Which canal boat would you rather buy? a Narrow boat or a widebeam?

The big question that every one ponders at some point when deciding what type of river boat to buy… As one of the only UK solar boat builder's that actually lives aboard one of our boats, I think I might be able to offer some insight. If your intention is to live aboard full time, then a wide-beam cruiser is the way to go.

However, If your intention is to see as much of Britain’s waterways as possible, then a 57 foot narrow boat is the way to go .

Another consideration is that most Wide beam 'live-aboards' are VAT free. Narrow boats, however, even live-aboard, will attract VAT. Obviously this makes them quite a bit more expensive per square foot than a VAT-free Wide beam cruiser.

So the questions you need to ask yourself when deciding, are; Do I want to make it my home or; Do I want to travel as much as possible?

THAMES SOLAR ELECTRIC BOATS

The UK's first supplier of solar electric boats and propulsion systems

No fossil fuels - No energy bills - No noise

2024 Winter Slots Available

15% off

"A quiet revolution in inland boating" Waterways World

Solar powered
Off-grid

A rooftop array of highly efficient solar panels provides all the energy which powers both the motors and all onboard domestic appliances. A large battery bank stores unused energy for whenever you need it.

And yes, it works in winter!

Peaceful & Pollution free

No diesel engine means no diesel fumes and no noise. Electric motors power you almost silently through the water. With a full battery, you can cruise for up to 10 hours without additional daylight. In summer, you can keep going until you're ready to moor.

Sustainable
Eco-solutions

A wide range of additional eco-solutions are available to compliment our solar powered widebeams, narrowboats and barges. Triple glazing, superior insulation, heat recovery systems, even rainwater harvesting all help you get even better use from your energy.

Uncompromised
Luxury

Being eco doesn’t mean compromising on style. Our fully fitted boats are designed to maximise space and incorporate a bespoke bathroom and luxury kitchen with a full range of energy-efficient domestic appliances, such as electric induction hob and dishwasher.

We are able to offer viewings of current boats at our build yard by appointment only.

You can take a virtual tour of The SunFlower on our VIDEO page and on YouTube.

Fully-fitted boats

Our fully fitted boats are bespoke builds from start to finish. Widebeams, narrowboats and barges. Turnkey projects with nothing for you to do but start the motors and go.

Sailaway/Sailaway Lined

Our basic Sailaways include the steel shell of the boat, primed and blackened hull, our Solar Electric Propulsion System (SEPS), triple glazed windows and doors, triple insulation and a plywood subfloor ready for you to sailaway and begin your own internal fit out. Our Sailaway-lined options also include first fix electrics and plumbing, and wall panels ready for you to finish to your requirements.

Solar Electric Propulsion Systems

Our Solar Electric Propulsion System (SEPS) packages can be supplied directly so that you or your boatbuilder can build your own solar powered electric widebeam, narrowboat or barge. We also offer installation and consultancy services.

Which canal boat would you rather buy? a Narrow boat or a widebeam?