Bringing the boat home 27/11/10

Barton turns marina to findern mooring in 4 hours (10 miles and 4 locks)

Almost had to abort the trip due to the marina being frozen over - it has been clear all week

The boat services guys broke the ice for us and allowed us to get away onto the T & M by around 12 pm

Issues:

The rear corner fenders made it a tight squeeze through a couple of locks

The steering took a lot of getting used to - a bit of zig zag, plus clouted a few walls - the boat handled really well later on when the wind dropped.

The outboard started to play up after a couple of hours - cut out and wouldnt run on slow tick over - ok later on, but, had to perfect a technique of leaving in fast idle then switching to full throttle when ready to go.

Had to ice break in sheltered canal sections - most of Burton on Trent (- helped later on when we met some traffic - who had broken the ice for us) - a bit of a worry as i was told that GRP boats don't do ice! (will have to check the boat hasn't sunk in a few days)

Problems with the boat:

A real pain to get in and out of - think Starsky and Hutch

There doesn't appear to be any on switch for the tap???? It is connected to a proper water tank!

The floor bearers near the cabin entrance are not strong enough - needs a bit of 3" x 2" - cheapish repair

The zip on the cover needs stitching - not a major problem

Positive points:

The boat is quick

Got back to the pub in Findern by 4.30 and warming a pint before tea

Acquired a gnome left on the boat by the previous owner

New (to me) boat

I have agreed to buy a GRP cruiser - sad looking Norman 23 cruiser (1980).

3 berth with Mercury 15 hp engine.

Obvious faults:

Exterior painting required

Anti fouling required

Patching repairs needed to hood

Front fender required

Some interior joinery required

Battery isolator to fit (battery box), possible battery upgrade

Foam upholstery needed in front of boat

Some interior painting

Some interior electrical works (minor)

Would not win any beauty contests, but, I like the layout and it has potential

It also has the advantage of a four year safety certificate

Will take up most of my spare time in the spring

Mooring secured

Not received any formal paperwork, but, British Waterways have cashed my cheque for the mooring in Findern (won via online auction at reserve price). Looking to get a small cruiser for now - narrowboats are well over priced at the moment (and a lot of crap about).

30.8 foot to use, water and plenty of parking. Shame BW had electric disconnected, however, there is a large area that could accommodate a small shed and I have a generator (once it is repaired)

Also an Indian restaurant/pub along side - no need to take the boat out!