How I do canal locks on my narrowboat as a solo boater

I've made another video! Thank you to everyone who watched the last one, left nice comments and subscribed to my channel. I didn't expect such a positive reaction but it was really nice.
For this video I thought I'd show people how I do canal locks. I was quite scared and confused about locks before I got my boat. I'd been on a couple of narrowboat holidays with friends but we'd only done five locks, and it's easier to do them when you're in a group of people.
I then had to do 74 locks in the space of two weeks when I got my boat and brought it back to the Midlands, so it was a baptism of fire. I had lots of help from other boaters to start with but by the end of my journey I was helping other boaters myself!
Anyway, I hope this video helps other people who are in the same position I was not long ago.
By the way, the weather was quite windy so I apologise for the poor sound quality in parts of the video. I've written subtitles in case you can't hear what I was saying.
#narrowboat #canal #boatlife

[@GregVirgoe]

It would be great to have a tour of the boat and learn a bit more about it and how you got it. 😊

[@bettyonaboat]

I will soon hopefully!

[@mickbaker9852]

Weird...

[@2000jago]

@@mickbaker9852 What's weird about that...?

[@Zeb1432]

I concur..!!!

[@noodle_Cx]

@@2000jago chronically online people have their mind in the gutter lol ignore them

[@andrewrawlance6651]

Good to see you a second time, so many people that I used to follow have left the canal so it is good to have a new channel to watch. The filming is good and clear, looking forward to a third video. My Best Wishes..Andrew.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, there should be a third one in a couple of weeks!

[@alastairjones0]

This is the perfect content for KZbin and what the platform was created for. Great vids 👍

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I enjoyed making it so I'm glad KZbin exists! 😀

[@samuelford]

I'm glad KZbin brought me here

[@bettyonaboat]

I am too!

[@mandajane8037]

me too looking forward to watching your canal journeys

[@MercuryGremlin]

Hi Betty. Thank you for two really enjoyable videos. You have all you need to make a great channel. Don’t be surprised if it grows quickly. There's an honesty and natural pace that fits the subject. You, your boat, and the scenery make a great trio. Don't feel rushed, remember, it's your channel! Video your travels, edit, and post when you're ready. Your viewers will be here. Stay safe and happy travels...

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'll try not to feel rushed! I feel like there are lots of videos I want to make to explain how I got into this, etc, but it will take me a while to do them!

[@factoryfresh9141]

Hi Betty, Just chanced on your channel…now subscribed and waiting to see what comes next.

[@bettyonaboat]

@@factoryfresh9141 Thanks, I hope you like my future videos!

[@andydawkins9640]

Hi Betty , wonderful video. I follow Cruising Alba , your life style seems such a slow pace of life . Keep the vids coming, you are doing a brilliant job 👍👍

[@bettyonaboat]

@@andydawkins9640 Thank you, I'm glad you like the videos so far! ☺

[@stepheniles]

I so love your videos and commentary. You are the calm, quiet, reflective equivalent of a Neville Shute book. Please don't change

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, that's really nice of you to say!

[@IceColdGeico]

I think I speak for most people here - we'll watch anything you want to post up for us! 🤣 It was great watching the lock navigation - even though many of us watching already know the sequence, it's still nice to see a 'new boater' doing it. And keep it up with the scenery as well. There are some lovely views all around. 🥰 Well done, keep them coming! ☺

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you like the videos so far! ☺

[@majordolbyscat]

Camera proceeds to go skybound, followed by a little off camera giggle and a smile, that some, like me, might say is worth the price of admission alone Betty.

[@bettyonaboat]

Ha, I don't know why I laughed because I was actually worried I'd broken my phone! 😂 It's a good job it wasn't closer to the edge as it could have blown in the lock! 🤦‍♀

[@phil2768]

I never fully understood how locks worked when I saw them all the time as a kid. Thanks for showing us your life on the boat, it's fascinating.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you for watching - I hope it has helped you understand locks after all these years!

[@GovernmentalCtrl]

@@bettyonaboat flat water = flat earth

[@millinutz]

Wow... these are dream numbers here! "Only" 7'000 subs, and 10 days after release, you already have 25'000 views, 960 comments and a whole load of people enjoying and complementing on this, just your 2nd offering in this series. I feel honoured to be one of these "fans" and wish you good health, and much luck and success on this adventure.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, that's really kind of you to say. The number of views and subscribers have come as a bit of a shock to me! Thank you for the good wishes. 🙂

[@MindfulMotorcyclist]

Agreed Steve! I am also a new subscriber!

[@djwarren5081]

Don't need gym membership when you're moving a narrow boat through a series of locks. Thanks for posting. Enjoy your videos.

[@justgjt]

This is a refreshing alternative to the usual YT experience. Most enjoyable.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks very much!

[@GazmanUK77]

we need a boat tour!

[@bettyonaboat]

I'll do one soon!

[@anniemac3075]

Be careful what you share on KZbin re your boat security etc, not everyone has good intentions.

[@bettyonaboat]

@@anniemac3075 That's a good point. I'm already a bit worried about that as I didn't expect so many people to watch these videos.

[@anniemac3075]

@@bettyonaboat You can keep it general, don't show where you keep valuables, keys, actual locks on the boat etc or exactly where you are. Most KZbinrs put out videos long after leaving an area & you don't have to be specific about where you've been either just a rough idea maybe. It's like any social media in that you shouldn't give too much personal information while being sociable & enjoying connecting with people. Good luck with boat life & enjoy your interaction on KZbin.

[@syrus3k]

Yeah I second what Annie said, I thought it was a bit odd when you mentioned where you'd moored up. One easy way around that is to just release your videos after you move on. Worth keeping in mind though especially as you're traveling alone

[@brianlane5234]

Thankyou Betty for sharing your life on your narrowboat. You have come over more confident this time. It wont be long before you have a large following, I admire the fact that you do this on you own. You must be a very confident person. In fact I am to old to do what you are doing it's something I should of done when I was younger, so watching video's of people like yourself does brings me some pleasure, so take care and be safe and keep up the good work. Brian

[@bettyonaboat]

I'm not naturally very confident but I force myself to do things out of necessity really. I'm glad you're enjoying watching people's videos - I like watching them too!

[@scottjones3782]

This is great because it’s very natural - I love the fact you don’t like talking in front of people - which must seem weird to do without a camera crew etc in the middle of nowhere! Also the camera falling over is all part of it so I think you already have a style of your own. Keep them coming - good luck

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, that's really kind of you to say! ☺

[@scottjones3782]

@@bettyonaboat you’re welcome - look forward to seeing more as you go on.

[@eyepod1967]

Please do more videos, they are very calming. I'm impressed with anyone choosing to do this on their own, not just operating a narrowboat and managing locks, but videoing too. Great stuff.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I will try to do more videos as people seem to be enjoying them!

[@Reg1958scfc]

You come over so well ,and seem a genuine lovely person. Do what you want girl , as long as it makes you happy..

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you for the encouragement. ☺

[@Reg1958scfc]

@@bettyonaboat Please keep the videos comming 🙂

[@Paul-wc7lv]

I've always wondered how locks worked, I've seen many narrowboats, when I'm taking wildlife photography, I see lots of people gawking, at the boaters using them, but I always think, that's the last thing boaters want. Thank you for showing us.

[@bettyonaboat]

Some boaters use the term "gongoozlers" for people who look at the activity on canals. I did used to find it stressful to have an audience at locks to begin with but I don't mind now. I had a really memorable experience with a man who was at a lock with his two grandchildren. The children were fascinated so I let them sit on the front of the boat while it went up in the lock. I gave their granddad the windlass and he did the lock for me. He'd hired some boats in the past so he knew what he was doing.

[@Paul-wc7lv]

@@bettyonaboat That's lovely Betty, taking wildlife pictures I meet lots of nice people, many coming asking to see the pictures I've taken, & telling me if there's subjects of interest such as Black Swans or Otters ect, I enjoy your videos' very professional. best wishes. Paul

[@chilllytube]

Another nice video, thanks. If you film while there are people about they might ask what you're doing and when you explain you might get more viewers!. Don't be self-conscious, filming is legal, increasingly normal and nothing to be worried about.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks! I actually did some filming today, outside, while people were walking along the towpath, so I'm getting braver!

[@Mojopin59]

Love your videos. Please don't change the style

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you!

[@alistairmacgregor2320]

I got this video as a recommendation by KZbin, glad I did, nice to see someone explaining what their doing Keep safe and don’t t fall in

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you like the explanation as I was worried it might be boring!

[@dough740]

Rule number 1 on the cut: if you fall in, first thing you do is stand up (apart from at locks, it's only 4' deep)

[@Karoti]

Well done. You had the worst of all worlds there, double lock, single handed on a windy day. Great stuff.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I didn't realise how windy it would be when I set off. I should have checked the weather forecast!

[@Rob-Alan.]

You're definitely growing in confidence and seem more relaxed on camera. Giving us more information on travelling through the locks and the places where you are. Keep up the great work!

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you! I think reading these comments is making me feel more confident too so I'm hoping I'll become more and more comfortable over time.

[@davidprice329]

Your videos look great Betty! They're honest, and whilst I imagine you're thinking of everything you'd want to do different, learn more with filming and being comfortable with the camera - just take your time and it will happen without you realising it! Keep sharing your lovely lifestyle and you'll be grand - just think it a year's time if you carry on - you'll see how far you've have come!

[@bettyonaboat]

Yes I think it will be interesting to see what the videos are like once I've been doing them for a bit. I'm just going to have fun with it! I'm glad you like them.🙂

[@davidprice329]

@@bettyonaboat it shows!! I think that's the only way to approach it :) - from what I've seen with other channels, you will get used to talking to the camera more, I guess imagining it's a friend perhaps is one way! I think your audio is great (which is one of the most important things) and music choice too!! There was a shot you did (possibly in your previous video) when you did a 360 pan and the camera didn't like that, I guess it's good to see what equipment other vloggers use (I see DSLR cameras used in other channels I watch) - and perhaps they're good at not vibrating with the engine too!! I think @BenandEmily have done a run-down of their camera equipment somewhere. I guess it's all a steep learning curve! But you definitely have a following already, and it's such a supportive place (I think!) so keep on keeping on :)

[@Countdownlouisville]

It's just like being there, please continue posting. Thank you!

[@bettyonaboat]

You're welcome!

[@iangalbraith1258]

Ah Betty, you don't disappoint us, your KZbin watchers, do you. you've shown us all that there's lots of hard work you do. From tying off the center line line to make your boat secure, you've found life on your boat's superb, from which you don't want a cure! As I've mentioned already I really love hearing you talk, then almost before I knew it, you were there at the final lock! That's where someone from the local pub helped you with a gate, which meant you got through quicker, without having to wait! Now a question, are you going to go all the way, along to Preston Brook? Oh I sure do hope so Betty, because I can't wait to see it, you're alright in my book! I. Shane. G. 🙂

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you Shane! I've already been to Preston Brook. In fact, I did my first ever solo lock just after coming out of Preston Brook Tunnel.

[@iangalbraith1258]

Well, with nothing else for it I've taken a look, I've discovered on KZbin there's Preston Brook. Your a very special lady Betty, make no mistake, I'm not sure it's a journey that I'd care to take. Why, it's dark and damp with water dripping down, Still, if you were there to it wouldn't get me down! There's some commentary on here who'll scorn and mock, but I'm pleased to hear that was your first lock! Oh by the way, yes I'm writing again in rhyme, but you may be glad to know I don't do it all the time! The closest I've come was cruising on the Broads. There I managed to get it stuck at one of our roads. In a blistering hot day with a crowd on a river bank, I entertained them all, yup they'd this landlubber to thank. By misjudging an up coming road bridge I sat side on, wishing for help until this moment would be gone! No helpers arrived so I struggled to push it around, until finally I went under it and safe passage was found! Now if I may say this, it's marvelous all that you do, I know I'd be in safe hands there, sailing along with you! 😊 I. Shane. G.

[@oktfg]

Recommend by KZbin. Love your vlogging style, calm and reflective. Hope you keep the videos coming allowing us a tiny little peek on your adventures ❤

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you! ☺I wasn't sure how they were going to turn out but lots of people seem to find them calming.

[@oktfg]

@@bettyonaboat tbh I wouldn’t worry or overthink content. Just point your camera and take us along on your travels. I’ve never been on narrow boat, so seeing the landscape and the things you do along the way - it’s cool and fun to watch. Best of luck and hope to see more vids in future ❤️

[@mc64st.ives.11]

A nice second Vlog, it was good to see a step by step guide to opening & closing the locks. Look forward to your next one. 😊

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks, I'm glad you found it interesting!

[@steveriordan6348]

A Steve 'tip', set up 2 centre lines. One on the left, one on the right. Makes life easier for solos.

[@bettyonaboat]

That's a good idea! I always worry if I'm not standing on the same side of the lock as my centre line, as it means I can't run over to it if needed.

[@devilsolution9781]

@@bettyonaboat you can just put the boat to the front of the lock and do the paddles slowly. I never use the center line

[@devilsolution9781]

@@bettyonaboat it can be anoyying when someone helps tho amd does the paddles too quick

[@davidcross8028]

I live in the outskirts of Derby and so I know the canal at Shardlow very well. And my great grandfather was born in Shardlow in the 1860's. Well done Betty, keep it up.

[@bettyonaboat]

Shardlow is lovely! I actually think it's one of my favourite places I've been to on the canal network so far.

[@davidcross8028]

@@bettyonaboat As you said in the video, it was at one time what was known as an inland port and was the Motorway of it's day, and though the pace of life was slowere then - the speed of a walking horse - I often think we lost something with the passing of those days. My best wishes to you.

[@surrebua]

Thanks for great video! Canals and narrowboats has always facinated me. Greetings from Norway 👍😃

[@richardkain5345]

What a lovely refreshing narrowband video from a down to earth no nonsense cool lady. Even the music you choose to accompany your vids is different. Good luck to you. Keep being genuine👍 From a fellow boater.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, it's nice to hear from a fellow boater!

[@djunknown...]

love it ... i know you probably know but boat vloggers leave a good month from where they have filmed or going location wise so people cant just turn up and see you just stay safe on your locations x

[@bettyonaboat]

Yes I’ve done this too! I actually filmed this before I posted the other video and I wasn’t sure if either of them would ever see the light of day!

[@djunknown...]

@@bettyonaboat goood it will be a good channel love it 😀

[@simoncushing1048]

Dear Betty, I have just watched both of your vlogs. I must say how much I enjoyed them both. Thus I have just subscribed to your channel. Reason being I am 66 yrs old and have invested in my own 30ft Aintree beetle.As a newbie to boating I find this ideal like yourself i think it great to be able to help lone boaters. Much appreciated look forward to your third vlog. Happy boating. Simon.

[@bettyonaboat]

That's exciting about your boat! I'm really glad you've enjoyed the videos so far.

[@rexochroy2]

@@bettyonaboat my pleasure dear 🙏👌🌶😂🌶

[@simoncushing1048]

@@bettyonaboatThanks I can now venture out from the marina onto the river Avon then onto the canal next week 👍

[@lynnehalton164]

Thanks for your videos and information, I fancy a narrowboat and being female and a lone traveller, you've given me the bug to get one!! I often walk the canal paths admiring the boats! Around church lawton, trent and mersey canal. Beautiful scenery! 😊

[@bettyonaboat]

It's nice to know I've inspired another woman! I do love it but it can also be stressful at times, just so you're aware. In fact, I currently have a problem with the boat which I'm hopefully going to show in a future video. I was due to go through Church Lawton last July but had to take a detour due to a broken lock near Sandbach. I might visit in the future though!

[@ladygardener100]

Yes, i solo on my NB, its 57ft, so a handfull if windy, i usually wait a few days, and i generally just potter a few miles.

[@trevorkirby3781]

Glad to see you are getting at least one rain free day although narrow boats can be a bit entertaining in strong cross winds.😅

[@bettyonaboat]

Oh dear, as long as nobody crashes into me!

[@trevorkirby3781]

@@bettyonaboat we once clonked another boat due to wind. The owner looked at me, smiled and said " you do realise boating is a full contact sport".

[@bettyonaboat]

​@@trevorkirby3781I know some people post videos of narrowboat crashes and I just can't watch them - they're like horror films to me!

[@RoyceMunday56]

That was really useful, Betty. Thank you. I'm an old person and I've never been brave enough to go through a lock on my own. Watching the whole process was informative. Happy sailing

[@bettyonaboat]

It's out of necessity really, I much prefer doing locks when I have friends with me to help. I'm glad you found it informative!

[@gasman6163]

Full of admiration, I wouldn't have tried that on my own. Your relaxed presentation is very enjoyable, well done

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@BobG127]

I love the name of your boat. It brings back fond memories. When I was a young boy (8 years old) I found a very, very young stray kitten in a field with no mother or siblings to be found. My parents allowed me to adopt her and I named her "Little One" for her size. She turned out to be a wonderful pet.

[@bettyonaboat]

I used to have two house rabbits and I called them both "little one", even though they had proper names. They always prevented me from getting a boat as they needed a garden to hop around in during the day, so I got the boat after they both died. The name was partly what drew me to the boat!

[@BobG127]

@@bettyonaboat ♥️

[@dismaldog]

Another great video Betty,many thanks for showing life on a narrow boat for us in Australia.This way of life looks so lovely❤.Keep up the great work.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks for your message - it's nice to know someone across the world in Australia is watching. I bet your weather is nicer!

[@dismaldog]

@bettyonaboat we have our moments of rubbish weather and a bit too hot in summer but nice at moment thanks.

[@johnnywallaceuk]

What a lovely new channel youtube suggested to me today. I'm a fan already! I find the most important thing to me for if I instantly take to someone's work here is their voice and if I feel like I can listen to hours of them talking about their world. With you that's a big yes! Nice and calm, simple explanations, a relaxing pace that matches the slow lane life of travel on a canal boat. You're like a Girl Outdoors for canal boats, and that's a good thing. Good editing too, you're a natural at a lot of this already, even if you feel out of your comfort zone in front of the camera, that's actually part of the charm and genuine feeling. Looking forward to seeing more of your adventures and learning the backstory to all of this. 😎

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, it's a real compliment that you like my voice as I've always been very self-conscious about it! I've seen some of the Girl Outdoors videos and she's great, so that's a very nice compliment indeed!

[@johnnywallaceuk]

@@bettyonaboat Yeh Becky is brilliant, definitely get the same vibes from your vids as her early work so the potential you have is huge. :) I'm in to hiking in the mountains and wilderness so I watch a lot of hiker channels. I don't know much about canal boating, no canals anymore way up North where I am. Only watched a handful of canal boating vids here but I like the old country style of it, like a way of life nearly lost to us. Looking forward to learning all about it in your next videos. :)

[@DavidMorley]

Extremely relaxing vibe. My Aunt and Uncle live near there. Lovely part of the country. I hope your channel goes from strength to strength!

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you!

[@MAnnaYager]

It seems quite the challenge to do a narrowboat solo, but you clearly have become adept at dealing with it. Very encouraging for folks who are facing daunting challenges!

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I hope it gives other people bit more confidence to give it a go! 🙂

[@greghilton7797]

Having just discovered your channel I just binge watched all your videos and liked them. That shyness will soon wear off . Cheers from another Aussie in Brisbane

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you liked them all so far!

[@devilsolution9781]

​@@bettyonaboatare you north of stoke? Im trying to see if you go past me on the vids but i dont recognise the stretch.

[@artd.1498]

Very nice. Enjoyed it. Keep ‘em coming. 👍 The leisurely pace and lovely scenery are wonderful. You are so fortunate to be doing this. I wish the best for you.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks very much, I do feel very fortunate!

[@macbitz]

Great stuff! Not a canal-goer myself, but there's something quite relaxing about watching someone else do all the hard work 😉 Also, don't worry about filming when there are other people around, it's too easy to get self-conscious but reality is people don't really mind - they're all busy doing their own stuff 😁

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@robtebay2]

Hi Betty. I expect in time you'll open only one gate in the wide locks. It saves a lot of time and effort. You're heading towards a great part of the canal and river networks. I love it over there.

[@bettyonaboat]

Yes a few other people have suggested only opening one gate, I'll have to give it a go eventually.

[@Man_Ray78]

Thanks Betty on a Boat. I don't know if you have a principle about not shooting video footage of other people but in my country if it's public space, then it's no violation any privacy but i would tell people or ask, if I was creating videos. My friend was drunk one day after a serious drinking bender, sitting by a store resting, almost seeping on this busy store-street with lots of walking people, looking into windows, when a documentary filmmaker got a footage of him. In this hit movie ( did very well in cinema) about an Comedian/Actor/Writer that many considered the funniest man in Iceland, was running for mayor of Reykjavik, had created a political party for this and he won. So anybody can see him forever in that state forevermore. It's such a feelgood videos you make. I like on this Friday morning. Have a great weekend.

[@bettyonaboat]

It's legal to film people in public places in the UK but I try to avoid doing so if I don't have their permission as I know not everybody likes being on camera or expects to be filmed and put on the internet when they're going about their normal lives!

[@michaelpilling9659]

Hello Betty - greetings from Poland A lovely video. Well done on showing us how to go through a lock. It must be difficult being solo handed, but evn more difficult filming at the same time.

[@bettyonaboat]

Greetings from England! Yes, I was quite tired at the end of the day after doing this. It was fun though!

[@natashab2304]

Ooh a lovely refreshingly raw yet professional video! You explained it all so clearly! I am in awe - thank you Betty 👏

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I hope it helps a few people understand locks!

[@hamradioop5777]

Yet another fantastic video Betty! A little 'DJI Mic 2' with its wind muffler attached and inside your jumper would probably stop wind noise. An Insta360 X4 360 degree camera mounted in the middle of the boat either indoor or outdoors, would give you the ability to reframe the shot wherever you are or whatever you want to show, or allow the viewer to navigate their view. I'm sure if you asked nicely some folks would send you a few quid to help you buy that sort of kit.

[@bettyonaboat]

Yes I need to look into microphones but they all seem quite expensive and I don't want to be asking people for money!

[@user-jt3fc2pb8o]

Came for the boat, stayed for Betty. Great video :)

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you!

[@millinutz]

Yeah, me too. Reckon this will be a good series, presented by an authentic girl, who's just doing her thing.

[@BobG127]

I would like to see a tour of your boat. The little I've seen so far looks very nice. Also, I hope that you're feeling more comfortable in front of the camera than you expressed in another video. You're really quite good at it, as I think your growing subscriber base suggests. Thanks for bringing us along! I look forward to seeing more of you, your boat, and your adventures.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I do intend to do a boat tour in future! I hope you enjoy watching my future adventures! 😀

[@BobG127]

@@bettyonaboat I am sure I will! 🙂

[@overdriveeagle]

You are a joy to watch navigating the locks!

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you!

[@adrianpeters2413]

Great video , and music fits , thank you for the time , and views , smiles here ..YES 😊❤😊... just like going through the locks in letchlade... hard work really ... ha ha but the smells of the empty locks is ???????? Interesting ha ha great memories .. again thank you ....

[@bettyonaboat]

I haven't noticed a particular smell but I did fall in the canal not long after getting my boat and I wouldn't recommend it!

[@aceventurapetdetective2356]

You are so generous with your video explanations and replying to comments, thanks.

[@bettyonaboat]

I think if someone makes the effort to leave a comment they deserve a reply! And it's nice to read feedback about the videos.

[@edinguy9585]

Good to see you again, a helping hand always makes life easier,your boat “little one “ looks new or has been repainted recently it looks so clean, see you next time.

[@bettyonaboat]

I'm the third owner and there are some bits I need to sort out if you get close. I'm waiting until the weather gets warmer though!

[@digitalmediafan]

Ah this is all fantastic. I never thought about locks knew how they worked etc. More plesse of all this ❤

[@bettyonaboat]

Ah great, I've always liked locks myself (just to look at them) but I didn't understand how they worked until a few years ago.

[@digitalmediafan]

@@bettyonaboat btw did you know Nicola Thorp had a canal boat ? She was on This Morning from it in 2020 kzbin.info/www/bejne/jX6ldWyIaLF8l9Usi=K6BJbxt1NQJPn6P7

[@lamaha564]

That was really helpful to see how the locks work singlehanded as we want to go on a narrow boat trip, but wondered how the locks will be navigated singlehanded. Very helpful. Happy boating, Thanks again.

[@bettyonaboat]

I'm glad it was helpful! I find double locks more difficult than single ones, especially if you're going up in the lock, so you could maybe book a trip along a stretch of canal which has single ones? Or you could book a trip somewhere that doesn't have locks?

[@garyprince8145]

Another Excellent and Interesting Video, well done with the windy conditions.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you!

[@andrewflett89]

Nice second video. You seem much more comfortable on camera and the actual video.and editing is more polished. Like the brief guide to single handing a lock. Looking forward to the next video.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm hoping my skills and confidence will improve as I do more video!

[@dt-wq7ql]

I lived in a caravan for 15 years . Loved it. The kettle , the tea . The simple life. Love it.

[@bettyonaboat]

Yes, it's all about the simple things. 🙂

[@MAnnaYager]

I really like seeing how much the boat rocks in real life, and the actual sound of the engine. None of the narrowboaters I follow have shown such "real life" images and sounds.

[@bettyonaboat]

That's interesting, I wonder if my engine is just a bit louder maybe!

[@MAnnaYager]

@@bettyonaboat I doubt it - I think most KZbinrs just cut the sound and do music, but I really like the sense of reality that hearing the boat's sound brings to your version.

[@greghart6310]

Lovely! Some footage of the scenery, wildlife and places you pass in real time (not speeded up) would flesh out the episodes nicely. Personally, I would rather see snippets of slow real time footage than speeded up 'timeplapse'. Life on the canals is slow and peaceful so nothing wrong with the videos reflecting that - calming to watch - something that's sorely needed in this crazy life!

[@bettyonaboat]

Someone else said that too so I think I'm going to experiment with including more real-time footage. I had to speed this one up or it would have been about two hours long! I'm glad you still enjoyed it though. 🙂

[@karlgamble9318]

Since stenson had new gates , when the locks full the top gates blow open by the wind , assume the same thing is happening at weston. Much better than leaky gates. 👍

[@bettyonaboat]

This occurred to me afterwards actually, I think that is the reason!

[@walshpaul4158]

Hi Betty, I don't think you need to go to the gym after your lock workout. I am a brummy, I see some really classy narrow boats. I like your content as it is real,I look forward to seeing you on your journey.

[@bettyonaboat]

It does keep me fit, although I sometimes worry about my back! I'm glad you've liked the videos so far. 🙂

[@walshpaul4158]

@@bettyonaboat just a suggestion if you're back hurts maybe. Get a back support. A belt that might help you to use to open locks and easily take off. You could find in sport shops, especially in weight liiftting

[@martinwalker3372]

Thank you for sharing these videos. They are lovely and beautifully filmed, edited and really watchable. The music is lovely too.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you like them. ☺

[@desboast1948]

Great video, you did well on your own to film and do locks and on a windy day. Love to see a boat tour. Stay safe, happy boating .

[@bettyonaboat]

With hindsight I maybe shouldn't have done it on a windy day! I do plan to do a boat tour in future. I'm glad you liked the video!

[@rexochroy2]

The advantage of your way of life is you make the rules and boundaries, I am still very jealous of your way of life. Keep it up.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks for watching!

[@sharongillis4531]

Hi from Australia Betty.Enjoying your vids,look forward to getting to know you & your life’s story.🐨🦘would love to see the inside of your home.😊

[@bettyonaboat]

Hello from England! I'm glad you're enjoying the videos. I'll do a boat tour and talk about my story in future.

[@TheSuperTrickey]

Great video, love the calming influence it has on me when working in an office and dreaming about enjoying more time travelling through the UK and in nature..love the music and direction of this video thank you.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you find it calming! Let's hope nothing dramatic happens... 🤞

[@user-mk3lk1zn5i]

I feel theres's a Betty story dying to come out. The boat is a healing thing for you.

[@bettyonaboat]

It is a healing thing, although I'm in two minds about telling the story...

[@Ultra-Violet]

Some things shouldn't be shared online, but ultimately it's your choice 👍🏻

[@tradingcardboss]

@@bettyonaboatI’d keep it a mystery

[@lastmanstanding9389]

Love your channel , are you going to do a video on how you started off, how you found the boat and some of the ins and outs of your journey?

[@ThamesShips]

Another interesting, informative and enjoyable video. It seems that the boating community are friendly and are willing to help each other at locks.

[@bettyonaboat]

Yes, that's what I've found! I would never have been able to do 74 locks in two weeks if other boaters hadn't helped me. I've found that non-boaters are often willing to close lock gates too.

[@backyardmechanic921]

Lovely video, hard work on your own doing those locks and the weather wasn't helping. Nice that you had the camera pointing foward so we could see what you were seeing. A lot of boaters think we need to look at them all the time and just talk to the camera. Your videos are a nice mix of both, keep up the good work.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you like the mix!

[@gr8fullytedicated]

I thought you did well. I used to follow several narrowboaters prior to COVID, but most of them are no longer living aboard. Its fun to have someone else to follow now.

[@bettyonaboat]

I’m glad you’re enjoying following!

[@SuPeRbOmBeRmAn4]

171 miles getting the boat back home, i bet that was an adventure. 💣💣

[@bettyonaboat]

It was intense! I was driving every day for most of the day, with just a break for lunch.

[@SuPeRbOmBeRmAn4]

@@bettyonaboat i know nothing of narrowboating, i was only ever on one once in my life. is it expensive to start off like you have done ? and is there a license to be acquired yearly ?

[@syrus3k]

My grandad used to own a narrowboat back in the 80s and we'd sometimes go on family trips on it - absolutely loved it as a kid, and for my 42nd birthday this year we rented one in Skipton in yorkshire near where we live just for the day which was great fun although a little chilly in February! Brought back some great memories though. Thanks for the channel!

[@bettyonaboat]

That sounds lovely! I used to walk along the canal with my granddad when I was growing up but I don’t remember there being as many boats around back then. I’m glad it brought back some nice memories!

[@robertdrinkall8947]

Good job Betty, very entertaining. Take care, Happy boating🛥️🛥️

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you!

[@Dave64DGB]

Love that whatever KZbin algorithm brought your latest post up on my home page to follow you on your narrowboat adventures. Both videos were great. A boat tour and your journey with it so far would be good.

[@bettyonaboat]

I'm glad you like the videos so far. I do hope to do a boat tour soon and talk more about my journey with it so far. 🙂

[@Aussiem8e]

That was quite a drop through that lock! Wow.

[@bettyonaboat]

Some of them are deeper than that!

[@hobbytime2098]

It's so quiet and peace full and time goes so slowly too your doing a great job

[@bettyonaboat]

I do find locks quite relaxing, because you're forced to stand there as the water slowly drains, taking in the scenery. 🙂

[@hobbytime2098]

Would love to take a trip on a narrow boat am not far from the marina at willington

[@iansi]

Love the video. Have done plenty of locks, but never solo. It's so much easier with one person on the boat and another doing the gates!

[@bettyonaboat]

It is, I’m always so grateful when I can just stay on the boat, especially if I have to go up a deep double lock!

[@user-fv8tx3qz5m]

Hi Betty the boater great videos, the more you do on locks better the confidence nice one take care.

[@martinmchugh001]

Hey, that was perfect! Doing very well and it's very nice to follow your ongoings from the very beginning. Well filmed and edited. Your choice of music also adds to the pleasure.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it and you're enjoying following!

[@neeekneek]

Glad youtube recommended your channel! so calming :)

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you find them calming!

[@tonymelvillemedia7299]

Keep on cruising and filming! Your obvious competence, tinged with a little insecurity, makes for compelling watching. Good stuff.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you liked the video!

[@timeluster]

I've never watched canal boat content so was intrigued when this popped up. I was always stuffy with canals as a kid, dragged along the tow path on long walks with my parents, but I have learnt to enjoy the peace of it. Tempted by a holiday on one too, particularly as yours looks modern and cozy still, and seems to have good headroom inside?! The camaraderie of boating seems really good, especially the help to be able to do so on your own.

[@bettyonaboat]

Yes, I've found the majority of boaters to be really friendly! I think it would definitely be worth hiring a boat for a holiday. Most modern hire boats are actually nicer inside than mine is!

[@theshadow2576]

well youtube actually recommended me a good channel. I've been looking into boat life in the uk and your video pops up. Great content, looking forward to seeing more

[@bettyonaboat]

Ah it's great the KZbin recommendation worked!

[@djhrecordhound4391]

Thanks for showing such beautiful sights and experiences...yourself included. Glad I gave you a little laugh in the last video when I said you sound very soothing. As a ginger myself, I understand how you'd get ribbed for what you were born with, but here in Canada your voice is every bit as attractive as you look. What may seem like a disadvantage to you could be one of your greater assets to others. Apologies to you if compliments make you uncomfortable. My goals are to boost your confidence early and cheer you on (or up) as you go. I doubt we'll ever meet in person, and I have a life here, so please be assured I have no other (or ill) intents. Darren ("Recordhound")

[@strokemondeo]

Some nice clear lock instructions there , people dont realise the concept of simply .... how to use a lock . Also the comaradery of narrowboaters that look after each other with simple courtecy . Also ..... keep the little errors with filming in there ..... the camera blowing down ( add a .... LIKE n Subscribe ) while the camera is pointing up or down for a good vibe too 😄 , people like the fact that we are not perfect , n things do go slightly wrong 👍

[@bettyonaboat]

I do love how narrowboaters help each other and chat to each other. You just don't get that outside of the canal.

[@Inferno_Joe]

i enjoyed this as much as your first video, please keep them coming. having watched a lot of canal life videos i'm enjoying the simplicity of yours, they're a good mix of scenery, voice over, explanation and chat. thanks

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you like the simplicity of them. I wasn't sure how they were going to turn out but quite a few people have said they find them relaxing.

[@drrev40]

Boat looks great, looking forward to seeing more of it and learning more about canal boat life. Really enjoyable watch. Thanks for making it.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you, I'm glad you found it enjoyable and I hope you enjoy my future videos! ☺

[@the_trooper_72]

Hi, new subscriber here,. As someone who doesn't live on a narrow boat I really did enjoy the video's!!.. Thank you,. Keep them coming and stay safe! X 👍🏻😎

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks, I'm glad you've enjoyed them!

[@Boatlife1964]

Another lovely insightful video.. lovely bumping into you again this morning and having a little chat.. keep up these vlogs.. and safe journeys on the cut.. ❤

[@bettyonaboat]

Yes, what a strange coincidence! I was actually about to film a video introduction when you saw me so that’s why I had my phone out, but I felt a bit of an idiot!

[@FixitFrank]

There are a bunch of narrow boat channels. Yours is refreshing. Thanks for making the vids. hello from Pa USA

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you! Yes, I watch quite a few channels myself. I'm glad you think mine is refreshing!

[@FixitFrank]

@@bettyonaboat I look forward to seeing you and David Johns do a collab. fingers crossed for David!

[@stewartmackay]

I've always wondered how it works with locks on a narrowboat by yourself. Interesting, thanks.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thanks, I wondered too before I got the boat. I hope this helps people!

[@dough740]

Hat off to you doing double locks solo - I've always had company (or better still another boat to pair with). I dread to think of the stress of climbing down the ladder while holding the centre line, then trying to get it off the bollard. Kudos to you!

[@bettyonaboat]

I do still worry about double locks, I feel much more comfortable with single locks. The hardest bit is usually climbing up the ladder when you're going up in the lock rather than down. It can be difficult to steer the boat so you're close to the ladder, then you have to climb up while carrying the windlass and the centre line. I should probably just leave my windlass at the top when I open the gates, but I worry someone might run off with it!

[@neildaly6787]

Thanks for another great video Betty. Tackling the locks single-handed looks tricky; but you obviously know what you are doing. That's a good explanation of how they work. I follow another narrowboater, @NarrowboatJourneys, who has been cruising the cut single-handed for thirty years. I think it's fantastic.

[@bettyonaboat]

Oh wow, 30 years is a long time! I bet there weren't as many boats on the canals back then and thing have changed a lot in that time.

[@Neemulus]

Another lovely video, entertaining and educational. I hope it's ok to say to - be cautious about revealing future locations... stay safe out there. More tips and quirks of boat life please 😊

[@Karoti]

Agreed in respect of revealing location. I'm a local chap to where Betty is in these vids, but as long as she has moved on, it shouldn't be a problem. Judging by the weather, I would say they are a little while ago.

[@bettyonaboat]

Thank you! I filmed this a while ago so I’m not there now but I think I am going to stop giving my locations in future videos. I thought there would only be about 20 people watching these!