35. Too Old for Narrowboat Life?
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- čas přidán 9. 12. 2022
- #narrowboat #liveaboard #older
In Episode 35, we talk about our challenges as older boaters.
There are people of all ages living on the canal system. We share here, some of our personal challenges and difficulties that might potentially affect other older boaters.
We love living on Liberty, so we accept some of the more difficult aspects of boat life. In an upcoming video, we'll share the benefits of narrowboat living for older people.
There are many! Stay tuned!
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I am 76 and have been on my narrow boats for about 26 years, It’s harder know
It just takes longer, coal/ logs etc But I still enjoy all of it
Thanks for your comment and we hope we can match your capabilities over the coming years! All the best for 2023, Carol, Rob and Tilly
17 yrs I have lived on the canals.
I'm solo with two slipped discs.
Lessons learned : never cruise in gusts exceeding 30mph !
Always cruise slow ( never above 3mph ) ,
Open a sluice 6 clicks to begin with, wait 30 seconds and the rest will be very simple.
When opening lock gates always bounce on it first to balance it out hence Balanced lock beam and lean on the arm until it moves then wait 30 seconds and it will open with very lititle effort ...
The problem with 96% of boaters is they are always in a rush especially operating locks .. also
The majority wrongly use their engines to keep their boats from hitting the gates once in the lock.
Any advice just ask , tc and safe journeying 😇
Lots of good advice there from a seasoned boater - thank you! ❤❤❤ Rob, Carol and Tilly
Excellent advice from someone with real experience, nice work Jason 👍😉
Thank you so much, we are total novices, very excited but a little bit scared too. Any advice is much appreciated.
Brilliant. Thank you, Jason.
Hey, just a little comment that may inspire ....
One day,
on my 2nd year of boating, cruising up river in Wakefield, West Yorkshire , I arrived at Ings lock ( notoriously difficult ) for the first time . Could I heck z like get the bottom gate open ! I gave up after an hour , went back to my boat for a cuppa whilst I contemplated turning round .
I then heard a woman shout ' gates open are ya coming up ' ...
I went up the lock but saw no one .
Puzzled I walked round the bend and found a woman rubbing bees wax on a little tug.
She said ' ya made it then ' ... I was astonished !!
91 years old she tells me lol
She had lived on the cut 32 years !!
I never got her name but she taught me lock eticate that day , and inspired me the rest of my days that no matter what , the boating life was for me 💝
I have just found your channel and have subscribed. I am a retired Person of A Certain Age living in the USA. I live vicariously through many of you who are continuous travellers because I cannot be one. Getting the residency permit and a boat would be impossible at my advanced age, but yours is the first channel that appeals to me because of this particular video that focuses on age. I imagine it is one thing to be a 30-Something solo boater and something quite different to be me, in my 70s. So thank you for doing this one and I look forward to the others.
Hi, and thanks for you lovely, encouraging comment. We are really happy that the topic has resinated with you, and we agree that age brings a different set of demands and restrictions, but also certain benefits including the ability to appreciate the opportunity we have to travel and the capability of engaging with other boaters in real time, face to face! We hope you will enjoy our future videos just as much. Best wishes, Carol, Rob and Tilly ❤
I so agree, I sit here in Erie PA riight on Lake Erie and love watching these vlo9gs.
@@1beakin You, at least, live near one of the few USA canals that actually have canal boats that you can hire!
I've been living vicariously through several of the narrowboaters I've been following. I live in the states also and in my early 70s. I retired several years ago and try to live frugally. I had the opportunity in 2008 to go on vacation to England and take a narrowboat holiday but unfortunately it didn't work out.
@@DenaliDad where is located please?
Have to say that's the most honest description of life on a narrowboat I have seen! Very helpful for someone intending to liveaboard. I've lived onboard for twenty-five years:))
Hi Peter, we really appreciate that comment from someone with about twenty five times our experience! It’s easy to make Narrowboat life seem easy. Simple isn’t the same as Easy, (as you know). Anyway, you’ve probably found many ways to do things more sensibly than us. I’d describe us still as newbies…just older newbies! Best wishes, Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
hi peter i was wondering how safe the boating life is regarding crime break ins and such as i am solo and older.
@@sirbollocks5147 well the last 5 years have been pretty crimeless but due to the recession only time will tell, people do all sorts to survive:(
Enjoyed the chat guys,..... Narrowboat life will keep you both young and fit. You are both looking good for another 20yrs continuous cruising, take care 🙏👍
Thanks Wayne! I admire your optimism! Hahaha
@@NarrowboatLiberty 😁👍
How timely that your video popped up in my CZcams Recommendations just after our towpath chat about our lovely old dogs! Very interesting vlog. We always tell people we will keep doing this continuous cruising thing until we don’t enjoy it or health issues prevent it being the best choice for us. So far we love it 😊
We love it too! You’ll probably relate to our next video where we cover all the reasons we love living aboard Liberty - we’ll cover the benefits (as we see them). Loved meeting your furry crew and their distant cousin the Scottie!
This was timely and incredibly useful. I'm thinking (partially to make life simpler for my executors) of selling my house and spending a few years solo on a narrowboat, continuous cruising. I can see some positives and a number of negatives and this clarified some of both. Would like to learn more about medical arrangements, which are a concern. Lost my last dog recently, she lost her sight gradually and was completely blind for her last few years. She coped amazingly well. We underestimate how much more important is the ability to smell than to see with dogs. It's worth creating particular smells with particular locations to help her when she is completely blind.
Thanks Richard - yes, Tilly has a great sense of smell and that’s how she ‘sees’ for sure! If you have any more questions we will be happy to hear them! Best wishes, Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
That was brilliant,,,,it was like chatting to my ex rugby buddies,,,,How are your knees, back, ankle etc!!!! My wife and I started watching NB videos during the first lockdown in Japan - I had been on several canal holidays when I lived in the UK. She has fallen in love with the idea of me returning to the uk and us buying a boat! I have too, but although she is in her late 30s,,,I am your generation with bolts in my ankles,,,,plates and so many broken bones from playing rugby,,I am dubious! Thank you for the videos, we truly enjoy them. As an aside,,,in Japan we have onsen - hot springs.......They are such a relief for me!! As always thank you for your uploads, we appreciate them so much! Best of luck, from the Oriental Webbs!
Hi Ian! We are always so happy when you comment - you’re a great encouragement to us - thank you! I’m sure you could manage boat life, in spite of your injuries - a long rugby career will definitely do that to you - and it really comes down to whether on balance the pleasure outweighs the pain. That balance can change with each increase in pain, new injuries or illnesses, or even changes that reduce the opportunity for enjoyable boating (e.g. canal closures, which can be a big problem in many areas of the country). If you ever get over to try it, do get in touch and we’ll happily meet up on the water to discuss the meaning of life over a pot of tea or something stronger! Best wishes, Rob, Carol and Tilly xxx
Being a previous continual cruiser for many years and of a certain age I posted previously on another vlog on the easiest way to moor up in windy weather. This entails bringing the back end to the bank and dropping a nappy pin hook attached to the boat on a short rope down the armco. A very gentle forward thrust will pull the front in and hold it there until you can tie up- hope this makes sense- it really does work. Best wishes 🦆💕
Hi Pam! We love this practical suggestion! We’ll definitely be trying it out! Thank you for taking the time to suggest it…we still have much to learn! Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
Hi, this is Donna ( the silent partner to nighttime on still waters). Really enjoyed your 'narrow boat for a certain generation'.
Our dog Penny was blind before she died and like you, because of the changes we introduced, she coped very well on the boat.
This was a lovely and positive episode, thank you. Very realistic.
Hi Donna! We enjoy listening to your partner’s podcasts, which we originally discovered through Vanessa on Mindful Narrowboat! Glad you liked the vlog…thanks for the encouraging comments. Hugs Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
were are 68 and 65 respectively and have toyed with the idea of a barge . . . good video
Hi! Thanks for your comment. Of course we think you're the ideal age to jump into this life! Haha. We covered some of the challenges facing older boaters (our challenges) but we would not change our decision in hindsight and we love this life and hope that if you choose it, you will love it too! Merry Christmas! Carol, Rob and Tilly x
What a lovely, honest, informative vlog. Great sense of humour and a happy demeanour. Thank you so much for letting me find you. My daughter Rosie and I have had several narrowboat holidays. This year Rosie is doing her masters in Manchester so I suggested buying a narrowboat to live on in a marina for her 2 year course. Far, far less expensive than halls or house share. Anyway we and Rosie’s partner (a very skilled mechanical engineer) have been doing up a boat and it is nearly ready to go back on the water.
Thank you very much for all the info’ which applies to me, as I am shall we say; getting on a bit. I have subscribed and will be following your cruising endeavours. As you were asking for feedback. I’m going to check your boat tour. Best wishes and I hope to see you again soon. Francis. OMG.
Hello Francis, and thank you so much for your lovely message! We’re sure you’re correct about the relative costs compared with halls or house share, neither of which even comes close to the ‘cool’ factor of living on a narrowboat at university! I still see this as a bohemian community and lifestyle, appealing greatly to artists and free spirits! Narrowboats have character and (many would say) a soul! We’re very close to completing the next vlog, which is kind a Part Two to the Too Old episode, so you’ll see that pop up in the next day or so! Thanks for your subscription! Our warmest best wishes, Rob, Carol and Tilly ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Great vlog as you said a bit of a change from normal but really interesting. Looking forward to seeing the before and after work you’ve done to make the boat your own. I must admit I think it’s really interesting to hear about different people’s opinions about living on the canals. You said shopping and getting things to and from the boat can be difficult I would think storage in such a small place would be difficult as well. It’s a life style I’ve thought about a lot myself but I’ll have to see what life brings. Thanks for taking the time to share 👍
Thanks Steve - it’s a great life that has its physical challenges. There are some solutions - replacing the multifuel stove with a diesel stove, for example…but the locks and bridges are for the most part just a fact of life. We’re going to cover the positives in another video - they’re enough that we have no regrets giving up a house for a boat! :)
This is a really good and probably one of the most useful vlogs iv set yet , I watch a few vlogs and I can't yet recall anyone else doing an honest review to deal with aging and living on a narrowboat ❤❤❤
That’s really kind of you to say so, thanks Nathan! Carol and Rob ❤️
Okayyyyy. This resonates! My husband is a Brit, I’m an American. We live in Colorado and honest to goodness living on a NB is on our list for retirement. We took a holiday on one in May and absolutely loved it! (Plan to do another hol in ‘23. We live on a small farm and have a dog, horses and chickens. Hard work is familiar to us. I think you guys were so honest in this video. I have subscribed and will be following! This is great!
Hi Jayne! I hope you achieve your dream! We’ve no regrets, and in fact our next vlog covers things you’ll hopefully also find resonate just as much! Our very best wishes and thank you for subscribing! Rob, Carol and Tilly 💜
Very interesting; I assume that it’s all worth it as you have such a positive attitude. In many ways, it’s an enviable lifestyle. Take care. 💜😀
Thanks Kath! We would not change our choice of lifestyle, and you’re right, there’s so much to love and we really are grateful for everything we get to see and the people we meet along the way x
Carol, Rob, and Tilley, this was such a unique vlog and so informative. I loved it. Thank you so much for doing this. I have watched numerous videos on solo boaters but none dealing with older boaters. You were both so open and honest, yet not discouraging. I will have to continue to travel vicariously with you three. At some point I hope to travel to the UK and walk the towpaths but the dream of being a solo boater at my age is unrealistic. So set an extra plate at the table 🤣😂😅 Again, thanks for this. Looking forward to more great vlogs to come. Glad to see you are wintering on the Llangollen, as it appears that there are several other vloggers doing the same. Sending the three of you 😊🤗❤️🐾 Kathy
Hey Kathy! Thanks so much! We discussed the notion that there weren’t any vlogs we’d seen that covered the issues of ageing as continuous cruisers, so essentially we just sat down and started talking to camera about the stuff we’ve found hard at times. Today we saw and captured some of the most beautiful scenes we’ve ever seen on any canal…we’ll love putting together our take on the Llangollen…but we wanted our watchers and subscribers to get to know us better and this seemed a way to start that process. Today our biggest challenge was the cold - Carol lectured me about my wearing my trainers then complaining my toes were frozen! Haha. But the same freezing weather gave everything a particularly sharp, beautiful light, so that’s another example of ‘no pain, no gain!’ As I’ve said before, you’re always assured a seat at our dinette! XOX Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
@@NarrowboatLiberty 🤣😂😅 Woke up to a frost here in upstate NY….no snow yet….and immediately put my sneakers on and took the dog for an hour walk. Then had to sit by the wood stove to try to save my toes! Stay warm…and wear boots! 😊🤗❤️🐾
Lovely vlog again you 3! Glad you're coping ok with everything that age brings along with it! X ☓ 🐾
Thanks Sis! ❤❤❤
Your not selling this to Debbie Guys. Lol. Great to see another video and some very interesting points. Hope to join you one day moored next to you
Haha. You know how much we really love this life Col…the one where we lost all the positives is currently in planning…that’s the one to show Deb! We miss you three! XOX
Haha . You have a great life. Hope to join you soon. Miss you guys too
Nice video honest down to earth and good to hear about coping with Tilly as most conservation's on narrow boats never mention that side on their pets 👍👍👍
Thanks Ron! We appreciate your support! ❤❤❤
If you're too old, I've no chance 😂 Very informative and honest, this would be great viewing for all those people on the group who keep asking about what boating is really like. Yes, a little disappointing that there was no cruising this week but, on the plus side, we did get almost 20 minutes of Tilly! I agree on the running. If you ever see me out and about running, you'd better run too, cos there will be something horrible chasing me! 😂 Hope you are keeping warm, see you soon, Chris.
Haha. Thanks Chris. Tilly is and always will be the real star and Carol and I have no illusions on that score! Take care and see you soon xox
Great idea and tips for older boaters. I haven't come across this advice before - at least not so focused. Clearly a niche still to be tapped with so many views so far!
Hi Tim! Thank you for your kind comment. Yes, we agree. Our video that is in the works will speak to the same audience. Best wishes, Carol, Rob and Tilly x
Trolley is essential equipment. Nearly did myself in lugging 4 new leisure batteries down just quarter mile of towpath 😅😅😂
It is! We have a trolley which has done similar work to your example - batteries, coal etc, needs a bit of a service but still working after 18 months hard labour!
This is a great video. Interesting to see all the different pro's and cons of living on a narrow boat.
❤ thanks S…glad you liked it…and thanks for the subscription! ❤❤❤
Love your honesty, great reality checks to consider for the older wannabe boaters 😃like myself 🤔thank you both, Tilly is adorable 🤗take care
Hi Jeannie and thank you! Be sure to watch our ‘counter-arguments’ video when it’s released! Every cloud…and we really do love this whole experience. xox Rob, Carol and Tilly
Great video and great questions from viewers! I think a lot of these questions would be great video topics. Thank you, Rob, Carol, and Tilly!!
Hi Ellen! Yes we agree! Thanks for all your support to our channel behind the scenes! XO 😘
Great vlog, thanks, some very valuable advice. as a young 61 year old solo boater, I fully understand taking time at locks and thinking through every move.
I'm just 3 years afloat and loving it .
Hi David! Thanks for your kind comment. There’s ways to make things easier, and regardless of age we shouldn’t be straining ourselves or rushing about (defeats the object of using a narrowboat after all)! Stay safe and well! Best wishes Rob, Carol and Tilly ❤️
What an interesting video, very informative and your dog Tilly is adorable especially the way she looks at you both, they really are a joy to have. Have a great week and keep the old bones warm 😀
Thanks so much Cynthia! She’s a ham in front of the camera! Haha. Seriously though, she honestly is adorable (except when demanding to be walked at 5 a.m. in freezing rain)! Thanks so much for your lovely comment! Carol, Rob and (of course) Tilly xox
This was a very enlightening eye opening discussion on living full time on a narrow boat . Been following NB vlogs since the pandemic but this is my first introduction to your chanel - will subscribe . Greetings from Canada
Hi Mayanna - it’s wonderful to hear from you and thank you so much for subscribing! Carol, Rob & Tilly xox
just saw you for the first time today - have shown my husband and have subbed. such very helpful information. thank you
Hi Momma Hill - thanks so much for subscribing! Hope you’ll enjoy our future videos too! Happy New Year! Rob, Carol and Tilly x
Thankyou for this video. I have been mulling over the idea of solo narrowboating with my dog. Your video gave me clarity which Has been very helpful. Really enjoy your channel.
Thank you for your kind comment! We’re glad you found this helpful and hope you will make a decision that brings happiness for you and your beloved dog xox
This video was very useful. I have, of necessity, moved onto a boat full time in later life. GP is a bit of a challenge. Thank you both
Hi Royce - thanks for your comment. We really hope your change of situation works out well for you. Just register as an out of area patient - the same as Travellers do. We’ve had no difficulties in getting seen when necessary on our travels. 🥰
I really enjoyed your video, you two are an amazing couple and Tilly. You are really living your best lives. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Linda! Thanks for your kind comment - we’re happy you liked it! Hugs Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
Great Vlog! I think I'm of a similar 'vintage' to you guys, and also planning a new life aflloat. The info you give here is very useful, thank you!!!
Hi Richard and thanks for your kind comment! Of course we will shortly be listing the many things boat life offers people of our generation, so we hope you’ll enjoy that vlog just as much! Best wishes, Rob, Carol and Tilly ♥️
Give Tilley an Oscar she obviously loves it . Great video , very honest and informative . You all look happy . I look forward to more .
Hi Geoff - thanks for that! Hope you’re all well, Merry Christmas Rob, Carol and Tilly ♥️
Hi, just subscribed!! Love the info.. Cheers!!
Hi Lex - thanks so much for subscribing! Glad you enjoyed it. Best wishes Rob, Carol and Tilly oxo
Nice vlog from the bodyguard from John Lennon 1969-1971 in NYC USA also stowed away from NYC to England on the Queen Elizabeth when I was 14 new subscriber love your vlogs
Wow! What adventures you’ve had Gary! Really appreciate your kind comment! Carol, Rob & Tilly xox
Lovely video, keep up the good work 👍💙
Hi Richard thanks for your encouragement! All the best, Carol Rob and Tilly x
I love the cruising vlogs but this was really nice . Tilly is very lucky to have you both. Do look into getting the meds for her delivered, it will save you a fortune. I paid about 25% of what the vets charge when I done it . Lovely to get to know you a little more 👍
Thanks so much for the advice and encouragement Paul! We always look for your comment! Best wishes Rob, Carol and Tilly xxx
What a delightful couple you seem
Thanks for your kind comment, Royce! ❤️
Aww, interesting vlog guys. Think you love your life really! Take care x
You know we do Karen! Hugs dear friend xox
Your video popped up today & I've subscribed & look forward to seeing you again soon.
Being not a Spring Chicken myself, which came as a big surprise in the last few years, I've always thought boat life would be a challenge to my other half in particular but me too. Very interesting to hear everything you said, love your beautiful Tilly & so glad you take such good care of her.
Hiya Annie! Thanks for your lovely comment and Tilly just got a treat as a reward in lieu of you being here to tell her that to her face! We’re glad you are both getting along with life afloat, which has more upside than downside, we feel. Hugs from us all, Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
@@NarrowboatLiberty Sadly we're not afloat though I've hankered after it a lot since following narrowboat people on CZcams.
It's a lovely thought but that's all it can be for us.
I can see many reasons why it must be heaven, not least being able to move to another mooring if you're not keen on your current neighbours.
Big hugs to Tilly, so glad she got an extra treat in my name
❤️🐶
@@anniemac3075 thanks Annie ❤️ ♥️ 💜
Many Thanks!!!!
Your talk was extremely helpful to me ☺️!
Cheers Thomas - we’re so glad!
Really good insightful vlog, look forward to the next
Hi Lee - thank you so much! Best wishes from Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
Great episode! Thank you for honestie. Warm greetings from the Netherlands, Marco
Hi Marco! Thanks for your comment! Happy New Year from Carol, Rob and Tilly ❤️
Hi, I have just subscribed and although the vlog was brilliant, it was your gorgeous dog that made me do it! :)
Haha…she’s our secret weapon! Tilly wants her own dressing room! Thanks for subscribing and we’re thrilled to have you along on our travels and discussions! Rob, Carol and Tilly ♥️
New subscriber, very amusing and informative vlog. Look forward to the next one.
Hi Norman and thanks for your kind comment and for subscribing! We really are happy to hear from you! Hope you’ll enjoy our latest video which has just been posted! Best Wishes Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
Fab video, you guys are an inspiration. I'm sure my Vet could sort out something with Tilly's meds i will pop round tomorrow and have a word with them. Keep safe & warm cheers Rick, Kerry & Bella (The wired haired Jack Russel)
Hey Rick, Kerry and Bella! Great to hear from you again - yes we’d love to hear what you find out from your vet! See you soon we hope! Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
We currently live in our RV so I love it when we get an Airbnb with a bathtub also😍
😂 yep! How are you liking RV life? That appealed to us also. Thanks for commenting! Carol, Rob and Tilly❤️ ♥️ ❤️
I am 81. And I do something similar as I have to haul loads of wood up a hill . It makes my heart go like mad. But that strenuous excersize keeps me alive and I would miss it.
Mind you , the winter makes it not so pleasant. Good diet, excersize and good genes will keep you going forever ,
Agreed Rovert! Rob’s Dad worked into his mid 80’s at a physical job and kept very active into his 90’s. I think the 3 things you listed are crucial factors in determining how you’ll be in your later years. There are plenty of youngsters who will struggle to do what you do. Again, boatlife isn’t a case of “one size fits all!” Thanks for your comment and long may your vigour continue! Stay safe! Carol, Rob and Tilly ❤️
💕Lovely video...great info...so interesting! Looking forward to all future videos. Future topic suggestions: Canalside wildlife, Narrowboat cooking, What NOT to do on a Narrowboat...
Hey Peter! Thanks for that and for those great ideas! We’ll note them as fuel for future vlogs! Merry Christmas to you and Karen xox
Hi, loved to hear your take on this. I'm 70, I don't live aboard/continually cruise but I do undertake long solo trips of two months or so. Eg to Llangollen (our former home) in 2019. 600 locks and 400miles round trip. I have a small (8M) GRP cruiser which is a lot easier to handle single-handed than a steel boat, not least because it only weighs about 4tonnes. We live in Bedfordshire so the boat is based on the Gt Ouse, so every trip starts with a week -10days just to get to the canal system!
Comments about locks, spot on, some are in a really bad state and very hard to operate. I had to give up on a trip in 2021 in Manchester as the Rochdale 9 flight was closed and the gates on the Rochdale heading east were just too hard to do. Last year at a local lock I had to wait for someone passing by to help. The first guy I asked, a fit looking 20something on a mountain bike refused saying he wasn't strong enough. Eventually a woman closer to my age walking her dog helped me do it! In the past I've had to rope some open. swing bridges too. Lift bridges on the Llan are fun if you're solo, the landing stage is on the opposite bank to the mechanism!
Bed is an issue too. I'm fine solo, occasionally with one of the grandkids but my wife can't cope with it it (she has fibromyalgia) hence the solo trips.
Shopping I keep to a minimum by stocking up on dry goods before I leave and doing a lot of cooking, I even make sourdough bread as it's easier than trying to find a bakery.
Injuries are definitely to be avoided. In 2020 I tore the cartilage in my knee (walking at home!) There's no cure on offer but oain killers and exercise keep it manageable, until I banged it on a safety barrier at a marina. Could hardly walk for two days and needed help at Rothersthorpe locks on the Nene. Regarding the sore heel, it could be plantar fasciitis (spelling?). Had that but it's curable. Try standing on a step on the balls of your feet, then drop your heels as far as you can, stretching your calf muscles (and the tendon over your heel). Hold a few seconds, repeat a few times. Get in the habit of doing it, for example, while waiting at locks (on steps not the lockside!) Hope that helps.
More here: pthane.weebly.com
Hi Phil, thanks for your great comment! We’re currently nearing your old neck of the woods, leaving Ellesmere for Chirk then on to Llangollen this week. Interesting story about getting help from the older lady and not from the young cyclist. Carol’s condition actually isn’t plantar fasciitis, but a soft tissue injury which may be damage to a bursa in her heel. Rest and anti-inflammatory meds are what’s required, by all accounts. Good thing she’s not a solo boater! I visited your excellent blog and am really enjoying it - left a comment on your anchor article. Hopefully our paths will cross on the cut one day and we’ll moor alongside for a cuppa! Merry Christmas, Rob, Carol and Tilly
@@NarrowboatLiberty My plan for next year, after the obligatory Ouse/MiddleLevel/Nene is GU Leics Arm, Trent, S Yorks Nav, New Junc, Aire & Calder, L&L We lived in Blackburn 1978-1984 and I built my first boat there so interesting to go back. Bridgewater. I was born about a mile from the Bridgewater in Cheshire so that'll be interesting to see again). Then back via T&M and Coventry to the GU. Or possibly via Shroppie and Brum. I'll look out for you!
Looking cozy in there !
It is! Toasty and cosy ❤❤❤
Hi. Am watching you from Arkansas,USA. 😊 My husband and I enjoy watching narrowboat channels, just discovered yours. After viewing this video will have go to your beginnings to catch up to you in real time.👍
Hi Celia (we presume?) thanks v so much for your lovely comment and for subscribing! We’re really pleased you’re coming along with us! Hugs Carol, Rob and Tilly ❤❤❤
@@NarrowboatLiberty
Yes it is Celia 👍
Tilly looks so beautiful and peaceful today. I so envy you at times and then at other times when you are out in the rain opening those locks...not.
😂 Bette, you have to take the rain and wind along with the sunshine! 🥰 💕
Just found your channel, interesting vlog, informative. Tilly is adorable.
Hi Sheila! Thanks so much! She's definitely the star of the show xox
Hi, guys interesting video. Nice one.
Thanks as ever, Tony! We appreciate your encouragement! Rob, Carol and Tilly xxx
I have loved the idea of selling up and living on a narrow boat since holidaying on one a few years ago. I follow a few that live on board( 2 that gave up on it) there are one or two that have overly romanticised views on it, I think you're thoughts are accurate and more realistic, your rose tinted glasses firmly taken off. I no longer think this life is for me but thourly enjoy your content so have subscribed
Thanks for your honest comment, Jayne…It’s certainly not for everyone, especially on the short, dark days of winter here. That’s not to say it’s still not enjoyable, but not ALL of it is enjoyable. Cycling 5+ miles yesterday along a slippery, bumpy and often boggy towpath to retrieve our car was not fun, but I stopped several times to photograph the beautiful things of nature I encountered and recognised that I’d never have seen them if I was tucked up on the couch in our cosy boat! So it’s true that you have to be someone who has either an economic need or a strong affinity for ‘backpacking on water’ to embrace this life, especially when you’re tired and aching! Still, you’ve experienced boating and you’ve made a rational choice that at present it’s not for you - that’s far better than jumping in with unrealistic expectations and being disappointed and out of pocket. Thanks so much for your comment and your decision to follow us - we’re really glad to have you aboard! Rob, Carol and Tilly ❤️ ♥️ 💜
Loved this vid, very important. We're with Animal Trust who will give us a 3mth prescription that we post to an online company for our cats medication, but we still have to see a vet with her to get the prescription (they weigh her etc to see how she is), but we have a choice of Animal Trust Vets in the North. Noise cancelling ear plugs are pricey but amazing. Loved how Tilly was well aware when you were talking about her. That stomach strap thing looks great. What you're doing on a boat and the physical hardships you're facing will probably extend your health and well being in the long term. Looking forward to your next vid.
Hi Lynne thanks so much for your comment and details of how you get meds for your cats - we never knew Animal Trust had vets! Yes, Tilly loves hearing her name! Where we’re moored right now she doesn’t need us to use the tummy strap, because she can easily jump off and on, but we never know what we’ll have as a mooring until we arrive! Sometimes there’s a big height difference between the side of the boat and the ground outside. Hoping you’ll have a lovely Christmas! Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
Thank you both, very interesting 🙏✝️🙏🇨🇦
Thanks for watching and for your encouragement James! Best wishes Carol Rob and Tilly x
I always use the bollard to pull the boat in, not my body strength. Swaging is a technique to adopt.
I take vitamins every day, and I am very careful not to slip or fall
Interesting discussion about life as a full time boater, I haven't seen your channel before but the subject caught my eye. I have been continuously cruising since March 2018 on narrowboat Bandoneon with my cat Flann, my partner still works so she is a part time boater coming to join me when she can. I have gradually modified my way of working the boat over time to minimise the effort and risks to match my limitations now that I am 71 years old. I think winter cruising has the highest risk due to wet and frozen lock surrounds and fewer people being around if you do need help so my smartwatch has an emergency call function that sends an automatic message to my partner and turns on GPS tracking when activated. As for heavy balance beams and awkward swing or lift bridges, if I really can't manage them on my own I just ask for help from other boaters, dog walkers, fishermen, or whatever. I remember a Japanese visitor once taking pictures of the boat and he was delighted when I gave him a quick lesson on how to operate an electric swing bridge for me.
Thanks for your great comment Peter! Being severely injured on your own in the middle of nowhere would be a nightmare, but that’s true for all ages of boater I suppose. I think we do gradually work out what works and what doesn’t and I’m always open to advice! We’ve had help from gongoozlers at some locks, though it’s always got to be under our direction. Coming up the staircase at Grindley Brook was our first staircase lock and another boater showed us what’s what, which we really appreciate and it also sped up the process for her, so win-win! I’m 67 and Carol’s 63, but I think it’s more a matter of health and fitness, rather than age which should guide whether or not to live on a NB. Take care and hope to pass you on the cut by and by! Best wishes, Rob, Carol and Tilly
@@NarrowboatLiberty Fortunately I haven't been seriously injured so far, I picked up a fishing hook in my finger last year when it got caught in the centre line and the windlass slipped out of my hand one day and spun round to give my forearm a good whack but that's it. My partner Marianne wasn't so lucky in April last year when she stepped onto the boat and then slipped off the gunwale into water too deep for her stand up. Her leg got caught up in the propellor and I had to cut her clothing to free it before the ambulance crew could get her out of the water. She got a broken leg and a whole line of scars from the rotating prop but she is now back on the boat when she can and helping with the locks as before and doing her YT channel Part Time Boater. We had a big review after the accident and came up with some lessons learned, ie. when a person (or pet) goes in the water stop the prop IMMEDIATELY, the pull of the prop wash can be surprisingly powerful. Another one was to avoid distractions, concentrate on the task in hand and don't try to multitask.
I will be on the K&A for a several months I think but I will keep an eye out for you! Peter
What a nice couple! and dog 🐶
Thanks Harry! How kind!!! ❤️
Hi, just stumbled onto your channel, loved this topic, being older it related well, just a quick one, your mention of vets. Hope you have sorted it, but if not, look into "vets 4 pets" they are a national company, and you can change location but stay with the same company. Worth a look into possibly. Take care and stay healthy and fit.
Thanks so much Alan - we’re glad you found us! We certainly will look into Vets 4 Pets and give an update on a future video! Best wishes Carol, Rob and Tilly!
I'm considerably older, and singlehanded I recruit passersby to help, always ask if they have a few minutes, or maybe ten minutes if necessary, I select on how they look.
Enjoyed
Thanks Edward! :)
Great video. Aging is not for the faint of heart
Thanks very much, Anthony - very true. The key thing is to do things that we enjoy, cause if we’re going to ache anyway, might as well ache livings life we like, not one that bores us! Hugs Carol, Rob and Tilly x
Lovely.
Hi Karen, thanks for your comment and for watching! xo
Nice vlog. Made me smile and subscribe. Perhaps I’ll use your insight to persuade my other half into boat life, she currently says “I’m not livin’ on no boat” (she can’t help it, she’s from Essex). Happy Xmas 🎄. Simon (Suffolk)
Hi Simon, we’re just completing the sequel to this which looks at what’s so good about narrowboat living! Maybe that will persuade your other half! Thanks for watching, subscribing and for your kind comment. Merry Christmas! Carol, Rob and Tilly ❤️
Great vlog. I'd love to have a narrowboat though not as a permanent liveaboard. I wouldn't be able to cope with a 4ft bed.
Haha! When we finally get to Lechlade you’ll have to come cruising with us mate! Thanks for your support from the early days, Paul - much appreciated! Rob, Carol and Tilly ❤️ ♥️ ♥️
@@NarrowboatLiberty Lynda and I would love to. There's usually a few narrowboats moored just along from the bridge. Some stay for a few weeks. Seems an idyllic place to stop. Take care.
Brilliant and insightful information. Thanks! I have never seen a vlog on what it is like to be as a not 20 person. Super to see!
Out of curiosity, any idea if most of the live aboard boaters are young somethings or older generation? I sort of assumed the older version.
PS. Would love some insight into cost of living (apologies if you have already done this, this is my first seeing of you (and now subscribed!) )
Hi! We’re really glad you enjoyed it! Based on our observations we think you’re correct that most liveaboard people are older than 40, though we do see a fair few younger people, we rarely see people in their twenties. It may be different in the big cities, like Liverpool, London, Manchester etc. During our recent stay in a Liverpool dock we were moored next to a young couple of liveaboards in their twenties, but in the more rural locations people tend to be older on the boats.
In our upcoming episode which will be out this weekend we talk about some of the financial aspects of our liveaboard choice, but we plan to provide answers to your question very soon - either as a video short or as a Q&A episode. Thanks for your kind comment! Best wishes Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
Get some treats for Tilly and the ducks, and a coffe for you two. m
Thanks yet again Bette - we really do appreciate your very generous and kind support. Hugs Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
Thanks for age comments it's nice to know as we are senior xx
Thanks Edward 💕
Your dog is lovely
Thank you, Claire! ♥️
I am 62 and relatively fit but I like my comfort and space. I love camping, especially when on sea kayak trips around NW Scotland, but as a home I don't think I could survive in a camper van or canal boat sized space.
You are enjoying it, so keep it going as long as you can.
Have you ever tried electric bikes ? They could take a lot of the effort out of transporting yourselves and shopping on canal paths. They are heavier than normal bikes but if you have space to store them then they would transform a slog into an enjoyable trip each time.
Hi Jimmy and thanks for your comment and encouraging remarks! We are considering an electric bike, though Rob has not always enjoyed the slog on his bike it has at least given his heart and lungs a good workout! For sure neither boat nor campervan life is everyone’s cup of tea, but as you rightly say, we will continue with it for as long as it’s still giving more pleasure than pain! All the best, Carol, Ron and Tilly xox
Thank you so much for uploading this video , I'm 38 and I'm selling my house next year and buying a narrowboat no continuous cruise with two dogs so youv answered alot of questions as I am quite concerned with vets and two dogs and no address etc
Hi Nathan - thanks for commenting and Merry Christmas to you and your two dogs! We will be uploading another video shortly of interest to you as a continuous cruiser - you have exciting times ahead, for sure. Just based on straw polls, most continuous cruisers we meet have no regrets choosing a canal boat lifestyle. Yes, there are challenges and adjustments after being in a land home, but it seems the positives usually outweigh the negatives! Hopefully we’ll see you on the cut in 2023! Best wishes, Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
@@NarrowboatLiberty thank you so much and yes although I have a lovely house I don't like living in a house it's too easy I also love the canal and have done years of research into continuous cruising but theirs always more to learn and I can't wait to move to the canal and have a simpler life and be closer to nature , I haven't yet met anyone who has regretted moving aboard onto the canal
Love your videos, could you have bow thrusters fitted to keep the boat against the banks when morning against winds.❤
Thanks Dennis! Liberty actually has bow thrusters but they cause damage to the integrity of the hull, creating a weakness underwater because of abrasive wear in the steel bow thruster tunnel, so we no longer use them, having seen what they can do. Boats with bow thrusters have been known to sink when a hole is worn inside the thruster tunnel, which floods the bow cavities.
I’ve just discovered your channel and very interesting …..
Hi Bon! Thanks for your kind comment - we’re also following you on Twitter and Facebook. Hope we’ll get to hear you play one day! Merry Christmas 🎄 to you and your loved ones. Rob, Carol and Tilly ♥️
You guys aren’t old. You need to think 49 and keep on boating. Enjoyed your talk. Take care of that puppy. All dogs are puppies to me.
Haha. We don’t feel old Philip! Thanks for your comment - Tilly doesn’t feel old either! Haha
I think that you could weld up a U shaped frame that slotted over the 'unbalanced' beams, with a spigot welded on one end that you could slide a piece of light aluminium scaffold tube over, to give you a little more leverage.
Just a thought, but only if all beams are of standard width.
Hi Chris, that’s a neat piece of advice - simple engineering that would definitely help. Thanks for the tip! Carol Rob and Tilly x
Very interesting video plenty of information for anyone of a certain age considering a narrowboat. I keep thinking about having one but I struggle with my hip and knee joints, if I kneel down it can be difficult getting back up. Is it the trad stern that have an engine room where the engines is more accessible than the cruiser stern type boats?
Yes Ian, many trad stern boats will have an engine room that can be accessed at main living deck level, whereas with ours (semi trad) and cruiser stern boats it’s a matter of climbing down beneath a removable cover plate or plates. Each stern has its pros and cons, but if engine access is a big factor, trad is the way to go. You may also be able to add a tall tractor seat near the tiller to give you a break from constant standing. Thanks for watching and for your interesting question! Hugs Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
Hi guys love the vlog for Tilley check out narrowboat chef their doggie has a cracker harness with handle. Subscribed on the spot
Hi Keith - thanks very much for that - we’ll certainly check out the harness! Thanks also for subscribing - we hope you’ll enjoy our future posts! Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
I'm an older boater. Never said that before 🤣
A folding bike can fit in your supermarket trolley. Then hang your bags off the handle bars and ride it all back! Buy knobbly tires.
Leaking bottom gates or bottom paddles not fully down are the usual cause of gates that can't be opened by one person.
Haha. Sorry to make you confess to being ‘older’ but age is just a number, right? Yes Rob’s done the shopping bags on each side of the handlebar trick - definitely an added risk of pedalling into the canal! Love the idea of putting the bike in the trolley - we’d never thought of that, so a big Thank You for that great idea! Merry Christmas from the Liberty crew, Carol, Rob and Tilly x
@@NarrowboatLiberty thank you and a merry Christmas to you all. It is just a number, and being so old and wise you get to appreciate just how 'otherworldly' this all is wet world is✨
It could be worth getting the controls of the boat modified so that you have the option of driving remotely. I'd certainly do that if I was solo boating, I don't know how they manage with only one pair of hands.
Do you mean being able to drive from the bow, Roger? That’s an interesting notion. Have you ever seen that done for a narrowboat? Best wishes, Rob, Carol and Tilly 🐕 ❤️ ❤️
I know it might sound strange, but I have been trying a cold shower (cold water therapy). I still have my normal shower but finish with it cold. I will admit to not lasting long, but when I have body pain it makes such a difference.
Hi Cheryl, that certainly makes sense. We have tried cold shower therapy previously and it certainly stimulates the circulation and probably does other good things - but we’re both wimps when it comes to cold bathing! I’m sure you’ve heard of Wim Hof, who advocates cold immersion and he has many followers of his method - we talked about trying it then just put more coal on the fire and returned to our cosy existence! Haha. Thanks for the suggestion - we will look at trying it again. Hugs Carol, Rob and Tilly xox
Hi you three I’ve only just found you on CZcams fantastic advice I’m 66 and widowed 4 years ago so as life is short when I have the funds I’m thinking of living the narrow boat life it’s always been a dream as when my wife was alive we went on many narrow boat hire’s by the way what age group are you guys if you don’t mind me asking thanks for sharing your journey I can’t wait to get started happy cruising.
Hi Simon! Rob is 67 Carol is in her early 60’s. Thanks for your comment and Happy New Year to you and we hope you’ll soon find yourself cruising the canals! Carol, Rob and Tilly 💜
I will co opt passers by, otherwise I'd struggle at some swing bridges, you have to judge folks quickly if you want them to do those road barriers!
I take the boat to places where I can get coal delivered. Unfortunately my cycling days are over, no strength in leg muscles.
Yes - solo operation of lift and swing bridges can be a challenge we’ve heard. We have just started buying coal from passing fuel boats, though there’s still some handling required, but it’s possible to plan ahead to minimise that! Thanks for another good comment Jo! Carol, Rob and Tilly ♥️
You may have plantar fasciitis in your foot!make sure you are wearing really supportive footwear .Sketchers sorted my horrendous foot pain xx
Hi Catherine, it turns out that it was a bruised bone - took a long time but eventually healed and there’s no pain now. Thanks for being so helpful though! PF was certainly a potential cause, In Carol’s case. 🥰
charming.
Thanks Brian ❤❤❤
I love that lampshade behind you. Did you make it?
Hi Bette! Firstly, thank you so much for your kind gift. ❤ We purchased the lampshade several years ago from a small shop in Ulverston. They had all kinds of designs, but this one caught our attention. X
When I started, three years ago, age 74 I used to think half the paddle gear was broken but I discovered I was giving up too easily. I go dead slow and stop, this makes people imagine I am decrepit, but going slow means I don't slip,, so far.
Hi Jo, there’ve been some lock gates and mechanisms Carol hasn’t been able to operate as the force required exceeds her capacity - in those cases I’ll moor up and go help. We encountered a padlock on one of the Glasson Arm locks that I almost broke my watermate key trying to open - reported to CRT. Not everyone can by their own strength manage every lock. There’s no doubt that it helps to be physically strong and fit when boating, simply because it has physical demands. Still, we agree with you that often the task can be done slowly, when it’s hard at ‘normal’ speed. Also things like ratchet windlasses and good gloves, key turners etc., can make tasks easier. Thanks for your great comment! ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
All that exercise you have to do, will keep you young.
😂 I hope you’re right, Jason! 😅
My house is on the market and yours is one of the life changes I'm considering.
As continuous cruisers, what do you use as an address?
Hi! It’s a wonderful life in many ways, we don’t regret it. We use a family member’s home address as our correspondence address and have always made that clear to official and commercial organisations. When travelling we often use the free “poste restante” mail collection service at local post offices. In the main, we opt to receive mail electronically, where possible. Thanks for your comment!
@@NarrowboatLiberty Many thanks for your reply. As I no longer have any close family I would use a commercial outfit like Expost, but I was wondering about whether I ought to make it clear to banks etc that that is what I'm doing. Have you ever had any problems with this, as it's my main fear of being effectively of no fixed address Good to know that post restante is still available, and free.
You've got a new subscriber!
@@cornishhh our bank is fine with a correspondence address. However, not having a fixed address can affect your credit score, because you may drop off the electoral roll. I have heard there is a workaround for this but I don’t know what it is. Taking out a new credit (e.g. mobile phone) contract may be difficult because the provider may ask for utility bills in your name showing proof of address. We organised ours before we left our house. Again, there may be workarounds. And thanks for subscribing !!! Rob and Carol ❤️
May I ask , how you are able to work while continuously cruising please
Hi and thanks for writing! We work from Liberty using the internet. As continuous cruisers, we have to move at least every two weeks, as a licence condition from the Canal and River Trust. In fact, we rarely stay anywhere for two weeks - we move at the weekends and we generally move every week. All we need at each new mooring is a good internet signal and we try to get a location with good direct sunshine to make use of our solar energy system. Hope that makes sense? Best wishes Rob, Carol and Tilly x
my collie is 17 years old , he is nearly blind and deaf , but he follows me by smell
That’s awesome, Paul. He’s no doubt well loved! Old dogs are very special ❤️ Best wishes from the three of us to both of you!
You two are so informative. I am currently selling my house to purchase a narrow boat and live the boat life. Any information you can give is much appreciated. I am also looking for a mooring as i still work so do not think continuous cruising would be viable. What do you guys think? I work in a hospital x
Hi Harriet! Thank you for supporting our healthcare! We will give your question a proper response tomorrow - we’re going to type it rather than using our phone (as the response will likely be quite long)! Rob, Carol and Tilly xox
Hi Harriet! Since you have a fixed work location, you will potentially need to have a limited cruising range, but it does not mean that you cannot be a continuous cruiser. There are many people we know who hold down jobs in fixed locations who live on the cut rather than in a marina. You simply are required to make reasonable progress along the waterways, but the distances need not be large. As a rule of thumb, you should move from parish to parish and it is advisable not to always return to the same spot. The principle of cc'g is that you should move from one part of a canal to another but, since there are several canals which are not connected with other canals, for example the Lancaster Canal, you only have a maximum cruising range of 42 miles from one end to the other. This gives you opportunities to remain fairly fixed in location. An alternative is that you may be able to pay for a permanent mooring from CRT, which is generally much cheaper than mooring in a marina. The advantage of a marina, is that they will generally offer services such as water, electricity, waste disposal and perhaps showers and laundry facilities. This comes at a cost of course and the marina we started from charges around £2,500 for 10 month stay (not residential). That's still much cheaper than paying rent. To find out if there are CRT moorings in your area, start here:canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/boating/moorings/waterside-mooring
We will be doing our own vlog about the costs as we have experienced them, but there is an excellent blog where you can start to get a feel for the running costs of narrowboat living.A brilliant, comprehensive article on the cost of living as continuous cruisers on a narrowboat.
barryandsandra.com/the-costs-...
We hope that you will make a decision that makes you happy and please let us know if you have more questions. Rob, Carol and Tilly x
@@NarrowboatLiberty Thank you so much for all the info it really helps. We love your videos they were instrumental in us making our decision. We are so excited hopefully it will not be too long before we are on the canal.
What breed is Tilly?
Tilly is a coyote crossed with a domesticated dog, she’s known as a coydog and she found us in Indiana in 2010 and adopted us!
What size of boat can two people realistically live on?
That’s a complicated one because there are so many variables - we’ll definitely cover this in a future video …. But we’ve known couples be perfectly accommodated on 35 foot boats, where the internal space is configured to suit their lifestyle. We’d generally suggest at least 45 feet as a starting point. Rob, Carol and Tilly
OK I've been on a 70ft Springer for 4 years and just gone in the cut this week for the first time! The wife was first 12 months ago.
Have you been in the cut??
Hi, yes we’ve been on the cut since March 2021 and continuous cruisers since May 2022. ❤️
We are considering selling up in France and moving back to UK and buying a livaboard narrowboat ,my main concern is registering a car ,and car insurance , any information would be appreciated .
Good morning and thanks for your comment! The easiest way to go about registering a car is to use a trusted friend or relative’s address. When we gave up our home we contacted DVLA by phone and asked for their advice. They were very helpful and told us that they appreciated our honesty and that it was fine to use a ‘correspondence address’ which was different to our no-fixed-abode status. So that takes care of car registration and your driver’s licence if you can use someone’s address for correspondence. If you have nobody like that you can use, there are other options for a reasonable fee: canalrivertrust.org.uk/directory/48294-canalpostuk-the-ideal-postal-solution-for-boaters or www.boatmail.co.uk/
Car insurance is more complicated, because your car is normally insured to be kept at a specific postal address. If you’re car-hopping (move the boat, move the car to the boat), you’ll incur a very heavy premium, because of the high risk of theft or damage. We only have a low value car, worth about £500, so weren’t going to pay £3,000 premium! So we shopped around for an insurer that could offer us “third party only” for less than £100 a year, but if the car is damaged or stolen, that’s our risk. We would just have to buy another car. If you have a more valuable vehicle (as most people do), you’d need to be honest with your insurance company (or be declined a payout in the event of a claim) and pay the large premium. I’d take no risks if I had a car worth significantly more than the premium. In all these things, honesty is crucial if we want to have peace of mind, don’t you agree? Best wishes, Carol, Rob and Tilly
Hello and thank you for your detailed reply, and the excellent advice, it is great news to know that the vehicle situation is doable as it is our main concern as work would be the primary reason for returning to Uk and a vehicle will be essential.
I very much enjoyed your video the content is excellent full -time narrowboat life looks great fun, possibly just a little strenuous at times which is no bad thing and keeps you on your toes ... just similar in some ways to living in the Normandie bocage.
Thank you and perhaps we will catch up with you one day... Bonne Noel.
@@chocksaway100 my Brother lives on a Narrow boat, he’s a part time cruiser so the Marina where he has a mooring is his address for cars,insurance, medical etc. He uses my address for some things like Banking, so I just forward any mail to the marina.
@@thekitowl We very much appreciate your reply and the information it is really good to know we have options .....thanks again.