Main Types of Narrowboat

There are many different types of narrowboat available in the UK, however the three main types are:

Traditional Stern

The traditional stern narrowboat is the most common type of narrowboat in the UK, and it has a distinctive design that has been used for over 200 years. The traditional stern is pointed and flat, with a canopy over the rear deck. The stern deck provides an extra living space and is often used for socialising, dining, or just enjoying the scenery while cruising the canals.

This type of narrowboat has a length of around 50-60 feet and a width of 6-7 feet, which makes it easy to maneuver through the narrow canals. The boat has a steel hull and a wooden or steel superstructure, which provides accommodation for the crew and passengers.

The traditional stern narrowboat usually has a diesel engine located under the rear deck. The engine provides power for cruising and also generates electricity for lighting and appliances on board. The boat's steering is done through a tiller, which is located at the stern and is used to steer the boat by hand.

Inside the boat, the living accommodation is usually arranged over one or two levels. The front section of the boat is often used as the living area, with a lounge, kitchen, and dining area. The rear section is usually the sleeping quarters, with one or two cabins and a bathroom.

Overall, the traditional stern narrowboat is a classic and comfortable way to explore the UK's canal system, and its design has stood the test of time for good reason.

Cruiser Stern

The cruiser stern narrowboat is another popular type of narrowboat in the UK, with a design that offers more space for outdoor socialising and entertainment. The cruiser stern is wider and more rounded than a traditional stern, and the rear deck is larger and open to the elements, making it ideal for dining, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the view.

These narrowboats typically measure around 50-60 feet in length and 6-7 feet in width, which is similar to the traditional stern narrowboat. It has a steel hull and a wooden or steel superstructure, which provides living accommodation for the crew and passengers.

The cruiser stern narrowboat also has a diesel engine, but it is usually located under a hatch in the center of the boat, rather than at the rear. This allows for a larger open space at the stern, which can be used for socialising or storage. The boat's steering is usually done through a wheel, rather than a tiller, which is located in the center of the boat.

Inside the boat, the living accommodation is usually arranged over one or two levels, similar to the traditional stern narrowboat. The front section of the boat is often used as the living area, with a lounge, kitchen, and dining area. The rear section is usually the sleeping quarters, with one or two cabins and a bathroom.

In summary, the cruiser stern narrowboat is a great choice for those who enjoy outdoor living and socialising while cruising the canals. It offers more space and flexibility than the traditional stern narrowboat, while still providing a comfortable and classic canal boat experience.

Semi-Traditional Stern

The semi-traditional stern narrowboat is a hybrid design that combines features of both the traditional and cruiser stern narrowboats. It offers a compromise between the extra socialising space of a cruiser stern and the traditional pointed stern design.

This type of narrowboat typically measures around 50-60 feet in length and 6-7 feet in width, which is similar to the other types of narrowboats. It also has a steel hull and a wooden or steel superstructure, providing living accommodation for the crew and passengers.

The semi-traditional stern narrowboat has a stern deck that is partly covered by a canopy, with a seating area at the rear of the boat. The stern is more rounded than a traditional stern, but not as wide as a cruiser stern. The engine is usually located under a hatch in the center of the boat, similar to the cruiser stern narrowboat. The boat's steering is usually done through a wheel, located in the center of the boat.

Inside the boat, the living accommodation is usually arranged over one or two levels, similar to the other types of narrowboats. The front section of the boat is often used as the living area, with a lounge, kitchen, and dining area. The rear section is usually the sleeping quarters, with one or two cabins and a bathroom.

Overall, the semi-traditional stern narrowboat offers a good compromise between the traditional and cruiser stern narrowboats. It provides a little extra outdoor space for socialising and storage, without sacrificing the classic pointed stern design. It's a great choice for those who want a bit of both worlds when it comes to narrowboat design.

All three types of narrowboats are typically built from steel, and they vary in length from around 30 feet to over 70 feet. They are often used as homes or holiday homes, and can also be rented for short breaks or longer periods.

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