Aqueduct Marina Autumn Showcase!

16^th September 2024

On Saturday, 14 September 2024, Aqueduct Marina opened it's doors to promote both new and preloved boats!

Never ones to miss an opportunity for a get together and natter with old friends, Chris Williams and Julia spent the day showing off the latest Charnwood Edge (now on brokerage) and answering many questions put to them by visitors.

Just like the Summer Open Day, Paul and Anthony from YouTube's 'Narrowboat Life Unlocked' also attended the event, and caused quite a stir!

Following their recent announcement about moving on from 'Morning Star' everyone was interested to know who would be building their new boat, but of course, our lips are sealed!

Whoever their builder is, the Ovation Team wish the boys the best of luck in their new venture and will be eager to see how their new project progresses!

If you'd like further details on the boats currently for sale or planning your own boat design and looking for a bespoke boat builder, then why not phone Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk.

Who knows, you may even be launching yourselves into 2025 alongside 'Paul & Anthony'!!

Breaking Bad - A boat with a difference Part I

16^th September 2024

'Breaking Bad' is coming along nicely so why not have a peek at what's been happening so far!?

Just sit back and relax and imagine how things will look!!

For futher details about 'Breaking Bad' or any of our boats currently for sale, or to discuss your design for a bespoke boat, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

What is this life........?

13^th September 2024

"What is this life if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare?

No time to stand beneath the boughs, and stare as long as sheep and cows..."

This poem by Welsh poet W.H. Davies is as true today as when written in 1911.

Nowadays, we gallop through modern day life without having time to enjoy the beauty around us, and that can also be true when travelling along our wonderful canal system!

Chris Williams, like the rest of the Ovation Boats team, is a true boatman. His knowledge of the canal system is vast having been a boater since boyhood.

Chris can find signs of canal history which is hidden to most passing by, and he’s always happy to point something out, whether rope marks on walls & ground paddles, or grooves through bridges, and spindles, denoting the passage of the long gone horse drawn canal boat!

In these pictures you can see all of the above as well as a separate tunnel (Shrewley Tunnel) used for pedestrians AND towing horses whilst the boaters ‘legged it’ through!

If your life is rushing by and you'd like to pause, breathe and take back control, a narrowboat with a canal based lifestyle may be just what you need!

To speak with Chris Williams direct about any of the boats we're currently fitting out or have for sale call 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk............. and if you're planning on having your own bespoke boat built then we'd love to help you achieve your dream!

Let's Get Smart!!!!

13^th September 2024

Given the Winter lock closures looming, now's probably a good time to start thinking about getting those promised modifications and alterations done for next year's boating!

Here we can see how standard duck doors can be modified with inner glazed panes, enabling light in and cooler temperatures out and how original L shaped dinette seating can be replaced by a Pullman dinette!

No job is too big or too small, and we can even come to you!

For further details on what services are available contact Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk.

Breaking Bad......with a few twists!

31^st August 2024

At Ovation Boats we pride ourselves on listening to our customers and putting their ideas into practice!

As a bespoke boat builder we have an endless supply of both experience & talent and are more than happy to accommodate any request, whether large or small!!

When asked if the traditional rear slide could be replaced by a hinged hatch to make access easier - no problem! And those conventional stirrup step fittings have been replaced by convenient toe apertures inset into the cabin side.

To keep 'Breaking Bad' even better insulated from varying temperatures, a layer of 'Thinsulate' material was placed over the foam spray before the cabin lining was fitted, however, the boat now has sound proofing like no other - and that's even without the double glazing yet being fitted!!

'Breaking Bad' has a skylight with a difference too! 'Smart Glass' will provide a clear & open aspect to the sky until a switch is operated, turning the glass to black and giving total privacy without the need for an internal blind.

With 'Breaking Bad's' new owners being keen walkers as well as 'liveaboard' boaters, the need for a larger water capacity for those daily showers, is essential. Afterall, with lives to live who wants to be tracking down a towpath water tap when there's fun to be had??!! 

Two large water tanks have replaced the single domestic water tank usually found under the well deck. The one to port takes from the domestic mains water whilst the tank to starboard purifies water from the canal system to drinking water standard! Clever eh!?

In 'Breaking Bad' the team have been given a specification like no other and with the new owners having foresight as well as great attention to detail, the team look forward to their every working day!

We will be posting more details and photos shortly!

To speak with Chris Williams direct about any of the boats we're currently fitting out or have for sale call 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk and if you're planning on having your own bespoke boat built then we'd love to help you achieve your dream!

'Breaking Bad' is looking GOOD!

6^th August 2024

When Nigel and Ann asked the Ovation Boat Team to build a 'Charnwood Choice' of their very  own design, the guys were only too willing to accept!

'Breaking Bad' arrived at the workshop in July and within a day had been grit blasted to remove all millscale then brought into our temperature controlled paint booth for the painting process to begin.

With the exterior safely underway, the process of fitting the inside of 'Breaking Bad' also began. This included laying down ballast and preparing for underfloor heating.

If you would like to discuss having your own design of boat built, whether narrowboat, widebeam or, like 'Breaking Bad' a boat in a Dutch Barge style, then give Chris Williams a call direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Bliss - before and after!

2^nd August 2024

Who doesn't like 'before & after' photos and videos, and today the Ovation Team would like to take you on a tour around 'Bliss'.

At 70ft and with a sociably long Well deck, this 2004 narrowboat fabricated by Measham Boats has been totally stripped out & grit blasted back to clean steel before being given a brand new fit out at a second hand price!

An ideal boat for family living, this beautifully stream lined narrowboat is ideal as a liveaboard whether marina based or continually cruising around the inland waterways.

If you would like to discuss your own boat build or for more information on 'Bliss' call Chris Williams direct on 07963974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

   

New & Used Boat Co Open Day!

9^th July 2024

Out with the OLD, and in with the NEW!

24^th June 2024

You know how it is! You'd like a new boat but the purse strings don't stretch that far, and anyway, you love the boat you have and can't bear the thought of selling her on to someone who won't love her the way you do!

So! What's the solution!?

At Ovation Boats, our team of experienced fitters can give your boat a make-over to satisfy your desires at a price you can afford, whether external paintwork or internal modifications.

Here we see an example of what can be done to bring a beloved boat into the modern world and, with a new galley, under gunnel storage and an upgraded heating system as part of these changes, this little gem will be giving her owners pleasure for many more years to come!

If you're considering giving your boat a make-over and would like impartial advice and a no obligation quote, give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboatservices.co.uk

Giving your boat a makeover!!

24^th June 2024

We've all seen them..........people moored along the towpath with sandpaper and paintbrush in hand, trying their best to hold back the the ravages of time & weather, and prevent the rust from taking over their boat!

Whilst a lot can be done to touch up peeling paint and rusting steelwork, eventually there's no alternative than to have a more thorough job done and that's where the Ovation Boats Team can help!

With both internal and external facilities at our Redhill workshop, your boat could be brought back to life and turning heads in no time!

This boat was really in need of some TLC and with thick layers of previous paint jobs coupled with corrosion around windows & portholes (resulting in leaking windows) a proper sanding down using the correct tools for the job, was a must.

With windows removed, and corrosion treated, the preparation of steelwork could begin in earnest and layers of new paintwork applied. At Ovation Boats we paint the more traditional way by using rollers and brushes. This ensures a more even covering and a paint job which lasts.

As you can see from the photos, the process of bringing this beautiful 40ft David Piper back to glory was messy & dirty, but well worth the effort!

If you are considering a partial or full repaint of your boat, and possible modifications like replacement of wooden doors or corrective action to fix leaky windows, then call Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 for a no obligation quote, or email chris@ovationboatservices.co.uk

Bliss to the fore!

5^th June 2024

The Ovation Team are back on board 'Bliss' and with only three weeks before the next commission boat comes through the workshop doors, the guys are hoping to have her all but finished very, very soon.

Of course fitting out any narrowboat causes some degree of mess but we thought you'd like a sneak peek at how things are progressing!

Leading from the front:

• long well deck for socialising
• lounge area/ saloon with ability for additional sleeping
• galley
• pullman dinette/ additional sleeping
• fixed double bed
• large walk through shower room
• rear cabin with two single beds, adjustable to double sleeping
• utility area with walk in wardrobe/ storage
• back cabin with engine below

'Bliss' is a 70ft narrowboat with traditional stern.

Originally built in 2004 by quality boatbuilders Measham Boats, 'Bliss' was totally stripped out and grit blasted back to clean steel (including the base plate) before preparation and a new fit out began.

With a steel specification of 10mm baseplate, 6mm hull sides, and 5mm cabin sides & top, and long head turning well deck, this shell was built as a classic and to last! 

For further details about 'Bliss' or any of our boats, or to discuss the boat of your dreams, please contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Crick Boat Show 2024 - and meet the team!

3^rd June 2024

As well as taking two very different boats to Crick this year, Ovation Boats were joined by some new Team Members!

Jackie is office based, dealing with HR and making sure the team is up to date with all aspects of training, whilst Dominic is on an architectural joinery apprenticeship through Derby College.

Mike Hutley and dog Jess were also at Crick but failed to stand still long enough for a photo, whereas grand-daughter, Ayla, was only too pleased to engage with the public alongside big sister, Izzy, who's now into her second year of Crick Boat Shows!!

In addition to showing off our boats,  Ovation Boats teamed up with Braidbar Boats (our neighbours this year), to create 'Braidvation Boats' and represented both Boat Builders in the annual Kayaking race!

Whilst Izzy (Ovation) and Phil (Braidbar) may not have won the actual race, they didn't fall in (unlike some) and in our eyes were winners too!!

Crick 2024 came and went in the blink of an eye, and now it's back to the day job of building narrowboats!!

Our next commission boat is due in the workshop within the next 3 weeks, and with the shell being in a Dutch Barge narrowboat style and the interior custom made to customer requirements, this is a boat you won't want to miss!!

For further details of boats currently for sale or to speak with Chris Williams direct about your own dream boat, call 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Off to Crick...Day 1 Redhill Marina to Birstall in just under 9 hours!!

20^th May 2024

On Monday, 13 May, Chris Williams, Darren Cross and Julia set off for the Crick Boat Show in Northamptonshire on the Ovation Boats' Charnwood Edge and Charnwood Hobbit narrowboats.

Beginning at Redhill Marina they passed through Kegworth, Loughborough, Barrow and Mountsorrell before stopping off at Sileby Mill Boat Yard for fuel and quick 'hello' with old friends!

Once through Sileby Mill Lock it was on to Cossington and Syston, past the Thurmaston boat yard and Chris's former boat 'GoGo'......who's still looking good by the way!

After Thurmaston Lock it was just a short sprint to where they could moor up for the night along the towpath.

Another day of boating was beckoning but with Flossie the cat and Abbie the dog needing their tea, it was off home for a well earned rest! Stay tuned for Day 2 and Tuesday's trip through Leicester!'

#narrowboatliving #narrowboatvlogs #narrowboat #narrowboatlife #tinyhouse @crickboatshow4035@onedaymoreaboard

Day 2 - Birstall to Kilby Bridge!

20^th May 2024

If we didn't have rain, we couldn't have the country we have of rivers and canals, but when you have to move a boat or two it's always nice to do it without!

Tuesday, 14 May, was the 2nd day of moving narrowboats to Crick in Northamptonshire, and the day started overcast but dry......... however, this was soon to change!

Boatmen are pretty resilient to rain though, and whilst Julia kept the kettle boiling (and her camera dry) Chris and Darren carried on regardless through Leicester...........after all, said Darren, it isn't the rain that's the problem but the clothes!!! They did laugh though, as the rain ran down his waterproof trousers and into his shoes!!

They passed by the Space Centre and Abbey Park, then onto Frog Island and behind the King Power Stadium!

There's many locks between Birstall and Wigston, and all are heavy, but for once they were all in Ovation's favour and progress was good!

Through Aylestone, Glen Parva and Whetstone they chugged along, or in Darren's case, glided silently along, and with waves & shouts of encouragement from the public, they finally arrived at Kilby Bridge for their next overnight stop......... with only a hint of damp clothing!

No matter where you go on the canal system there's always something to see and admire, whether man made or natural, and the next leg of the journey to Foxton Locks, being mostly rural, will be a definite pleasure and delight!'

Say 'Hello' to the Charnwood Hobbit!

8^th May 2024

The Ovation Open Day began with Chris Williams, Darren, Carol & Julia, welcoming in a steady flow of visitors, all eager to see the three current boats for sale........ in person!

Top of the list was the electric propulsion Charnwood Hobbit who didn't disappoint, but as always, once the Charnwood Edge and Bliss were viewed, with so much choice, the dilemma started!! Which do I like the best!!?

The Charnwood Hobbit still needs a few minor points finishing off, but, along with the Charnwood Edge will be entering the water at the end of this week.

As both boats will be travelling to Crick by water, via Leicester and Foxton Locks, there will be plenty of opportunity to watch them pass and give them a wave!

Should you like to view these boats before they leave for Crick you'll need to get a move on! Contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk to make an appointment!

Meet the (new) team!

8^th May 2024

Since Crick 2023, there's been some changes to the Ovation Team!

17year old Dominic joined the team in September 2023 having enrolled on an architectural joinery course at Derby College, whilst at the other end of the spectrum, Mike Hutley, an experienced cabinet maker, and his faithful friend Jess, arrived in February 2024!

With 'all hands to the pump' so to speak, the team have been busily getting on with preparing the boats for Crick, but not satisfied at being the only canine on the team, Jess insisted on having her own Ovation jacket............and doesn't she look smart!!

You can meet Jess and all the Ovation Team at Crick, but if you're planning on saying 'hello' make sure you have a few treats in your pocket for Jess!

If you would like to view any of the boats in our workshop before they leave for Crick, you can call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

OPEN DAY - meet our latest Charnwood Edge!

2^nd May 2024

For further details please call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

 

         

 

         

 

         

 

         

Open Day - Saturday, 4 May 2024

1^st May 2024

The Ovation Team are having an Open Day on Saturday, 4th May, when this 42ft electric narrowboat will be unveiled!

Although looking pretty messy at the moment, the clutter is all superficial, and once the guys have removed their tools, the full beauty of this cracking boat will be clear for all to see!

• Coming down the back steps will be fixed seating to port & starboard which converts to a double bed.
• Next comes the large shower room.
• The galley is well underway and there’s more to come.
• The forward cabin will have fixed seating which converts into a double bed.
• Forward storage, port & starboard, compliments other storage space throughout the boat.
• Main cabin heating is by way of warm air blown through vents in the forward and rear steps.

As you can see, this little boat will sleep four comfortably; an ideal get away for family holidays and leisure, and allow short as well as long term use.

The team are planning to take the Hobbit to Crick by water, a journey lasting around 4 days, so you may be able to check it out en route!

This boat will be sold at Crick (unless some lucky person chooses to get their name on it beforehand) but if you would like to see the Charnwood Hobbit, Charnwood Edge or 'Bliss' in person, why not pop along to the Ovation Workshop on Saturday, 4th May, for a preview of all.

Alternatively, should you not be able to make it this weekend, give Chris Williams a call on 07963974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk and arrange a date to suit you!

Charnwood Hobbit - the paintwork is almost complete!

19^th April 2024

The exterior paintwork on our all electric 'Charnwood Hobbit' is almost complete, and now sporting the popular colour combination of greys and black, is looking very smart indeed!

Jon, you've done an excellent job!!

Our Charnwood Hobbit is currently for sale and will be sold at the Crick Boat Show, if not before.

With an inviting season of cruising beckoning, and the chance to jump our boatbuilding diary, who wouldn't be tempted!?

If you would like to see this cheeky little narrowboat before Crick, why not have a day off and pop along to the Ovation open day on 4th May!?

Not only can you view the Hobbit but take a sneak preview of the Charnwood Edge as well as our project boat, 'Bliss'!

We're not far from the East Midlands Airport - being just off junction 24 of the M1 - and if you follow the signs for the East Midlands Parkway and Redhill Marina, you can't miss us!

For further details of our 42ft 'Charnwood Hobbit', 60ft 'Charnwood Edge' and 70ft project boat 'Bliss', contact Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Crick 2024 - almost ready to GO!

19^th April 2024

Benjamin Franklin once said, 'if you want something done, ask a busy person!'

The logic is that busy people are better able to manage their time, are more effective in weighing up how long a task will take and the better they become at getting things done because they don't waste time.

This can certainly be said about the Ovation Team but in addition, each of our Team are passionate about narrowboats, love what they do and have a sense of pride in every boat they build!

With two boats being taken to the Crick Boat Show in May, the pressure has certainly been 'ON', but for the Ovation Team every day is another day to enjoy what they do!

Crick is a mere 5 weeks away now, but not content with that date in the diary, the Ovation Team are having an Open Day at Redhill Marina on 4th May! 

So, why not pop along to our workshop for a sneak preview of the boats we have on offer!? You too could soon be escaping everyday pressures by joining our 'Ovation Family', retaking control of your life again, and having some much needed fun in the process!

We currently have three boats for immediate sale: a 42ft all electric Charnwood Hobbit with semi cruiser stern,  70ft project boat (Bliss) with traditional stern, and a 60ft Charnwood Edge with semi cruiser stern - including cratch cover & pram cover.

For further details about our Open Day or any of our boats, whether for sale or commission build, please contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

'Grace' and 'Janus' - A family get together!

4^th April 2024

With so many Ovation Boats' continually cruising the UK inland waterways, it's inevitable that at some point the paths of these boats will cross.

We may be biased but our customers are definitely the nicest & friendliest on the cut, and when they see 'a sister' boat they're likely to stop off, moor alongside, and swap stories!

'Grace' and 'Janus' with owners Rob & Karen and Nelly & Pip recently did this before heading off for pastures new......or should that be 'waters!?'

'Grace' is now moored near Gargrave on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, and being in the centre of the Yorkshire Dales, Karen & Rob are contemplating lots of walks! Let's just hope it doesn't get too boggy!

Many thanks to Rob Bent for providing such wonderful photos! You can follow 'Grace' and 'Janus' on Facebook!

'Grace' - (Boomers on Board)

'Janus' - (The Adventures of Narrowboat 'Janus' aka @theadventuresofnarrowboatjanus) 

Latest 'Charnwood Choice' 2024!

4^th April 2024

With two of our three current boats attending Crick in May, it's time to start planning the arrival of a new commission boat ........due after Crick, for fit-out beginning the start of June!

To say the team are excited is an understatement, as this yet unnamed boat has many innovative features!

At 61ft, this Eurocruiser is a combination between Dutch barge and traditional style narrowboat,  with wrap around seating at the rear and to maximise interior cabin space a Dutch barge style bow to replace the well deck.

The interior will be a reverse layout, but that's where any similarity to our previous boats ends! Fit-out will mainly be walnut, with an oak floor, and heating will be underfloor, with a solid fuel stove taking pride of place!!

The steel baseplate was put down a couple of weeks ago and the shell, as you can see, is coming together nicely!

If you have a dream boat swirling around in your head and need a bespoke builder, whether in shell or fit-out, please call Chris Williams on 07963974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk to discuss your ideas!

We have the skills & expertise to make your dream a reality and with one remaining build slot this year, you too could be living the dream very soon!!

'Ash' - crossing the River Trent

22^nd March 2024

It was time to move 'Ash' from Redhill Marina to Trent Lock, and with the River Trent being swollen by recent rainfall, it was an ideal time to put both electric and diesel propulsion to the test.............and this hybrid engine passed with flying colours!!

Starting off from Redhill Marina, Darren used the diesel engine to turn 'Ash' around at the weir, before changing to electric propulsion for the short stretch onto the Trent. As you can hear, the difference between the two propulsion systems is quite noticeable and, had it not been for a resident at the shoreline pressure washing his slabs, the electric cruising experience would have been perfect!

With the flow on the River Trent being particularly strong, Darren changed seamlessly from electric to diesel propulsion, again, demonstrating the differences in engine sound.

On feeding onto the Erewash Canal, Darren reverted back to electric propulsion and, just to show how clever 'Ash' is, he skilfully reversed into the dry dock using the boat's remote control device!! (actually, we weren't sure who was showing off more......'Ash' or Darren!!!)

Rachel & Karl will soon be taking ownership of their beautiful boat but they'd better be quick............because Darren has 'Ash' in his sights and may very well 'boatnap' her!!!

If you're currently planning your own dream boat, or would like to discuss any of the features demonstrated on 'Ash', you can call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Ash - the benefits of hybrid!

21^st March 2024

In today's world of green energy and the need to protect our planet for future generations, the boating world and canal system is no different and doing it's best to keep pace.

With so many people asking about the various propulsion options, especially hybrid engines, the Ovation Team are happy to oblige whenever asked!

With 'Ash' out on the water and almost ready for handover, Darren (who loves anything electric)  was more than happy to demonstrate the differences between 'Ash's' diesel & electric propulsion, and, as you can hear, there IS quite a difference!

If you haven't yet made a decision as to the propulsion system on your dream boat, Chris Williams (or Darren) are more than happy to take you through all the options and benefits!

We will be taking a fully electric 'Charnwood Hobbit' (Arfer) to the Crick boat show for you to view at the end of May, as well as a conventional engine 'Charnwood Edge'! Both of these boats are currently for sale.

For further details on 'Ash' or any of the boats in our workshop, you can call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793, or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk.