Ken lives in Texas, but for many years worked for an International Company in the UK. There he learned to appreciate the Towpath and the quiet aspects of British culture. He writes stories about people who live between places where lives move at the pace of water and weather. His Tow Path Series blends contemporary romance, paranormal, and mystery with community-driven storytelling, rooted in the everyday rhythms of life.

Read More

Ken Jolly is a 75-year-old cowboy who lives in Texas. Has the boots and hat. His Great-Great Grandfather led a company of Virginians to Texas in 1836 to fight in the War of the Rebellion and served as First Lieutenant.  He participated in the Grass Fight and the Battle of San Jacinto. He was awarded the Land Grant, which the family still owns. To transport his small force to Texas, he brought a Brig, and after the Texas Navy lost its first four ships, he donated the vessel to the Navy and rechristened it the “San Jacinto”.

In his previous role, Ken served as a CAD/BIM Coordinator at an International Corporation, which required extensive travel. There he learned to appreciate the Tow Path and the quiet aspects of British culture. He can be found on weekends two-stepping at local dives, playing the fiddle, or fly-fishing. He writes stories about people who live between places where lives move at the pace of water and weather. His Tow Path Series blends contemporary romance, paranormal, and mystery with community-driven storytelling, rooted in the everyday rhythms of life.

Ken began writing technical manuals in 2010 and, upon retiring, has recently branched into fiction genres. He has a distinct writing voice across genres and establishes individual character arcs, adding unique direction and credibility to his actors.

He is a sailor, and his boat in Texas travels slightly faster than 4 knots when the wind is blowing, and he has often had to execute short tacks while going up canals. He actually lived on board the boat for most of a year through a brutal winter. However, he sees joy in living the slower pace of the canal. A lifelong observer of waterways, Ken is drawn to the quiet drama of small decisions, shared meals, late-night conversations, and the way music, memory, and place shape who we become. His characters are often rebuilding—boats, relationships, and themselves—finding connection not in grand gestures, but in steady hands, shared labour, and the trust earned over time. Some of his writing drifts into the paranormal, as he was the Leader of a ghost-hunting group, Paranormal Investigations and Eliminations (PIE), for many years.

When he isn’t writing, Ken can usually be found walking, studying the craft of storytelling, or listening for the kind of music that sounds better drifting across water at dusk. The Tow Path Series is his love letter to canal communities—past and present—and to the idea that home is always on the water.

Amazon books, where Ken's books can be purchased in a variety of forms, introduce his Tow Path Series thus:

"Set along the winding canals and hidden waterways of Europe, The Tow Path Series blends romance, music, and community into a tapestry of modern canal life. Each book explores the lives of those who choose the water as home—narrowboat dwellers, traveling musicians, wanderers, and dreamers—where the pace of the canal contrasts sharply with the turbulence of love, ambition, and second chances.

With recurring characters and overlapping storylines, the series paints an intimate portrait of a floating community bound together by locks, pubs, festivals, and the timeless rhythm of the towpath. The stories explore themes of belonging, self-discovery, and connection, often with a fire-and-wild romantic undercurrent that pushes characters to navigate both their waterways and their hearts.

At once tender and gritty, The Tow Path Series offers readers an immersive escape into a world where every bend in the canal reveals not only scenic vistas, but also new adventures, new faces, and the possibility of love where it’s least expected. "  (Amazon)

Review:

Ken Jolly writes with the precision of an engineer and the heart of a storyteller. A lifelong craftsman of words and design, he has authored acclaimed guides on architecture and technology, but his true passion lies in exploring the human connections that shape our lives.

When he’s not writing, Ken can often be found aboard his sailboat or imagining the quiet towpaths of England’s canals, where the rhythms of water and music inspire his stories. His love of the violin, his eye for detail, and his deep curiosity about people bring authenticity to the characters he creates.

Mooring Lines is his first romance set in the canal boat world, weaving together love, loss, and second chances against the backdrop of narrowboats and community life. With a craftsman’s discipline and a romantic’s heart, Ken proves that love stories told by men can be just as tender, raw, and true.

There are currently 7 novels in the Tow Path Tales series, all of which are available on Amazon KIndle The 7th book, 'Thin Water on the Canal', has only recently been published. Some of the books are also available as Audio books,  and all as paperbacks.

Ken's first book in the series, Mooring Lines, can be found serialized in this magazine - Ken Jolly, Author at CanalsOnline Magazine 

Britain’s waterways support a wide mix of activity. Leisure craft, passenger boats, commercial operators, and maintenance vessels often share the same space. This variety brings character and vitality to canals and rivers, yet it also places a shared responsibility on those who operate vessels professionally. Safe conduct on the water depends on preparation, awareness, and respect for recognised standards.

Many risks on inland waterways develop quietly. Restricted visibility, changing weather, shallow channels, and close quarters manoeuvring can all challenge even experienced crews. When these conditions combine with public access and mixed skill levels, the importance of professional competence becomes clear.

Formal learning plays a central role in meeting these challenges, and recognised programmes such as STCW courses provide structured knowledge that supports safe practice across maritime settings. These courses establish a common understanding of safety principles that apply well beyond offshore environments.

Understanding safety responsibilities on inland waterways

Inland waterways are shared spaces. Commercial operators may work alongside private boaters who have varying levels of experience. This mix increases the need for predictable, professional behaviour from those operating vessels as part of their work.

Responsibilities extend beyond vessel control. Awareness of passenger safety, communication with other waterway users, and readiness to respond to incidents all influence outcomes. Professional crews are often looked to as examples of good practice, particularly in busy or constrained areas.

The role of recognised maritime standards

Standards exist to create consistency. When crews share a common foundation of training, expectations become clearer and responses more reliable. International maritime standards provide guidance on safety, emergency response, and personal responsibility that remains relevant across different operating environments.

Training aligned with these standards helps reduce ambiguity. Crews understand not only what actions to take, but why those actions matter. This understanding supports sound judgement when situations fall outside routine procedures.

Training as a foundation for competence

Competence develops through structured learning combined with experience. Training provides the framework that allows experience to be interpreted correctly. Without that framework, habits can replace judgement, increasing risk over time.

How professional training supports everyday operations

Daily tasks on waterways often appear straightforward. Mooring, loading, and navigation become familiar quickly. Training helps crews recognise that routine work still carries risk. Situational awareness, correct use of equipment, and effective communication all depend on underlying knowledge.

When unexpected situations arise, trained crews respond more calmly. Clear understanding of emergency procedures reduces hesitation and confusion, protecting both crew and the public.

Relevance of STCW knowledge beyond offshore roles

Although STCW standards are often associated with offshore or international shipping, the principles they teach apply broadly. Fire prevention, first aid, and emergency response are just as relevant on inland vessels, particularly those carrying passengers or operating commercially.

These principles support safer interaction with other waterway users. Professional conduct reduces the likelihood of incidents and builds trust within the wider boating community.

Maintaining competence through ongoing learning

Competence is not static. Equipment changes, regulations evolve, and operating environments shift. Regular refresher training helps crews maintain confidence and update their knowledge as conditions change.

Ongoing learning also supports consistency across teams. New staff integrate more smoothly when training expectations are clear, and experienced crew benefit from revisiting core principles.

Practical benefits for employers and operators

Well trained crews contribute to smoother operations. Incidents decline, communication improves, and regulatory scrutiny becomes easier to manage. Training also supports retention by giving staff confidence in their roles.

Building trust on shared waterways

Public confidence in professional operators depends on visible competence. Calm, predictable behaviour reassures other waterway users and supports cooperation in busy areas. This trust is built gradually through consistent practice rather than isolated actions.

Training reinforces this consistency. Crews who share common standards approach situations with similar priorities, reducing misunderstandings and unnecessary conflict.

Conclusion

Safe waterway operations rely on preparation long before a vessel leaves its berth. Training provides the knowledge that underpins good judgement and responsible conduct. It supports professionals in managing risk while respecting the shared nature of inland waterways.

Recognised learning pathways, including STCW courses, contribute to this preparation by establishing clear expectations and practical understanding. When training aligns with real operating conditions, it becomes a valuable tool for sustaining safety and professionalism across the waterway network.

James Adams was born and brought up in Coventry before attending the Universities of Durham and Bristol. He then became an Anglican minister and served in a Church of England parish for three years. Thereafter, he went into teaching at ‘A’ level, in two sixth form centres over twenty years. He became a published author in 2021, and has recently written his first book about the inland waterways.

Read More

.

James Adams was born in Coventry and educated at King Henry VIII School, 1957-1968. His teenage years were marked by unenthusiastic school cross-country running and his enthusiastic support for Coventry City F.C. where he held a season-ticket for eight years.

After leaving Coventry he gained a BA at the University of Durham (American Studies & Theology) and an MA at the University of Bristol (Theology). He became an Anglican minister and served in a Church of England parish for three years. Thereafter, he went into teaching - firstly for Religious Studies but later retraining in the Social sciences, becoming Head of Religious  and Social Studies - which comprised Psychology, Sociology and the Philosophy of Religion, all at ‘A’ level, in two sixth form centres over twenty years.

In 2021 he became a published author, with his psychological football memoir 'Attached to Coventry City' (Pitch Publishing) which was followed up in 2022 with 'Passionate - the Psychology of a Passionate Life' (Austin Macauley). 

When not writing books James spends his time reading, trying to understand American politics, listening to popular music, supporting Coventry City, attending modern jive dances and  keeping fit. He also enjoys travel both at home and abroad.

James has been married twice and has two children and three grand-children. The subject of greatest interest to him is Attachment Theory and how an understanding of this can contribute significantly to the development of  positive mental health.

“The Curious Incident of the Bacon Sandwich, a Broken Tiller, and a Mid-life Crisis.”

James Adams' new book brings to life two decades of his canal adventures from 1975-95 with youth groups and friends, aboard 30 traditional narrowboats, along 30 different canals and covering about 3,000 ‘lock-miles’ of Britain’s canal system.

As well as describing the delights and dangers of boat-handling in fair weather and foul, he also reflects upon various issues and crises arising from his relationships with his crew, and within himself. Such reflections touch on practical, philosophical, theological and psychological issues, with humour not far from any dodgy lock or long, wet, tunnel.

Underneath all the youth-filled adventures however, is the author’s own search for the truth about himself, with his final destination being far from the original moorings from where he first cast off the ropes. At the end of the book are 15 chapter-related therapeutic exercises for those who want to search for their own truth about and within themselves.

So hop on board and start the engine, for canal cruise journeys and reflections that you are unlikely to forget!

In 1975 James was introduced to Britain’s canals, and for the next two decades he organised and led 21 summer canal cruises for youth groups and friends – from the Leeds and Liverpool canal in the Pennines to the Basingstoke canal in the south-east, and most points in between. The story of his adventures from 1975-95 are told in his new book “The Curious Incident of the Bacon Sandwich, a Broken Tiller, and a Mid-life Crisis.”  [in preparation]. 

James' latest book is not yet available to buy, but you will be able to see an adaptation from chapter 8 'Sunshine and Shadows' here very shortly. His other books are available in Waterstones. James has his own website, and you can contact him by email

Life on the UK’s waterways offers unmatched freedom, a slower pace, and the beauty of living close to nature. But for those who make their home on a narrowboat or barge, there’s one recurring challenge that the canals can’t solve: receiving mail without a fixed address.

Enter Expost UK, a service that has quietly become a trusted solution for canal boaters across the country. More than just a mail-forwarding company, Expost offers a full virtual mailbox system that provides stability, privacy, and accessibility—without tying you to a postcode.
For continuous cruisers and residential moorers alike, it’s more than just convenient. It’s essential.

Why Canal Dwellers Need a Virtual Mailbox

Living aboard a boat brings incredible rewards—but it also means navigating a world not designed for life without bricks and mortar. One of the biggest bureaucratic challenges is proving your address. Most government agencies, banks, and insurers require a fixed, residential UK address—something many boaters simply don’t have.

Relying on friends or family to handle your mail can become unreliable or burdensome. Picking up mail from general post offices using Poste Restante can be unreliable, and setting up redirection services when you're always on the move is nearly impossible.

This is where Expost becomes a game-changer.

Expost’s Service: Designed for Life on the Move

Expost’s service is crafted with boaters in mind. It allows you to use a real UK street address (not a PO Box) as your own, regardless of whether you’re moored in London, navigating the Grand Union, or drifting along the Shropshire Union.

These addresses are fully functional for:

• DVLA correspondence (location dependant)
• Banking and financial services
• HMRC and government departments
• Parcel deliveries from Royal Mail, DPD, UPS, and others

You receive a secure, unique mailbox number and access to the Propost online system, where you can manage your mail 24/7, just like managing your bank account online.

How It Works: Simple, Flexible, and Reliable

Once registered, you can choose one of several UK-based Mail Centres (locations across South Wales, the Midlands, Scotland, and more). Your new address is tied to a real building, making it fully compliant with official documentation requirements.
From there, mail is received, logged, and visible through your online dashboard. You then have options:

• Open and scan (perfect for viewing documents instantly)
• Forward to another address such as a marina, friend, next planned stop or even courier collection points)
• Hold until pickup or disposal

It’s your mail, on your terms.

For those living continuously on the move, the option to have mail forwarded to anywhere in the UK or abroad is especially useful. Royal Mail, signed-for services, and even private couriers can deliver it right to your next mooring—so long as you can provide a destination.

Affordable Freedom: Pricing That Suits Boat Life

Expost’s pricing starts at less than 80p per day, with additional services like forwarding and scanning charged on a pay-as-you-go basis. You top up your account’s Postage Fund, and only pay for what you use, ideal for boaters who may have unpredictable incomes or irregular mail volumes.

Key costs include:

• Mail handling fee per item received (90p per letter)
• Scanning fee (80p per page)
• Forwarding postage

No surprise fees.
Prices as of 29/08/2025

ID Verification: Staying Legit with HMRC and Companies House

Because Expost is regulated under UK Money Laundering Regulations (2017), all users must complete identity verification. For canal dwellers, this is a plus, not a hassle, it means your mailbox is officially recognised and legally compliant.

To register, you’ll need:

• A government-issued photo ID ( Passport or Driving Licence)
• A selfie for facial verification
• (For businesses) proof of incorporation or registration

This gives you peace of mind knowing your address is trusted by official institutions, and not some fly-by-night PO box company.

Extra Tools for a Smoother Life Afloat

Expost doesn’t stop at just mail. For boaters juggling complex logistics, the platform also offers:

• PayPoint bill payment integration: Settle council tax (if applicable), utility bills, fines, and licenses—directly from the dashboard.
• Outpost: A unique feature that lets you post UK mail from abroad or remote areas by sending digital versions that Expost prints and mails on your behalf.

Combined, these services help canal dwellers maintain a land-based presence without giving up the freedom of the waterways.

Final Thoughts: Freedom Doesn’t Have to Mean Invisibility

Living on a canal boat is about choosing freedom and simplicity over the fast-paced demands of modern life. But that shouldn’t mean sacrificing security, official recognition, or the ability to manage your affairs.

Expost UK gives boaters a simple, reliable, and official way to stay connected to the world—without tying them down to a postcode.

For the price of a cup of coffee a day, Expost provides stability, privacy, and peace of mind. Whether you’re a lifelong liveaboard or just testing the waters, Expost is a service designed for the realities of life afloat.

Want to learn more or sign up?
Visit www.expost.uk for details, pricing, and step-by-step guides.

Expost Customer Support
Using Bonus code CANAL20 on a 12 month account will give you 30 additional days free on your new account.
Live support is now available from Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm
Call 0333 789 0011 or, from abroad: +44 (0)333 789 0011
Email: support@expost.uk
Please remember to include your Mailbox Key when you contact us, so that we can find your account!

We are excited to announce that Chris Packham CBE will be attending the 2025 event and speaking on the first day. Chris is a naturalist, nature photographer, television presenter and author, best known for his television work.

Chris Packham said "I am very excited to be attending this year’s Waterways Management Show. Its creative and forward thinking approach is not only timely - it is essential. We are crashing into a crisis and water management will be central to mitigating its impacts.

Only through constructive discussion and the sharing of ideas and skills will we maximise our capacity to adapt and survive . And obviously water is central to life and its sustenance and the mismanagement of our rivers has put it front and central of peoples environmental concerns.

We have to get water management right and this forum offers a real chance for progress".

Waterways Management Show

This year we are delighted to announce that the Environment Agency will have a stand at the show, as will the Wildlife Trusts; Chris Packham will be speaking in one of the theatres. Southern Water and Anglian Water will also have stands and will be speaking at the show. Managing the waterways and wetlands is such an important part for natural flood management.

Floodex, National Drainage and the Waterways Management Show are three aspects of an overarching event, where these areas overlap in contributing to water level management and flood defence. The event is made up of nearly 100 exhibitors, with products, services and advice, whilst three seminar theatres will host various presentations. One of these is a dedicated, two-day SuDS Theatre, reflecting the importance of SuDS moving forward.

It is no secret that weather incidents, especially around water, are becoming more regular and more serious. And it’s not just overflowing rivers, 70% of flood incidents are caused by surface water runoff and blocked or inefficient drainage systems. Rainwater runoff is carrying pollutants into our of our waterways from highways, especially during excessive rainfall.

There are a wide range of solutions being pursued, including rehabilitation of existing but ageing drainage and sewer systems through to natural water level and flood management, with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) becoming more widely used.

SuDS quite often takes the form of plants and trees being installed by qualified contractors, in affected areas, to help soak up rainwater, but they also serve to make these areas more green and appealing, so a great solution, in some instances.

Planners and developers need to make a note, as it could be, in the not too distant future, that you may not get planning approved, without showing evidence of sustainable drainage being adopted. For people who want to borrow against property, flooding could affect lending decisions, because insurers may be taking a longer term view of risks from flooding.

The Future Water Association will be featuring the Water Dragons again, where people present innovative ideas for a panel of experts to judge. Water Dragons is a Future Water initiative aimed to support and develop the creative and future entrepreneurs of the water sector. United Utilities will be exhibiting and presenting, along with some very notable speakers, across the board..

Women in FCERM will be having a networking event at the end of day one and we are delighted that Anglian Water and Southern Water will both be exhibiting and speaking.

Since launching Floodex in 2016, the organizers have always had the idea that an event should be staged that takes a more holistic approach to flooding and water level management, which is why the National Drainage Show was launched as a natural colocation and Waterways Management after that, which partly covers the catchment issues as well as the health and management of the waterways themselves. See www.waterwaysmanagementshow.com for further information.

New Trade Show For Civil Engineering

A new event has got the industry buzzing, Indigo Media & Events (IME) are launching what will be the only trade show for the civils industry, in the UK. The National Civils Show will run co-located with the National Drainage Show and Floodex in 2025.

The National Civils Show is an annual trade event to be held in London, dedicated to suppliers of products and services around the civil engineering market and allied trades. It serves as a platform for industry professionals to exchange knowledge, showcase the latest technology, products, services and innovations.

An annual gathering of professionals and decision makers, coming together to see what their industry has to offer, whilst networking with peers, learning from experts and gaining CPD hours into the bargain.

The event managers of the National Civils Show both have more than 25 years each in the trade show business, which includes the UK Concrete Show at the NEC and launching Concrete Expo, which ran alongside UK Construction Week at Excel. Other events have featured plant and equipment hire, offsite construction, wood machinery, flooding, drainage and waterways management.

Eddie Milton, IME Director, said “Over the last few years, we have been approached on several occasions, to create a dedicated trade event for the civils industry; we are delighted to announce that it has finally been created and scheduled to run 26th - 27th November 2025, at a world class venue in London - Excel.

The Show has already attracted important industry association support, more notably from Chartered Institution of Highways & Transport (CIHT), National Highways, Civil Engineering Contractors Assoc (Southern), Pipeline Industries Guild and many others.

This event will accommodate 100 exhibitors and two seminar theatres, with one dedicated to sustainability. The organizers will be inviting leading lights, technical experts and academics to present, but it will be open to anyone with an interesting case study or objective presentation.
The National Civils Show is expected to attract at least 4,000 qualified and highly focussed trade visitors, which will swell, thanks to visitors coming across from the adjacent flood & drainage show, that will see 2,500 relevant visitors in 2025.

For more information, please see www.civilsshow.com, where you can download the current brochure and exhibitor list.

Indigo Media & Events Ltd (IME) is a trade show and conference organizer.

Contact: Eddie Milton Managing Director eddie@indigomediagroup.co.uk

Mob: +44 (0) 773 941 9797

Life on the canal offers real freedom—but water access often remains the last dependency. Planning cruises around tap points, lugging containers, and worrying about what’s in your tank can be frustrating.

At Offgrid Water, we’ve built a better solution: robust, low-power filtration systems that turn canal, river, or rainwater into safe, usable water—for everything from washing to drinking, depending on which stages you use.

Born on the Water

I founded Offgrid Water in 2023 after years living aboard. Like many continuous cruisers, I got fed up with chasing watering points. I wanted to be independent and couldn’t find a solution that didn’t cost a fortune.

So I built it.

Offgrid Water now serves canal boats, van-lifers, remote cabins and humanitarian teams, but our roots are on UK waterways.

Modular and easy to service

There are three parts to the canal water system.
• StageOne – A rugged, plug-and-play filtration system for canal or river water. Perfect for washing up or showers.
• StageTwo – Adds finer filtration, improving taste and clarity. Great for stage-one filtered water that needs polishing.
• FinalStage (Reverse Osmosis) – Delivers exceptional, remineralised drinking water. Removes chlorine, nitrates, heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, PFAS and more.

Each stage can be used on its own, or stacked to suit your lifestyle. Many start with StageOne and upgrade when ready. The modularity also makes future repairs or replacements easier.

Engineered for Reliability

We’ve deliberately overbuilt the system to handle the rough realities of canal life:

• Simple, robust components - no screens or software to fail
• Housings made for high flow and easy servicing
• Mounting options designed to work under sinks or in engine bays
• Quick-change filters available online (10" x 2.5")

You’re never locked into buying proprietary cartridges—we use standard-sized filters that are easy to find and replace worldwide. That means long-term reliability and lower costs.
And everything is covered by a 2-year warranty and supported by real people—you can call or message us directly for help.

Low Power, High Performance

On forums, people often ask: How much power does it draw? The short answer: very little.

• StageOne uses 200W and will fill a 500 litre tank in 45 minutes.
• The FinalStage system uses just 60–70W while running (less than a laptop) and 1.4W on standby.
• Compatible with 12V leisure batteries and solar setups, even in winter.

We designed this to work through British winters, not just in theory. Customers have used it off-grid year-round without issue, filtering everything from roof runoff to dirty canal water.

Installation? Easy.

• StageOne is plug-and-play. Drop a hose in a tank or canal, plug it in, and you’re off.
• StageTwo and FinalStage require some plumbing but are well within DIY reach.
• No special tools, no programming, no faff.

We also offer install guides and phone support if needed!

Real Users, Real Results

One liveaboard recently told us:

“We’ve been using Offgrid Water for over six months now. We top up from rainwater and canal sources and haven’t touched a towpath tap since. It’s the first time we’ve felt genuinely self-sufficient aboard.”
Another added:
“I run the system from a solar-charged battery and still have headroom. The water quality is excellent—and I don’t need bottled anymore.”
 
Whether it’s topping up from a rain barrel or filtering River Lea water, our users report one thing again and again: freedom.

Offgrid Water provides water filtration solutions for canal and river boats, off grid homes and camps. We began with units designed for canal water but now produce portable systems to treat other water sources, such as rain, lake, borehole and river water.

+44 7746 553124
https://www.offgridwater.net/
https://www.facebook.com/people/Offgrid-Water/100093525938665/

All Aboard the Electrika Electric Narrowboat Show!

The gentle lapping of water against the hull, the tranquil glide through picturesque landscapes, the charming locks and the friendly community – these are the timeless joys of narrowboating on the UK's intricate canal network. For centuries, these slender vessels have been the lifeblood of our waterways, evolving from horse-drawn workhorses to the diesel-powered leisure craft we see today. But a new era is dawning, a quiet revolution that promises to preserve the serenity and beauty of our canals for generations to come: the age of the electric narrowboat.

For those intrigued by this exciting transition, mark your calendars for July 11th and 12th, 2025, because the Electrika Electric Narrowboat Show is returning to Brinklow Waterside and Marina near Rugby. Following the resounding success of its inaugural event, Electrika 2025 is set to be even bigger and better, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of electric propulsion on the UK's inland waterways.

A Gathering of Innovation and Inspiration

Electrika is not just another boat show; it's a dedicated platform for early adopters, manufacturers, potential new owners, and anyone curious about the future of narrowboating. It's a place to share information, witness cutting-edge technology in action, and experience the unparalleled tranquility of silent cruising firsthand.

This year, the show has doubled the number of boat builders showcasing their electric hybrid narrowboats. Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of vessels, from fully electric boats powered solely by batteries to innovative hybrid models offering a blend of electric and traditional power. These boats represent the forefront of sustainable boating, demonstrating the potential for emission-free navigation on our beloved canals.

Beyond the impressive lineup of showboats, more visiting electric narrowboats will be dotted around the marina, creating a vibrant hub for electric boating enthusiasts. Owners will be on hand to share their real-life experiences, offering invaluable insights into the practicalities and joys of electric propulsion. This direct interaction with those who have already embraced the technology provides a unique learning opportunity for those considering making the switch.

More Than Just Boats: Exhibitors and Experiences

Electrika will also host a range of exhibitors specializing in electric boat technology and related equipment. This is the perfect chance to meet manufacturers of electric motors, battery systems, solar panels, inverters, and charging solutions. Whether you're looking to build a new electric boat, convert an existing diesel model, or simply learn more about the components involved, the experts at Electrika will be ready to answer your questions and provide guidance.

To truly appreciate the benefits of electric propulsion, visitors will have the opportunity to take short boat trips and experience "silent cruising" for themselves. Imagine gliding along the water with only the gentle sounds of nature surrounding you – no engine noise, no fumes, just pure tranquility. This firsthand experience is often the most compelling way to understand the appeal of electric narrowboating.

Why Go Electric? The Benefits are Clear

The shift towards electric narrowboats is driven by a growing awareness of environmental responsibility and a desire to enhance the unique experience of canal travel. The advantages of electric propulsion are numerous:

• Reduced Environmental Impact: Electric boats produce zero emissions while running on battery power, contributing to cleaner air and water in our precious canal environments. This is a significant step towards preserving the natural beauty of the waterways and reducing our carbon footprint.

• Silent Cruising: The near-silent operation of electric motors dramatically enhances the peacefulness of canal travel, allowing boaters to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings and enjoy conversations without the constant drone of a diesel engine.

• Lower Running Costs: While the initial investment in an electric system may be higher, the long-term running costs are typically lower due to reduced fuel consumption and less frequent maintenance. Electricity is often cheaper than diesel, and electric motors have fewer moving parts, leading to lower maintenance requirements.

• Smoother Operation: Electric motors offer instant torque and smooth acceleration, resulting in a more responsive and enjoyable boating experience. Manoeuvring around tight bends and through locks can also be easier with the precise control offered by electric propulsion.

• Potential for Self-Sufficiency: With the integration of solar panels and efficient battery management systems, electric narrowboats have the potential to become largely self-sufficient in terms of energy, reducing reliance on shore power and further minimizing their environmental impact.

A Nod to the Past, A Look to the Future

The history of narrowboats is deeply intertwined with the industrial revolution, serving as vital arteries for trade and transportation. Today, while their primary role has shifted to leisure and lifestyle, they remain an iconic part of Britain's heritage. Embracing electric propulsion is not about abandoning this history but rather about ensuring its sustainable future.

The UK's canal network, managed by the Canal & River Trust, faces ongoing challenges in terms of funding, maintenance, and the increasing impacts of climate change. The adoption of cleaner technologies like electric propulsion can contribute to a more sustainable future for these invaluable waterways, helping to preserve them for the enjoyment of generations to come.

Events like Electrika play a crucial role in driving this transition by bringing together innovation, expertise, and enthusiasm. It's a chance for the boating community to learn, connect, and be inspired by the possibilities of electric narrowboating.

Plan Your Visit to Electrika 2025

Electrika 2025 promises to be an unmissable event for anyone interested in the future of narrowboating and sustainable technology. Located at Brinklow Waterside and Marina, a centrally located and well-equipped venue, the show offers easy access for visitors.

Entry to Electrika is free, but attendees must book their tickets in advance via the Electrika website (https://electrika.uk). This will help the organizers plan for the expected number of visitors and ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

For those wishing to extend their stay, camping for tents and motor-homes will be available this year, bookable through the Brinklow Marina office (Tel: 01788 641007). This provides a convenient option for visitors traveling from further afield. And with live entertainment both nights, it’s the perfect occasion to socialise with like-minded people.

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the silent revolution on the waterways. Come to Electrika 2025, explore the latest in electric narrowboat technology, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and experience the tranquil future of canal cruising. It's time to embrace a greener, quieter, and more sustainable way to enjoy the timeless beauty of Britain's canals. All aboard!

Paul & Kay Sumpner Event Coordinators

Website = https://elctrika.uk

E-Mail = info@electrika.uk

There’s something magical about harbours. Even if you’re not a boat person—or even a water person—it’s hard not to be charmed by the bustle, the ropes creaking against bollards, and the gentle lapping of water.

At its core, the Heritage Harbour concept is a grassroots effort to recognise and protect historically significant inland and coastal harbours that still carry the marks of Britain’s maritime past. It’s about giving these places a new life—not as static museum pieces, but as living, working ports where traditional boats and trades are not only remembered but celebrated and continued. In short: they’re not just relics— they’re alive.

The Birth of a Concept

The idea of Heritage Harbours in the UK is relatively new, but it borrows heavily from a successful movement in the Netherlands and elsewhere in Europe, where dozens of harbours have been designated and protected for their cultural and maritime value. Inspired by this model, several UK organisations began looking at how to do something similar here.

Enter National Historic Ships UK (NHS-UK), Historic England and the Maritime Heritage Trust—all key players who got behind the wheel, so to speak. Together, they created a framework to help identify and promote harbours that still retain their historic character and can serve as hubs for heritage vessels and maritime skills.

So far, this effort has been championed largely by local communities and passionate maritime enthusiasts who want to see their local waterways thrive again—culturally, socially, and even economically.

What Makes a Heritage Harbour?

A Heritage Harbour isn’t just any picturesque quay. It needs to have retained physical features from its industrial or trading heyday—things like original bollards, cranes, warehouses, and slipways. But it's also about the stories that come with them. These places are selected for their ability to support historic boats and traditional skills.

There’s no single, top-down government scheme rubber-stamping harbours as “Heritage,” either. This is very much a community-led designation. Once a harbour group believes their site f its the bill, they can work with the relevant national bodies to gain recognition and promote their status.

Shardlow: An inland example

Shardlow is a small village in Derbyshire that, to the untrained eye, might look like just another sleepy waterside spot. But take a closer look and you’ll find one of the finest surviving examples of an 18th-century inland port.

The village blossomed in the late 1700s after the opening of the Trent and Mersey Canal - a vital artery during the Industrial Revolution. Shardlow was perfectly placed to become a major point between the canal system and river traffic. At its peak, it had dozens of warehouses, boatyards, inns, stables, and other infrastructure to support the bustling trade of goods ranging from coal and salt to pottery and timber.

Fast-forward to today, and much of that infrastructure still exists. There are old warehouses now converted into homes and pubs, restored toll houses, and surviving workshops. It’s not hard to picture horses clopping along the towpath, or barges being loaded by hand.

This level of preservation helped Shardlow become one of the first locations to be proposed as a Heritage Harbour in the UK. Local heritage groups have worked to document the site’s history and ensure its buildings and water spaces are protected and—importantly—used.

Shardlow is a working example of how heritage can coexist with leisure boating and modern life. Historic narrowboats still visit, and there are regular events that bring traditional skills, like rope making and boat painting, to life for the public.

More Than Just Nostalgia

So why does this all matter?

Britain’s waterways played a huge part in the Industrial Revolution, helping to shape towns, economies, and social structures. But as those industries faded, so too did many of the ports and harbours that once buzzed with activity. The Heritage Harbours concept is about recognising that value—not just historically, but culturally and economically.

There’s a growing recognition that places like Shardlow can boost local tourism, support traditional trades, and provide hands-on learning opportunities for future generations. And with sustainability and localism coming to the fore, these kinds of community-driven heritage initiatives are striking a real chord.

The Road (or Canal) Ahead

As of now, the Heritage Harbours network in the UK is still growing, we welcomed two more locations during Heritage Open Days 2024 which has taken us up to fourteen in total: Gloucester, Ramsgate, Bideford, Bristol, Buckler’s Hard, Chester, Exeter, Faversham and Oare Creeks, Ipswich, Maldon and Heybridge, Sandwich, Shardlow, Stourport, and Wells next the Sea. Each one brings its own unique character and challenges, but they all share the same mission: to keep Britain’s maritime heritage afloat—literally.

So next time you’re wandering along a canal towpath or sipping a pint outside a converted warehouse pub, take a moment to imagine what life might’ve looked like two hundred years ago. You might just find you’re walking through a living piece of history—and thanks to the Heritage Harbours movement, that history has never felt more alive.

Hannah Hurford

Hannah Hurford is a Trustee of the Maritime Heritage Trust and is a Heritage Officer for Exeter's Heritage Harbour. Hannah is also a Director for Lynher Barge CIC and she runs a traditional sailing and maritime heritage podcast called the Off Watch Podcast.