@@novajaneguevarra3073 Hi, Never been to the Philippines been to many places, should of been there in late 2019 but for covid, maybe late 2022 but time is running out as i'm getting a bit passed it. I'm a 1941 model:-)
I loved his british eloquence. This lad is clearly enjoying his time on this "bit of an adventure" he made for himself. I loved when he said that rainy and windy days are as sweet as sunny and shiny days. That is the true core of a life well lived, enjoying every aspect of it.
@@ohwell2790 Made, I used to have my own company in marketing. It run very well, I got every month atleast 4 grand out of it for myself. Usually a bit more. Now I am backpacking the world since good two years. And in the past two years I made and spend like 5k. I have never been happier before. Sure, I used to say the same thing as you did. And I was so sure of it. But if you would ask me now I only can say: Money helps being happy. But you dont need it to be. Btw; I started with 5 euros in my pockets back then. And now I am picking up my first and own boat tomorrow.
Greetings from a van lifer (3 yrs full time this May 1) in Hollywood! I would so love to try long boating in the UK now after watching this vid! As a woman in Los Angeles, we don’t have the same community given the more dangerous environment, but I think it would be so lovely 👍
this was going to be our dream after an early retirement . we where going to design and build our own boat and move onto the canals . a serious work accident 24 years ago put a complete stop to that . i cannot even get on a boat any more . had to sell my sea boat and all my bikes . its great to watch others living the dream instead . not bitter at all . its what it is . life throws stuff at you over your life . your life is wonderful . i wish you well .!
My parents bought a narrow boat in the early 80s following a 2 week boat holiday. We actually bought the boat from the hire company that provided our first holiday boat. To this day I still feel they were the best, most happy and interesting family holidays we ever had. My dad was an ex Marine and loved anything to do with boats and he took us on a lot of character building adventures. Now, more than 30yrs later I'm thinking of either selling my house, or monetising it in some other way to fund my own single handed return to canal life.
Go for it! I felt the same way after been on a narrow boat for the first time last month. For the first time I felt like I was living in the UK after living here for over 2 decades. And I’m a Caribbean girl. My sister and I have already booked another week in August and we can’t wait.
Great documentary, he is very articulate and whole program was well focused, crystal clear and very lucid. He gave all the information without boaring for a moment. Well Done!!!!
readu100 He did say that he had worked as a TV news reporter for 9 years. maybe that experience has something to do with it... That and the fact that anyone with an English accent seems to sound much more astute and impressive to someone who's not British
I like your no-nonsense, down-to-earth, informative, questioning, enjoyable and addictive short films on the semi-hidden world of the British canal system. I particularly like your opinions on the boat, equipment, canals, marinas, maintenance, etc. The list is not exhaustive. Please keep up the information and I look forward to watching more.
Hey! It's David from Cruising the Cut! Aww. He's such a lovely gentleman. His RUclips channel has entertained me for hours. How nice to see him being interviewed for once🙂.
I've been following David's narrowboat life since he first got his boat, and as usual, he has delivered here a fine glimpse into this lovely way of life. I highly recommend following his RUclips channel, as it's always a pleasure to find another episode uploaded. I look forward to every one, and I'm never disappointed. As usual, well done, David! :)
Interesting to come across this almost four years later, having watched dozens of Cruising The Cut videos, and to see how contented David still seems with it all.
agreed , however i have started to come a little bit ... bored with davids channel. I came across ' foxes afloat ' and learn so much from their vlogs. I wish david could do more content like they do, and explain the history etc of things he may see
@@Cocoloving I can understand. David's channel is a good unwind, especially when he has the bow camera on for an uninterrupted cruise-along. At full-screen, it's a very restful watch.
@@Cocoloving I like the Foxes as well, but David if quite a different person than Colin, Shaun and not forgetting Otis. David really does limit how much of his life he gives out on screen, whereas the foxes aren't exactly backwards in letting it all hang out. As to the history/information side I think David provides more facts, though without as much "colour' as Colin, which I think comes from his journalistic background where he keeps down the speculating and opinion side. A awful lot of what 'history' Colin gives aren't necessarily from strict historical research but from local stories that arose around the various canal communities you would expect to be 'enhanced' to a certain degree over a hundred to 2 hundred years. i personally think David also is far better at explaining the day to day logistics of canal life than the Foxes do. I think David really has had quite an impact in the wider canal community around Britain as he seems to be getting some quite high level interviews and inside looks at the whole current infrastructure and future developments.
This sounds so much like those of us who are full time RVers in the US! We have been enjoying the full time rv life for the last 10 years and will continue for as long as possible.
the ones i really admire are the vandwellers with vans and minivans home-built into campers and the ones who convert truck caps into small homes. Very interesting lifestyle but almost all of them will say regardless of the circumstances that led to them living in vehicles they don't want to go back to a fixed house or apartment. I've met quite a few passing in detroit and they all tell me they aren't homeless they are houseless by choice.
Truly one of the most amazing videos i have ever seen! The thought that you could be at one place on one particular day - and then in a few days you could be hundreds of miles away whilst never having left home seriously messes with my brain patterns!
Also, no packing or un-packing, jet lag, airports, customs, waiting in line forever, food that you hate and costs a fortune, getting hijacked or worse, shot down, etc, etc.
Keep an eye on your hull if it's steel. Spray foam insulation has a tendency to absorb moisture from condensation on the hull over the years, it rots the hull from the inside out. I have demolished many boats over the years in my job and we had a lot of boats that looked great on the outside but as soon as we started chipping the spray foam off inside, the hull underneath was all flaking rust. I would never spray foam my steel hull. I would just use Styrofoam sheets cut to fit between the stringers that can be removed if need be. That's just my opinion for what it's worth. Nice boat!
I support all boater RUclipsrs too! My husband and I live on a power boat in the Chesapeake Bay, but we support ourselves with our mobile mechanic business. We’d like to do a marine repair channel on RUclips but I keep telling my husband that we are both just way too boring and non-photogenic! Lol. BUT.... if you know anyone needing repairs in the Chesapeake Bay Area.... it’s J.I. Mobile Repair Service. We are on Facebook. Check us out.
A very well presented video David if I may say. My wife, I, two cats and a dog lived on our narrow boat based at the Hyde near Kinver on the Staffs and Worcs Canal in the early nineties and I would endorse all your comments. We came from a large house onto a sixty-two foot traditionally styled boat and we all loved every minute of it. At the time I had left a successful garage business in south east Kent and moved to the West Midlands to manage a narrow boat hire fleet and I ended up building and fitting out new narrow boats for ten years we spent three delightful years on the boat living and cruising the Midlands canal network and I would highly recommend the experience.
We took several long boat trips, each long enough to experience that sense of community. The spirit of helping each other was very strong. We rented a very large boat because we had family visiting. I'd been recently separated so my parents and son were on board. I was "driving" as I'd done it before and it was something I really enjoyed. It was winter, the rain was barreling down and knowing my fam was below decks, warm and dry, I was up top steering and singing to the top of my lungs. It was glorious.
"rainy and windy days are as sweet as sunny and shiny days" - I loved that line, as well. It is what you make it.......and you seem to be doing a fine job of making it good. I envy you greatly - I hope you continue to enjoy.
The best years of my life were when I bought a sailboat and ended up living on it for 3 years until I got a bigger boat and lived on it for another 6 years. Best times of my life!
I have lived on a 34 foot sailing yacht for about 20 years and before that on another yacht and I love it. Mostly for the mariner community and having a sense of freedom to move my home wherever I want. Anchoring in the middle of a lake or a small island to stay there as long as I want to, just you and the rest of nature, I love it...
After 30 years of a govt job, I had a mid life crisis (age 47) and came home after a holiday abroad, quit my job, rented out our house and moved to Sumatra. That was 5 years ago. Absolutely the only thing we miss is family friends back home, like Dave we realised the stuff you carry about for years, is just stuff..we don't even think about it or miss it. We have decided to move back home to Australia to be close to ageing parents, later in the year, maybe for few years and live in either an RV, houseboat or live aboard yacht. There's a different style of boat in Oz, and cold will not be an issue. I worry about tropical cyclones and storm events, and possibly the cost of mooring and fuel, but I think it's achievable for our budget. I dream of boats and fishing :)
David, I don't know how I missed this 'introductory episode'. I have delighted in your journey, challenges and your entertaining commentary. I have been following your adventure going on three years now from Minneapolis, Minnesota in the summer and Bogo, Cebu, Philippines in the winter. Guess Why. I several of the other boats as well. It is a genuine pleasure traveling with you all. Enjoy the Dream Sincerely, Jim McLean
Well that explains it...your former professional life explains why your videos have that professional look to them. Good luck and I hope you keep making more videos...they are worth a look.
David, I do admire your boat and your life. I can identify with you a lot. I am a 47 year old self employed architect and although I have a job that most people would love to have, I have felt the dullness of a mid-life crises seeping in. I often day dream about doing something similar to what you are doiing. I have filled sketch books with boat designs. Thanks for the inspiration!
Scott Stafford Why not hire one and see what your instincts tell you? Only live once. It's presumptuous and optimistic that you'll live into your 80's or 90's :D Sorry but it is :D Why not ask yourself why you won't do it, and ask why you will, and see how many reasons for and against that you have. And see if there's a safety net if it doesn't work out? Maybe rent out your house for a year, and sell the boat if it's not for you. That way you earn from the rent, and only lose a small amount from the sale. Can't lose if you can go back to work.
It’s not really tiny. Plus wherever you moor it is an extension of it anyway, thats one thing I find extremely appealing about this kind of lifestyle. Love it! 👍
I watched your first season and I was so much more stressed when I started than when I finished! I am happy you found the joy in not going to work and doing what YOU love! ❤️from California!!
I realise this is not the life for me, but I love this video. his laid back style made watching a pleasure, and his honesty was refreshing. Good luck for the future.
I love these long boats. They seem to have so much character and rich history. You seem quite happy with your decision to make this change. Congratulations. I would love to be in your shoes. Living aboard a boat has always been a dream of mine.
This guy is about one of the most eloquent speakers I have ever heard. Everything he says sounds so much more polished and fascinating than when us Americans speak lol.
I live in India...and I'd like to tell you that I relished your video very very much.first your clear soothing English English accent was gorgeous.second your boat was a dream and you are a very clean and organised man.third the whole boat experience that you described the pros and cons basically touched on everything,loved it.lastly the views that you showed us the coziness of the whole ambience was marvelous.thanks a ton...shall see this video whenever I am low:)
CruisingTheCut Have to say , I know exactly what they mean, and I'm English (whatever that means) Your delivery and tone just matches what your doing and explaining sooo well ! its almost like a really good signature tune to a favourite old sitcom (the good life etc) when you hear it your instantly transported to a safe and cozy place :) Not sure if I could give a better complement than that, hmmmm , other than including the word inspirational which I suppose you are but again more in your style than inspired by what your actually doing ;) Joyful journeying to you x
Thank you. I kept thinking of Ratty in, "The Wind in the Willows." 'Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing - absolutely nothing - half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.'
I love that book!!!!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍🐾🐾🐾🐭🐭🐭🐭🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀🏞🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵🛶🛶🛶🛶🛶🛶⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵🛶🛶🛶🛶🛥⛴🛳🚤🛶🛶🛶🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓
@ emely boltz Sure it looks nice in the summer when the sun is shining, but the weather sucks 3/4 of the year, and i'm sure it's hard to keep such a boat warm in the winter, and then the hassle to empty your toilet every few days, and fill up the watertank, go shopping, and you don't see al that in this video. I lived in a large carvan for a year, and i was glad i got a home, because it was a large caravan with a seperate bedroom and bathroom, but still to cramped to live in all year round.
3DPeter Hi! You would be surprised, I've lived on a narrow boat for five years and keeping the boat warm is not hard at all. The shopping is no problem and the water and toilet tank is not a big hazard, the toilet takes about 2 - 10 minutes depending on the size and same for the water tank. So it's not a big issue. The worst problem overall is coal, and that's not that expensive. :-).
I’ve been bed bound for weeks with some foul disease, at times deeply depressed & fed up with it all... “oh woe is me” & that sort of self pitying nonsense, but this short film really perked me up. No, I wouldn’t want to live on a narrow boat full time. Perhaps have a go on one for a holiday, but I cant wait to go for a walk along a canal, even a gentle hobble. PS I enjoyed this so much I even watched the adverts, despite the fact one of them was trying to flog me a funeral plan😩
Although lacking any direct experience, I've always suspected that "house-boaters" would create a true community. I'm so glad that's exactly what you found.
Yep, before the railways and roads, the canals were the life-force of the country. Coal, cheese (lots of cheese, I dont know why), foreign foods, gypsies, alcohol, etc Almost every city and market town in the uk has a canal system or river
All the pottery from Stoke etc, i worked near the grand union canal what a great bunch of happy people enjoying their barges, taking their time just wending their way through time and the countryside around Leighton Buzzard where i luckily met these happy people. You can only stay on certain stretches for two weeks but it doesn't get any worse whichever way you take.
Sounds like heaven. We talked to people who were living on their canal boat, crossing the Llangollen aqueduct, with four westies aboard. Have you thought of getting a dog for a companion?
What a pleasure to watch. Thanks for a well rounded, realistic view of something I've dreamed about doing. Won't happen for me, but jolly fun to see you doing it. Best wishes from San Diego, CA.
Why would 1600 people dislike this video? A great, informative video of the life on a narrow boat. Think I'm ready too, sell the house & get so nice water baring neighbours!
I rather enjoyed your video. Being from the states, I have always wondered what it would be like to live aboard a narrow boat. I can imagine the quietness and serine beauty of an uncomplicated life. Jolly good fun. Cheers.
Getting on for nearly a million views. Hmm that's bad, everyone will find out that we boaters are cheating the system. I moved onto a widebeam (10' wide) last summer, and I smile like a cheshire cat every morning when I wake up, I am so blessed. I understand that I cant explore all the canals as I am too wide, but then, i have a full size kitchen...and a sofa! It is a great life.
Can you be up front, and tell us any downsides, if any. ( Apart from the obvious width restrictions). How much of the wide beam system is rivers? ie no locks. When you cruise, do you tend to cruise to keep on the move or do you cruise with purpose? If there are no designated mooring spaces and no restriction notices, can you just park up? Having moved from narrow to wide beam boats, I think you should be eminently qualified to have an objective opinion.
@@annydobon8106 Hi Ann, thanks for the note - I hadnt realised there was a reply so now I shall send some to my year old comments! Turns out I have been living in a cottage for a year now, do miss the river life tho.
This boat is well equipped, A dream, Some are so basic,Winter would be out off the question, And i like you "explaining" all this stuff, 20 minutes in and I'm still watching
I lived on a narrowboat for about 18 months. It was great, very warm even in the middle of winter, moored outside a different pub each night. The canal community is excellent, everyone helps each other. I only left it because I still had to get to work so couldn't take the boat more than a week or two travel from there.
A friend move to the jungle in Peru after working for many years in the city ! He is the most happy person in the world ! Life is just one let’s enjoy !
I converted a sprinter van and decided to move into it full time, also for an adventure, and it’s been just that. Now I spend time living in places that I could only dream about before
i have lived on a boat for nearly 2 years & love it & that includes the beast form the east. 99% off the rat race & have never looked back. Its not everyones cup of tea & just like this guy says I could have bought a motorhome & tour Europe but it would mean I would still need to come back to the rat race. Thought it through prior to buying the boat but its not one of those narrow boats, too compact for us. Now that I have taken the plunge, I could not return to normal house dwellings, and the best thing MORTGAGE FREE although i do pay for a mooring but easily manageable.
hey, man, i did the same thing 3 years ago, but in a motor home, no planning, bought the van, headed away for my first weekend, got back 10 months later from europe, not 1 regret, you just gotta have the right mind set... i enjoy going where i want, when i want, wouldnt suit everyone, but it does me... i'll keep on van lifing it, you keep boating, at least our worlds will be a better place...cheers Tim
I not long bought a Boat up from Surrey for a Guy In the Midlands. Last Summer and It was Great. It wasn't the first time I had done this that Is why I was chosen. It took me One Week. Everyone I met along the way were Great. The only thing Is the Fueling stations are few are far between. And If You turn up there to early In the Morning You have to wait till they Open. Always fill up In the day so You can get a Early start. The Locks on the Thames again are only Electric after 10 O'Clock. So If You arrive early You have to open them Manually Which can be tough. If You arrive at Flytes. Mid afternoon there will be Volunteers to help You through. And If a Boat load of Hurray's smash Into a Lock and Break the Collar (Door hangs Off) and You have a 9 Hour Wait for It to be Fixed. You could always pop Into Debbie McGee's House for Dinner like I did. Lovely Lady thanks Deb. Happy Boating might see You a Canal somewhere say HI.
So nice to see you living a dream. Northern Michigan here. I bought an RV and I’m living in my sisters driveway in Lake Lanier Ga. For the winter. Have a Jin and tonic for me!
That sounds lovely. I only just discovered this today, but I'm all about alternative lifestyles Now I just need to find out if a US merchant sailor can move to and live in the UK canals lol
Thank you for the fun tour aboard your narrow boat. We use 180 gallons of water every 3-4 weeks. We are a family of four aboard our 43 ft sailboat full time.
Really interesting and well put together . I was riveted from the start . 134 thumbs down ? how could you not enjoy this ? . Fair enough dont watch if it is not your thing , however marking work down when the quality of production is beyond question is beyond me .
I've started watching this guy's videos on his you tube channel and I'm hooked. I'm currently on his 64th video with over a hundred to go. Perfect lockdown viewing to relieve stress.
Well said. The choice of cool things to do is overwhelming, so much so here I am sat in my pants doing nothing. It would be easier if you had fewer options!
Yuarian Smith -- Do you really think that they would share that secret with anyone other than the elite? They would allow the rest of humanity to toll away as mortal drones while they live as immortal gods setting the agenda for mankind....forever!
Very interesting! Love the friendly, like joining a club, community aspect. Also, the coziness with the multi-stove, at night during winter, reading a book, watching movies, etc., seems so relaxing, peaceful and enjoyable!
Respect to this man for caring for his elderley parents.
Do you have any info on where we can rent a boat for the summer? We have done this several times in France but would love to explore English canals.
June, 2021, and Mr. Johns is still living happily aboard his narrowboat. More power to him!
Awesome watching from PHILIPPINES
Sure I saw him around Llangollen canal really recently, or maybe just before, near Coventry?
@@novajaneguevarra3073 Hi, Never been to the Philippines been to many places, should of been there in late 2019 but for covid, maybe late 2022 but time is running out as i'm getting a bit passed it. I'm a 1941 model:-)
@@oldhippie81 Enjoyed your journey & introduction to narrow boat life. Continuous happiness, be well & safe in all your days.
Saw the video today and asked myself if he is still living on the boat...
I loved his british eloquence. This lad is clearly enjoying his time on this "bit of an adventure" he made for himself. I loved when he said that rainy and windy days are as sweet as sunny and shiny days. That is the true core of a life well lived, enjoying every aspect of it.
I agree ,. Not having to hear um um um um ah ah ah ... drives me nuts ... i click off ... this guy sounds wonderful
It was a joy in hearing someone not starting a sentence with 'so'....👍
want to have a cup of tea with this dude so bad
David is living the life most people talk and dream about
Hardly!
He’s really well spoken and articulate. I bet he’d do well as a TV reporter.
That WAS his former job, lol.
@@heru-deshet359 whooosh.... that was the point, flying over your head :D
There was not an iota of sarcasm in your original comment. So what would you expect one to assume? @@Dedubya-
I agree with you very nice want to make money 💵
😂😂😂
That’s how you measure true success; happiness and not by monetary means, well done David you’ve found the key.
Money won't buy ya happiness, but it WILL buy you a neat little rig in which to go seeking some! - like maybe a canal boat, for instance...8-)
True. True. But money can buy you a boat to be happy on.
House boats are not cheap 60K plus. Insurance, registration, taxes,up keep. It is not cheap
@@obiwanfisher537 Having money is happiness just poor people tell you different.
@@ohwell2790 Made, I used to have my own company in marketing. It run very well, I got every month atleast 4 grand out of it for myself. Usually a bit more.
Now I am backpacking the world since good two years. And in the past two years I made and spend like 5k.
I have never been happier before. Sure, I used to say the same thing as you did. And I was so sure of it. But if you would ask me now I only can say: Money helps being happy. But you dont need it to be.
Btw; I started with 5 euros in my pockets back then. And now I am picking up my first and own boat tomorrow.
How refreshing to see a video produced by a pro. Interesting, no padding, well edited, no interminable intro, erudite commentary. Excellent job :-)
It would be a service to all if he made a video about how to make a video without babbling for 2-3 minutes before you start.
***agreed***
I would love to travel europe but im pretty sure im wanted in London 😂
Greetings from a van lifer (3 yrs full time this May 1) in Hollywood! I would so love to try long boating in the UK now after watching this vid! As a woman in Los Angeles, we don’t have the same community given the more dangerous environment, but I think it would be so lovely 👍
this was going to be our dream after an early retirement . we where going to design and build our own boat and move onto the canals . a serious work accident 24 years ago put a complete stop to that . i cannot even get on a boat any more . had to sell my sea boat and all my bikes . its great to watch others living the dream instead . not bitter at all . its what it is . life throws stuff at you over your life . your life is wonderful . i wish you well .!
I feel bad for ya:-(
Giving you some positive vibes brother. I hope you’re doing well.
Thank you for sharing your story and I will take inspiration from your spirit.
I'm quiet sure the 99,99% dreamers watching this, are not going to live in a boat either and still will have amazing lives
damn man. sorry to hear that. What happened if you don't mind me asking?
My blood pressure went way down merely watching this "Life Path" go on before my eyes. Love it!
My parents bought a narrow boat in the early 80s following a 2 week boat holiday. We actually bought the boat from the hire company that provided our first holiday boat. To this day I still feel they were the best, most happy and interesting family holidays we ever had. My dad was an ex Marine and loved anything to do with boats and he took us on a lot of character building adventures. Now, more than 30yrs later I'm thinking of either selling my house, or monetising it in some other way to fund my own single handed return to canal life.
Oliver Wood: Did you do it? I hope you did! I send well wishes to you . . . carry on!
I hope you do it!!!
Go for it! I felt the same way after been on a narrow boat for the first time last month. For the first time I felt like I was living in the UK after living here for over 2 decades. And I’m a Caribbean girl. My sister and I have already booked another week in August and we can’t wait.
Totally should. I've been dreaming of getting a boat and living on the bay near where I live now. Hurricanes be damned.
Great documentary, he is very articulate and whole program was well focused, crystal clear and very lucid. He gave all the information without boaring for a moment. Well Done!!!!
You are very articulate. You make a great TV presenter.
Thank you.
readu100
readu100 He did say that he had worked as a TV news reporter for 9 years. maybe that experience has something to do with it... That and the fact that anyone with an English accent seems to sound much more astute and impressive to someone who's not British
Yep. Agreed.
can I come on your boat?
This guy has quit as a TV frontman, but he narrates here as if he is reading the news - a beautiful voice.
:-)
Canals and there boats are full of predators.
hes like reporting and its good to hear him talk
*she
Deplorable D yes , absolutely
I like your no-nonsense, down-to-earth, informative, questioning, enjoyable and addictive short films on the semi-hidden world of the British canal system. I particularly like your opinions on the boat, equipment, canals, marinas, maintenance, etc. The list is not exhaustive. Please keep up the information and I look forward to watching more.
Hey! It's David from Cruising the Cut! Aww. He's such a lovely gentleman. His RUclips channel has entertained me for hours. How nice to see him being interviewed for once🙂.
I've been following David's narrowboat life since he first got his boat, and as usual, he has delivered here a fine glimpse into this lovely way of life. I highly recommend following his RUclips channel, as it's always a pleasure to find another episode uploaded. I look forward to every one, and I'm never disappointed. As usual, well done, David! :)
Awwww, thank you :-)
He’s so cleancut, honest and intelligent, mature & wise. It’s refreshing.
4 years later, after watching your channel now and again for 2 years, I finally got back to your beginning.
You've done very well chap. Good on you
Interesting to come across this almost four years later, having watched dozens of Cruising The Cut videos, and to see how contented David still seems with it all.
agreed , however i have started to come a little bit ... bored with davids channel. I came across ' foxes afloat ' and learn so much from their vlogs. I wish david could do more content like they do, and explain the history etc of things he may see
@@Cocoloving I can understand. David's channel is a good unwind, especially when he has the bow camera on for an uninterrupted cruise-along. At full-screen, it's a very restful watch.
@@Cocoloving I like the Foxes as well, but David if quite a different person than Colin, Shaun and not forgetting Otis.
David really does limit how much of his life he gives out on screen, whereas the foxes aren't exactly backwards in letting it all hang out.
As to the history/information side I think David provides more facts, though without as much "colour' as Colin, which I think comes from his journalistic background where he keeps down the speculating and opinion side. A awful lot of what 'history' Colin gives aren't necessarily from strict historical research but from local stories that arose around the various canal communities you would expect to be 'enhanced' to a certain degree over a hundred to 2 hundred years. i personally think David also is far better at explaining the day to day logistics of canal life than the Foxes do.
I think David really has had quite an impact in the wider canal community around Britain as he seems to be getting some quite high level interviews and inside looks at the whole current infrastructure and future developments.
I can listen to him all day. What a joy!
aceoline Thank you!
Totally my thoughts. Such a lovely voice. And that diction. Oh my. They should teach this in schools. Love it.
Bravo to you!!! Love it! Shattered the stereotypical image of "success". THIS is success!!!
Very inspiring. Not only for the style of living but the way you think things through and face the challenges cool, calm and collected.
Thanks
Rang Klos
bro please can I also live with you bro
Cool, calm and collected. I love that
This sounds so much like those of us who are full time RVers in the US! We have been enjoying the full time rv life for the last 10 years and will continue for as long as possible.
the ones i really admire are the vandwellers with vans and minivans home-built into campers and the ones who convert truck caps into small homes. Very interesting lifestyle but almost all of them will say regardless of the circumstances that led to them living in vehicles they don't want to go back to a fixed house or apartment. I've met quite a few passing in detroit and they all tell me they aren't homeless they are houseless by choice.
He's got more space than you would unless you live in a Type A bus instead of a van, and those are pretty expensive.
I live in a converted van in Los Angeles, I would never go back to my 3 bedroom home xx 👍
🥰🫶🏽🙌🏽
@@irisgreene4175 rightly so.
Truly one of the most amazing videos i have ever seen!
The thought that you could be at one place on one particular day - and then in a few days you could be hundreds of miles away whilst never having left home seriously messes with my brain patterns!
Hundreds may be over-egging things at 3mph but I take your point :-) !!
Also, no packing or un-packing, jet lag, airports, customs, waiting in line forever, food that you hate and costs a fortune, getting hijacked or worse, shot down, etc, etc.
Keep an eye on your hull if it's steel. Spray foam insulation has a tendency to absorb moisture from condensation on the hull over the years, it rots the hull from the inside out. I have demolished many boats over the years in my job and we had a lot of boats that looked great on the outside but as soon as we started chipping the spray foam off inside, the hull underneath was all flaking rust. I would never spray foam my steel hull. I would just use Styrofoam sheets cut to fit between the stringers that can be removed if need be. That's just my opinion for what it's worth. Nice boat!
Meownold J. Trump steel rots now? 🤔 that’s a first.
@@bh8671 they call it rusting..
Low stress, no overbearing boss, surrounded by beauty, and a comfortable place to lay your head at night. I could do this.
E
From the Netherlands, thank you so much! I't s a eye opener,...What a beauty..
David
I am going to watch your ads a few more times to earn you some beers🍺🍺
I would never get bored of this lifestyle what an inspiration you are Sir
Come and watch the ads on my own channel and I'll get the money!! ;-)
@@CruisingTheCut I'm going there now! I just came across your channel.
I support all boater RUclipsrs too! My husband and I live on a power boat in the Chesapeake Bay, but we support ourselves with our mobile mechanic business. We’d like to do a marine repair channel on RUclips but I keep telling my husband that we are both just way too boring and non-photogenic! Lol. BUT.... if you know anyone needing repairs in the Chesapeake Bay Area.... it’s J.I. Mobile Repair Service. We are on Facebook. Check us out.
A very well presented video David if I may say. My wife, I, two cats and a dog lived on our narrow boat based at the Hyde near Kinver on the Staffs and Worcs Canal in the early nineties and I would endorse all your comments. We came from a large house onto a sixty-two foot traditionally styled boat and we all loved every minute of it. At the time I had left a successful garage business in south east Kent and moved to the West Midlands to manage a narrow boat hire fleet and I ended up building and fitting out new narrow boats for ten years we spent three delightful years on the boat living and cruising the Midlands canal network and I would highly recommend the experience.
I recently came through Kinver and very lovely it was too!
What changed that took you off the canal? Just wondering if it is an experience, an adventure, or a life?
If we had narrow boats in Australia I'd be on one in a shot . Your a very fortunate man . Two thumbs up.
By a House boat
Good lord! What a young man! It's a nice look back, and while David has since moved unto solid ground, he still seems enamoured with the waterways.
This guy has a great life..good on him!
@frenchie jones n
A feeling of sincerity and the resemblance of David Attenborough. Cool.
We took several long boat trips, each long enough to experience that sense of community. The spirit of helping each other was very strong. We rented a very large boat because we had family visiting. I'd been recently separated so my parents and son were on board. I was "driving" as I'd done it before and it was something I really enjoyed. It was winter, the rain was barreling down and knowing my fam was below decks, warm and dry, I was up top steering and singing to the top of my lungs. It was glorious.
"rainy and windy days are as sweet as sunny and shiny days" - I loved that line, as well. It is what you make it.......and you seem to be doing a fine job of making it good. I envy you greatly - I hope you continue to enjoy.
This man is living the dream. 😁👍🏻 Good on you.
Mr. Johns is an excellent communicator- interesting, informative and well spoken. 👍👍
The best years of my life were when I bought a sailboat and ended up living on it for 3 years until I got a bigger boat and lived on it for another 6 years. Best times of my life!
@I I Asking the real question here: how can you forget and unlearn happiness?
I have lived on a 34 foot sailing yacht for about 20 years and before that on another yacht and I love it. Mostly for the mariner community and having a sense of freedom to move my home wherever I want.
Anchoring in the middle of a lake or a small island to stay there as long as I want to, just you and the rest of nature, I love it...
After 30 years of a govt job, I had a mid life crisis (age 47) and came home after a holiday abroad, quit my job, rented out our house and moved to Sumatra. That was 5 years ago. Absolutely the only thing we miss is family friends back home, like Dave we realised the stuff you carry about for years, is just stuff..we don't even think about it or miss it. We have decided to move back home to Australia to be close to ageing parents, later in the year, maybe for few years and live in either an RV, houseboat or live aboard yacht. There's a different style of boat in Oz, and cold will not be an issue. I worry about tropical cyclones and storm events, and possibly the cost of mooring and fuel, but I think it's achievable for our budget. I dream of boats and fishing :)
It is a wake up call. Divine intervention.
raindogred govt job since 17? Most need 4 year degrees now sadly which cost even more.
How did you get on?
@@philgray3443 m
David,
I don't know how I missed this 'introductory episode'. I have delighted in your journey, challenges and your entertaining commentary.
I have been following your adventure going on three years now from Minneapolis, Minnesota in the summer and Bogo, Cebu, Philippines in the winter. Guess Why.
I several of the other boats as well. It is a genuine pleasure traveling with you all.
Enjoy the Dream
Sincerely,
Jim McLean
David John's is one heck of a 'One Man Band'.
He did a remarkable job creating this video.
I only filmed it, the lovely Mat and Danielle did all the sweet editing.
CruisingTheCut
Well, you all three did a great job. Thanks x 3
Thanks +Banjo Cricket, it was a team effort and we're really happy with how it turned out :) Thanks for watching!
We bought a boat since Covid took a lot of fun things away, it was the best thing ever and loving it .
Well that explains it...your former professional life explains why your videos have that professional look to them.
Good luck and I hope you keep making more videos...they are worth a look.
Thank you.
David, I do admire your boat and your life. I can identify with you a lot. I am a 47 year old self employed architect and although I have a job that most people would love to have, I have felt the dullness of a mid-life crises seeping in. I often day dream about doing something similar to what you are doiing. I have filled sketch books with boat designs. Thanks for the inspiration!
Scott Stafford Stop sketching, start doing! ;-) Have fun.
Scott Stafford
Why not hire one and see what your instincts tell you? Only live once. It's presumptuous and optimistic that you'll live into your 80's or 90's :D
Sorry but it is :D
Why not ask yourself why you won't do it, and ask why you will, and see how many reasons for and against that you have. And see if there's a safety net if it doesn't work out? Maybe rent out your house for a year, and sell the boat if it's not for you. That way you earn from the rent, and only lose a small amount from the sale.
Can't lose if you can go back to work.
48 here. Really really worrying about retirement now prob more than my next lunch...Lloll....wondering if they charge rent for him, to dock..
It’s not really tiny. Plus wherever you moor it is an extension of it anyway, thats one thing I find extremely appealing about this kind of lifestyle. Love it! 👍
I watched your first season and I was so much more stressed when I started than when I finished! I am happy you found the joy in not going to work and doing what YOU love! ❤️from California!!
I was not aware of the UK canal network or the long boats, stumbled on your video and the concept of living on these boats is fascinating.
"Narrowboats". We get very upset when people call them longboats ;-)
Yeah, he's not a viking :-)
They really are long though...
How many miles of canals are there?
swallowlsd About 2,200 miles.
I realise this is not the life for me, but I love this video. his laid back style made watching a pleasure, and his honesty was refreshing. Good luck for the future.
I love these long boats. They seem to have so much character and rich history. You seem quite happy with your decision to make this change. Congratulations. I would love to be in your shoes. Living aboard a boat has always been a dream of mine.
This guy is about one of the most eloquent speakers I have ever heard. Everything he says sounds so much more polished and fascinating than when us Americans speak lol.
well he was a tv reporter, that's what he was trained to do
Yeah, I think he should be a reporter it seems like a good job for him
@@judah4616 He could be the canal reporter! Well, guess he already is...
@@judah4616 he was a reporter for the BBC. That was his profession.
He's trained, British, and Americans are the worst English speakers.
I live in India...and I'd like to tell you that I relished your video very very much.first your clear soothing English English accent was gorgeous.second your boat was a dream and you are a very clean and organised man.third the whole boat experience that you described the pros and cons basically touched on everything,loved it.lastly the views that you showed us the coziness of the whole ambience was marvelous.thanks a ton...shall see this video whenever I am low:)
Ah, thank you! Such a nice comment. Glad you liked it. Cheers.
CruisingTheCut Have to say , I know exactly what they mean, and I'm English (whatever that means) Your delivery and tone just matches what your doing and explaining sooo well ! its almost like a really good signature tune to a favourite old sitcom (the good life etc) when you hear it your instantly transported to a safe and cozy place :) Not sure if I could give a better complement than that, hmmmm , other than including the word inspirational which I suppose you are but again more in your style than inspired by what your actually doing ;) Joyful journeying to you x
Would you be my date David?
Shompa Saha
Indian rivers and canals are dirty and it aren't clean,, many bacteria, disease, and water pollution, you can't even live there
MICHAEL CRASH he is indian and judging from his name he is hindu and we muslims dont want to be nor british or americunt
Thank you. I kept thinking of Ratty in, "The Wind in the Willows."
'Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing - absolutely nothing -
half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.'
I love that book!!!!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍🐾🐾🐾🐭🐭🐭🐭🐀🐀🐀🐀🐀🏞🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵🛶🛶🛶🛶🛶🛶⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵🛶🛶🛶🛶🛥⛴🛳🚤🛶🛶🛶🚣♀️🚣♀️🚣♀️⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓
@@i.m.7710..Me too 😊..
Omg I fell upon my dream!! I'm so jealous. The canals are beautiful and I love the sense of community!!!!
Emily Boltz he may let u join him! Lol
You could join me anytime ! Though youl have to be hands on when were cruising lol helping with locks nd things x
@ emely boltz
Sure it looks nice in the summer when the sun is shining, but the weather sucks 3/4 of the year, and i'm sure it's hard to keep
such a boat warm in the winter, and then the hassle to empty your toilet every few days, and fill up the watertank, go shopping,
and you don't see al that in this video.
I lived in a large carvan for a year, and i was glad i got a home, because it was a large caravan with a seperate bedroom and bathroom, but
still to cramped to live in all year round.
3DPeter Hi! You would be surprised, I've lived on a narrow boat for five years and keeping the boat warm is not hard at all. The shopping is no problem and the water and toilet tank is not a big hazard, the toilet takes about 2 - 10 minutes depending on the size and same for the water tank. So it's not a big issue. The worst problem overall is coal, and that's not that expensive. :-).
I want to get back on a sailboat. My stress went to zero every time i was on the water.
I’ve been bed bound for weeks with some foul disease, at times deeply depressed & fed up with it all... “oh woe is me” & that sort of self pitying nonsense, but this short film really perked me up. No, I wouldn’t want to live on a narrow boat full time. Perhaps have a go on one for a holiday, but I cant wait to go for a walk along a canal, even a gentle hobble. PS I enjoyed this so much I even watched the adverts, despite the fact one of them was trying to flog me a funeral plan😩
Although lacking any direct experience, I've always suspected that "house-boaters" would create a true community. I'm so glad that's exactly what you found.
.....a sense of community. He’s so right I crave a sense of community.
Just found out there's 2000 plus miles of canals in the UK network!
Yep, before the railways and roads, the canals were the life-force of the country.
Coal, cheese (lots of cheese, I dont know why), foreign foods, gypsies, alcohol, etc
Almost every city and market town in the uk has a canal system or river
All the pottery from Stoke etc, i worked near the grand union canal what a great bunch of happy people enjoying their barges, taking their time just wending their way through time and the countryside around Leighton Buzzard where i luckily met these happy people.
You can only stay on certain stretches for two weeks but it doesn't get any worse whichever way you take.
@Vex T considering how slow canal boats are, I think it would take you quite a while to get through all of the canals
That's why I love living here!!
@elmer cook not very shaky in calm weather
makes me wish I had a house to sale and move to the U.K.,,lived in a houseboat on a river for 3 years and loved it! Kudos David!
Good Luck in your journey Mr. David Johns God bless you !
Angel,Fort Lauderdale Florida USA
Thank you!
David, Thank you for this peek into the Narrow Boat Life. Amazing.
Sounds like heaven. We talked to people who were living on their canal boat, crossing the Llangollen aqueduct, with four westies aboard. Have you thought of getting a dog for a companion?
What a pleasure to watch. Thanks for a well rounded, realistic view of something I've dreamed about doing. Won't happen for me, but jolly fun to see you doing it. Best wishes from San Diego, CA.
He has a voice better than regular movie artists, his command over his language exceptionally admirable.
Be happy, enjoy life! Well done.
Been following David's adventures on his CtC channel for a fair while now - great fun!
Yeah, we love his videos too! He's got great content and a great sense of humour :) Thanks for watching!
A charming way to live. Beautiful nature along the canals.
Why would 1600 people dislike this video? A great, informative video of the life on a narrow boat.
Think I'm ready too, sell the house & get so nice water baring neighbours!
I rather enjoyed your video. Being from the states, I have always wondered what it would be like to live aboard a narrow boat. I can imagine the quietness and serine beauty of an uncomplicated life. Jolly good fun. Cheers.
Love how he sounds like he's giving a news report on TV. (:
Ha! Yeah he's a pro!
:-)
Pleasant to listen to. ☺️
Good observation
People who study to work in media are taught how to speak well. At least we were taught how to at the university on communication and media BA.
That was really lovely. I've always wondered what it would be like to live in one of those boats. Thank you so much for sharing this video!
“Straight away” and “proper” are my favorite things that people from the UK say. I don’t know why, but I just love it!
He has a lovely boat and wonderful life along the canals. No life is better than that.
Getting on for nearly a million views. Hmm that's bad, everyone will find out that we boaters are cheating the system.
I moved onto a widebeam (10' wide) last summer, and I smile like a cheshire cat every morning when I wake up, I am so blessed. I understand that I cant explore all the canals as I am too wide, but then, i have a full size kitchen...and a sofa!
It is a great life.
Tom Warwick
Share your story, please. I'd like to know.
Can I come stay with you? Well, myself, 2 dogs, and 3 cats. Oh I guess I’ll bring the kids too. Lmao
Can you be up front, and tell us any downsides, if any. ( Apart from the obvious width restrictions). How much of the wide beam system is rivers? ie no locks. When you cruise, do you tend to cruise to keep on the move or do you cruise with purpose? If there are no designated mooring spaces and no restriction notices, can you just park up? Having moved from narrow to wide beam boats, I think you should be eminently qualified to have an objective opinion.
Wow. I am jealous
@@annydobon8106 Hi Ann, thanks for the note - I hadnt realised there was a reply so now I shall send some to my year old comments! Turns out I have been living in a cottage for a year now, do miss the river life tho.
I had a friend who bought one of these. For one summer it was moored outside a pub in Cambridge. Like 30m from the front door :) It was awesome.
The canal network could also be called a pub network 🍺🍷
That kinda reminds me of the guy who owned Tilly the narrowboat.
This boat is well equipped, A dream, Some are so basic,Winter would be out off the question, And i like you "explaining" all this stuff, 20 minutes in and I'm still watching
I lived on a narrowboat for about 18 months. It was great, very warm even in the middle of winter, moored outside a different pub each night. The canal community is excellent, everyone helps each other. I only left it because I still had to get to work so couldn't take the boat more than a week or two travel from there.
A friend move to the jungle in Peru after working for many years in the city ! He is the most happy person in the world ! Life is just one let’s enjoy !
I'd love to see a picture / video of jungle life! Very interesting!
Followed his channel for about 6 months, I moved onto my 35' narrowboat about 2 months ago #livingthedream
I converted a sprinter van and decided to move into it full time, also for an adventure, and it’s been just that. Now I spend time living in places that I could only dream about before
i have lived on a boat for nearly 2 years & love it & that includes the beast form the east. 99% off the rat race & have never looked back. Its not everyones cup of tea & just like this guy says I could have bought a motorhome & tour Europe but it would mean I would still need to come back to the rat race. Thought it through prior to buying the boat but its not one of those narrow boats, too compact for us. Now that I have taken the plunge, I could not return to normal house dwellings, and the best thing MORTGAGE FREE although i do pay for a mooring but easily manageable.
Happiness what ever shape and sizes it will come in ... good for you mate stay blessed
Love his voice. great interview.
Thank you :-)
+Jose Francisco Medeiros I say, steady on. Early days ;-)
+CruisingTheCut. you have a sense of humor also :)
hey, man, i did the same thing 3 years ago, but in a motor home, no planning, bought the van, headed away for my first weekend, got back 10 months later from europe, not 1 regret, you just gotta have the right mind set... i enjoy going where i want, when i want, wouldnt suit everyone, but it does me... i'll keep on van lifing it, you keep boating, at least our worlds will be a better place...cheers Tim
What an adventure! Wish I was 30 years younger to be able to try the "Tiny" life! Enjoy!! You only go around this life once!!
You're never too old.
I not long bought a Boat up from Surrey for a Guy In the Midlands. Last Summer and It was Great. It wasn't the first time I had done this that Is why I was chosen. It took me One Week. Everyone I met along the way were Great. The only thing Is the Fueling stations are few are far between. And If You turn up there to early In the Morning You have to wait till they Open. Always fill up In the day so You can get a Early start. The Locks on the Thames again are only Electric after 10 O'Clock. So If You arrive early You have to open them Manually Which can be tough. If You arrive at Flytes. Mid afternoon there will be Volunteers to help You through. And If a Boat load of Hurray's smash Into a Lock and Break the Collar (Door hangs Off) and You have a 9 Hour Wait for It to be Fixed. You could always pop Into Debbie McGee's House for Dinner like I did. Lovely Lady thanks Deb. Happy Boating might see You a Canal somewhere say HI.
What a Loverly chap. 😊👍
A Very relaxing watch
:-)
Darren Hunt o
So nice to see you living a dream. Northern Michigan here. I bought an RV and I’m living in my sisters driveway in Lake Lanier Ga. For the winter. Have a Jin and tonic for me!
Awesome video.. yes welcome to the canals ! Ive lived on my narrow boat for 12 years now.
That sounds lovely. I only just discovered this today, but I'm all about alternative lifestyles
Now I just need to find out if a US merchant sailor can move to and live in the UK canals lol
Truly one of the most amazing videos i have ever seen!
Thanks George!! :)
He has a great voice for voiceover work. Love this lifestyle. 🚤⛵️
Thank you for the fun tour aboard your narrow boat. We use 180 gallons of water every 3-4 weeks. We are a family of four aboard our 43 ft sailboat full time.
Really interesting and well put together . I was riveted from the start . 134 thumbs down ? how could you not enjoy this ? . Fair enough dont watch if it is not your thing , however marking work down when the quality of production is beyond question is beyond me .
I believe there are some who for fun...just drift around RUclips to give out a negative vote. I think they do not even watch the vid3eos.
I love what this channel stands for.
Thanks Coby! Really happy to hear you're enjoying the channel and that you're interested in what we're trying to share :)
LOVE THIS!! This guy truly is free!
I've started watching this guy's videos on his you tube channel and I'm hooked. I'm currently on his 64th video with over a hundred to go. Perfect lockdown viewing to relieve stress.
This guys description of living on a boat is so quintisentially british it's great.
Thank you
quintessentially is the word you were looking for.
He looks AMAZING for 48 years old!
Women tell me that and I am 75, but no men so far and I am thankful for that.
This kind of things... makes me want to be able to live for like 1,000 or 2,000 years... to experience all kind of life and things like that...
You get bored after 60-70 years
Well said. The choice of cool things to do is overwhelming, so much so here I am sat in my pants doing nothing. It would be easier if you had fewer options!
Yuarian Smith we are all hope that..... as long as there’s no powerful religion group interruption
Yuarian Smith -- Do you really think that they would share that secret with anyone other than the elite? They would allow the rest of humanity to toll away as mortal drones while they live as immortal gods setting the agenda for mankind....forever!
Have fun with dealing with your relatives, friends and loved ones dying constantly and you just keep living forever
Very interesting! Love the friendly, like joining a club, community aspect. Also, the coziness with the multi-stove, at night during winter, reading a book, watching movies, etc., seems so relaxing, peaceful and enjoyable!