This Former TV Reporter Quit His Job To Live On A Narrow Boat
Come aboard this remarkable narrow boat, where former TV journalist David Johns has transformed his entire life into a floating adventure across Britain’s canal network. After nine years of reporting local news, David made the bold decision to sell his house, quit his job, and embrace life on the water at age 47.
The journey begins at the bow, where a practical gas locker houses two 13-kilogram propane cylinders that fuel the boat’s cooking facilities. Step back into the charming well deck, a delightful outdoor living space perfect for evening gin and tonics while soaking in the ever-changing canal views.
These comfortable deck seats cleverly double as storage units, hiding paint supplies, brushes, and other essentials beneath their cushioned surfaces. A standard garden hose coiled nearby connects to the boat’s 100-gallon water tank, providing fresh water for about ten days of solo living.
Descending through the steel and wood-paneled doors, we enter the spacious saloon that serves as the heart of this floating home. A small television sits positioned for comfortable viewing, while a diesel-fired radiator panel provides backup heating when needed.
The real star of the heating system stands proudly nearby – a magnificent multi-fuel stove that burns both wood and coal, creating such cozy warmth that windows often need opening even in winter’s depths. Temporary seating currently fills the space, though David plans to upgrade to a proper sofa for enhanced comfort.
Built-in bookshelves line one wall, holding files and personal belongings alongside a convenient coat hook for daily essentials. Moving deeper into the boat, we discover a compact twin-tub washing machine perfectly sized for handling t-shirts, underwear, and other basic laundry needs.
The fully equipped galley showcases impressive functionality within its compact footprint, featuring a microwave positioned above a four-burner propane hob. A combination grill and oven unit maximizes cooking options, while a refrigerator with a tiny freezer compartment keeps essentials cold and provides space for a few ice creams.
Generous workspace surrounds the sink, with numerous cupboards below storing tins, dry goods, and kitchen essentials. The charming L-shaped dinette area offers comfortable seating for meals and relaxation, with the added versatility of converting into a spare double bed when guests visit.
Lift those dinette cushions to reveal clever storage compartments underneath, making every inch of space work double duty. The side hatch near the dinette opens to frame whatever scenic location the boat calls home, creating a picture-perfect dining experience each evening.
Additional cupboards line the corridor leading toward the boat’s private quarters, maximizing storage throughout the narrow space. The compact bathroom features a sink with storage above and below, plus a cassette toilet system that requires emptying every few days.
A perfectly sized shower completes the bathroom facilities, providing full washing capabilities while requiring mindful water conservation. The bedroom offers a cozy four-foot-wide double bed that proves perfectly adequate for comfortable sleeping, with a wardrobe and additional cupboards ensuring no shortage of storage space.
Steps at the stern lead up to the engine room, where a Lister Petter LPW diesel engine powers the vessel beneath protective floorboards. The engine controls, including a large forward-reverse lever and various switches, position the captain for smooth operation along the waterways.
The brass tiller connects to the steering mechanism, providing traditional narrow boat navigation control from the stern deck. Two 240-watt solar panels mounted above supply virtually all electrical needs while silently charging the boat’s battery system.
This floating lifestyle offers David the freedom to moor almost anywhere along 95% of Britain’s canal network for up to 14 days at each location. The narrow boat community has welcomed him with open arms, creating friendships and support networks that surpass anything he experienced in traditional housing.
Winter aboard proves surprisingly comfortable thanks to thick spray foam insulation and multiple heating options, though frozen canals can create logistical challenges for water refills and waste disposal. David’s continuous cruising license allows him to explore the entire network without maintaining a permanent mooring.
After nine months of boat life, David feels certain he’ll stay aboard for at least another winter, embracing the freedom and adventure this floating home provides. His advice to others considering similar moves emphasizes taking time for research, boat rentals, and careful consideration before making such a dramatic lifestyle change.
