'Saul Goodman II' calls in!!
7th February 2025
Handy front deck storage locker
Pram cover for all weather living & cruising
A real head turner!
'Saul Goodman II' the Ovation showboat for Crick 2023, was briefly back at the Redhill workshop in January before heading off to brokerage!
Snapped up just before Crick 2023 and named after a favourite TV show, 'Saul Goodman II' helped new owners Nigel & Ann realise that life on the canal was ticking all the right boxes, and before long they'd commissioned the Ovation Team to build a boat to their very own design.
Nigel & Ann moved on to new boat 'Breaking Bad' in December 2024, leaving 'Saul Goodman II' to be moved on to brokerage at Aquavista Sawley in mid February.
For more details about the boats currently for sale or to discuss having your own design of boat built, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk'
New owners Tim & Bridget - ready for the new boating season!
7th February 2025
Key handover for Tim & Bridget!
When Tim & Bridget saw our latest 'Charnwood Edge' at an Open Day last year they knew this was the right boat for them, but with Christmas and everything associated with life in general getting in the way, they had to watch and wait with fingers crossed desperately hoping no-one else would claim her first!!
Thankfully, their patience paid off and last week the keys to this beautiful boat were finally handed over!
For more details about the boats currently for sale or to discuss having your own design of boat built, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Another successful handover!
7th February 2025
Darren with Tim & Bridget
At Ovation Boats we understand the stresses involved in buying a new home, whether bricks & mortar or a boat on the water, and do our best to make the whole process as smooth & stress free as possible.
Chris Williams & Darren Cross are always available for advice & support, and a personal handover allows the customer to fully understand their new boat.
Here we see Darren explaining the workings of a ‘Charnwood Edge’ electrical system but should new owners Tim & Bridget need any further questions answered, Chris & Darren are just a phone call away!!
For more details about the boats currently for sale or to discuss having your own design of commissioned boat, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk'
Open Day - Saturday, 25 January, 2025!
24th January 2025
The Ovation Boats Team are always proud to show off their work by having regular Open Days at their Redhill Marina workshop, but whilst the boats on show are usually in the process of new fit-out, at the Open Day this Saturday (25th January) our Crick showboat 2023 will be joining us!
Ovation Boats 25.01.25 Open Day!
Crick 2023 Saul Goodman II
Anyone following our YouTube and FB posts will know how Nigel & Ann who bought ‘Saul Goodman II’ were so delighted with their new life on the UK inland waterways, they decided to commission a boat built entirely to their own design - and so 'Breaking Bad' was created!
If you're planning to attend the Open Day tomorrow, there’s plenty to see! Our latest 60ft Charnwood Edge is inside our paint booth and 'Saul Goodman II' (which is currently for sale) will be open for viewing at the front of the workshop.
Rear galley, leading forward to lounge & dinette
Spacious lounge with dinette convertible into double sleeping
Well equipped galley
Bubble diesel stove
Spacious shower room
Two singles, convertible to king sized bed
The Ovation Team will be joined by Nigel & Ann, to answer any of your technical or practical questions, so whether it’s batteries, insulation, propulsion systems or even the right choice of loo for you, then come along for a chat!
For more details about the boats currently for sale, or to discuss having your own design of boat built, contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Interested in an electric boat? Say 'hello' to clean propulsion!
17th January 2025
Charnwood Hobbit
With society looking more & more towards 'greener' options in their everyday lifestyles, Ovation Boats have been building hybrid and electric propulsion boats in different shapes & sizes, and to suit every pocket!
This 42ft boat will comfortably sleep four people and would make an ideal getaway for family holidays, allowing short term as well as long term use.
Take a look inside, and if you have any questions about the Hobbit range, having a bespoke boat built to your own design or any of the boats we currently have for sale, give Chris Williams a call on 07963974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
We can turn your dream into a reality!!
@ovationboats @churchminshullaqueductmari473
'Breaking Bad' - the launch!!!
10th January 2025
The Ovation Team get very excited when a boat finally takes to the water and with 'Breaking Bad' that moment was captured to dramatic effect!!
Probably our favourite boat to date!
We think you'll all agree this is a unique and stylish boat, and for visitors attending the Crick Boat Show in May, they'll have the opportunity to see it first hand!!
If you'd like to commision your own boat build or would like more information about the boats we currently have for sale, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Charnwood 25 - Special Edition
5th January 2025
The Ovation Boats 25th Special Edition has a planned completion date of Spring 2025.
With front deck locker
Semi cruiser stern
Ready for foam spray insulation
Battening out is now done and the foam spray insulation is due within the next couple of weeks!
This 60ft reverse layout semi cruiser narrowboat is currently available for purchase and for anyone wanting to keep to their New Year's Resolution of having a more balanced outlook to work/ lifestyle, then now's the time to get your name down........and if you're quick, you'll even be able to have a say in the final build specifications!
For more details of this build or any of the boats we currently have for sale, call Chris Williams direct 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Charnwood 25 - Prepared and ready for painting!
5th January 2025
Ovation Boats 25th Special Edition is coming along nicely, with the cabin in two pack primer and prepared for the applications of undercoat and top coats. (International Perfection Pro)
Boat 25 cabin top in primer
Boat 25 cabin side in primer
This 60ft reverse layout semi cruiser narrowboat is available to purchase and will be ready to launch in Spring 2025 but if you're quick and get your name down now, you can have an input into the final build specifications and be out on the canal for the new boating season.
For more details about the Ovation Boats 25th Special Edition or any of the boats we currently have for sale, contact Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
'Breaking Bad' - Bonded Flush Windows
11th December 2024
The Cauldwell Bonded Flush Fit windows on our latest custom-built narrowboat ‘Breaking Bad’ are going down an absolute treat with her new owners, and the Ovation Boats Team are loving all the positive comments!
If you’re thinking of upgrading to a sleeker and more efficient window system for 2025 and would like to know the options available, or maybe you’re considering what windows to have on your own dream boat, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Classy, sleek and efficient!
Glamping anyone? 'Breaking Bad' is at it again!
11th December 2024
Happy 'Glamping'!
With the healing properties of nature becoming more widely recognised and ‘glamping’ an increasingly popular past-time, who wouldn’t want to bring ‘wild camping’ into their lives!?
Always willing to try out new ideas, the Ovation Boats Team jumped at the chance of fitting this classic Tent Box to the roof of ‘Breaking Bad’.
New owners, Nigel & Ann, are very much looking forward to trying their Tent Box out and whilst probably the first boat owners to have this head turning feature, they’ll likely not be the last!
Happy 'Glamping!'
If you would like to discuss any of the features of 'Breaking Bad', are planning on having your own boat built or already have a boat in need of an upgrade or modernisation, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Warm Boats & Food - Chilli Penguin Stove with pie oven!
11th December 2024
As we head towards Christmas, the New Year and falling temperatures, an efficient heating system and warm comfort food are a great combination!
On the latest commission boat from Ovation Boats, owners Nigel & Ann have combined an underfloor heating system with a stylish eco-design Chilli Penguin Stove with pie oven.
Sporting an Evergreen finish to compliment the copper fire surround and Walnut boat interior, the overall effect is stunning! (and the food delicious!)
Chilli Penguin Eco Stove with pie oven!
‘Breaking Bad’ will be available to view at the Crick Boat Show 2025 – further details to follow – but in the meantime, to discuss your own build requirements, or chat about any of the boats we currently have for sale, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk Hard to believe we know, but in a blink of an eye the new boating season will be here!
Ovation Boats - Number 25!!
10th December 2024
With the arrival of the Christmas season the significance of the 25th new build being brought into the workshop isn't exactly lost on the Ovation Boats Team!! What an achievement!
Grit blasted and with base coats and primer already applied, this 60ft narrowboat with semi cruiser stern has a completion date for early 2025!
If you would like more information on this boat or any boats currently for sale, give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Ovation Boats 25!
Against All Odds - a tradtional back cabin for 2025!
10th December 2024
Not satisfied with fitting out new narrow boats, the Ovation Team are looking forward to replacing previously fitted wardrobes on this modern 70ft narrowboat with a more traditional back cabin.
Wardrobes removed!
Ready for the table cupboard & bed hole!
As you can see, the functional (but unexciting) wardrobes have been removed in readiness for a bed hole, table cupboard and seating to be built, and will be complemented with authentic artwork by Claire Norton of Norton Canal Art.
We’ll be popping back from time to time to see how the fit-out is progressing but if you’ve been thinking of using the Winter months for having your boat spruced up for the 2025 season, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk to see how we can make that happen!
'Breaking Bad' - quite possibly our favourite boat build to date!!
3rd December 2024
The latest 'Charnwood Choice' from Ovation Boats has now been officially handed over to her proud new owners!
Sporting some amazing artwork by Claire Norton from Norton Canal Art, 'Breaking Bad' will be turning heads everywhere she goes........... but have a look on the inside now she's had a good clean and see what you think!!
'Breaking Bad' is looking good!
Wild camping cabin top box, and rainbow swan's neck
Art work by Claire Norton of 'Norton Canal Art'
A unique narrow boat!
The few small jobs that needed finishing off have all been done, and Nigel & Ann are now happily settled in their dream boat.
A new 60ft narrow boat shell is now in the workshop and ready for fitting out!
For more details on designing the boat of YOUR dreams or any of the boats we currently have for sale, please contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboatservices.co.uk
Breaking Bad - a boat with a difference Part II
4th November 2024
As promised, here's Part II of our 'Breaking Bad' story........... and there's no skimping on design or quality!
Versatility with Bosch
The galley has a Bosch all in one oven with built in air fryer which delivers cooking versatility without the need for extra gadgets or work top clutter.
.............And talking of worktops, how often have you stood wondering where to put all those necessary items in the shower room?! Well, wonder no more! On 'Breaking Bad' the larger than average work top and basin give plenty of room to spread yourself out...........and those with an abundance of creams, potions & lotions know exactly what I mean!
Room to spread out!
Maximising space!
For unexpected visitors sleeping arrangements don't need to cause a headache as 'Breaking Bad' has a wild camping roof tent box (which is more bedroom than tent) specifically for those needing their own private space when stopping over.
Extra accommodation space!
Up you go!
For further 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
Cutting edge windows and coverings!
25th October 2024
Breaking away from conventional window coverings, the latest boat from Ovation Boats utilises practical and attractive blinds with fly screens to both window and side door apertures.
Blind open
Fly screen
Blind closed
For further details of any Ovation Boats currently for sale or may be you're considering having your own bespoke boat built, contact Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk to discuss your ideas!
Making good use of space!
25th October 2024
Making good use of space is always a priority on a narrowboat and this under gunnel storage built in Walnut is not only attractive but handy for keeping all those necessary items close to hand and neatly contained.
Attractive and practical storage space!
We're looking forward to sharing more photos of this latest boat (due for completion very soon) but in the meantime, if you want the design in your own head transformed into a real boat, contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk.
No job is too big or too small and we're always happy to talk!
Ticking off those Winter jobs!
20th October 2024
After many years of good service, these side doors were beginning to leak.
Ash lining replaced!
Sealed and ready for the new season!
Ovation Boats replaced the double glazed units, modified the design and replaced the Ash lining.
As you can imagine, the customer was delighted! Here's what they had to say about their experience!
"Ovation replaced double glazed panels and renewed Ash inner lining on our 2 pairs of side doors.
The attention to detail from the initial review of the job, measurements and care taken when removing the existing doors and securing the aperture with weather proof board was impressive. When the replacement doors arrived the attention to detail continued with Darren making many small adjustments to ensure that the fit was perfect. The exterior steel was made good with the paint matching the cabin sides to perfection.
Chris and Darren were very pleasant and helpful in every exchange that we had, nothing seemed too much trouble to explain or to do.
We would highly recommend Ovation for boat work"
If you have any niggling jobs you've been promising yourself (or the other half) you'll get fixed very soon but never have, then why not give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk to see how Ovation Boats can help!?
We can work off site and come to you to complete, or your boat can come into our workshop at Redhill Marina for those jobs requiring a dry environment over Winter.
Fancy taking an Electric Cruise?!
9th October 2024
Are you considering owning a boat with electric propulsion but unsure about technical details?
Interested in a smaller boat due to rising costs but unsure about onboard facilities and space?
Want to meet the builder of your new boat in person and discuss onboard equipment & options?
How about a year's free mooring thrown in? Interested!?
Then why not come down to ABNB boat brokerage for their Demo Day on 26th October 2024?!
Chris Williams and Julia from the Ovation Boats Team will be on hand to take you for a short Demo cruise aboard the electric propelled 42 ft Charnwood Hobbit.
Refreshments will be provided, and who doesn't like free tea & biscuits!!
Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to explore your boating options and get your questions answered!
Book your appointment today by phoning 01788 822 115 or email admin@abnb.co.uk
Appointments are from 10am - 4pm! See you there!!
OVATION demo day
Aqueduct Marina Autumn Showcase!
16th 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'!!
Paul with Julia
Breaking Bad - A boat with a difference Part I
16th 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
TWO domestic water tanks!!
Forward toilet with water tanks covered
Wash hand basin atop port water tank
What is this life........?
13th 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!
Rope marks from horse drawn boating days
Rope grooves on lock wall
Groove & spindle for horse rope
Shrewley Tunnel
Let's Get Smart!!!!
13th 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.
Original doors
Glazed panes added
A versatile and practical alteration
Original L shaped dinette
New Pullman dinette
Breaking Bad......with a few twists!
31st 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.
Hinged rear top hatch
Inset toe holds
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.
Belt n braces insulation
First class insulation plus 'Smart Glass!
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!
Maximising water useage!
Pentagonal shower!
Lithium battery system
'Breaking Bad' is looking GOOD!
6th 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!
Grit blasting for 'Breaking Bad'
The paint process begins!
'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.
Ballast down!
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
Underfloor heating going down