Narrowboat Checklist Before Leaving the Boat

Leaving your narrowboat unattended can feel simple enough, but a few missed checks can lead to flat batteries, water damage, avoidable security worries or a boat that has shifted on its mooring. A reliable routine makes all the difference.

This narrowboat checklist before leaving the boat is designed for everyday boaters, whether you are stepping away for a few hours, heading home after a weekend, or leaving the boat for a longer spell. Use it as a practical guide, then adapt it to suit your boat, mooring and cruising style.

Start with a Slow Walk Through

Before locking the doors and heading off, take five quiet minutes to walk from bow to stern. It is easy to forget something when you are packing bags, checking travel times or trying to beat the weather.

A slow walk through lets you notice the small things, such as a tap not quite turned off, a window left on the catch, or a phone charger still plugged in. Build the habit and you will leave the boat with far more confidence.

Keep a printed checklist near the exit or save one on your phone. Tick it off in the same order each time. A consistent routine is often more useful than relying on memory.

Secure the Mooring Properly

Your mooring lines are the first line of defence against wind, passing boats, changing water levels and general movement. Even if the boat feels settled when you leave, conditions can change quickly.

Check all ropes before departure. They should be secure, not frayed, and positioned so they will not easily slip off bollards, rings or pins.

• Check the bow, stern and centre lines if used.
• Make sure knots are secure and easy to undo when you return.
• Allow sensible slack for water level changes, especially on rivers.
• Use springs where appropriate to reduce fore and aft movement.
• Make sure mooring pins are hammered in firmly and not likely to work loose.

If moored on a towpath, avoid leaving ropes as trip hazards. Use visible, safe line angles where possible. If you are on a river or a place known for fluctuating levels, take extra care and consider whether the mooring is suitable for leaving the boat unattended.

Check Doors, Windows and Hatches

Security is not only about locks. Water can enter through poorly closed windows, mushroom vents with issues, side hatches, roof hatches and cratch covers. A quick check now can prevent a miserable return later.

Before leaving, check that all doors and hatches are properly closed and locked. If you ventilate the boat while away, do so in a way that does not compromise security or weather protection.

• Close and latch all windows unless they are secure ventilation units.
• Lock bow doors, stern doors and side hatches.
• Check padlocks, hasps and keys are in good condition.
• Secure cratch covers, pram covers and canopies.
• Remove valuables from view.

If your boat has curtains or blinds, close them where sensible. This helps keep possessions out of sight and can also reduce sun exposure inside the cabin.

Turn Off Gas Safely

Gas deserves a place near the top of any narrowboat checklist before leaving the boat. Unless an appliance must remain on for a specific reason, the safest routine is to turn off the gas at the bottle.

Check that the cooker knobs are off, then turn off the gas supply in the gas locker. Make sure the locker is closed properly afterwards.

• Turn off hob burners and oven controls.
• Switch off the gas at the cylinder valve.
• Check for any smell of gas before leaving.
• Keep the gas locker clear of items that should not be stored there.

If you ever smell gas, do not ignore it. Ventilate the boat, avoid flames and electrical switching, and deal with the issue before you leave. If in doubt, seek help from a competent professional.

Manage Electrics and Batteries

Electrical checks depend on your set-up, but the aim is simple: leave the boat safe, avoid unnecessary drain, and keep essential systems powered if they need to run.

Switch off non-essential appliances and chargers. Items left on standby can drain batteries over time, especially if the boat is not connected to shore power or solar input is limited.

• Turn off lights, fans, pumps and entertainment devices.
• Unplug chargers and portable electrical items.
• Check battery monitor readings if you have one.
• Confirm solar charging is operating if you rely on it.
• Check shore power connections if plugged in at a marina.

If connected to shore power, inspect the cable route. It should not be pinched, damaged, hanging in the water or creating a trip hazard. Make sure the connection is secure and suitable for the conditions.

If leaving the boat for a while, consider whether the inverter should be switched off. Many inverters use power even when nothing obvious is running. However, do not switch off anything needed for essential systems unless you understand the consequences.

Check Water System and Pumps

Water leaks can cause serious problems on a narrowboat, especially when nobody is there to hear the pump running. One of the simplest precautions is to turn off the freshwater pump before leaving.

After switching the pump off, open a tap briefly to release pressure if that suits your system. Then check taps are fully closed.

• Turn off the freshwater pump.
• Check taps and shower controls are off.
• Look under sinks for obvious drips.
• Check around the water heater if accessible.
• Consider turning off the water supply where your system allows.

Do not forget the bilge. Check the cabin bilge if accessible, and check the engine bilge before leaving. A little awareness of what is normal for your boat makes it easier to spot when something has changed.

Inspect the Engine Bay

A quick look in the engine bay is a useful habit before leaving. You are not doing a full service, but you are checking for obvious issues that should not be left unattended.

Look for unusual water, oil or fuel. Check that stern gland drips are as expected for your boat, and that nothing looks loose, hot or out of place after cruising.

• Check the engine is fully stopped and keys are removed.
• Look for fuel, oil or coolant leaks.
• Check bilge levels and bilge pump operation if appropriate.
• Make sure engine boards or deck covers are secure.
• Remove loose items that could shift or block drainage.

If you have been cruising in heavy rain, also check drainage channels and deck drains. Clear leaves, mud or debris that might stop water running away.

Think About Heating and Solid Fuel Stoves

Never leave a solid fuel stove in an unsafe condition. If you are leaving the boat, make sure the fire is out or safely managed according to the stove manufacturer’s guidance and your own safe routine.

Check the hearth area for anything that could fall, roll or overheat. Keep kindling, logs, coal, firelighters and soft furnishings well away from the stove.

• Do not leave combustible items near heat sources.
• Empty ash only when it is completely cold.
• Use suitable metal containers for ash disposal.
• Check stove doors and vents are set safely.
• Make sure carbon monoxide alarms are working.

For diesel or gas heating, follow the appropriate shut-down procedure if turning it off. If you leave heating on for frost protection, make sure you understand the fuel, power and safety implications.

Prepare for Weather

Weather is one of the biggest reasons to do a proper leaving check. Rain, wind, frost and heat can all create problems if the boat is not prepared.

Before leaving, look at the forecast for the area where the boat is moored. If strong wind is expected, pay extra attention to ropes, covers and loose items on the roof. If frost is likely, think carefully about water systems and heating.

• Secure poles, planks, boat hooks and roof boxes.
• Tie down or remove loose roof items.
• Check covers are fastened and not sagging.
• Clear leaves from drainage points.
• In winter, consider frost protection for vulnerable pipework.

In hot weather, remove food waste and consider ventilation that remains secure. Heat can make smells worse and may affect items left in direct sun.

Remove Rubbish and Perishables

A clean boat is much nicer to return to. More importantly, removing rubbish and perishables helps prevent smells, flies and unwanted visitors.

Take rubbish with you or dispose of it at a proper facility. Do not leave bags on the towpath or beside bins if the bins are full.

• Empty food waste and general rubbish.
• Remove perishables from the fridge if the power may be off.
• Wash up dirty plates, pans and mugs.
• Wipe down surfaces where food has been prepared.
• Check cupboards for open packets that should be sealed.

If you are leaving the fridge on, check the power supply is reliable. If turning it off, empty it, clean it and leave the door slightly open to prevent odours.

Check Toilets and Waste

Toilet checks are not glamorous, but they are worth doing. Whether you use a cassette, pump-out or composting toilet, leaving it in a tidy state makes your return far more pleasant.

• Empty cassettes if they are near full.
• Check toilet flush controls are off and not leaking.
• Secure spare cassettes properly.
• Dispose of toilet waste only at authorised facilities.
• Check ventilation arrangements for composting toilets.

If you are leaving for more than a short period, it is usually best not to leave waste sitting if you can avoid it. Follow the correct approach for your toilet type.

Take Valuables and Important Documents

Do not leave valuable or sensitive items visible. Ideally, take small valuables home with you, including laptops, tablets, cameras, wallets, passports and important paperwork.

For items that stay aboard, store them discreetly. Keep copies of essential documents separately where possible, and make sure you can access important details if there is a problem while you are away.

• Take keys you need, but avoid leaving spare keys in obvious places.
• Remove visible electronics from windows and worktops.
• Store boat documents securely.
• Keep insurance and licence details accessible off the boat.
• Photograph the boat occasionally for your own records.

Tell Someone if You Are Away for Longer

If you are leaving the boat for an extended period, it can be helpful to let a trusted person know. This might be a marina office, a neighbouring boater or someone local to the mooring.

You do not need to share unnecessary personal details, but it is useful if someone can contact you if ropes loosen, a cover comes adrift or something looks wrong.

Make sure your contact details are up to date with the marina or mooring provider. If continuous cruising, consider whether the location is suitable for leaving the boat within the relevant navigation rules.

A Quick Narrowboat Leaving Checklist

Use this short version when you are in a hurry, but do not rush the important checks. The best checklist is the one you actually use every time.

• Mooring: ropes secure, pins firm, slack suitable for conditions.
• Security: doors, windows, hatches and covers locked or secured.
• Gas: cooker off and gas turned off at the bottle.
• Electrics: non-essential items off, batteries and shore power checked.
• Water: pump off, taps closed, no visible leaks.
• Engine bay: engine stopped, leaks checked, bilge normal.
• Heating: stove and heaters left safe.
• Weather: roof items secure, drains clear, frost risk considered.
• Rubbish: bins emptied, food waste removed, fridge dealt with.
• Valuables: items removed or hidden, documents secure.

Extra Checks for Leaving the Boat Overnight

If you are only away overnight, your checklist may be brief. Even so, do not skip gas, water pump, ropes and security. These checks take moments but cover many common problems.

Leave the boat tidy enough that you can return and settle in quickly. If you plan to cruise the next day, make a note of anything you need to do before setting off, such as filling the water tank or buying fuel.

Extra Checks for Leaving the Boat for Several Weeks

For longer absences, think beyond the immediate leaving routine. Batteries, ventilation, damp, frost, fuel, mooring security and general monitoring all become more important.

• Charge batteries properly before leaving if appropriate.
• Check automatic bilge pump arrangements if fitted.
• Consider moisture control and secure ventilation.
• Remove as much perishable food as possible.
• Check insurance conditions for unattended periods.
• Arrange occasional checks if sensible and permitted.

If leaving during winter, pay particular attention to freezing risks. Drain down parts of the water system if that is your chosen winterising method, or make sure any frost protection is safe and reliable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important thing on a narrowboat checklist before leaving the boat?

The most important checks are safety-related. Turn off gas at the bottle, switch off the freshwater pump, secure the mooring lines, lock doors and hatches, and make sure heating or stoves are safe. These checks reduce the risk of fire, leaks, movement and unauthorised access.

Should I turn off the water pump when leaving a narrowboat?

Yes, in most cases it is sensible to turn off the freshwater pump before leaving. If a pipe, tap or fitting leaks while the pump is on, it may continue pumping water until the tank runs low. Turning it off helps limit potential damage.

Is it safe to leave a narrowboat plugged into shore power?

Many boaters leave boats connected to shore power at a marina, but the connection should be safe, suitable and regularly checked. Inspect the cable, plugs and route before leaving. If you are unsure about your electrical system, ask a qualified marine electrician for advice.

How can I stop my narrowboat smelling musty while I am away?

Remove rubbish, clean food surfaces, empty or manage the fridge properly, and allow secure ventilation where possible. Check for damp items, wet ropes or leaks before leaving. Moisture traps or dehumidifying products may help, but they should not replace fixing leaks or ventilation problems.

What should I do before leaving my narrowboat in winter?

Check the forecast, think about frost protection, secure the mooring well and consider your water system. Some boaters drain down pipework, while others use safe heating or insulation methods. Also check batteries, bilges, covers, roof items and insurance requirements for unattended winter periods.

Build a Routine That Suits Your Boat

Every narrowboat is slightly different, so your checklist should reflect your own layout, equipment and mooring. A liveaboard stepping ashore for the afternoon will not need the same routine as someone leaving a leisure boat for a month.

Start with the essentials: mooring, gas, electrics, water, security and weather. Then add boat-specific reminders, such as solar settings, composting toilet ventilation, bilge pump switches or winter drain-down steps.

Once your routine becomes familiar, leaving the boat feels calmer and more organised. More importantly, you give yourself the best chance of returning to a safe, dry and secure narrowboat, ready for the next trip.