Realistic Plans for Living on a Barge!
It’s not for everyone, but many people happily live on a houseboat, and many others dream of doing so. It’s also in modern times, one alternative to a huge mortgage on a static home.
Living on a barge does require a bit of study to learn of rules and regulations. But if done right, you can wake up to the gentle lapping of water and sunlight glinting above, and views of ancient s tone bridges.
See below for tips on dog safety.
Most houseboats are moored, though you can also travel around England, once you learn how to use a lock. Years ago, canals carried goods from London around the country. Today, these same waterways are mostly used for holiday boating, or people who live on barges.
The Basics of Living on a Canal Barge
England has around 2000 miles of canals (most people live within a few miles of one). After buying a quality houseboat (an average £50,000), you then have to add mooring fees (around £2K to £5K per year) and other costs.
All houseboats in England must meet legal requirements of the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS), an inspection certificate that’s renewed every four years to check for gas, fuel, electrics and fire safety. Canal & River Trust is also required for use on most English waterways.
If you plan to keep moving, apply for a continuous cruising licence with the Canal & River Trust. You will need to move at least every 30 days, covering varied stretches of the system. Those who want a fixed home base might opt for a permanent mooring.
Boats under 57 feet should fit any lock, but also think if you want a bedroom, and storage for bikes and supplies. Some now offer solar panels to cut emissions and costs, and other offer compact modern kitchens, slim-line fridges and fold-out tables, to make use of limited space.
Etiquette Rules on Canals & Rivers
- Living on a houseboat requires that you check weather and water conditions at Canal & River Trust.
- Speed limits on canals are usually 4 miles per hour, but slower (near walking pace) near fragile canal banks, or nesting wildlife.
- WiSe offers a short course (just a few hours) to become a wildlife-friendly boater. Also read our post on sustainable sailors!
- Dispose of waste correctly with pump-out stations for toilets (avoid dumping oil, litter or antifreeze in the water). The Canal & River Trust operates regular waste points for refuse and recycling.
- Register your boat and display the license, and also have third-party boat insurance. Respect mooring limits to avoid fines of up to £1000.
- Yield to oncoming boats at narrow bridges, and sound your horn if needed. Report litter and pollution to Canal & River Trust.
Mastering Canal Locks
- Locks simply raise and lower the water, and most are operated manually. Always approach slowly, then open the gate paddles with a windlass, letting water in or out to balance levels.
- Push open the heavy wooden gates, and guide the boat inside. Close the gates, then fill or empty the lock, using ropes to keep your boat steady. Empty the chamber or raise the water, then exit when levels match.
Barge Safety Tips (including for dogs)
- Never leave a boat loosely secured in a lock, and wear a life jacket.
- Carry first aid supplies, torches with spare batteries and a charged mobile or VHF radio for Canal & River Trust calls.
- Use non-slip bats and boots to help avoid accidents on deck, and never use antifreeze anywhere near pets or wildlife, it’s lethal).
- Ensure boats are fitted with smoke alarms, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors, that meet BSS standards and are checked often.
- Humanely train dogs and use quality dog lifejackets. Dogs must be micro-chipped (use up-to-date non-dangling tags). Make a note of the nearest vets, if needed.
Floating Home: Lessons from a Life Less Ordinary
Floating Home is the story of the author’s decision (after travelling across 26 countries over five years, following the loss of his father) to take to England’s waterways on his beloved narrowboat (The Roman Rose).
He discovers not just human connection and community, but finds peace amid the transformative power of compassion. A book to gently guide readers to think outside the norm, and begin to life on their own terms.
