Canal Boats, Barges, Cruisers & Narrowboats For Sale

Key Facts about Buying A Canal Boat

• Purchasing a canal boat is a significant financial commitment. Choosing from the various options can be overwhelming. This is even more difficult if you’re new to owning a canal boat! You must consider designs, layouts, conditions, and equipment. So how do you choose?
• Cost is often the determining factor. So, if you have a limited budget, consider second-hand boats. You can compare boats at brokerages and speak with owners at marinas. This is a great way to get an idea of what you like and dislike. Remember that there are ongoing running costs in addition to the purchase price. These include mooring, license fees, insurance, maintenance, fuel, and heating.
• Prices can vary greatly. You can pay as little as a few thousand pounds for a fibre-glass cruiser. You might be able to pay under £20,000 for an older ex-hire steel narrowboat. But you can pay over £200,000 for a fully fitted, full-length narrowboat. Especially from a famous builder.

• To find the perfect boat, you need to do a lot of research. In our “Canal Boat Buyers Guide” section we cover all the things you need to consider when buying a new or used canal boat.
• All boats need a valid Boat Safety Certificate. This is a check that the engine and services in the boat are safe. However, it does not mean that the boat is in good condition. Unless you have expertise you should get a professional survey done on any boat you consider buying.
• If you are thinking of buying a canal boat to live on, see our Liveaboards section for advice.
• In shared ownership schemes, each boat has several owners, often 12.  Each owner pays a share of the maintenance and other running costs. In return, they get a number of weeks a year of use of the boat.