Narrowboat Marina life - S2 Ep37.

I have often considered moving to a marina. Particularly for the winter. Not just yet though but in time that will undoubtedly happen. So what are the challenges, if any, what are the benefits? I discuss with a subscriber Glenn who has just bought a narrowboat and moved into a marina. That's his life. Not planning to move out either!
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[@davidpearson243]

Chris you are a fantastic interviewer more please I love listening to “normal people “ and their stories 👍👍👍👍

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the compliment and comment David. There are a few more in the pipeline. Just need to get my arse into gear and do the editing. I plan to buy an easel and write ‘Knock, if you have a story to tell’. It’s might drum up a bit of interest!

[@Dyfhi]

Nice 1 Chris…

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks Tony

[@garyhollywell2112]

Chris I thought this was excellent and really good to get the differing perspectives thank you

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thank you Gary. Have a great week.

[@mommahil4323]

thought provoking interview and interesting stuff comments from your side Chris. helpful from both points of vsiew

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

There is no point in having a bias…or at least making it obvious. I actually like the easy life. I’ve done 40 years of a hard life albeit enjoyable. I get marina life and will enjoy it. But then until I’ve done it, I’m not sure. I’m going this a crack for about 10 years anyway. Let’s see. Thanks for the comment.

[@mungmungie]

Yes, proximity to a rail line can be an issue. We live about a block away from an elevated rapid transit line, and the noise can sometimes be invasive in the summer time. Strangely, it's easy to adjust to. It helps to be about four blocks from a large mostly natural park, and a 20 minute walk to shopping. It's all a bunch of trade-offs. The issue of "everything has a place" is exactly what I am dealing with right now as I renovate the bookshelves in my narrowboat-sized study. It's an important consideration. Could I live on a narrowboat? I think I could, but my partner definitely wouldn't have any of that! It's a similar situation with home ownership in Canada, however, it is horribly expensive in Vancouver and a lot of other cities too. Rentals have gone way up in price. There really aren't any options like narrowboats here at all. If I were living in the UK, I would definitely consider a narrowboat. Great interview.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Life throws up challenges in small spaces whether on a boat or a small house/flat. I totally understand the other half not wanting to live on a boat. If you’re used to having a shower daily, this isn’t the life, unless you’re in a marina. I remember being on a fron line RAF station in the Cold War where aircraft were taking off most of the day. Conversation used to stop, wait for the aircraft to take off and re-start as if nothing happened. It was the norm. Strange isn’t it. The housing crash was supposed to happen a few years ago and people suggest it’ll happen this year. I don’t see it but I’m sure it will. It’s hard to guess when. As you point out, we are lucky there are boats we can live on in the country. I’d be on the street if not. Thanks for the comment Peter. I hope you are well and have a great week.

[@AJ_and_Ivy]

I just met Glen last night. Lovely chap; and a great interview/video - Thanks 😊 I’m currently enjoying the fab team and facilities at Brinklow for April. After 3 prior weeks of doing running-repairs on Ivy’s plumbing and electrics, I decided to moor up somewhere so I can do a more thorough job (aka: rip it all out and start again).

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

It’s good when people meet others who have been on this tube channel. I’m pleased you’re aquatinted. Good luck with the running repairs. Nothing easy when repairs are required even if you know what you’re doing as it’s like a game of real life Tetris moving stuff out the way to do the work and the bit you need is never in the right place. Thanks for the comment AJ.

[@ianwebb2235]

That was fascinating Chris. My wife is so very keen on us moving to the UK, buying a boat and living the life,,,, But, she is a lot younger than me, she is without the shot knees, pins and plate in my ankle, sore joints etc.....Ah we will see. Maybe, marina in winter is an option.... Wonderful video, as always, young fella. We are off to the River - Asuwa gawa - to look at the cherry blossom, eat some bbq chicken and a drink some beer!!! Thank you for this Chris.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

The Japanese blossom is something to behold. I agree with your synopsis. If you are broken or almost broken, perhaps the boaty life would be a bit of a challenge. Maybe marina life and go out occasionally is the answer. Have a great day Ian and thanks for the comment and support.

[@smullen2000]

Sorry I'm a bit behind Chris. Having a KZbin catch up day. That was a really interesting vlog and chat with Glen, who we have to thank for letting us come onboard and sharing his points of views with us. Question. In a house, a single person gets a 25% reduction on their council tax bill. Would that also apply in a marina and be knocked off the mooring fee? Just a thought. Great vlog Chris. Safe journeys. Steve

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

No discount for single boaters Steve. The price is the price which make life in a house a little cheaper and not forgetting a lot easier. Without a post code, life is a challenge on the water. You need a post code for everything these days. The Govt wants to keep info on us. It’s a little Orwellian but 1984 had some dark insight into 2023. Have a great week.

[@nickevans1698]

Morning Chris, pretty much spot on 👍🏼

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks Nick.

[@kevinfarrell5778]

Think it's an age thing Chris, comfort over adventure , lifting gas bottles etc... as you get older, and as you say water..the simple life means different things to different people..great vlog ...but I'd be in with your mate, if I could afford it...AND have thought about in the future(buying a liveaboard boat)..brilliant insight to options ...all the best chris..looking forward to the next vlog..👍👍🍻

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I totally understand the reason why people live in marinas. It’s not until you get on the cut and understand the trials and tribulations of that style of life can you appreciate the difficultiness of it. Thanks for the comment and support Kevin.

[@craigfoster2849]

Very interesting as always Chris mate. We haven't thought much about living in a marina but I suppose it's something we'll consider as we get older! Take care

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Never say never about marina life. I’m resigned to the thought that it’ll happen one day. Thanks for the comment Craig. Have a great week.

[@waynewaring]

Thanks for doing this vlog Chris, very interesting and a helpful insight. I understand the Brave comment. I'd love to live on a narrowboat but getting off the housing ladder is the single most scary thing for me. Cheers Chris.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I get it Wayne. I think if I lived in a house I wouldn’t be doing this. The UK is set up for the post code. Without one, life is a challenge. Thanks for the comment mate.

[@Tass...]

Another great sit down Chris. Cheers!

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment and support Tass.

[@thomasmackenzie7811]

Excellent!!!!!

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks Thomas.

[@jacquelineryde7339]

Interesting Vlog. I will be nearly 61 before we start on our CC journey on our boat in 2024. I worried about my age at first thinking we have left it too late, as everyone seems to have done 5 or 6 years by the time they get to my age but I now just chill and think what will be will be and we will look at marinas in the future I am sure. Having an electric boat built is going to be interesting 👍

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I’m sure you’ll be fine. It appears there will be two of you on the boat. Most of the time the lock gates are easy to open. One or two are a bit of a struggle but there’s normally someone who turns up if you need the help. You’ll have a quiet time with all electric. Good luck on the build. Thanks for the comment Jacqueline.

[@meljones7067]

What a wonderfully, well balanced, informative and interesting Vlog. Thank you Mel

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment and support Mel.

[@NM-gr1iq]

Another great Vlog, Chris.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thank you for the comment.

[@christinedennehy9426]

Great 👍

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thank you Christine.

[@mishkawp8200]

Love your videos. The great sense of humour always comes through. Nice balanced review of the merits of both marina and cruising life - thank you! Have a fab week.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thank you Mishka. You have a great week also.

[@greghilton7797]

Another great chat with lots to think about. I'm loving these vlogs and many thanks indeed for doing them. Cheers

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment Greg. I hope everyone who moves on the water does their own homework as I’m still getting used to it! Most of the time I like it, but I don’t love it!

[@johnharrison9317]

What a great vlog. Love the interview style Chris. So looking forward to exploring the canal lifestyle in the coming months. Thanks for sharing chaps

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment and support John. It’ll be good to catch up when you get over here. Have a great week.

[@christinegibbins6105]

Thanks Chris, that was a good video. Good to see how you are now growing into the way of life on the cut. Take care.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks Christine. It’s been a slower than anticipated process. I do like the life but not yet loving it. Still growing. Have a great week.

[@joniclay676]

Interesting vlog! Enjoy seeing the points of view of different narrow boating lifestyles.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment Joni. I think you’re right about the different lifestyles too. It’s similar but different; just like houses.

[@LloydHywelBevan]

Enjoyed that Chris & Glen - boaty life has lots of variables which can be customized to suit the boater - regardless of which size & fit in particular suits one it's always fascinating to hear how another works - brilliant stuff - keep those interviews rolling !!

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment Lloyd. Agreed and I hope the marinas will not price themselves to exclude the average boater with costs as I fear in time it will be for the more wealthy creating a big divide on the waterways. Let’s discuss this in 15 years time.

[@trevorsbarkingmadchannel4501]

Great interview Chris. Do think you enjoy the cruising around a lot more. And that shows in your vlogs. Best wishes. Have a good week.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I like the cruising in the warm weather Trev. I put on a brave face for the rest of it! Fair weather boater with a robust nature to make it all happen. And to think I did almost four decades as a soldier. I think I only did Ops in warm countries is the reason.

[@trevorsbarkingmadchannel4501]

@@chrismears-inslowtime I think secretly most are fair weather cruisers unless caught out mid cruise lol. As long as you’re enjoying it is the main thing. Loving the vlogs. Best wishes

[@nicks2528]

Thanks guys

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks Nick.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

So very interesting Chris. Cheers Chris in Devon.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks Chris.

[@peterrutter7332]

Hi mate great vid. An honest guy being new into it nice interview. I am with you on the water thing. In this modern world every lock that has a property next to it should have a water point. We live in hope 😂.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

An honest guy whose done what we have mate. No hidden agendas. Great idea with the lock keepers houses etc. Now their not what they were designed to be, I wonder how many owners will kick back at that idea. Thanks for the comment Peter.

[@thelastpilot4582]

As a TV Gongoozler I found this insight into marina living very interesting. This is something I have never seen covered before. Well done. 👍👍

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thank you for the comment. I try to be different on this channel. I think it’s why its not as popular. Thanks again. Have a great week.

[@MakingNewMemories]

@@chrismears-inslowtime Don't bring yourself down fella. Being different is OK and providing something different is what makes your channel so unique ! Keep it up 👍

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

@@MakingNewMemories thank you for the vote of confidence and support. I appreciate it.

[@user-xw6wj2qh5n]

I have seen a couple of vlogs with boats that have water purification systems so they can use water from the cut. I have no idea about the cost, nor the energy they use but they are very compact. I think one of my main issues with a marina would be the proximity with other boats - so potentially noisy and no uninterrupted view of the countryside from the windows.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

. Agreed. Freedom Water is a system you can put on the boat. It has 6 filters and is purified enough to use but, no one mentions if it’s good enough to drink! It costs about £3k and the filters last about 6 months. It’s a matter of weighing up a cost benefits analysis with lifestyle. Ideal if you don’t move far and just do the minimum necessary. I’ve done about 240miles so far. So although I still need to be mindful of the water used, it’s not been too much of an issue. Can’t shower everyday and there’s only me on the boat. That would change is there was more people living on it. Interesting subject. Thanks for the comment.

[@stevecapper9321]

Great vlog Chris as always I 100% agree with Glen he is doing what we are doing we both work at the moment but when it comes down to finishing work then we will go out longer and further but at the moment its down to the odd few weeks away from work but there we are lucky we both do 4 on 4 off so so 4 days holiday turns into 12 day away 8 days is 24 days away better still but we have been in Overwater Marina in Audlem for 6 months now solid its great here right in the middle of the countryside quarter mile just to get up the drive way love it. Steve & Sandra

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Life on a boat is all about life and not necessarily about lifestyle. I understand the need for people to want to live a certain way due to commitments. Good for you for making life work for you both. Thanks for the comment Steve and Sandra,. Take care.

[@thomascoyne157]

Very nice chat with another view of living on a narrowboat, and the Swan 🦢 lovely 👍👍👍👍👍

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks Thomas. Have a great week.

[@Twinpot1962]

Interesting vlog mate….I was positive I recognised that dude! It’s incredible how we take for granted our amenities and it’s not until we have to go without, that we realise what a luxury it is to turn on a tap and have hot water or flick a switch to turn a light on. Life truly is about one’s perspective.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

You did recognise him Jack as he came to the launch and the first thing you did was to have a pop at him for being a RM. In fact all the Regt lads did. Funny! Flicking the switch is something we all take for granted. I am only just starting to use the TV as the solar is starting to work better with the longer daylight hours. Imagine that in houses….well you might need to one day! Thanks for the support Jack.

[@ajw1467]

Been looking at a boat at rugby boats somewhere rose looks lovely just hope property sale goes through quickly don't want to have to borrow funds great vlog cheers

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Rugby boats are a great place to buy from. I’ve had a few discussions with them and they do appear to be an honest company who have built a reputation from the quality. Good luck with the journey and boat buying.

[@KatelynsAdventures707]

Hi Chris that was a interesting interview. It’s the same down here RE the perception of having to own a house. I guess it’s a security thing in people’s minds. I personally like to move around also. Hope you’ve managed to catch a swan in flight. I’d love to live the kind of lifestyle you guys over there have, but it will have to be another lifetime 😁 take care have a good week. Katelyn 😊🙋‍♀️

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

The swans, ducks and geese are all evading me. I shall do it in the summer when I can just sit out and wait and entice then with some bread. It’s not all roses though Katelyn. I don’t want to do a vlog on the just the bad bits but I just might consider it. I’m sure other KZbinrs have done so but don’t want to sensationalise this lifestyle for either good or bad reasons. It’s just a lifestyle that has many compromises. Thanks for the comment and making me think. Have a great week.

[@KatelynsAdventures707]

@@chrismears-inslowtime your doing great vlogs, the interviews are a great concept because your getting many different views. I’ve been following some NB KZbinrs for over 2 years, they are live a different lifestyle in themselves but collectively they live the same. The comradery and helpfulness of many is a bit different to living on the land, and that’s good. Anyway enough of me raving. 😁 take care

[@Rose-Willow]

As needs must for marina life. It's not always a choice. As a single parent and someone who works at a set place of work though I'd love to cruise it's not an easy option as currently doesn't suit my lifestyle. I hope this will change at some point so I can experience the variety of lifestyles possible living on a narrowboat. Great video thanks Chris!

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I think you have made the best choice Rose. In your position, who needs the added stress of continuous cruising. But then some people I’ve met are still on the bread line and can’t afford it. It’s a hard life as a single parent anyway. I’ve done it too. But on a boat, not sure I could do it so hats off to all the single parents. Take care Rose.

[@paulreynolds5114]

Fantastic interview. We live in a marina ATM while we are doing the transition to travelling the beautiful English waterways. Currently jobs & other commitments keep us here. We also sold our house & brought a brand new narrow boat 9 months ago, wasn't about the cost was more for the lifestyle. Best thing we ever did. We're 55 & 58 wished we had done it 20 years ago. Not to mention no diesel costs, rubbish disposal , elsan. But we're in a fantastic location Barton marina.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment Paul. I really do get the marina life and the reasons why some need to do it. Cost for some puts that out of range. There are many benefits to it and I still believe I’ll be in one in due course. One of the benefits of doing this vlogy thing, is I get to engage with all sorts of people that I wouldn’t know. I’ll look up Barton Marina. Have a great week.

[@davidholt2335]

Good vid Chris. I would prefer a hybrid 3 or 4 winter months at the marina and cruise the rest. Not sure that is possible but Its my dream my way.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I think that hybrid version is probably about right. I want to test the water first. To my mind, I need to understand the hard way of life before I soften my lifestyle. I can appreciate what the other side is better. Maybe, in a few years I’ll decide that continuous cruising is the way for me. Doubt it but you never know. Thanks for the comment David.

[@Georgieband]

Another good chat there fella ,,Glenn was honest and cool about it all ,nice one ...my heart melted when the bully came into shot ....

[@losendos194]

Her name is Ruby and at almost 15 years old she is amazing! I think she slipped into boat life better than I did!!!! Stay safe. Glenn.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment Mute. I’m trying to use the latest track but can’t save it to disk. Can you send via WhatsAp please. I hope life is treating you well.

[@Georgieband]

@@chrismears-inslowtime no worries fella ,sent..

[@Georgieband]

@@losendos194 she is a sweetie ..our little deaf bully Georgie past about 7 months ago ..with a different kind of love comes a different kind of pain ..thank,s Glenn now i have to dry the puddle of water thats fallen from my face onto the floor ,haaaaa..have a great life on the cut guys ..

[@johnburton2534]

Morning Chris.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Hi John. Hope you are well.

[@jongibbs1036]

Pukka Chris, absolutely Pukka. What an amazing insight to the differences of lives on the cut. As they say people in the UK but houses, I guess it’s a case of every Englishman wants to own his castle… lots of different cultures across Europe into home ownership, but then lots of different governments setting the rules etc. I get living in a marina has benefits, but at what costs? But then living on the cut itself as you say has drawbacks… I guess for you though being a continuous cruiser is a more environmentally friendly eco style as using less resources (except for the diesel).. but then if you moved into marina life at a later stage, maybe at first over winter periods you would be used to not using power hungry devices and lots of water? Food for thought / i thing permanent morning on the cut with maybe a water supply could be a happy medium. Keep up the good vlogs 😊

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Spot on Jon. Synthesising the information and making a sound conclusion. Agree with everything you wrote and the point about moving in to a marina without the power hungry devises is a point I hadn’t thought about. So I wonder if my philosophy would change if I then had the resources to use more power? Discuss!

[@jongibbs1036]

We have cut down the power consumption we use in the house and adapted to a more eco style… no west near yours but every little helps

[@paulgardner5446]

Great episode. I guess it is like the rest of life. Just a choice. Quite possibly a financial choice as costs of marina might be restrictive

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

There’s a pay off for everything in life isn’t there. Water is one, money another, lifestyle…the list goes on. Thanks for the comment Paul.

[@carolinefiler5506]

Great vlog great views on both sides of the coin. We would be continuing cruisers

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

It’s great when there’s two of you. I’ve been lonely on my own. It’s made better travelling with another person but it’s not really the same. It’s something I’m discussed for a future vlog. Thanks for the comment and support Caroline.

[@carolinefiler5506]

@@chrismears-inslowtime I get that you are a 1 man band it must be so lonely at times. We see you as a strong person maybe we are not seeing the bigger picture. Love your vlogs ♥️

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks Caroline. I don’t consider myself strong and if I need to take ‘man up’ pills and have a hash word with myself, so be it. I’m not going ‘weak’ but I do need to be proactive. I feel there are many today who rely on others to assist in their live because it’s hard. Isn’t life a bit of a challenge for most people. I just keep myself busy and chat to who I can. Answering comments helps. It’s why I answer all!

[@harrysilvers7519]

Really enjoyed your blogs once again, I watched with a cup of tea tonight and it felt I was on the boat with you both, due to casual chit chat.. was it one take or did you stop and start a bit.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment Harry. It was what it was. One take. As you mentioned, two blokes having a chat and was quite natural so I only needed to do it once. I did stop it one to allow Glenn to take the dog out! Have a great week.

[@flopsymopsy7088]

Great vlog. Is there a way to add a second water tank on the boat? Not necessarily of size you already have but just whatever size would fit. Or maybe a couple of 5 or 10 gal carboys for extra water, with spigot so you could easily transfer that water to tank when needed. Just an idea!

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Adding a second water tank would mean giving up storage. Every action create a re-action. I do like the idea of smaller water containers which is something I’m going to consider for the future. Thanks for the comment and have a great week.

[@robertbarton4776]

My thoughts too. Water bladders can fit in all gaps

[@flopsymopsy7088]

@@robertbarton4776 yes, a water bladder that conforms to the available space! Start investigation options.

[@raymondc5473]

Thanks for another great vlog Chris, this is very helpful to us with our planning. Is that marina near Braunston?

[@losendos194]

Hi Raymond - Brinklow Marina is approx 4 miles NW of Rugby on the Oxford Canal.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I’m pleased these little bits of video is helping. There is a big marina at Braunston. Not one I’d want to moor up in as their pricing strategy is based around Braunston as a nostalgic marina. In sum: it has very little to offer and their prices are a little steep for what facilities are on offer. If needs must however….. Have a great week and thanks for the support Raymond.

[@theamateurboater5892]

Got to say Chris, as a personal viewpoint I'm not convinced about the overall benefits of marina life. One thing you might struggle to adapt to is that when you look out of a window, you'll see another boat 6 feet away. On both sides. And whatever noise you make, even relatively quiet, will be carried to the boats around you (when there's no wind). For me, it felt a teeny bit claustrophobic- but in fairness many people enjoy that sense of other boats all around them. I tried a marina for a few months in winter, but when Spring came I was glad to leave it behind. Living on the cut is a bit more tricky in winter, and it does depend on how often people want to get to your boat, and how easy it needs to be for them to reach you (e.g. you'll struggle to talk anyone into walking through 500 yards of 6 inch mud to visit you), so it is a totally individual choice, with no right or wrong answers. But if I can, I'll always stay out on the cut. All that said, I'm in the Northwest, and there some amazing waterways around here.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment and thoughts. I get the noise thing as you can hear conversations quite easily on the towpath. I hadn’t switched on to that being an issue on a marina pontoon. Being on the cut is all about planning. It’s not that difficult, just a pain at times as you mentioned. For the next few years at least, I’m learning my trade as a boater. 👍

[@Alan_AB]

Very interesting, Chris. I didn't realise that "marina dwellers" had to pay both council tax and CRT licence as well. Very interesting video.

[@robtheplod]

Depends on the marina....

[@Idle-Days]

No, it depends on the law.

[@losendos194]

If you have 'residential' status then you will pay council tax. In my case this is captured in the overall marina fees and is known as 'composite council tax'. I pay my CRT license separately. Hope this helps. Glenn.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the initial question Alan and thank you Glenn for clearing it all up.

[@Alan_AB]

@@losendos194 It does indeed. Thank you.

[@martinrubenstein7943]

It always comes back to water security. I’ve heard it said that the wars in the Middle East and neighbouring regions can often be traced back to water insecurity. And that is set to get much worse, thanks to climate change/catastrophe. On a lighter note, your photography is stunning.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I’m not surprised by wars in the Middle East occur due to water. Also, the Tibetan Heights is a cause for concern for the Indian and Pakistani nations if China want to control the flow. There is a book on-line Strategic Effects to 2045 (or something similar) DCDC written book. Very good and it’s free. Explains all about future threats. Water is up there in the top threat for the world order and migration isn’t far behind. Thanks for the compliment and comment Martin. Have a great week.

[@gemmaroberts6679]

Great video thank you. How much is the rent to live in a marina? With the water do you have a bigger tank on a wide beam than a narrow boat? I have a house right on the canal, I’m in Apsley the town houses just past lock 65, I would love to try boat life.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I like those houses. I think I mentioned that on an earlier vid. I’m heading down that way. Let me know if you want to pay a visit. Rent in a marina is subject to the marina but as a planning assumption £3k wouldn’t be far off the mark. Wide beams generally have a bigger water tank. Again planning assumption, 1k ltrs. Thanks for the comment Gemma.

[@Idle-Days]

There is, as you allude to, a middle way and that is to overwinter in a marina and CC during the other 8 months. However don't think that marina live is free of water worries, our taps freeze in cold weather just as those out on the cut do, so anticipation and planning are required with respect to that and toilet emptying. Wouldn't go back to bricks though.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

I understand the water may freeze at the point from the tap end but at least you don’t need to wait the canal to de-frost which I must say takes longer than I thought it would. Learning about new things most days still. Winter mooring is certainly worth a thought and have thought about it. For the next few years at least, I’m going to learn the craft of narrowboating. Thanks for the comment and have a great week.

[@roydredge1273]

interesting chat lots of people love camping in the desert but living full time in the desert 1/4 of 1% maybe even less

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

The dessert is somewhere I have a little experience. Hot in the day and cold at night. It’s hard work. Seeing as you can’t get through to me, if you want to get in touch, if you reply with an email address I’ll send a message and it’ll be easier to return. You can delete the address when comms are made. Thanks for the comment

[@nickhaigh2894]

Morning Chris. Really enjoyed the vlog about Marina life. One question that I have is the issue of grey water discharge in a Marina & how that is dealt with. Thanks. Nick

[@matty40s]

Grey water goes into the cut in uk canals

[@losendos194]

We use 'eco friendly' washing products in an attempt to reduce phosphates as grey water is discharged into the marina. Hope this helps, Glenn.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Thanks for the comment Nick, Matty and Glenn. Los Endos is right but then that is something that is not enforced. In short, grey water goes in the marina and unless it is pumped about will take a long time to disperse. Glenn, over to you. I was discussing this problem with a family who were brought up on the canals. The Elsan point are a new(ish) thing. Bucket and chuck it was the phrase for effluent back in the day. Don’t have a pop as the water companies are doing that now in our rivers exploiting the ‘crack in the pavement’ about what was written in law. Interesting topic to discuss. I’ll make a note of it. Thanks all.

[@losendos194]

@@chrismears-inslowtime The use of 'eco' products is encouraged but not mandated. We have a large body of water here with a regular NW wind so grey water effluent is not obvious. However, I am sure that a build up of phosphates and nitrates will impact at some point and we will see an increase in algae. At the moment fish stocks are plentiful and local water birds are in abundance.

[@rebeccadees2300]

My first thought about living in a marina would be the potential for having bad neighbors and the potential noise issue like living in an apartment.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Generally people in marinas are the ‘Grey Pound’. It’s quiet by and large. I’ve not stayed in one but never seen much activity when I pass and always retired or older people moving about. However, the walls are only 6mm thick so watch what you say.

[@rebeccadees2300]

@@chrismears-inslowtime 👍 hopefully that would be the case. Good luck should you decide to try it.

[@douglascolman4501]

Have you considered a small RO system for your water requirements?

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Yes Douglas. I’ve also looked at a company called Freedom Water. The trouble I have is cost and how good the filtration system is. How long it lasts but the benefits are easy to get. COST is the big thing and where to put the filters when I have the money. I’m doing my research. Thanks for the comment.

[@quavernote4307]

Hi Chris I didn't realise a person. Can stay living in their boat on a Marina as I stayed for two nights on Croperdy Marina winter 2021 and nobody could live on their boats I saw some stay overnight but it wasn't encouraged They seemed to prefer empty boats so I carried on cruising where I bought my boat at Kings Bromley they seemed to have more liver boards as they could get post but as I found at Croperdy not so good if you order a Tesco's delivery I had to walk out the security gate to collect it !! But I am a continuous cruiser !! But not a continuous payer 😊

[@debbiewiltshire9733]

Cropredy is not a residential marina - therefore you cannot live there. However they do not discourage moorers staying overnight on their boats when visiting for whatever reason. When we used Cropredy for winter mooring we found them extremely welcoming when we stayed on the boat for a few nights while visiting the boat for maintenance or any other purpose. Cropredy is a fabulous marina for leisure mooring.

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Interesting point and I’m pleased you got an answer from someone who knows. I know the square root of FA when it comes to the marinas other than what common sense has taught me. Braunston for example allow a few ‘long term’ live-a-board boaters and I am told dont investigate for how long. It’s down to the owner and their licence I suppose. Thanks Debbie for the answer.

[@michelewillard405]

Hi, I’ve watched several of your videos in my research to potentially buy a narrowboat. I live in my motorhome and travel around Europe, (I’ve got french residency, so this makes it easier for me) My ideal plan would be to live in my motorhome in the winter months in Europe following the sun and then live in my narrowboat in the summer in the U.K. My conundrum is continuous cruising or Marina life? I’m 61 and am a solo female traveller. I’m used to moving all the time in my van and the search for water, waste and gas etc and living off grid is the norm for me, although I do like stopping now and again for electric hook up. What would your suggestions be for me? Would hiring a boat be a good place to start? to see if I could manage moving the boat on my own? Small space living wouldn’t be an issue as a narrow boat would be positively huge for me lol

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Great plan. Do a holiday to see if you like it. Off season a lot cheaper. This week's vid mentions a marina cost....discuss! Not too dissimilar in age, you'll be fine but think of an exit plan. You can cruise in the summer and put the boat in a marina over winter. That's doable and would suit your plans. You can always come to visit if you're in the UK. Don't speak French myself though.....Good luck Michele.

[@michelewillard405]

@@chrismears-inslowtime Thanks Chris, I don’t speak French either 😳😂. I like the idea of a winter mooring and cruising in the summer while I’m there 😊

[@stoatmcgroaty1586]

Hi Chap ... with regards to water I saw some videos a while back where a couple were actually filtering water from the canal through I think a pre filter that took out the worst of the scunge (one of my favourite words) and then through a reverse osmosis system for all their water needs ... they were drinking it and as far as I know they're still alive .... but it got me thinking that if I ever manage to commission a boat I'll consider 2 water tanks using filtered canal water for cleaning & washing leaving the second for drinking and cooking ... I've also heard of people using the boat for rain catchment but I'm not sure how well that goes and what the yield would be like or it's bird poo content .... hope all is going well for you ... good to see another quality vlog ... I watch them a bit differently these days as I try to get my noggin around videography ... happy trails chap :o)~

[@matty40s]

Urghhjjj

[@chrismears-inslowtime]

Hi Stoaty. There is a company called Freedom Water. They have a system of 6 filters that allows water to be used from the canal and used on the boat. It just fills up the water tank as you need. The filters last about 6 months I think. That said, its a good investment if you use a lot of water. I’ve heard people in the London area queuing for the water points which is a pain as some boats take some time to fill. However, if people are using 400ltrs a week or more, then in my opinion they are already using a lot of water. I have a 550 ltr tank and it can last me 6 weeks. So I need to weigh up the cost against a benefits analysis. At the moment I don’t have the spare capital and the system takes up some room in a wardrobe or looks unsightly fitted against a Gunwale. For every action there is a re-action. Choices. Getting two water tanks may not be the best solution as it does take a lot of space. Maybe where a black water tank is fitted under the bed, that could be used as a fresh water tank and the bow tank for great water. Plenty of options perhaps. That what I did to research vids. Its harder than you think getting it right though. Easy with two people by comparison. Good luck mate.