Narrowboat: Boo Purchasers and moorers story

The story below was received from Chris & Fiona Hipkins who purchased Narrowboat Tizmine in April 2017. Since then Chris & Fiona have renamed their boat Boo and have taken a mooring with us at Venetian Marina, taking full advantage of the boat whenever possible.

We decided to purchase a narrowboat having hired narrowboats on at least 6 occasions we found they provided the ultimate getaway for us, and with an increasing need to take a break as and when we could it seemed the ideal and most cost-effective solution. We carried out a lot of research before making a purchase, this included finding out about engine hours, boat surveys, heating and toilet systems, electricity systems, length of boats and various features. This meant we knew what we were looking for.

We decided to use Venetian Marina after visiting the marina when passing one day, we had the brokerage versus the private sales arrangements explained to us clearly and went on the mailing list. Hence when 5 months later the boat was advertised, we drove straight over to see it on brokerage. We found the way the boats are advertised on social media with links to the brochure and loads of pictures useful. Buying through the brokerage was very simple thanks to Bryan. The worst part was having to wait a few weeks until it was ready to collect.

Our narrowboat purchase was definitely the right thing for us. We use it whenever we can, sometimes just one night and try to get across at least once a month all year round.

We decided to moor at Venetian Marina, as we were offered a mooring when we brought the boat, so it was an easy solution. It's one and a half hours from home in the beautiful countryside. There are excellent toilet, shower and laundry facilities. There is water and power available on every mooring. There are also well lit non slip pontoons, a cafe, a chandlery and boat services on site.

This is our first boat following several holidays on hire boats. We enjoy the friendly community at the marina. The marina is kept clean and tidy, as are the toilets and there is also a secure car park.

Fiona & Chris Hipkins