Scary First Solo Trip on My New Narrowboat

[@thomasfrench2012]

My goodness! I've seen some overgrown canal videos before, but this one wins first prize!

[@vinny142]

Incredibly scary, but as usual you made it through with zero problems because you are a complete boss, you just refuse to accept it!

[@mickb6265]

Hiya, we were the couple on the boat "gonna" that came round the last bend before the tunnel.. Hope we didn't scare you too much, i knew you were coming as we'd quickly spun round in the winding hole before the tunnel but we'd seen you heading towards your marina exit so knew you were behind us and knew to give you space on our way back.. You did look like you were nervy, bless so i eased pass and we said hi, great channel ect.. The boat behind you came down the foxton flight just behind us and had been pushing hard to stay on our tail but you came out in between us!.. Enjoy your next cruise, you did fine...

[@lornajaneadventures]

I wasn’t expecting so many people out on a weekday. I was hoping for a bit of space to get used to some of the manoeuvres and handling

[@neilknight7626]

You are a competent boater and helmswoman stop worrying and enjoy it! Captain Lorna !

[@CherylSteele-rt8dj]

That was a great trip Lorna. I've so looked forward to seeing you on your lovely pink boat. You are an inspiration. Enjoy the adventures- we fans do. Thank you. 🎉😊

[@johngilman760]

First trip jitters! I know them. My first time of docking my 35 foot trawler without anyone aboard including my instructor resulted in some very severe leg shaking! You did great! Have fun!

[@margaretknight8690]

Such a darling little boat. Well done for facing your fears!

[@zapfanzapfan]

Nice canal for playing hide and seek in the reeds.

[@wendybrealey8368]

Always nerve wracking when you've been a while away from something, like me driving in peak hour after 6 weeks hols with no driving. Plus it will take a while getting used to the new boat and its nuances. The canal being so overgrown would have added to the stress. You did fine. Accept there will be a few stresses to start with but trust yourself and your ability and in no time you ll be back in the swing. She's a lovely little boat. 🤩

[@6panel300]

Taking the positives from the trip, you've had a pretty hectic trip that can only get better from now. Be confident, you seem very adept already.

[@robertbrierley7083]

So pleased you're enjoying your boat.😊

[@ESMarker]

Foxglove is just so special!!! Enjoy her as much and as often as you can!! And we all loveseein David joining in.....its ok to be a bit nervous, better caution than careless!! Youll be a fine Skipper!.All the Best!🤓

[@Chadsstickystuffakaglue]

Looks so peaceful. Your boat size is perfect ❤

[@stephensantello1423]

I’ve also watched David’s vlog on your boat and both of you commented your boat seems to be slow compared to the rev’s that it’s turning. Assuming its power to weight ratio is similar to larger narrow boats it would seem the propeller is missed sized for the boat. There are so many possibilities. Number of blades, pitch, size and cupping of propellers. Hopefully you can experiment.

[@Hellyhenson-do2sp]

Amazing Lorna, well done. X

[@dave64340]

I had the same fears pulling my 30 ft travel trailer from Florida to New Jersey for the first time. I should have done a few short trips locally to get the hang of it but of course I didn’t. But everything worked out in the end. No worries. I was just extra cautious like you were doing. Good luck!

[@carolorsborn1244]

Looks like so much fun always wanted to go to england and ride down a canal but at 76 i doubt to ever make it so ill enjoy the rides with you thanks

[@robertdrinkall8947]

Busy day Larna, you did very well , no problems, it's just a case of getting use to cruising. At least with a small boat it's reasonably easy to pull over if need be. Good luck👍🚢🚢

[@freddypflugbeil6]

Wow that was scary and exciting glad you made out ok. Thanks for the show From New York

[@terenceseymour-tf8rptassie725]

It is good to see back on the helm. I remember that scary trip you had coming back to the boat yard when it broke down. I am glad that the experience has not put you off narrowboat life.

[@gubieone]

Nice little trip. Thanks!

[@talltalesfromanarrowboat]

Your dress, combined with the colour scheme of the interior reminded me of an American diner I once visited in Savannah, Georgia, home to the Best bagels I ever ate 😊👌

[@steveowens398]

Brave, Brave, Brave, Brave Sir Lorna! You did it though. I love that dress - it reminds me of the Carnaby Street fashion craze back in the late '60's. You added a nice trim detail tying the walls to the ceiling on Foxglove - I hadn't noticed them before. Happy travels!

[@MakeDoAndMend1]

Yep scarey. We have done that part of the Canal. They wouldn't let us go through the Tunnel as in our Canoes. It wasn't that overgrown when we done it. Especially the nature reserve part. I think there's a video somewhere in amongst my videos. Cheers from George and Jane. Happy cruising.

[@edsageseamaster3440]

Been really looking forward to this video Lorna. Foxglove looks incredible. You must be so thrilled - finally. Take care. Ed

[@terenceseymour-tf8rptassie725]

Hi Ed are you Ed from Lincoln who was working on his boat in 2019-2020? Ed often had his daughter helping him at the marina but once the pandemic worsened his videos stopped .

[@edsageseamaster3440]

@@terenceseymour-tf8rptassie725 that’s not me I’m afraid. There is an earlier video from last year on Lorna’s channel, of a boat trip on the Thames. That was my boat.

[@terenceseymour-tf8rptassie725]

oh ok I must see if I can find Ed .​@@edsageseamaster3440

[@Gladysthenarrowboat]

Well done - I'm so glad to see Foxglove in a canal at last! 👍

[@pfalzgraf7527]

Nice way to set yourself up! Good on you! And yes, I'm coming to love Foxglove! She's a brilliant little weekend home.

[@marjoriejohnson6535]

If I were able I would have loved to paint foxglove in a mural on the side of your lovelyboat..foxglove were my favorite to paint as I had a big flower bed filled with them ...especially since deer don't eat them. Love your little gem of a boat.,

[@araneus1]

We are glad you finally got your boat. We were wondering if it was ever going to happen, so well done. Perserverance!

[@carl-johanjohansson6771]

You did well 🤗 Great trip 👍

[@ireneshortt984]

Thank you that was an amazing cruise, I really love foxglove.i am sure you are going to have fabulous adventures with her xxxx

[@gerardosullivan1642]

Well done on your adventure

[@nesleinf]

You just nailed it. I sometimes get caught with anxeity when i sail my 20ft sailboat solo in tough weather, so I know your struggels. But you came up with the right words "A bad day on a boat is better than the best day by the desk" 🙂 Besides that, I think you handle very vell!!! Not related to this video, but dit you solve the problems with your horn and weed hatch? Love from Denmark

[@pixie706]

So tailgating isn't just on roads. Despicable habit . Well done and the more you take her out the more confident you will get 😊

[@sarabaldeschwieler7763]

We recently took out a 35ft narrowboat for the first time, and I went through every one of the emotions you described here. We had to return it on the 4th day just when I was feeling a little more comfortable but it was not the relaxing experience everyone describes! The good news is that Foxglove is your very own boat, so I know it’ll quickly get better! Congratulations on facing your fears 😊

[@ArtfulDrifter...and_away]

Oh, I know what you mean about the sweating! I'm the same on the first day every time I hire. Last time I had a knot in my stomach & had a good cry when I stopped. But I do love it, it's just so alien to me.... & I panic because I try so so hard not to hit any boats because they're people's homes! & yes, you're right, boat Vs desk - boat wins every time!!!! X

[@annjarvis9300]

Well done for doing the tunnel very brave of you sure you will become more confident has time goes by tc the oldies 🤗👍🌹🌷🌺

[@stevendrennan167]

Hope you enjoyed your meal after the stressful journey. I am sure this will give you lots more confidence when you look at what you have achieved

[@richardfelton4292]

Splendid trip, well done. It will get easier on the nerves the more you play. What a gorgeous location!

[@philliphunter6131]

Don't worry about the boats behind you, they can't get past you so go at the speed you are comfortable with. Make them wait it's not a race. 😊

[@Windswept-q9i]

We say this with RV’s in the US too. Go the speed you feel safe at. Does take nerves of steel sometimes!

[@Sim0nTrains]

Well done Lorna for facing that tunnel head on but I wouldn't blame you if you did find a mooring spot and turned back before the tunnel.

[@shirleygreaves9650]

You did it well done, love your boat. X

[@Jonathan_55018]

Wow well done looked crazy busy but you smashed it keep living the dream ❤

[@paulmark63]

Hi Lorna 🎉well done don't worry about other people you did yourself proud Paul in Kent

[@stephenhayes6133]

I can understand what you feel like being on a new boat, and what I have seen you're doing great.

[@JT-xh4zm]

You did great. Good for you - I wish I had your courage. Love your boat.

[@judithmatthews8460]

David sent me. I have become a huge fan of Cruising the cut and Vandemonium so have seen you on his videos. Why didn’t I check out your channel before? 🤷‍♀️. Today I couldn’t wait to see who owned the gorgeous pink boat. It was Lorna!! Love it. So I hopped over to see the channel. Enjoyed the video and subscribed, look forward to checking out past videos. Well done for mastering your fears in the tunnel. (don’t you hate having your rear end sniffed by cars or boats. My theory in another life they were a dog so think that’s the way to make friends!! )

[@martykitson3442]

the more you cruise the easier it will become,you have a great vessel under you and you can do it!👍

[@ajbarrett857]

What's the canal equivalent of "sea legs?" You'll get your sea legs under you in no time! Enjoy your sweet little boat! ✨🌟💫

[@ladygardener100]

Nerves... no matter how many years i had been sailing, i always felt a bit of nerves the first day of the season coming out of the harbour.

[@for.tax.reasons]

Such a pleasant stretch of canal 😊 I hope you'll be less nervous going forward you did wonderfully 💗

[@christinehammell6365]

Such a restful cruise ❤

[@lornajaneadventures]

Much more restful on video 😂

[@marthaanderson2656]

Ahhh lucky you wont have to do "that" for the first time on Foxglove, ever again. There will be other scarry firsts, I'm sure. I love your lovely, mellow music and it is a calming break in the day

[@natashab2304]

Awesome - very proud of you 🥰

[@trapshooter594]

Hi, I started watching your channel after seeing you with David on his channel, better known as your canal hubby 😂. Anyway, you have the confidence and the skills, as you said it’s just getting back into it and learning what the new boat is like 🙂. I couldn’t believe how over grown the canal was, if I had the health I would love to have a little tug and equipment to just potter along cutting back some of the reeds and trees 🙂 The new boat is fab, I love the size and layout, I could even get used to seeing so much pink 😂, just a quick question, did you have an option of a more powerful engine or was it just a case you were lucky to get an engine after seeing another video or maybe a different propeller would help push you along a little quicker when needed 🤔 Anyway keep chugging along and uploading video’s as I’ve subscribed now to your channel and my Staffy dog watches with me, well I think she watches 😂🐶😂, I look forward to your next upload, stay safe 🙂🐶

[@KennaGreen]

I equate narrowboat tunnels to loopy rides at amusement parks. At least you get to keep your lunch while going through a tunnel.

[@sandyfields9933]

The name ‘Foxglove’ is brilliant ❣️

[@treesnl]

I'm completely obsessed with your fox dress!

[@annwagner5779]

You’ve been pioneering! Next time will be happier, I feel sure.

[@susanb8354]

I love your boat Foxglove. It’s so pretty but it’s not just a pretty face. It gets the job done! I’d love it if you would do more longer videos. Why are you so worried? You look pretty expert to me.

[@lornajaneadventures]

I wanted some space to get used to the handling and try out some different things. Not easy with so many other boats around

[@AndyCutright]

You've got a gorgeous boat there :)

[@normanshute7162]

A few more tunnels and you’ll be ready for Scaremore tunnel j/k 😂. I take it you’re not going to Wales and taking that aqueduct quite yet.😊

[@lornajaneadventures]

I would love that!

[@MakeDoAndMend1]

Forgot to mention. We were at top lock Foxton. White House Cafe. Tuesday this week. If you go directly across top lock opposite side to white house. Not far from man standing statue,seating area. There is the Lock keepers Garden . Open the gate and you will find Ancient Apple Trees. That was re discovered and rare. Cheers from George and Jane. Ps Janes Brothers narrowboat is purple and called. Still Waters.

[@trevorsbarkingmadchannel4501]

Brilliant vlog. Tho could u not turn Foxglove in the canal anywhere virtually ? Do love the noise your little engine makes. ❤

[@lornajaneadventures]

Yes, I’ve turned her in some very tight spots

[@christinehammell6365]

I hope you can relax soon🎉

[@colincox3324]

You certainly picked rush hour. You will think nothing of it when you build your confidence with the new boat. Thanks for a brilliant vid.

[@lornajaneadventures]

Certainly wasn’t expecting so many people out on a Tuesday 😂

[@marjoriejohnson6535]

Sounds like trial by fire?..was great seeing you and David ,..

[@derekbarry9143]

Well Done Lorna 😁👍

[@Debba521]

Well done you! I've never piloted a narrowboat before, so have no idea what it's like. I can imagine though that it's a bit intimidating to start with. At least yours isn't a huge thing and has to be easier to handle. What did Mr. CC say when you let him at the tiller? Anyway, you did the tunnel and should be right proud of yourself!

[@ladygardener100]

I find with my boat that it sort of steers itself, this is not true vof course, its just that i dont have to think about it, i think that takes quite a time to develop.

[@jamietomaino9260]

I’d completely trust you as a skipper!!!

[@scottfw7169]

I think going even shorter might create a boat which has handling issues. Has been a couple decades since I've been a boater (EDIT: and that was in USA lakes, rivers, oceans) & my brain is refusing to dredge up specific memories, but my memory is certain that it is possible for a boat to be too short in proportion to its beam and that that will cause problems.

[@anfieldroadlayoutintheloft5204]

good see you cranking it on the cut thanks four the shareing on the channel thanks lee

[@SuperRobertwillis]

Silly Billy Jane 😂😂😂😂😂❤❤❤

[@tomgirldouble3249]

Well done😊

[@Wkmor]

I also got here by way of David and if he won’t take me along anymore, I shall come with you.

[@rwisti11301962]

You did fantastic!! Like there was ever any doubt 🙋‍♀️. Did you ever get the weed hatch open from your cruise with David? Have a wonderful week 😊

[@lornajaneadventures]

Nope

[@rickterry8148]

Wow, you even have pink cooking pots. Now thats carrying on a theme. Nice vlog. 😃Not very impressed with someone being so close in the tunnel, guess they probably tail gate when driving.😒

[@for.tax.reasons]

Seeing a tinier boat and wondering if you can go even smaller 😂❤

[@kerrypitt9789]

Lorna is there a book out about these pretty boats? I know they are work boats i have seen them portrayed on a number of shows. I have subscribed!

[@lornajaneadventures]

Lots of books about narrowboats, yes

[@terenceseymour-tf8rptassie725]

Sort of Interesting has online tales of his own narrow boat life . Dan Brown is an author of some note .

[@marvindebot3264]

Tailgaters are rude. That little diesel sounds like she's working pretty hard, I'm wondering if the builders under-specced her a bit.

[@endeavour2968]

Do you think you would still be nervous if you where skippering an older boat, rather than a brand new one where the slightest bump or scratch will be more noticeable compared to an older boat already with its fair share of scratches?

[@lornajaneadventures]

@@endeavour2968 I wouldn’t have thought twice about it

[@johnkey1682]

local lore states that Saddington tunnel is haunted.

[@eprohoda]

how iis it going?~ Love it-fantastic ~catch you later. Lorna! 🙂

[@sidneybowerman558]

Any more growth on the canal sides and you'd be pushed to get a couple of canoes pass each other.

[@Narrowboat.and.offgrid.living]

Looks like the canals are getting so overgrown and no maintance is being done by crt

[@terenceseymour-tf8rptassie725]

The CRT is a charity supported by volunteer lock keepers. Lorna said in reply to another commenter that there are heritage restrictions on controlling the vegetation .

[@t1n4444]

Never mind your worries Lorna! You'll be fine in a few months. I was apalled to see so much in the way of reeds. That's the main cause of your anxiety ... not being able to see that far ahead. It would be better, in my not so humble opinion, to forget about improving the towpathd and spend the cash on dredging and reed clearance. All this "wellness" nonsense about people walking the canals was merely a kneejerk reaction to COVID. We used to see a lot of walkers in those days but now the pandemic is no longer in the media the towpaths are as deserted as they used to be. And, it might be a notion to install more piled mooring spaces. That practice would reduce the number of boaters having to moor up to the bank and driving in pins which, as we all know, don't do the banks any favours, at all. Anyway, you coped very well given you haven't cruised solo for a while. Looking forward to more cruises with yourself soon. Plus looking forward to your cruising with CtC on Twiggy once he has completed the refurbishment.

[@brianfirth9087]

They need to clean up the weeds

[@hamshackleton]

That water looked more like thin pea soup!

[@RichyJMovies]

😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍

[@loft306]

Geez, this canals look overgrown.

[@lornajaneadventures]

A lot of that stretch is a site of special scientific interest so they can’t really do much with it. Not too bad if no one is coming in the other direction

[@carycoombe3380]

Did you get your horn fixed?

[@EeeDee1]

Odd that the horn has already conked out

[@mamukatalakvadze5474]

Hello is that your max speed can be achieved?

[@lornajaneadventures]

No

[@stevenrix7024]

Which canal was that?

[@lornajaneadventures]

The Grand Union

[@sandbridgekid4121]

That's too warm a dress for 30°. You must have baked!

[@YouTubeTyler]

I must admit that when I fantasize about this kind of life, I fear the funk. Fresh air is a priority in my life. Is it decomposing plants? Sewage? Fish farts? Can you sleep with windows open?

[@lornajaneadventures]

This time of year it gets really hot, lots of stuff grows, then you get rain that washes loads of pollution in the water and you get quite a few dead fish. It’s bearable and worse in some places

[@itsjustanidea]

👋👋👌👍

[@colindunbar3879]

Move your camera Lorna, so as to show you are on a narrowboat and not a paddleboard, a much better affect.

[@billy4072]

Collar well smart , on that dress .

[@lornajaneadventures]

Thank you