Canal Boat vs Narrowboat: Understanding the Key Differences Easily
A narrowboat, as the name suggests, is a long, narrow boat that is specifically designed to navigate the narrow canals of the UK. They usually have a beam of around 6ft 10in, which allows them to explore the entire UK inland waterways network. Narrowboats are typically used for leisure purposes, and many people choose to live on them full-time or during the summer months.
On the other hand, a canal boat is a broader term that encompasses a range of boats designed for use on canals and rivers. Canal boats can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including wide beam boats that are wider than narrowboats. They are often used for commercial purposes, such as transporting goods or carrying passengers, but can also be used for leisure purposes.
Canal Boats
Definition
A canal boat is a type of vessel that is designed to navigate canals and inland waterways. These boats are typically long and narrow, with a flat bottom that allows them to navigate shallow waters. Canal boats are used for a variety of purposes, including transporting goods and people, as well as for recreational purposes.
Features
Canal boats are designed to be versatile and efficient. They are typically made from steel or aluminium, which makes them strong and durable. They have a low draft, which allows them to navigate shallow waters, and they are powered by either a diesel engine or an electric motor. Canal boats are also equipped with a range of features that make them comfortable and practical, including:
- Living quarters with sleeping accommodations, a kitchen, and a bathroom
- Windows and skylights that provide natural light and ventilation
- Heating and air conditioning systems
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- Navigation and safety equipment
Types
There are several different types of canal boats, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Some of the most common types include:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Narrowboats | Long, narrow boats that are designed to navigate the narrow canals of England, Scotland, and Wales. They typically have a length of 70 feet or less and a width of 7 feet or less. |
| Widebeams | Similar to narrowboats, but wider. They have a beam of 2.16 metres (7 ft 1 in) or greater and are built in the style of a narrowboat. |
| Barges | Flat-bottomed boats that are designed to carry cargo. They are typically wider and shorter than narrowboats, and they have a greater draft. |
Narrowboats
Narrowboats are a type of canal boat that are designed to navigate the narrow canals and waterways of the UK. They are long and thin, with a standard beam of around 6ft 10in (just over two metres), which allows them to fit through the narrow locks and bridges that are common on these waterways. In this section, we will explore the definition, features, and types of narrowboats.
Definition
They are typically between 50 and 70 feet long, with a beam of no more than 7 feet. They are usually powered by diesel engines, and many have a traditional design, with a flat bottom and a distinctive shape that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Features
Narrowboats have a number of features that make them ideal for navigating the narrow canals of the UK. One of the most important features is their narrow beam, which allows them to fit through the narrow locks and bridges that are common on these waterways. They also have a shallow draft, which means that they can navigate shallow water without getting stuck. Many narrowboats have a traditional design, with a flat bottom and a distinctive shape that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. They typically have a cabin at the front of the boat, which contains living quarters, and a stern deck at the back, which is used for steering the boat.
Types
There are several different types of narrowboats, including traditional narrowboats, semi-traditional narrowboats, and cruiser stern narrowboats. Traditional narrowboats have a cabin at the front of the boat, which contains living quarters, and a stern deck at the back, which is used for steering the boat. Semi-traditional narrowboats have a similar design, but with a larger stern deck that provides more space for socialising. Cruiser stern narrowboats have a smaller cabin at the front of the boat, and a larger stern deck that provides more space for socialising. They are often used for leisure cruising, and many have been converted into floating holiday homes.
Differences
Size and Shape
One of the main differences between canal boats and narrowboats is their size and shape. Narrowboats typically have a beam (width) of between 6ft 10in – 7 ft, whereas a barge can typically be around twice the width – often around 14.5 ft. If you come across a boat which is in between, this range of vessels is typically known as ‘wide beam’ canal boats. The standard beam of a narrowboat is usually around 6ft 10ins, but it is never more than seven feet.
Another difference in size is the length of the boat. A narrowboat is a canal boat built to fit the locks and sometimes narrow canals of the UK. They used to help fuel the industrial revolution, but are now used for leisure cruising and as floating homes.
Purpose
Narrowboats are specifically designed for the inland canals, this being the very reason they are narrow. They have a rich history as cargo carrying vessels. However, barge can be used in a wider range of maritime applications.
Navigation
With the smaller 17.37 (57ft) narrowboat, it is said that you can travel through 99% of locks but if you do wish to opt for the larger 21.33m (70ft) variety you can still access 80% so if living space is important we wouldn’t worry too much, just be sure to do your research on lock sizes. Both canal boats and narrowboats are flat-bottomed boats, so are not exactly great on open waters (i.e. the ocean).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between a canal boat and a narrowboat comes down to size, shape, and purpose. A narrowboat is a long, narrow, and low-slung vessel that is designed to navigate the narrow canals and waterways of the UK. It typically has a length of up to 70 feet and a beam of between 6ft 10in – 7 ft.
A canal boat, on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses a wide range of vessels that are designed for use on canals and waterways. It can refer to narrowboats, but it can also include barges, houseboats, and other types of boats that are used for leisure, transport, or residential purposes.
When it comes to choosing between a canal boat and a narrowboat, it ultimately depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. If you are looking for a smaller, more maneuverable vessel that can navigate the narrow canals of the UK, then a narrowboat is the way to go. If you need a larger vessel that can accommodate more passengers, cargo, or living space, then a canal boat or barge may be a better option.
Regardless of which type of boat you choose, navigating the canals and waterways of the UK can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With proper planning, preparation, and safety precautions, you can explore the beauty and history of the UK’s canal system and create memories that will last a lifetime.
