‘For anyone considering living afloat on the inland waterways, this excellent book by a veteran liveaboard is a 'must have' guide.’ (Towpath Talk)

The romantic dream of downsizing, giving up the rat race, and living life at 4mph on the inland waterways is proving more and more attractive. But for tens of thousands of people it is not just a romantic dream but an actual lifestyle.

Tony Jones is one of those people. He has lived aboard his 50ft narrowboat for over 20 years and in this book he documents what the liveaboard lifestyle is really like, detailing the practical issues of living day to day on a boat and how to manage these, and the many joys to be found too.

Topics covered include:
– The pros, cons and costs of a mooring
– Power usage and energy consumption (and how it differs from a house)
– How to stay warm – the choice of coal, electric, gas or wood heating
– Troubleshooting problems with boat loos
– Entertainment – TV, radio, internet
– Handling logistical problems – no postal address, registering with a GP, vehicle access

This third edition has been comprehensively revised and expanded to include new and updated information on costs, ecological living, boat crime and security, keeping fit afloat, earning a living aboard, plus much more.

The UK has over 2000 miles of navigable canals and rivers which are home to an estimated 35,000 licensed boats. Although canal boats can look much the same to the novice, there are some very important differences to be aware of. If you’re new to boating you have some important choices to make.

This comprehensive book examines the options available to different types of boaters. From those who choose to live aboard their boats and constant cruisers to fair-weather cruisers, hire boating and share boat syndicates – each will need a different type of boat if they are to fully enjoy their time afloat. Packed with case studies and advice from real boaters with years of experience to share, this second edition has been thoroughly updated throughout and includes new information on liveaboard costs and considerations, eco-friendly boating options, shared ownership and tax-free boat building, as well as:

– The cost of boating
– Choosing the ideal boat for your boating profile
– Buying a boat and the legalities of purchase
– Choosing suitable internal fittings and features
– Heating, lighting, toilets and hot water options
– Boat electrics and solar power
– Finding a mooring
– Boating health and safety
– Locks, swing-bridges and the boating ‘highway code’
– Boat maintenance
– Boating etiquette and best practice