Buying a new boat

What type of boat?

There are three main types of boat used on the UK's inland waterways:
narrowboats and Dutch barges and river cruisers.

Buying a narrowboat or Dutch barge

Most of these boats are built to order. Many builders are recognised for a particular type of boat: some build very traditionally, others may use unusual materials or craft techniques. There is a wide range of fit-outs, enough to suit every budget.

Almost all such boats are hand-crafted, and take many weeks to complete. You'll have a choice of layout, colour scheme, fixtures and fittings. By specifying every detail, you can get the boat of your dreams - but don't expect to get afloat as soon as you've made your decision!

You should inspect several builders' work before making your decision, perhaps by visiting a boat show. Discuss your requirements in detail with your chosen builder, and agree a delivery date and price. Be prepared to visit the builder at regular intervals during the work.

Some boat-builders are now offering 'standard models' that you can buy from stock. These are often good-value craft, without all the refinements of the most expensive bespoke boats, but sure to stand you in good stead for many years' boating. You can always add more luxurious features later. Boat shows such as the London Boat Show and the Crick Boat Show are good places to see examples of these craft.

Buying a river cruiser

River cruisers are usually made from 'GRP' fibreglass moulds, and available in standard configurations - just like a car. You could be afloat within days of buying your new boat.

You will often have a choice of engine type and accessories. Many builders offer a 'family' of cruisers in different sizes, so you can choose one that fits your budget and your family.

Doing it yourself

Not everyone wants to buy a ready-to-use boat. If you are a DIY enthusiast, you might prefer to buy a partly-built narrowboat which you complete and fit out yourself.

You can buy a narrowboat shell, comprising the steelwork and nothing more. It will generally be painted in primer, with bearers (supports) fitted for the chosen engine. The stern tube, propeller and window openings will be in place. 'Sailaway' boats are similar, but with the engine already fitted.

Finance and paperwork

The normal way to buy a new boat is to put down an initial deposit, then make 'staged' payments when each section of the boat is complete. For example, you might pay a deposit, a 'stage one payment' when the hull is complete, a 'stage two payment' when the engine is installed, and a final payment on completion. You should make sure that these payments are clearly documented and agreed within your contract.

To pay for your boat, you can arrange a personal loan from a bank or building society, or a marine mortgage from a specialist broker. Several finance companies offer deals for boat buyers: see the listings at Waterscape.com, or advertisements in the waterway press.

The British Marine Federation (BMF) form of contract is an industry standard designed to protect both the customer and boat builder, documenting the stages which the purchaser has paid for and owns. We strongly recommend that you insist on this contract.

The boat will be built to the standards of the EU's Recreational Craft Directive (RCD), which sets out minimum standards for safety and quality, and is compatible with the UK's Boat Safety Scheme. This immediately qualifies it for a waterway licence. You should check that your builder is aware of RCD
regulations.

If you buy a narrowboat shell to complete yourself, the shell builder must provide an RCD Annex 3 Certificate, but you do not need to comply with Recreational Craft Directive requirements unless you resell the boat within five years. Your boat will still have to obtain a Boat Safety Certificate.