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.
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