We are pleased to announce that the first four replacement boats have been built by Alvechurch Boat Builders and a further two are currently in build.
The new boats are a slightly different design to the original boats in that they have a door that gives access to the front deck.
Alvechurch have been building high quality canal boats for over 30 years and have come up with a great design for the replacement boats, however,
as always with narrow boats there are compromises.
To give access to the front door the forward double berth can no longer be full width, but, we have included a bed extension so you can choose to have a wider bed at
night which folds away during the day to provide easier access to the front deck .
The photos show the double berth extended & then closed away for day use. We will be monitoring the feedback of those using these boats and where possible will be taking
those comments into account when designing future boat replacements.
The Existing boats are undergoing a complete maintenance programme. During last winter just over a third of the boats were repainted in the smart new Canalboat Club livery and it is planned that a further third will be painted this winter.
As I am sure you will understand finding somewhere big enough to paint a canal boat in the winter weather is neither easy or cheap, however, we will repaint as many as possible with the remainder being done the following year after which it is planned that a third will be painted each year.
In addition to the work on the outside of the boats we have started a refurbishment programme to varnish the interiors and replace upholstery, carpets, curtains and mattresses.
This is all in addition to the mechanical maintenance and repairs needed each year. I am sure you will understand that time and money will not allow it all to be done at once
but we will do as much as possible over the next 12 months.
The soft furnishing colour scheme will be similar to the photo. |
