Simple Guide To Building A Narrowboat Part 1 – Understanding Layout

What is a Narrowboat?

A narrowboat is a boat of a distinctive design, made to fit the narrow canals of England and Wales. They were used to transport goods around the UK during the industrial revolution circa 1750-1900. Today many boats have been converted to permanent living spaces, according to Wikipedia there are around 8,500 that have been registered.

If your interested in getting a narrowboat built, we think its a good idea to research the process of building a narrowboat to understand the pros and cons of different boat layouts. Space if very important vs the comfort of piloting a narrowboat.

Planning – Size restrictions

Width consideration

Narrow locks allow boats with a width under 7 feet (2.13m). so most narrowboats are made to a width of 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 m) wide.

Length consideration

A narrowboat’s maximum length is generally 72 feet (21.95 m). Some of the British Canal network has locks which are shorter, to access the entire network a maximum suggested length is 57 feet (17.37 m)

Planning – typical layouts for narrowboat length

 

 

Planning – stern types

There are a number of layouts a narrowboat can take. First look at the stern type which can be categorised as: traditional, semi-traditional or cruiser.

Traditional

Smallest steering area

The stern or rear section of the boat contains the steering often in the form of a tiller. This area can be protected by a canopy so the boat can be driven in all weather. Steps lead up from the interior. The helmsman looks over the length of the boat in order to steer the boat. The engine is placed below the stern deck along with batteries, and essential mechanical systems. This design is ideal for live aboard purposes, due to the short back deck of 2 -3 feet in length, giving more room inside for living accommodation.

Traditional layout

A more linear layout, with the living area directly connected to the galley and sleeping quarters. Focuses on maximizing internal living space with a straightforward flow from one area to another.

Semi Traditional

Medium sized rear area

A mix between a traditional stern and a cruiser stern, with a larger partially enclosed area at the rear. A wheel steering system is sometimes fitted, is more comfortable suitable for longer journeys. The helm can be covered with a canopy, providing some protection from the elements while still allowing for good visibility. More sociable and can fit 2-6 people in this area.

Cruiser

Largest sized steering area

The deck is usually 2 metres or more long and is open planned, but it is surrounded with safety rails. The engine is usually found below the deck and is accessed by lifting a section of the decking. The stern can be rounded or square. A square stern boat gives more deck space but can be more difficult to manoeuvre, especially in reverse.

Layout

More flexible layouts, often featuring a larger living area or separate dining space. Can zone living, cooking, and sleeping areas providing more privacy and comfort.

Planning – traditional open plan design

Dining & living area

Comfortable seating arrangement, with a sofa or chairs, which often is designed to convert into a bed. There are specialist narrowboat furniture furnishers that can create pieces to order, check the Fox article Moving onto a narrowboat: storage & maintenance considerations. The dining area has space for a table and can be folding to utilise space. Traditional narrowboats have large windows to allow natural light and views of the riverside.

Galley / Kitchen

The galley is usually placed 1 side of the boat near to the dining area. Appliances such as a stove, oven, refrigerator, and sink can be installed akin to a modern kitchen. Clever storage in the form of cabinets, drawers for food and cooking supplies much like a caravan is especially important for living.

Bathroom (Wet Room)

Usually has a compact shower unit or a complete wet room choose a pump out or cassette toilet. Small sink with storage directly underneath.

Bedroom (Cabins)

Have space for a fixed double bed or 2 single beds. Longer narrowboats have more cabins and therefore sleeping space. The living / dining space can also feature a foldout bed making another cabin during the night. Clever storage is cruicial if your going to live on the boat. Fitted wardrobes, wall shelving and under bed storage can all help keep the boat tidy. For privacy cabin doors or curtains can be fitted.

Bow area

First light in the morning can be beautiful and serene sitting at the bow (front) of a narrowboat. You can invest in a removabale canopy for when the elements are less favourable and you can get fresh air in the rain.

 

Image credits:

Industrial revolution narrowboat 1944 regents canal is in the public domain – wiki link