and the installation of the engine :-)

[@FoxesAfloat]

He's a legend! 🤩

[@sylviapage8572]

They were great fun, really entertaining. I loved the end, you were all so funny. Nearly launch day, how exciting is that? Thanks as always for a great video. BTW I love Robin Wagg’s sign writing and think he would be a great choice for you. I used Dave Moore who’s fantastic but specialises in traditional writing and roses and castles which I don’t think is appropriate for you. Have you made a decision, or is it another case of the sign writing is already done? I can’t wait to see the end result.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hey, Sylvia 👋🏻 Yeah, launch day isn’t far off now! We love Robin’s work too. You’ll have to watch next Friday’s vlog to see who we chose and the style we went for 😉 xxx

[@TheChrysler56]

Great out-takes again too. 😂

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thanks! x

[@SheplerStudios]

Did you do an energy audit on a dehumidifier? Do any narrowboats use air conditioners.

[@FoxesAfloat]

If you manage moisture within the boat you don't need a dehumidifier. Also, they use a massive amount of power, which in the autumn and winter when the solar is lower, is much harder to generate. Same principle with air conditioners. Just too much power guzzling.

[@loopylou]

I always expect you to finish these vlogs with a good Northern Ta-ra 😉

[@FoxesAfloat]

Haha!

[@grahamwilliams9877]

Another goodun 😃👍 QUESTION: was that a serious method of eating condensation "Cat litter in Tights"?

[@FoxesAfloat]

I can't even remember 😂

[@benwilson9150]

So I said what about a V8 but I forgot about the colour being a Mercedes colour, needs a Mercedes V8!! I was going to ask about the mushroom vents and what they help with, now I know they stop the boat being so moist and I guess they help not to have a soggy bung as well!

[@FoxesAfloat]

They are for ventilation 👍🏻

[@stephenhogarth8058]

Great vlog again lads. Just wondering would a dehumidifier machine be any good?

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hi Stephen. We're pretty confident that we can minimise the humidity to the extent where we won't need a dehumidifier. They also use power, which isn't ideal. It's always an option if we need to though. There are efficient energy ones now that operate quite well. xx

[@helenpratt4141]

Hello from Kentucky USA. This is Lynn & Robert again, I know we’re behind but have decided to start watching your show from the beginning. Got a question, here in the States we use exhaust fans to help reduce moisture in campers, etc. Does Silver Fox have any of these type fans?

[@FoxesAfloat]

We don't need any. We keep moisture down by good ventilation and heating. Not had a drop of condensation in the boat yet 👍🏻

[@raymondparr1]

hi lads yet again good video and its nice that the men that build it have been honest. may I ask also the materials or fabric for your seats can you tell me what it is please. the name of the pattern. well done again.xx

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thanks, Ray! x I'm not sure what the name of the pattern is, but they were made by Amtrim, who created our cratch covers. Their contact details are in the description in Vlog 34. (Got it Covered) xxxxxxx

[@baitcommajail]

The question that’s been niggling at me since I started watching all your stuff last week(!) is: Why are the cabinet openings all so much smaller than the cabinet doors? My kitchen cabinet doors overlap the cabinets themselves by about... 1/2” on all sides. You have what looks like 1-2” overlaps top/bottom/sides and the honking great rounded ‘corners’, shrinking the openings to notably smaller than the doors. What’s up with that?

[@Dozz70]

I have a question guys....I noticed that you bolted your Anodes on to Silver Fox instead of Welding them on. Wouldn't that create a possible leaking point in the hull? I love the boat and your Channel....Thank You! Mark from Florida

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hey, Mark! Yeah, the anodes are bolted for easier exchanging in the future. No risk at all to the hull. The bolts don't go through it, they are welded to the hull. Thanks for watching! xx

[@Dozz70]

@@FoxesAfloat Oh...OK....I couldn't make that out in the other video. Thank You for the explanation.

[@calzenner830]

So you're saying even with double pane windows, for example, (ambient) condensation is still a concern that needs to be managed?

[@FoxesAfloat]

100% Yes.

[@loftyskies123]

interesting stuff

[@FoxesAfloat]

Thank you x

[@ALightInTheForest]

This was so entertaining (and informative!)

[@FoxesAfloat]

👍🏻

[@p52457]

Most of todays newer durable coatings that I'm aware are of polyester or polyurethane base that are catalyzed with a hardener (2K) . Some are clear coated, some are not. But also, these coatings all require spraying. I have never seen a quality finish on an automobile, a jetliner, a yacht (made of steel), or a farm tractor that was brushed or rolled. I just don't get it. And my question to you is the final topcoat actually lacquer or what?? Your boat is magnificent due your obvious research and the fine team from Bickerstaffe. (From one of your new friends in Texas)

[@FoxesAfloat]

Yes, several coats of UV protective lacquer. Thank you! 💜

[@rogermcd9918]

Im trying to source the water resistant MDF t&g panelling, is it possible to tell me where your builders sourced it, would be a great help. Stay safe guys

[@FoxesAfloat]

Might be better to contact the boat builder directly 👍🏻

[@colingibson8018]

Hey guys. Good vlog interesting to hear from the builders . Also about how they feel like you have become friends as apposed to just clients. That's a good thing however I don't dout that that is the case ,you two come across as very easy going people. The condensation problem is one that has come up with just about all the utube channels​. I do however have a question please. The bilge not at the stern gland or the bow thruster, I know that they have dedicated pumps . My question is the rest of the boat. Have you had removable panels for each of the sections or are several connected with a panel for each. Also I made a sudgestion to one of the other utube channel when they got caught in a pound that was draining and the boat was leaning over to such an extent that they were worried about water coming back in through overboard discharge pipes. My sudgestion was next time the boat was out of the water , the overboard discharge pipes be removed and quick shut valves put in then the pipes replaced​ there by if that situation should come up again, and reading these vlogs it's very possible, all you have to do is reach out to them shut them problem solved. just a thought. . Anyway thanks for the video look forward to your next.Be safe

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hi Colin (cool name). Great question! (are you watching, Kev?) Our base is made up of separate bays, each protected to some extent from water spreading about. We also have several water detector alarms situated in high-risk places for water to collect, such as under the water tank/pump, calorifier, shower pump etc. We also have fantastic access to the bilge from almost all areas of the boat thanks to removable under-cupboard access points. Given the risk of us taking in water from discharge points, it doesn't make financial sense to pay out for an engineered solution like that. Even though it sounds like a very easy thing to create. Thanks for watching! Colin xx

[@doylee555]

I've been looking at inverters. These days they're a lot more efficient than I remember being told in school physics lessons! 5% loss is great! With this in mind why have 12V sockets or expensive DC fridges, washing machines etc for the sake of not losing 5-10%? Universal 230V AC circuits then....Am I missing something?

[@FoxesAfloat]

People have different opinions. In the depths of winter I guess every Amp and Watt counts, so that 5-10% can add up, especially with fridges that are taking power up to two-thirds of the day. If you're have a boat built from scratch like we did, it's just as easy to run some 12V circuits to save some of that excess wastage. Again though, people will agree or disagree with me 👍🏻

[@julianv.5848]

Dos the bottom plate of the boat or ''keel'' that is submerged in water get wet or creates condensation, after the Boat has been launched and has been sitting in the water for several weeks is the ''bottom base'' of the boat known to be damp or wet...????

[@FoxesAfloat]

No, it shouldn’t get wet. We have a moisture detector just in case it does.

[@moosabones]

Could you use a MVHR system in a narrowboat?

[@FoxesAfloat]

Not really, Sue. The unit costs and space for fitting don't really justify it.

[@ShadeCTX]

About batteries, what's the most batteries you can have on a boat or is it all to do with space?

[@FoxesAfloat]

I'm not an expert, but I've learned that it's all about how much power you'll use, and how much of it you can re-charge. It's pointless having 20 batteries if you can't charge them back up. Our six are more than we'll need though. xx

[@tonydavies7307]

The four of them should have chat show on tv

[@FoxesAfloat]

Oh, God, no! haha! 😂

[@bobspencer6576]

To the builders and owners I have noticed two sounds from an engine on a narrow boat 1. Pop, pop, pop kind of like a two cylinder engine and 2. silver fox Episode 52 motor noise. Question why cannot or can it a narrow boat be almost silent like a car engine when pushing a narrow boat. Since you really aren’t going faster then 5 mph? Thank you. Bob

[@FoxesAfloat]

I'll let them take that one, Bob! x

[@AvaT42]

There is no comparison between spray paint and hand painted, spray painting wins every time. To get an even, quality, classy, professional finish, you spray paint.

[@FoxesAfloat]

Exactly! x

[@mickbroadbent6750]

brill guys ,,, but why so long from finished boat to launch

[@FoxesAfloat]

Hi Mick. I've got to tie up my business before we can launch, and it's taken a little longer than planned. Everything is set for us cruising well before the Crick show in a few weeks though. xx

[@TheChrysler56]

That dreaded condemnation.....🥵

[@FoxesAfloat]

You mean condensation? :-D xx

[@TheChrysler56]

Foxes Afloat 😂 ; )

[@ChrisJames1973]

Right I’m gunna ask what everyone really wants to know. How much did it cost?😝

[@FoxesAfloat]

And I'm gunna tell you what I tell everyone else. Ssssssshhhhhhh....!!!!!! Ha ha! I'm sure Kev and Rob would give you an idea on how much it would cost to build a similar one ;-) xxxxxx

[@stevenvanes2928]

Well dodged.

[@gabbymadsen7260]

Wait... your last name is "Fox"? I kinda assumed... well it was like a English way to say "Otter"

[@FoxesAfloat]

Really?

[@gabbymadsen7260]

@@FoxesAfloat well with the jokes Collin makes 🤷‍♀️

[@hammerdown8564]

Why are narrow boat made of steel, why not fiberglass, I realize wood for the obvious reasons ?

[@FoxesAfloat]

Because they need to be strong

[@Femmpaws]

My hat's off to the those tradesman and craftsman. I use to work in the marine trades building boats. Some customers can be real bastards and pains in the A$$, they try to tell you how to do the work, they have to micro-manage the build so it's their way. They get mad at you when their way doesn't work and it costs them big money. A great customer is someone that brings you their ideas and let you make it happen. From the sounds of it you guys are the latter. I understand why they enjoyed working with you guys. I look forward to the launching video. Blessings

[@FoxesAfloat]

You had me worried for the first paragraph, Kriss! xxxx We have the best relationship we could want. We can all be honest all the time. Sometimes it gets tense but never awkward. Most importantly, we're all happy working together and the team have created such a beauty! xxxx

[@Femmpaws]

From what I can see, everything has come together wonderfully. The next step is to test it in the real world, by using it in day to day life. I will guarantee, you both will be finding things you wish you had done differently. Let's hope it's just little things.