Did you know I have a "Buy Me A Coffee" page buymeacoffee.com/countryhousegent Perfect for when you'd like to contribute to the channel, or simply want to buy me a coffee/pork pie/beer/lamb vindaloo (delete where applicable). Cheers,
"Very, very nice, indeed." "Absolutely amazing." "It is beautiful." - CHG Life changing, spontaneous emotions, peacefulness and affirming your decision. Went back in time to rewatch TBN videos: "Buying a Narrowboat" and "Narrowboat Launch Day". Listened again to your expressive reflection during your very first mooring of Aslan. My goodness, the narrowboat path you have traveled; your new experiences and discoveries over the years that you have kindly shared with all of us. Look at you and Aslan now. This is why people have a special connection with you; quality of character. Thanks so much Kevin
Enjoyed watching you take your maiden voyage. I’m in Australia...I have terminal cancer and it was always a dream that one day I’d do what you’re doing on the canals in Britain. Of course that can’t happen now for me but I lived a bit of my own dream watching you get started. Good stuff mate.
Came upon your video site recently. You have a beautiful rig. I live in central valley of California. So much beauty where you live. I'm watching all your videos. Best wishes and God bless you
I have watched this video 3 times now. I think watching you somehow allows me to live through your experiences. It is so raw, so real, unfiltered, I can see the dread of the unknown slowly wash away, as Aslan is put into the canal and floats on her on. The relief of going into the boat yard, getting water, and returning to the canal. I would out a doubt been at a loss of words also. I follow up and about 3 others on the canals of Great Britain. But you have opened a life that each time I watch, I dream of being a participant. I have gone to the point of looking into a boat here on our rivers. It's pretty close to the same life, just maybe a little more hectic. I also love your travels on your bike. Be safe, and thank you for sharing your life with me.
Fabulous to hear that Paul. You're right about it being raw. There was no planning, just filming whatever caught my eye. I didn't really know what I was doing. :D
Hi Kevin As an avid watcher for the past 2 years...I thought I would go right back to the beginning of your journey....had no clue you had videos from 11 years ago lol....SOooo just beginning at number one of your Narrowboat story!!....as well as watching your "just posted"! AWESOME ..Thanks 🥰
Hello Abigail. Yes indeed, there's all manner of stuff on here, going back to 2010 or thereabouts. It's only in the last 5 years though, that I've devoted my life to it fulltime. Cheers for watching and following,
So this was the beginning………and look at you now! It’s been a blast, I have enjoyed every minute…..except for Wigan if I remember rightly. Still free, still with Alan and no longer wondering how to do stuff. And taking time off for Scotland. You have it all and long may it reign. Good on yer!
Thank you so much Rikki. Indeed, I moved onto Aslan as one final attempt to make a happy, peaceful and successful life for myself and ended up with more than I was looking for or imagined. Cheers for watching and following along all these years. 🙂
It's funny, I'm an American singer/songwriter and my two favorite shows are Travels by Narrowboat and Detectorists, two British shows. Truly love your style Kevin. We are the same age and I'm ready to sell it all and move on a narrowboat. Cheers...................j
I have followed all your narrowboat vlogs to date. Enjoyed the first one…and each successive installment even more. I particularly appreciate their length and narrative style. The thoughtfully creative work you put into them is evident. While I'm admittedly envious of your newly-launched lifestyle, I'm truly grateful you've chosen to share your wonderful adventure. Thank you!
Thank you for watching and thank you for your heart warming comments. I like to film my videos exactly as the story unfolds infront of me, without much thought to the finished result. I found the whole process (especially with the launch video) to be very natural. As I was editing the video together over a period of 5 or 6 days, it just seemed to flow unhindered, the various pieces of video (over 300) simply falling together . An unusual experience that I've usually only encountered with my photography and writing and one I hope to experience more often with my future videos. With regards the length, I had wondered if a 30 minute video would be too long. But then I thought that if I was looking for narrowboat related videos, I'd want something to get my teeth into. Besides, I'm a firm believer that you should please yourself first. If you enjoy your own work, chances are others will as well? Cheers,
That was one of the nicest 30:20 seconds I have spent in a long, long time. I'm loving the sound of that engine too just soooooooooooo relaxing. 10/10 for a job well done.
Your boat is fantastic. I once owned and lived the life but did not do enough research before buying and it was the wrong boat for what I needed. Make sure you do the research before buying is my advice to anyone thinking of starting on this was of life. All said though it was great and I enjoyed the 3 years I lived on the canals, I am also so glad I had my dog with me and she enjoyed it to. RIP Jade. Miss you!!
I remember watching this volg back in the day Kevin. You made a wise choice of boat. Just shows you how far you've come today you have a drone you can fly. Keep safe and dry and virus free.
I have always enjoyed British TV and not until seeing your series on NARROWBOATS, I never knew about Narrowboat cruising and the canal network! Thanking you.
Bet is because of the slower pace and being able to really get a GOOD look at things as they slowly drift past. What a GREAT way to spend time. Think about things, life and reflect on past present and future. Or just enjoy a nice cup of tea and watch the world go ZOOMING by
+Kev Fletcher Cheers Kev. The standard of workmanship and attention to detail is something I still love looking at every morning. The rarity of the engine can have its worrying moments, as I show in my latest video. :(
I have just watched the video from last night....wow! I am pleased there are still peeps out there with the skill sets to get things fixed even if you had to moor up for the week it was worth the wait I hope.
Thank you so much for sharing your narrow boat adventures we us, we do appreciate it.. we enjoyed your later vlog so much, we decided to start at the beings,so once again thank Julie and James🙏✝️🕊🙏🇨🇦
Congratulations! Must've been nerve wracking, all those firsts - first tunnel, first turn, first voyage, first cup of tea whilst cruising(A+ multitasking). …and that bottleneck! Done and dusted nicely. Looking forward to more videos.
Congratulations. liek you say. it is only a word, But i too have lived my dream before and to gain what your goal was in the beginning... You just said it... "Priceless."
+Kip's Journey Thank you. Yes, it is a momentous moment when you arrive at the point you've thought about and planned for so long. It does take a bit of getting used to though, a long period of adjustment?
I love the sound of that wonderful old motor. What a lovely soundtrack to your vlogs. I also love the huge pleasure that you are getting from Aslan. I shall take a lot of pleasure recalling happy times I had on the canals in my youth.
In my opinion, you are absolutely living the dream. Hope it all goes well for you. Really enjoy your films and look forward to many more. All the best.
great to see a narrow boat chugging along the water.so peaceful and relaxing and beautiful to just moor up in the heart of the countryside. well may you enjoy it forever.
Well that was an awesome great launch and maiden voyage and too boot your no longer a virgin to tunnels lol, safe travels and looking forward to many more adventures ✌️😎👌
Hi there, CountryHouseGent and welcome to the world of canal cruising. I lived and worked on a narrow boat in the Birmingham area for 7 years and thoroughly enjoyed every minute cruising around the Midlands, when not stuck at work of course. Every day cruising was so different in the changing scenery and wildlife that it did not matter what the weather was like, snow, rain, wind, fog or glorious sun shine it was still a pleasure to move about as you please, moor up where you like (usually near a pub) and just enjoy. Sadly I had to sell up due to bad knees and now live in a house after having two knee replacements. This has curtailed any future boating activities unfortunately plus the fact I`m over 70 but I do miss the boat. All I can say is old son, get out there and Enjoy with a capital E, you have 2500 miles of canal to play on.
Don`t forget to get yourself a set of Nicholson`s Guides, very useful for finding the evening watering holes. Very good video`s you have made by the way and your`s is only the second boat I have seen with the B2 engine, the other was mounted in a 72ft 6" old and refurbished working boat that belonged to FMC and converted into a live a board. Bon Voyage Captain.
+aliasdeputydog Cheers but I (rather sadly) bought a full set second hand about 3 months before buying the boat. Made the wait even more excruciating, seeing all the fab places I could visit, one day. I would very much like to see another B2 and have a chat with the owner at some point if ever our paths cross.
Wonderful video of a tranquil lifestyle on the waters. I felt all your feelings in preparation etc but I did it with a VW campervan journey around the world in which I travelled the continents of North and South America and Europe for nearly three years only to find my van stolen in Seville, Spain. The devastation of that experience was intense and it changed my life of total freedom completely and brought me back to normality of life. Nevertheless that journey was one of the most spectacular experiences of my life. Enjoy your journey on the canals.
Wow, what an incredible journey. The things you must have seen? And I can completely appreciate and sympathise with you over the theft of your van. Your entire life would have been tied up in the camper and then someone comes along and takes it. :(
After me and my wife met you on the Shropshire I watched your maiden voyage again and you look so happy made up your enjoying your new life .Its kevin and Marie Be Lucky
Hi. Love the videos. We're currently on season 5. Watching these are my pause for tranquility. (seems over the top I know but I've been home schooling for, what seems like, an eternity.) Cheers CHG. Happy travels.
I live on the Columbia River, well, beside the river, in Washington State, not on it as You are enjoying life on Your boat. It is fascinating to watch the life You have chosen. I am impressed with the quietness and the serenity of the passage. The knock-knock of Your engine is truly hypnotizing. Looking forward to being mesmerized on Your next outing. Would truly be honored to join You for tea and cheese toast.
So chuffed it all come together for you CHG,im a landlubber but have loved canal strolls on aire n calder @Stanley and envy your lifestyle,you look so chilled man,love your relaxed filming style,will check out more vids as soon as,gods speed CHG👍👍👍
When that engine fired up a smile to my face bet you were excited the first sail on your boat and what a trip and excellent video looking for to the rest of them although I've watched some all ready I'm starting from the beginner as hope next year I'll be bing my canal boat ☺👍
Congratulations on finally hitting the cut, great video (been waiting with bated breath for your maiden voyage). Your open and honest style make you vlogs a pleasure to watch - stay safe and happy trails.
You seem much much more happy than in the camper van, those were pretty hard times. Good to see you happy! Awesome video and funny morning exercise. :D
Oh lovely man. This is the only film I've seen of you and your journey. So fab to watch you on your maiden voyage. And as for the end bit when you were filling up - well so did I too as well. Beautiful locations and a quiet narration. Thank you xxx
+twiggers23 Ah, massive thanks for watching and for your comments. It's been a huge suprise and a reward for me to hear of how so many have enjoyed my first trip on the water. At the very end, as I said about "all the things I'd had to do", I suffered a total recall of all the things I'd had to do. It wasn't pretty, though real men don't cry ;) :D
Oh CountryHouseGent - Genuine people with integrity boo at all sorts of things. Caught my beloved shedding a tear at Bagpuss the other day. (I bought him the DVD lol) Runner beans make me cry cos my beloved but departed Dad used to post me a parcel or two of his homegrown produce every year. Don't think emotion is a weakness. It shows passion, feeling and truth. Off to watch your film again. Take care nice bloke xxxx
+twiggers23 Thank you for your wonderful comments. I can definitely understand your partner having a blub over Bagpuss. A classic that brings back all the memories of an innocent age. :)
Congratulations on your very first journey. I am enjoying myself as much as you are. Liked your thoughts on the tunnel. It reminds me of H. Bougart and the “African Queen “. How awesome is that. Keep Calm and Carry On! Good Luck.
Nice to see it all coming together for you at last. It's been a rocky road but I'm it will be all plane boating for you from now on. There's nothing more inspiring than watching someone taking full advantage of the free entertainment that nature does provide. Good luck mate and hope to catch up for a cupper really soon with you. My house completes this month so hopefully???😉see you on the cut soon.
3:50 that start-up routine is worth all the money you paid for the boat. The stove in the boatman's cabin is a fantastic feature ; the engine-room is another. You have a very enviable, solid little craft. 7:20 listen to that engine ! A big slow revving twin - marvellous.
Congrats! Our very first ride in our narrow boat and it was all I dreamed it would be. What? You say it's not my boat. Sorry, I got lost in my dreams there for a while. That was a long, spookey tunnel. You did a fantastic job on your boat and I hope it lasts a very long while. I love the views so keep on vlogging and most importantly keep on having fun.
I really envy you. I have spent many enjoyable holidays on narrow boats, and have considered selling up and doing what you are planning. I have no reason not to, I just need that push to get my mind in gear. Maybe one day........
Congratulations, as you rightly said its something should do once in a lifetime, I was lucky to experience it in the 70's a mate of mine had a converted working boat he lived on at Rickmansworth, and we did quite a few trips, including one up the tidal Thames from Limehouse to Brentford. Amazing times.EnjoyJohnny in Oz.
Fab video!You managed that tunnel like a pro. I'm So pleased for you, you look really happy whilst You are on board. You're living the Dream & that's a fact. Look forward to the next one.
Thoroughly enjoyed your clips. I live in South Africa and a number of years back we visited your fine Country and toured the Oxford canals by longboat and what an experiece that was. Watching your clips just brought all that back to me. Can't wait for the next clips. Oh we have also done trips on the French canals and although it was also most pleasant, the longboats just add some different element to the experience! Regards Herman Breedt
This is the first of your videos that I have seen. I so much enjoyed sharing your maiden voyage. Thank you for that. I would love to have seen some footage of the inside of the boat. That would have been awesome. Maybe next time.
+Tom Noonan Hello Tom and thank you for watching. Pleased you enjoyed the video. Please check out my previous video, where you will find a full and comprehensive tour of the boat. Enjoy :)
Now David at Cruising the Cut has decided to sell his boat I have decided to go back to the very start of your channel and watch it. Cheers from March 2022 and Australia. Love the boat with the engine and well thought out and installed electrics and your upgrades.
I think it is an excellent choice off engine you have picked it will last you a lifetime if you look affter it I am planning on doing the same and would love that Engine in my boat loved the video keep up the good work. Derek 👍
Really nice video, best of luck on your future journeys on the water, most of all enjoy the privilege of being able to travel around to some of the most scenic vista's in and around the UK's waterway networks.
Just wanted to say how inspiring this video, and your maiden voyage, have been. I've been toying with the idea of moving on to the canals, on and off, for over a decade now. Time to stop hoping and dreaming and to take the plunge!
I thoroughly enjoyed watching your videos. Aslan is an impressive boat with wonderful character. Your footage and commentary does an excellent job conveying what it's like to traverse the canals. I wish you the very best and thank you for sharing your experiences.
+Peter Richardson Thank you Peter for your fabulous comments. It's uplifting to hear how people have enjoyed the videos and only drives me to make the next one better still (I hope?)
YEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!! After watching the video some bit, that sound, I've heard that sound before...... I was raised on a farm in Goliad county, Texas, my Dad bought an old John Deere two cylinder tractor that had a huge flywheel on the side of it. My Dad called it the Poppin Johnny, It was a two cylinder diesel engine, that sounded just like your engine does. Tonnes of torque and quite soothing....Very good video.... Cheers and as always God bless
Very much appreciated this video. Am so glad and proud for you, in this your first cruise in Aslan. The profundity of feelings cannot be communicated, and maybe that's a good thing. It makes them all the more precious. Thank you for bringing us along.
Hi Kevin... just wanted to let you know that we have finally bought a trad working boat with boatmans cabin and RN classic engine!!! You vlogs have been a massive guidance for us when looking for our boat!!!! Pending lockdown we are meeting her in March/April to start her journey down the canals!! Stay safe. Lynette xx
Did you know I have a "Buy Me A Coffee" page buymeacoffee.com/countryhousegent Perfect for when you'd like to contribute to the channel, or simply want to buy me a coffee/pork pie/beer/lamb vindaloo (delete where applicable). Cheers,
That wae one of the most engaging canal boat videos I have ever seen. Congratulations, you have just gained a new subscriber.
+BoldHussar Wow, that's very high praise indeed. Pleased you enjoyed the video. More to come.
"Very, very nice, indeed." "Absolutely amazing." "It is beautiful." - CHG Life changing, spontaneous emotions, peacefulness and affirming your decision. Went back in time to rewatch TBN videos: "Buying a Narrowboat" and "Narrowboat Launch Day". Listened again to your expressive reflection during your very first mooring of Aslan. My goodness, the narrowboat path you have traveled; your new experiences and discoveries over the years that you have kindly shared with all of us. Look at you and Aslan now. This is why people have a special connection with you; quality of character. Thanks so much Kevin
Enjoyed watching you take your maiden voyage. I’m in Australia...I have terminal cancer and it was always a dream that one day I’d do what you’re doing on the canals in Britain. Of course that can’t happen now for me but I lived a bit of my own dream watching you get started. Good stuff mate.
HOPE you are ok ❤
Good luck mate
we go kayaking on the Rivers and all the narrow boat people we see seem os chilled out and Happy !!!! good luck !!!!
+Andrew Felcey Cheers. I reckon it's the primeval urge to return to the water. :)
Came upon your video site recently.
You have a beautiful rig. I live in central valley of California.
So much beauty where you live. I'm watching all your videos. Best wishes and God bless you
Such fun watching this video after watching series 10. What a skilled boater you are now!
Thank you Beth. Yes I still recall how out of my depth I was, whilst still wondering if I'd made the right decision. 🙂
Excellent. What a great first trip. Congratulations.
That's great to hear and high praise indeed. Pleased you enjoyed my brief jaunt up the Leicester.
Love the sound of that diesel engine chugging away effortlessly. 😊 Of course, I loved the video too, a beautiful part of England I grew up in.
+Medic Technology International Pty Ltd That's great cheers. I hope I did the area justice? :)
Hi
!
I have watched this video 3 times now. I think watching you somehow allows me to live through your experiences. It is so raw, so real, unfiltered, I can see the dread of the unknown slowly wash away, as Aslan is put into the canal and floats on her on. The relief of going into the boat yard, getting water, and returning to the canal. I would out a doubt been at a loss of words also. I follow up and about 3 others on the canals of Great Britain. But you have opened a life that each time I watch, I dream of being a participant. I have gone to the point of looking into a boat here on our rivers. It's pretty close to the same life, just maybe a little more hectic. I also love your travels on your bike. Be safe, and thank you for sharing your life with me.
Fabulous to hear that Paul. You're right about it being raw. There was no planning, just filming whatever caught my eye. I didn't really know what I was doing. :D
Re-watching this episode. What a monumental day for you Kevin.
Indeed, a lot of water along the canal since then 🙂
What a beautiful boat & old engine. 👍
Thank you Andy. She's indeed a fine vessel I'm very proud of. 🙂
Congratulations on the first trip. Keep up the good work and enjoy thanks for taking me on it with you. I also enjoyed the trip.
Fan-Damn-Fantic!!!!!
Many Thanks for sharing your Dream and Joy 😊!!!!
You're very welcome Thomas. Cheers,
Probably as good of a boat as you could ever hope to find. Lovely
Hi Kevin
As an avid watcher for the past 2 years...I thought I would go right back to the beginning of your journey....had no clue you had videos from 11 years ago lol....SOooo just beginning at number one of your Narrowboat story!!....as well as watching your "just posted"! AWESOME ..Thanks 🥰
Hello Abigail. Yes indeed, there's all manner of stuff on here, going back to 2010 or thereabouts. It's only in the last 5 years though, that I've devoted my life to it fulltime. Cheers for watching and following,
So this was the beginning………and look at you now! It’s been a blast, I have enjoyed every minute…..except for Wigan if I remember rightly. Still free, still with Alan and no longer wondering how to do stuff. And taking time off for Scotland. You have it all and long may it reign. Good on yer!
Thank you so much Rikki. Indeed, I moved onto Aslan as one final attempt to make a happy, peaceful and successful life for myself and ended up with more than I was looking for or imagined. Cheers for watching and following along all these years. 🙂
It's funny, I'm an American singer/songwriter and my two favorite shows are Travels by Narrowboat and Detectorists, two British shows. Truly love your style Kevin. We are the same age and I'm ready to sell it all and move on a narrowboat. Cheers...................j
I have followed all your narrowboat vlogs to date. Enjoyed the first one…and each successive installment even more. I particularly appreciate their length and narrative style. The thoughtfully creative work you put into them is evident. While I'm admittedly envious of your newly-launched lifestyle, I'm truly grateful you've chosen to share your wonderful adventure. Thank you!
Thank you for watching and thank you for your heart warming comments.
I like to film my videos exactly as the story unfolds infront of me, without much thought to the finished result. I found the whole process (especially with the launch video) to be very natural. As I was editing the video together over a period of 5 or 6 days, it just seemed to flow unhindered, the various pieces of video (over 300) simply falling together . An unusual experience that I've usually only encountered with my photography and writing and one I hope to experience more often with my future videos.
With regards the length, I had wondered if a 30 minute video would be too long. But then I thought that if I was looking for narrowboat related videos, I'd want something to get my teeth into. Besides, I'm a firm believer that you should please yourself first. If you enjoy your own work, chances are others will as well?
Cheers,
That was one of the nicest 30:20 seconds I have spent in a long, long time. I'm loving the sound of that engine too just soooooooooooo relaxing. 10/10 for a job well done.
Great to hear thank you. P.S. Love your thumbnail. All of the Black Adder series are one of my favourite comedies.
Hi ppppp
@@CountryHouseGent pleappas
Your boat is fantastic. I once owned and lived the life but did not do enough research before buying and it was the wrong boat for what I needed. Make sure you do the research before buying is my advice to anyone thinking of starting on this was of life. All said though it was great and I enjoyed the 3 years I lived on the canals, I am also so glad I had my dog with me and she enjoyed it to. RIP Jade. Miss you!!
I remember watching this volg back in the day Kevin.
You made a wise choice of boat.
Just shows you how far you've come
today you have a drone you can fly.
Keep safe and dry and virus free.
Fantastic!!!
Love all ya vlogs from that day
❤️❤️
Keep on going 👍👍
Brilliant vlog. We felt your emotions, and we were a little jealous too. 👍
+Sally Newton :) Cheers.
I have always enjoyed British TV and not until seeing your series on NARROWBOATS, I never knew about Narrowboat cruising and the canal network! Thanking you.
A pleasure and thank you for watching. ☺
You can literally feel the weight being lifted off your soul as you got underway. VERY COOL
Very true Johnny, the relief from the previous 6 months of stress was very real. 🙂
When you said "I'm going to enjoy this moment" said you did it. Just watching all your videos again.
MAN is that ever super scenery, what an enjoyable time!
+Greg Wade Cheers. Yes, the countryside looks different from the canal, compared to from a road for some reason.
Bet is because of the slower pace and being able to really get a GOOD look at things as they slowly drift past. What a GREAT way to spend time. Think about things, life and reflect on past present and future. Or just enjoy a nice cup of tea and watch the world go ZOOMING by
What a fab engine room and engine itself, its a treasure and as some would say, rare as hen's teeth. Brilliant mate!
+Kev Fletcher Cheers Kev. The standard of workmanship and attention to detail is something I still love looking at every morning. The rarity of the engine can have its worrying moments, as I show in my latest video. :(
I have just watched the video from last night....wow! I am pleased there are still peeps out there with the skill sets to get things fixed even if you had to moor up for the week it was worth the wait I hope.
Thank you so much for sharing your narrow boat adventures we us, we do appreciate it.. we enjoyed your later vlog so much, we decided to start at the beings,so once again thank Julie and James🙏✝️🕊🙏🇨🇦
Fabulous, thank you James. It's incredible just how much content I've created over the years for RUclips alone.
You are one very lucky guy. Enjoy your very lovely (understatement) boat.
Thank you Jim
Tunnels aren't the best don't worry, and I think your description of being privileged hits the nail on the head!
Going back through the tunnel, it felt much better than the first time. Yep, it's a definite privilege.
Wonderful classic boat, love the sound of a two cylinder diesel!
Congratulations! Must've been nerve wracking, all those firsts - first tunnel, first turn, first voyage, first cup of tea whilst cruising(A+ multitasking). …and that bottleneck! Done and dusted nicely. Looking forward to more videos.
Thank you. Yes, looking back, there were a few unexpected obstacles along the way. :)
Congratulations. liek you say. it is only a word, But i too have lived my dream before and to gain what your goal was in the beginning... You just said it... "Priceless."
+Kip's Journey Thank you. Yes, it is a momentous moment when you arrive at the point you've thought about and planned for so long. It does take a bit of getting used to though, a long period of adjustment?
I love the sound of that wonderful old motor. What a lovely soundtrack to your vlogs.
I also love the huge pleasure that you are getting from Aslan. I shall take a lot of pleasure recalling happy times I had on the canals in my youth.
+Andy Ball Good to hear Andy. By now, with a good few journeys and videos under my belt, I hope I'm bringing back some wonderful memories? Cheers,
Hello..we were on that stretch last week...you are right..it is mesmerising just chugging along and watching the world go by
+Andrew Burr :)
In my opinion, you are absolutely living the dream. Hope it all goes well for you. Really enjoy your films and look forward to many more. All the best.
+lastbuilders That's very kind of you. Yes it took some effort but worth every minute.
great to see a narrow boat chugging along the water.so peaceful and relaxing and beautiful to just moor up in the heart of the countryside. well may you enjoy it forever.
Many thanks. Yes, I hope to savour every moment.
What a lovely peaceful way of life even the engine chugging away lazily. Fantastic. I’m off now for a cup o tea.
+derek wilkinson Tea, the drink that built an empire, or something like that.
Well that was an awesome great launch and maiden voyage and too boot your no longer a virgin to tunnels lol, safe travels and looking forward to many more adventures ✌️😎👌
Cheers George. Yes, when I came back through the second time, I did wonder what all the fuss was about. :)
Aslan has so much character. I've seen ultra modern narrowboats with all the amenities yet your boat is still a beauty.
I really enjoyed your voyage. Thanks.
Thanks indeed and really pleased you enjoyed the videos.
When life gives you lemons, buy a narrowboat 😉
Thanx for the journey; truly awesome x
Lol, quite true. :D Cheers.
Hi there, CountryHouseGent and welcome to the world of canal cruising. I lived and worked on a narrow boat in the Birmingham area for 7 years and thoroughly enjoyed every minute cruising around the Midlands, when not stuck at work of course. Every day cruising was so different in the changing scenery and wildlife that it did not matter what the weather was like, snow, rain, wind, fog or glorious sun shine it was still a pleasure to move about as you please, moor up where you like (usually near a pub) and just enjoy. Sadly I had to sell up due to bad knees and now live in a house after having two knee replacements. This has curtailed any future boating activities unfortunately plus the fact I`m over 70 but I do miss the boat. All I can say is old son, get out there and Enjoy with a capital E, you have 2500 miles of canal to play on.
+aliasdeputydog Thank you for sharing your story. Yes, I hope to explore every corner on offer. :)
Don`t forget to get yourself a set of Nicholson`s Guides, very useful for finding the evening watering holes. Very good video`s you have made by the way and your`s is only the second boat I have seen with the B2 engine, the other was mounted in a 72ft 6" old and refurbished working boat that belonged to FMC and converted into a live a board. Bon Voyage Captain.
+aliasdeputydog Cheers but I (rather sadly) bought a full set second hand about 3 months before buying the boat. Made the wait even more excruciating, seeing all the fab places I could visit, one day.
I would very much like to see another B2 and have a chat with the owner at some point if ever our paths cross.
Fantastic
Enjoyed watching your vlog, beautiful countryside, great looking boat and interesting to watch. The start of a new adventure!
Good to hear you enjoyed the video. I quite agree, I think I've found the new 'love' of my life. :)
Wonderful video of a tranquil lifestyle on the waters. I felt all your feelings in preparation etc but I did it with a VW campervan journey around the world in which I travelled the continents of North and South America and Europe for nearly three years only to find my van stolen in Seville, Spain. The devastation of that experience was intense and it changed my life of total freedom completely and brought me back to normality of life. Nevertheless that journey was one of the most spectacular experiences of my life. Enjoy your journey on the canals.
Wow, what an incredible journey. The things you must have seen? And I can completely appreciate and sympathise with you over the theft of your van. Your entire life would have been tied up in the camper and then someone comes along and takes it. :(
After me and my wife met you on the Shropshire I watched your maiden voyage again and you look so happy made up your enjoying your new life .Its kevin and Marie Be Lucky
+Kev Rob Gooday Kev. That's a really moving tale. Yes, I'm totally made up. Cheers Kev.
Hi.
Love the videos.
We're currently on season 5.
Watching these are my pause for tranquility.
(seems over the top I know but I've been home schooling for, what seems like, an eternity.)
Cheers CHG.
Happy travels.
Be happy!🙂
I live on the Columbia River, well, beside the river, in Washington State, not on it as You are enjoying life on Your boat. It is fascinating to watch the life You have chosen.
I am impressed with the quietness and the serenity of the passage. The knock-knock of Your engine is truly hypnotizing.
Looking forward to being mesmerized on Your next outing. Would truly be honored to join You for tea and cheese toast.
+Paul Smith That's grand. Pleased you enjoyed the video. :)
So chuffed it all come together for you CHG,im a landlubber but have loved canal strolls on aire n calder @Stanley and envy your lifestyle,you look so chilled man,love your relaxed filming style,will check out more vids as soon as,gods speed CHG👍👍👍
Thank you for this, it was very relaxing. Cheers from Sweden
+Thomas Harnesk Cheers. Yes, narrow boats are very good therapy.
Absolutely brilliant, who needs TV when you have wonderful videos like yours; I’m hooked! All the best!
When that engine fired up a smile to my face bet you were excited the first sail on your boat and what a trip and excellent video looking for to the rest of them although I've watched some all ready I'm starting from the beginner as hope next year I'll be bing my canal boat ☺👍
Did you buy a boat?
Excellent vlog. I am very envious of your life on the cut
+George Blankinship Hello George and thanks for watching. :)
Fantastic getting to this time in your life relaxing a moment after a successful first launch.
Well done.. mate good job 🇦🇺🍺
Love coming back and re-watching your first few videos, I do miss Aslan and you Kevin.
Congratulations on finally hitting the cut, great video (been waiting with bated breath for your maiden voyage). Your open and honest style make you vlogs a pleasure to watch - stay safe and happy trails.
+The Canucklehead Thank you, your comment has made my day. :)
Best wishes to you in your journeys on the canals, and thank you for taking us along with you.
A pleasure Andrew and you're very welcome. :)
Lovely boat. Good luck on your journeys 👍🏼
Fantastic I almost shed a tear , beautiful moments. Xxx
+Milly Rose Thanks Milly. :)
You seem much much more happy than in the camper van, those were pretty hard times. Good to see you happy! Awesome video and funny morning exercise. :D
Cheers. Yes, if I'd had to stay in the van longer than necessary, I'd problem have gone utterly mad !! :)
A great video and a smashing boat. Well done and congratulations 👍
+09Ed64 That's brilliant thank you. Much appreciated.
Oh lovely man. This is the only film I've seen of you and your journey. So fab to watch you on your maiden voyage. And as for the end bit when you were filling up - well so did I too as well. Beautiful locations and a quiet narration. Thank you xxx
+twiggers23 Ah, massive thanks for watching and for your comments. It's been a huge suprise and a reward for me to hear of how so many have enjoyed my first trip on the water. At the very end, as I said about "all the things I'd had to do", I suffered a total recall of all the things I'd had to do. It wasn't pretty, though real men don't cry ;) :D
Oh CountryHouseGent - Genuine people with integrity boo at all sorts of things. Caught my beloved shedding a tear at Bagpuss the other day. (I bought him the DVD lol) Runner beans make me cry cos my beloved but departed Dad used to post me a parcel or two of his homegrown produce every year. Don't think emotion is a weakness. It shows passion, feeling and truth. Off to watch your film again. Take care nice bloke xxxx
+twiggers23 Thank you for your wonderful comments. I can definitely understand your partner having a blub over Bagpuss. A classic that brings back all the memories of an innocent age. :)
Congratulations on your very first journey. I am enjoying myself as much as you are. Liked your thoughts on the tunnel.
It reminds me of H. Bougart and the “African Queen “. How awesome is that. Keep Calm and Carry On! Good Luck.
Many thanks to you. ☺
Fabulous to see you have achieved your dream, sending you my best wishes and looking forward to your next post.
Thank you Jodi. Pleased you enjoyed the video and I'm eager to begin on my next video. :)
Nice to see it all coming together for you at last. It's been a rocky road but I'm it will be all plane boating for you from now on.
There's nothing more inspiring than watching someone taking full advantage of the free entertainment that nature does provide.
Good luck mate and hope to catch up for a cupper really soon with you. My house completes this month so hopefully???😉see you on the cut soon.
Cuppa tea, that's grand !! :) Yep, if you see me about, I'll put kettle on.
3:50 that start-up routine is worth all the money you paid for the boat.
The stove in the boatman's cabin is a fantastic feature ; the engine-room
is another.
You have a very enviable, solid little craft.
7:20 listen to that engine ! A big slow revving twin - marvellous.
nice maiden voyage. well done, and I got to say that you look so happy and just plain relived..
Cheers. Was it that obvious? :) It was a huge relief.
You and all of narrowboaters live a dream life, very cool.
+Fire Fly Cheers and we are eternally grateful.
Really enjoyed your video. Thanks from Canada.
+William Shiels Cheers for watching, William.
Beautiful!!! Catch you along the cut
Thank you. Yes, if passing, give us a shout.
Congrats! Our very first ride in our narrow boat and it was all I dreamed it would be. What? You say it's not my boat. Sorry, I got lost in my dreams there for a while. That was a long, spookey tunnel. You did a fantastic job on your boat and I hope it lasts a very long while. I love the views so keep on vlogging and most importantly keep on having fun.
+Patricia Bowman Thanks Patricia. I don't mind if you want to take the boat for another trip in your next dream, as long as you bring her back. :)
These are very raw, honest, authentic, and inspiring videos. Thank you for sharing these moments of your life with us. You really are a gentleman.
+galacticious Aw, ta. :)
I really envy you.
I have spent many enjoyable holidays on narrow boats, and have considered selling up and doing what you are planning. I have no reason not to, I just need that push to get my mind in gear. Maybe one day........
Congratulations, as you rightly said its something should do once in a lifetime, I was lucky to experience it in the 70's a mate of mine had a converted working boat he lived on at Rickmansworth, and we did quite a few trips, including one up the tidal Thames from Limehouse to Brentford. Amazing times.EnjoyJohnny in Oz.
Love your boat, and that engine ,I'd be wanting to polish it every day, and show it to the world
+Andy M :) Yep, quite agree. I plan an intensive polishing session not long after I get back to the boat.
She's a BEAUTY, and i love the lope of that engine!!!! SWEET 😂
Thank you so much Johnny, many do say the sound is very relaxing, hypnotic even.
Fab video!You managed that tunnel like a pro. I'm So pleased for you, you look really happy whilst You are on board. You're living the Dream & that's a fact. Look forward to the next one.
Very kind of you to say and really pleased you enjoyed the video. Yes, I have it to be very therapeutic. :)
Thoroughly enjoyed your clips. I live in South Africa and a number of years back we visited your fine Country and toured the Oxford canals by longboat and what an experiece that was. Watching your clips just brought all that back to me. Can't wait for the next clips. Oh we have also done trips on the French canals and although it was also most pleasant, the longboats just add some different element to the experience! Regards Herman Breedt
+Herman B Thank you and great to hear about your canal journeys. I've heard the Oxford canal has spectacular scenery.
Well done Day One. Helps me shed my winter.
+Mike Dudley Thank you Mike.
This is the first of your videos that I have seen. I so much enjoyed sharing your maiden voyage. Thank you for that. I would love to have seen some footage of the inside of the boat. That would have been awesome. Maybe next time.
+Tom Noonan Hello Tom and thank you for watching. Pleased you enjoyed the video. Please check out my previous video, where you will find a full and comprehensive tour of the boat. Enjoy :)
Glad all went ok. Boat sounds and looking great!
+Dan on the cut Thank you Dan. Looking forward to more fun times soon.
Just watched this again for the first time... So much has transpired since this first cruise (Now being June 14, 2022). The joy shone through.
Thank you Sven. Very true and incredible to think that was 5 years ago. Quite "amazing". 🙂
she is a really fantastic boat, great vlog, keep them coming.
Many thanks Paul and will do.
Congrats on the maiden voyage.
You hit on the Narrowboat Life right off- _Find a nice spot, moor up, have a cup of tea_
looks like a lot of fun and work. enjoy your new adventure in what seems be a very pleasant setting.
+Colin Blankenship Thank you ,that's very kind. :)
Enjoyed your journey...as I am sure you did! Looking forward to more videos.
+Luann Crownover Thank you and pleased to hear you enjoyed my little jaunt. Yes, it was rather good fun and still hasn't quite sunk in. :)
Oh I bet that was the BEST cuppa for years. I'm so jealous. Happy cruising and all the best.
+MrJimbaloid Thanks indeed. Yes, strangely, tea tastes best on a boat. :)
Now David at Cruising the Cut has decided to sell his boat I have decided to go back to the very start of your channel and watch it. Cheers from March 2022 and Australia. Love the boat with the engine and well thought out and installed electrics and your upgrades.
Seems so long ago now Daff
I think it is an excellent choice off engine you have picked it will last you a lifetime if you look affter it I am planning on doing the same and would love that Engine in my boat loved the video keep up the good work. Derek 👍
Many thanks. Yes, the engine was what did it for me and I feel she has found an attentive and willing guardian, to take care of her every whim. :)
Really nice video, best of luck on your future journeys on the water, most of all enjoy the privilege of being able to travel around to some of the most scenic vista's in and around the UK's waterway networks.
Thank you Sir and I cant wait to get back to the boat and start my canal journeys properly.
Just wanted to say how inspiring this video, and your maiden voyage, have been. I've been toying with the idea of moving on to the canals, on and off, for over a decade now. Time to stop hoping and dreaming and to take the plunge!
Yes go for it. It only takes the one push to get the ball rolling and everything that follows will happen organically, man. ☺
Nice boat, and what an engine!
Thanks indeed Jason ☺
I thoroughly enjoyed watching your videos. Aslan is an impressive boat with wonderful character. Your footage and commentary does an excellent job conveying what it's like to traverse the canals. I wish you the very best and thank you for sharing your experiences.
+Peter Richardson Thank you Peter for your fabulous comments. It's uplifting to hear how people have enjoyed the videos and only drives me to make the next one better still (I hope?)
Well done I really enjoyed your vblog, very inspirational.
+mranschutz That's always good to hear, thank you.
YEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!! After watching the video some bit, that sound, I've heard that sound before...... I was raised on a farm in Goliad county, Texas, my Dad bought an old John Deere two cylinder tractor that had a huge flywheel on the side of it. My Dad called it the Poppin Johnny, It was a two cylinder diesel engine, that sounded just like your engine does. Tonnes of torque and quite soothing....Very good video.... Cheers and as always God bless
I know exactly what you mean. Tractors, dumper trucks. I think these engines were used to power water pumps and saw mills as well. A true workhorse.
Very much appreciated this video. Am so glad and proud for you, in this your first cruise in Aslan. The profundity of feelings cannot be communicated, and maybe that's a good thing. It makes them all the more precious. Thank you for bringing us along.
Thank you Grace, you're very welcome.
Hi Kevin... just wanted to let you know that we have finally bought a trad working boat with boatmans cabin and RN classic engine!!! You vlogs have been a massive guidance for us when looking for our boat!!!! Pending lockdown we are meeting her in March/April to start her journey down the canals!! Stay safe. Lynette xx