Living Aboard Our Narrowboat | AndAway.uk
It’s been just over two weeks onboard now, and things are finally starting to feel a lot more settled. We’ve gone from chaos to something that resembles a home… albeit a floating one with endless to-do lists and patchy WiFi.
Speaking of WiFi — yes, we’ve finally had it installed! “Installed” might be a generous word, considering it drops in and out depending on which way the neighbour’s boat is sitting or whether a duck swims by a little too enthusiastically. But still… it’s better than nothing and makes liveaboard life a little easier.
The credit card, however, has taken a proper beating. Every time we swipe it, I whisper, “Think of the air miles…” It doesn’t help, but it eases the guilt slightly.
Creating Space: Chris vs. The Bed
One of the biggest wins this fortnight was Chris raising the bed by a couple of feet — a genius move that created loads of extra storage. A narrowboat is basically a never-ending game of Tetris, and we’re finally winning a few rounds!
And, in the process, I may or may not have created something very important…
✨ A Secret Drawer.
Yes — a deliberately crafted, carefully curated stash of goodies tucked away for those moments when only chocolate (or crisps, or biscuits…) will do. It’s my little hidden treasure trove onboard and I’m unreasonably proud of it.
Going Greener: Composting Toilet Installed
In our continued effort to be more eco-friendly and reduce our impact, we’ve also installed a composting toilet onboard. It’s a whole new world — less water use, less chemical waste, and (allegedly!) low smell.
We’re still getting used to the system, but so far, so good.
I’ll keep you posted on how we get on with it… and whether it becomes one of our best decisions or an ongoing adventure!
The Sofa Saga
We also ordered a new sofa, and getting it onto the boat was… an adventure. If you’ve never tried squeezing a sofa through a narrowboat entrance, imagine giving birth in reverse — but with upholstery.
But it’s in! It looks great. And we donated our old sofa to a fellow boater, so nothing went to waste.
The Washing Machine Debacle
Then came the washing machine delivery, which turned into a full comedy sketch.
Currys assured us numerous times that delivery to a narrowboat was fine.
Delivery day arrives — and the driver starts sucking his teeth before he even steps onboard.
They got the machine onto the jetty but then decided it was an “elf and safety” issue.
Chris, attempting to keep things simple, asked:
“Just yes or no, are you going to install this washing machine?”
To which the driver replied:
“Elf and safety, mate.”
“That’s not what I asked… yes or no?”
“Elf and safety, mate.”
At that point Chris had enough, told them to leave (let’s say… not politely), and we installed it ourselves in under 20 minutes.
Weather, No Wheels & A Cheeky Pint
The weather has shifted from wet to cold and frosty — beautiful in its own way. The rental van has been returned, so for the first time in 40+ years, we’re officially car-less.
It’s odd, but also strangely refreshing.
Yesterday we had an Amazon return to drop off, so we walked the 20 minutes along the towpath to the nearest Post Office. The sun was out, the air was crisp, and we grabbed a few bits from the Co-op on the way back.
Conveniently, that route also took us past a canalside pub.
Well… it would have been rude not to stop for a cheeky Tuesday pint.
Settling In & Looking Forward
The boat is really starting to feel like home now. There’s still plenty to sort — fridge, solar, and a few more accessories — but we’re getting there, slowly and surely.
I’m also trying to stay in touch with the kids and friends back in TN. The past couple of weeks were hectic and my mental health took a bit of a wobble, but honestly, we’re on the up now.
The future feels bright — cold, frosty, occasionally WiFi-less — but bright.
And dont forget the Vlog
And Away... 
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