The Best Narrowboat Vlogs & Where to Find Them

Narrowboat vlogs on YouTube have become increasingly popular in recent years. These vlogs typically feature individuals or couples living on a narrowboat and documenting their daily experiences on the canals of the UK. The vlogs offer a glimpse into a unique way of life that many people find intriguing.

One reason for the popularity of narrowboat vlogs is the growing interest in alternative lifestyles. Many people are looking for ways to simplify their lives and escape the stresses of modern society. Living on a narrowboat offers a chance to slow down and connect with nature, while still enjoying the comforts of home. The vlogs provide a window into this lifestyle, showing viewers what it’s really like to live on a boat and navigate the canals.

Another reason for the popularity of narrowboat vlogs is the sense of community they offer. Many viewers feel a connection to the vloggers and enjoy following their journeys as they travel the canals. The vlogs also provide a platform for boaters to share tips and advice, as well as connect with others who share their passion for narrowboating. Overall, the popularity of narrowboat vlogs reflects a growing interest in alternative lifestyles and a desire to connect with nature and community.

What is a Narrowboat?

A narrowboat is a long, thin, flat-bottomed boat designed to navigate the narrow waterways and canals of the United Kingdom. These boats are typically 7 feet wide and up to 72 feet long, with a draught of around 2 feet. Narrowboats are popular for leisure cruising and living aboard, and they offer a unique way to explore the UK’s waterways.

Narrowboats were originally used for transporting goods along the canals, which were built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries to transport raw materials and finished goods across the country. The Grand Union Canal, for example, is one of the UK’s longest canals and runs for over 137 miles from London to Birmingham.

Today, narrowboats are used primarily for leisure purposes, with many people choosing to live aboard their boats full-time. The UK has a vast network of canals and waterways, including the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in Wales, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Narrowboats are powered by diesel engines, and some have traditional coal or wood-burning stoves for heating and cooking. They typically have a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area, and many are fitted with modern amenities such as central heating, hot water, and electricity.

Overall, narrowboats offer a unique and enjoyable way to explore the UK’s waterways and enjoy the beauty of the country’s rivers and canals.

Living on a Narrowboat

Living on a narrowboat is an alternative lifestyle that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It offers a unique way of living, with the opportunity to be off-grid and live in a floating home. This lifestyle can be appealing to those who want to downsize, simplify their lives, and enjoy the freedom of the open waterways.

One of the main advantages of living on a narrowboat is the opportunity to live a more sustainable life. Many narrowboat owners generate their electricity through solar panels or wind turbines and use a composting toilet to reduce their environmental impact. They also have the opportunity to grow their own food or keep bees on the roof of their boat.

Living on a narrowboat also requires a certain level of fitness. Narrowboats can be cramped and require constant maintenance and renovation. This can be physically demanding, especially for those who are not used to manual labour. However, the lifestyle can also offer opportunities for exercise, with many narrowboat owners enjoying cycling or jogging along the towpaths.

Another advantage of living on a narrowboat is the sense of community. Many narrowboat owners form close-knit communities and help each other out when needed. This can be especially important for those who live alone on their boat.

Living on a narrowboat is not without its challenges, however. It can be difficult to adjust to a smaller living space, and there is often limited storage. The lifestyle can also be expensive, with mooring fees, maintenance costs, and boat insurance to consider.

Overall, living on a narrowboat can be a rewarding and fulfilling lifestyle for those who are willing to embrace the challenges it presents. It offers a unique way of living that is off-grid, sustainable, and community-driven.

Narrowboat Vloggers on YouTube

Narrowboat vloggers on YouTube are individuals who document their experiences of living and cruising on narrowboats in the UK. These vloggers have gained a significant following on the platform, with many channels amassing thousands of subscribers.

One of the most popular narrowboat vloggers on YouTube is David Johns, who runs the channel Cruising The Cut. David’s channel features a variety of content, including tours of his narrowboat, travel vlogs, and informative videos about narrowboat living.

Another popular narrowboat vlogger is Foxes Afloat, run by two men called Colin & Shaun. Their channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about narrowboat maintenance.

Chugging Along is another popular channel, run by a couple named Tim & Sam. Their channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about their experiences of living on a narrowboat.

The Narrowboat That James Built is a channel run by James, who documents his experiences of building a narrowboat from scratch. His channel features a mix of boat-building content, travel vlogs, and videos about narrowboat maintenance.

Canal Boat Diaries is a channel run by a couple named Robbie. Their channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about their experiences of living on a narrowboat.

The Narrowboat Experience is a channel run by a couple named Annamarie and Kath. Their channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about their experiences of living on a narrowboat.

The Narrowboat Pirate is a channel run by a lady named Heidi. Her channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about narrowboat living.

The Narrowboat Good Life is a channel run by a couple named Rozzie & Rob. Their channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about their experiences of living on a narrowboat.

Narrowboat Life Unlocked is a channel run by a pair named Paul & Anthony. Their channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about their experiences of living on a narrowboat.

Taylors Aboard a Narrowboat is a channel run by a guy named Josh & his Parents. Their channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about their experiences of living on a narrowboat.

The Mindful Narrowboat is a channel run by a woman named Alice. Her channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about her experiences of living on a narrowboat.

My Narrowboat Life is another channel. The channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about experiences of living on a narrowboat.

May Moon Narrowboat is a channel run by Laura. Their channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about their experiences of living on a narrowboat.

Narrowboat Liberty is another channel. The channel features a mix of travel vlogs, boat tours, and videos about her experiences of living on a narrowboat.

In addition to documenting their experiences of living on narrowboats, many of these vloggers also share their photography and videography skills, showcasing the beauty of the UK’s canal network. Some vloggers, such as Amy & Wes from Boat Time and Boating Beyond, also offer tips and advice for those interested in narrowboat living.

Overall, narrowboat vloggers on YouTube offer a unique and fascinating insight into the world of narrowboat living, and their channels are a great resource for anyone interested in this way of life.

Benefits of Narrowboating

Narrowboating is an increasingly popular way to explore the UK’s waterways and offers a range of benefits for those looking for adventure, travel, nature, or a more mindful way of life.

Adventure

Narrowboating provides a unique and exciting way to explore the UK’s waterways and countryside. Whether you are navigating through locks, cruising along canals, or mooring up in picturesque locations, every day on a narrowboat is an adventure. You can explore new places, meet new people, and experience the freedom and excitement of life on the water.

Travel

Narrowboating offers a slower, more relaxed way of travel, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery and wildlife along the waterways. With no set itinerary, you can travel at your own pace and stop off at any of the many towns, villages, and attractions along the way. Whether you are looking for a weekend break or a longer holiday, narrowboating offers a unique and memorable travel experience.

Nature

Narrowboating allows you to get up close and personal with nature, as you cruise through some of the UK’s most beautiful and unspoilt landscapes. From spotting kingfishers and herons to watching otters play in the water, there is always something new and exciting to see. You can also enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the waterways, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Mindful

Narrowboating offers a more mindful way of life, allowing you to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. With no distractions and no rush, you can enjoy the beauty of the waterways, read a book, or simply relax and unwind. Narrowboating can also be a great way to spend quality time with family and friends, away from the stresses of everyday life.

In summary, narrowboating offers a range of benefits for those looking for adventure, travel, nature, or a more mindful way of life. With its unique blend of excitement, relaxation, and natural beauty, narrowboating is an experience that is not to be missed.

Maintenance and DIY on a Narrowboat

Maintaining a narrowboat is essential to keep it in good condition and ensure it lasts for many years. DIY can be an effective way to save money and keep your boat in top condition. Here are some tips for maintenance and DIY on a narrowboat:

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to keep a narrowboat in good condition. Here are some key areas to focus on:

• Hull: Check the hull regularly for signs of damage or wear. Any damage should be repaired immediately to prevent further damage.
• Engine: Regularly service the engine to keep it running smoothly. Check oil levels, coolant levels, and other fluids regularly.
• Electrics: Check the electrics regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged wiring or components as soon as possible.
• Plumbing: Check the plumbing regularly for leaks or damage. Repair any leaks or damage immediately to prevent water damage.

DIY

DIY can be an effective way to save money and keep your narrowboat in top condition. Here are some key areas where DIY can be effective:

• Painting: Painting the narrowboat can be a great way to update its look. Use high-quality marine paint to ensure it lasts.
• Carpentry: Carpentry can be an effective way to make repairs or improvements to the narrowboat. Use high-quality wood and tools to ensure a professional finish.
• Electrics: DIY electrics can be effective for simple repairs or upgrades. However, for more complex work, it’s best to hire a professional.
• Plumbing: DIY plumbing can be effective for simple repairs or upgrades. However, for more complex work, it’s best to hire a professional.

Overall, regular maintenance and DIY can be effective ways to keep a narrowboat in top condition. However, for more complex work, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure the work is done safely and effectively.

Pets on a Narrowboat

Pets are a common sight on narrowboats, and many vloggers feature their furry friends in their videos. From dogs to cats, and even chickens, pets can add a lot of joy and entertainment to life on a narrowboat.

One popular narrowboat vlogger, Otis the Border Terrier, has gained quite a following on YouTube. His owners document their travels and adventures with Otis, showing viewers what it’s like to have a dog on a narrowboat. Otis seems to love life on the water and is always up for an adventure.

Another vlogger, Alan Heath, has a unique pet on his narrowboat – a chicken named Hens. Hens is a friendly and curious bird who loves to explore the boat and interact with Alan and his wife. They even built a special coop for her on the roof of the boat, complete with a mini garden.

While pets can be a wonderful addition to life on a narrowboat, there are also some challenges to consider. For example, space can be limited, so owners must ensure their pets have enough room to move around and get exercise. Additionally, some pets may struggle with the constant motion of the boat, so it’s important to monitor their behaviour and health.

Overall, pets can bring a lot of joy and companionship to life on a narrowboat, and many vloggers showcase their furry friends in their videos. Whether it’s a dog, cat, chicken, or other animal, pets can add a unique and entertaining element to the narrowboat lifestyle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, narrowboat vlogs on YouTube provide a unique insight into the world of living on a narrowboat. The vlogs allow viewers to explore the waterways of the UK from the comfort of their own homes and gain an understanding of the joys and challenges of living on a narrowboat.

Through the vlogs, viewers can learn about the different aspects of narrowboat living, such as navigating locks and waterways, maintaining the boat, and dealing with the challenges of living in a confined space. The vloggers also share their experiences of the community spirit among narrowboat owners and the sense of freedom that comes with living on the water.

One of the benefits of narrowboat vlogs is that they provide a platform for sharing knowledge and advice. Viewers can learn from the experiences of others and gain valuable insights into the practicalities of living on a narrowboat. The vloggers often share tips on everything from boat maintenance to cooking on a boat, making the vlogs a valuable resource for anyone considering narrowboat living.

Overall, narrowboat vlogs on YouTube offer a fascinating glimpse into a unique way of life. Whether you are a narrowboat enthusiast or simply curious about this way of living, the vlogs provide a wealth of information and entertainment.