Planning your boat.
You may already have your own plans drawn up on paper or in your head, you may just have a few ideas that you would like included or you may have no idea at all! Whichever one of these categories you fall into, Severn Valley Boat Centre has a design specialist living aboard his own boat (built by Severn Valley of course!) who is well versed in the design and build of residential/extended cruising boats. He will work closely with you, listening to your requirements and plan your boat to ensure that it becomes more than just ideas. This guide will hopefully give you a few pointers and an insight into the boatbuilding process.

What Beam?
The majority of our new boats are of the narrowbeam design (6’10") which allows you to cruise the whole of the inland network. A wide beam boat would obviously give you more accomodation but you are restricted to just the broad waterways.

What length?
Many locks on the system would be able to take a boat up to 70ft but there are some shorter locks on the system particularly in the north which means a length of 57ft would be about right for anyone wishing to cruise the whole system.

What Style?
Traditional design – a look similar to the original working boats, hence the name. Usually chosen by liveaboards & enthusiasts, this style creates more living/storage space by creating an extra cabin above the engine room. It also allows the helmsman to steer the boat from just inside the hatch giving maximum possible protection from the elements. However, the downside to such a small aft deck usually means a solitary person left to steer while the rest of the crew disappear inside or to the opposite end of the boat.

Semi-traditional design – keeping with the traditional look from a distance or from the side, the cabin top is removed but the sides are continued to imitate the original craft. This style usually creates room for one or two side lockers with bench seat tops for stowage of those essential cruising aids. The extra space for your crew coupled with the benefits of side ‘windbreaks’ promotes the social aspect of cruising together.

Cruiser style – the ‘modern’ way of boating with ample space for all your family, friends and pets too! A safety rail is fitted around the stern and sides, which doubles as a seat for helmsman and crew. An ideal choice for boaters who prefer plenty of deck space.

Whatever your choice, Severn Valey Boat Centre has the ability to create your dream narrow boat, packed full of features to create the perfect home afloat, ideal for cruising the waterways of Britian.