If you are considering canal boat life, then understanding narrowboat widths is essential. From narrow beams to river cruisers, there are different types of boat with varying dimensions. We’ve shared a guide to help you understand the different sizes available for narrowboats in the UK.
Narrow Beam Canal Boats
One of the narrowest canal boats is a ‘narrow beam’. Due to the boat’s slim width, this type of boat offers fewer restrictions on where you can travel on the UK canal network. Consequently, narrow beams are a popular choice for a water-based lifestyle. Let’s look at this smaller type of canal boat more closely.
57ft x 6’10 Narrowboat
This is the size of a Shearwater Narrow Beam with a 35hp engine. Typically, this size of boat will have one bedroom with built-in storage and overhead cupboards. It usually has an open lounge with built-in cabinets, freestanding furniture and a solid-fuel stove.
The pros of owning a narrow beam include manoeuvrability and being able to cruise across the entire canal network. The cons include the limited amount of space available, making them more suitable for couples or lone travellers. However, this size of canal boat is still large enough to entertain visiting family and friends.
Wide Beam Canal Boats
Wide-beam boats are much wider than a narrow beam and they can reach to lengths of 70ft. With this type of boat, you will be restricted to certain stretches of the canal network. This is partly due to the greater width but can also be due to the cabin shape. Ideal for cruising wider rivers in the UK, these spacious liveaboard models are suitable for everyday living and entertaining. We have compared two common examples of cruisers below.
57ft x 10ft Narrowboats
This is a smaller wide beam, known as a Baby Euro Cruiser. This size of boat also usually has only one bedroom with built-in storage and cupboards. However, the living area often comes with a multifuel stove and other additional features to make it more homely.
60ft x 12’6 Narrowboats
The larger Euro Cruiser wide beam boat has a 60hp 4-cylinder engine and a 95 kgf bow thruster. On this type of craft, there’s an optional second bedroom available for family members or guests. You can also add a cover to the stern area for all-weather living.
The pros of owning a wide beam include more space to enjoy daily life and in terms of the 12’6 boat, a more powerful engine. The cons include the need for advanced skills and experience to be able to successfully manoeuvre the boat. You will need to have an in-depth understanding of UK waterways so you know where you can and can’t navigate. There may also be restrictions on certain locks and mooring spots.
Narrowboat Width Conclusion
When deciding between a narrow beam and a wide beam, consider the different pros and cons. If you want the freedom to explore every inch of the UK canal network, then choose a narrow beam. If you are planning to live onboard and you don’t mind waterway restrictions, then choose a wide-beam canal boat. Always view the boat and carry out research before committing to life on the canal.
Find out more about our different Narrowboat Ranges or call us on 0151 374 2985.
