A share of a narrowboat...

Another good method of getting afloat on the inland waterways, and in general a comparitively economical one, is to acquire a share of a boat.

There are several organisations offering shares of narrowboats - usually six, eight or twelve shares per boat. A Google search will bring up the most active organisations. We own a share in Somerton, seen here, which is 58 ft long and has six comfortable berths and two loos. It is one of many such boats operated by the 'Ownerships' organisation, but in fact belongs jointly to its group of owners, not the organisation. We have use of the boat for two summer weeks and one autumn week each year, and compared to hiring a boat of this quality it really is an affordable alternative.

Every autumn the owners group meets up to discuss and decide such matters as where to have the boat moored next year, and what needs to be done during the winter maintenance period. One of the good things about the scheme is that sharing the costs with eleven others keeps the annual expenses within reason. Even a bit of luxury can be afforded occasionally.