Ultimate Guide to Living on a Canal Boat in the UK

For some British people, a canal boat is not only a means of transportation, but also a warm home. Living on a canal boat is a unique experience that not only allows people to connect with nature but also provides a peaceful life on the water.

Although living on a canal boat is legal in the UK, you must also be prepared to face challenges such as limited living space, a damp living environment, and a lack of public services.

Whether you are an experienced boater or a novice, this guide will be a valuable reference for you to start living on a canal boat. Besides, for those seeking a reliable electricity solution on the canal boat, we recommend the Jackery Solar Generator, which combines a Jackery Portable Power Station with Jackery Solar Panels to charge appliances with solar energy.

Is Living on a Canal Boat Legal?

Yes, living on a canal boat is entirely legal. It is a recognised and established way of life. However, this does not mean you can moor your boat anywhere. There are several rules and requirements to live on your boat legally.

The first step to legally living on a canal boat is usually to register your boat so that it can be used on inland waterways such as canals. The most crucial aspect of whether living on a canal boat is legal is the legality of the mooring.

Here are a few ways to legally live on a canal boat:

Residential Mooring

Most boaters choose to moor their boats for a long-term period, paying for the mooring. This is the most stable way to live on a canal boat. These boats may be moored at a marina or along the banks of a canal. However, residential moorings are hard to find and can be expensive. You can contact the Canal and River Trust or some boatyards to find out if there are suitable residential moorings in your area.

Continuous Cruising

This is the most common way of living in the Canal and River Trust area that does not rely on a fixed residential mooring. However, you cannot stay in the same place for more than 14 days. Even stays at designated visitor moorings are usually shorter, typically ranging from 48 hours to 7 days.

You must also conduct "real navigation" within the permitted area, which requires the boat to move a certain distance (such as 20 miles) within a permit period (usually one year) and cannot move back and forth in a small area.

Winter Moorings

Due to adverse weather conditions and canal maintenance closures, navigating vessels continuously in winter can be challenging. The winter moorings introduced by CRT provide those who do not yet have a permanent mooring with the opportunity to live smoothly on a canal boat during the winter months (November to March). For example, the winter mooring permits introduced by CRT in winter 2024 are valid for one, two, three, or four months.

Pros and Cons of Living on a Canal Boat

In recent years, an increasing number of British people have been yearning to live on a canal boat and enjoy the freedom and serenity of floating on the water. However, this lifestyle is not entirely romantic, and it also presents practical challenges. The following are the main pros and cons of living on a canal boat:

Pros of Living on a Canal Boat

The following advantages attract more and more people to choose to live on a canal boat:

Freedom and Mobility: You can explore the vast network of canals in the UK, enjoy the ever-changing scenery, and stay in different towns or rural areas.

Close to Nature: Living by the water allows for a more direct experience of seasonal changes, contact with wildlife, and the enjoyment of a tranquil waterside environment.

Low Initial Cost: House prices in the UK remain high, particularly in major cities such as London, where the average price of an apartment can exceed £ 100,000. A narrowboat in good condition is usually much cheaper than a property in the UK (especially in southeast England).

Simplify Life: It forces you to streamline your items and reduce consumption, which usually cultivates a stronger sense of environmental protection and resource conservation habits.

Community Life of Mutual Assistance: Boat communities are more likely to form close-knit relationships by sharing dock facilities and helping to solve mechanical problems.

Cons of Living on a Canal Boat

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, people who choose to live on a canal boat also need to face some challenges that cannot be ignored:

Difficult to Stay for a Long Time: Residential berths are scarce and expensive. Choosing continuous cruising means relocating to a different place every 14 days, which may impact job stability and children's schooling.

High Maintenance and Operating Costs: Boats require regular and expensive maintenance, including toilet cleaning, engine repairs, and hull corrosion protection. In the event of extreme failures such as engine damage, the cost of repairs may be far higher than expected.

Limited Living Space: The interior space of narrowboats is small, and areas such as bathrooms and kitchens are exceptionally cramped, which can easily cause a sense of claustrophobia when living in them for an extended period.

Limited Living Convenience: Standard washing machines are typically not installed on boats, and they often rely on onshore laundry facilities. In addition, fresh water needs to be replenished regularly, toilets need to be emptied, and garbage and recycling materials need to be handled.

Wet Living Environment: Living in a closed water environment is prone to condensation and humidity issues, requiring adequate ventilation and temperature control.

Lack of Public Services: Living on a boat means lacking a fixed address, which affects public services such as medical registration, opening a bank account, voting, renewing a driver's license, and receiving mail.

How to Prepare for Living on a Canal Boat? 

Living on a canal boat is a way of life that allows for enjoying nature and freedom. But turning this ideal into reality requires careful planning and a series of preparations. Here are the key steps to start living on a canal boat:

Purchase Boat Insurance

In the UK, boat insurance is required by law when sailing on inland waterways. This is the most basic form of third-party liability insurance and does not include property insurance, among other coverage. When purchasing additional or more comprehensive insurance, consider a range of potential risks, including theft, fire, explosion, sinking, stranding, hitting underwater objects, and damage caused by pests, water intrusion, storms, or third-party negligence.

Get Permission

Before living on a canal boat, it is essential to understand the rules of the waterway, including navigation rights, mooring regulations, and lock usage. Most importantly, you need to obtain a Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) and a CRT license (or Scottish Canals) to use the waterways. This not only ensures that your boat meets the required safety standards, but also ensures that you can legally sail on the waterways.

Finding a Suitable Mooring

You will also need to locate a suitable mooring for your boat, which may be more difficult than obtaining a standard home. The choice of mooring has a direct impact on the quality of living. Mooring near a freshwater supply, electricity, and trash disposal station, for example, can help reduce reliance on mobile resources in the long run.

However, it is worth noting that demand for berths has increased in recent years; therefore, it is recommended that you inquire ahead of time or join a waitlist.

The Waterside Mooring website offers a chance to find a long-term mooring spot that is available. Alternatively, you might contact private companies or yacht clubs that offer mooring services.

Energy and Refuelling

Canal boats typically use diesel for power generation and heating. Record the locations of nearby fuel sources or use mobile refuelling services. Boaters who use liquid gas (LPG) for cooking must visit certified gas stations regularly to replace gas cylinders.

Boaters on residential moorings can access energy via wires connected to public shore power stations along the canal. Small generators (diesel generators) can be utilised as an emergency power source by boaters who sail for an extended period or are distant from a supply point.

Improve the Waste Disposal System

It is strictly unlawful to discharge sewage (including toilet wastewater and domestic sewage) into British waterways at will; otherwise, you may face significant fines. Install a marine toilet sewage treatment system or a portable sewage tank, and deliver it to the treatment station for regular emptying.

Boaters typically consider installing three types of toilets: cassette toilets (also known as Elsan toilets), pump-out toilets, and separator toilets. Following categorisation, all garbage created on the boat must be disposed of in public trash cans or specified disposal stations along the coast.

Set up Living Facilities

If you want to live comfortably on the boat, this is a vital step. To improve living comfort, the basic equipment to be configured includes water storage tanks, heating equipment, ventilation equipment, and other necessary components. Long-term cruising boats should have a huge water tank that can be refilled at any time. According to your needs, select compact appliances that suit the cabin space, such as mini refrigerators, folding tables, and chairs.

Stock Up on Daily Supplies

For residents who choose to live on a canal boat, maintaining sufficient daily reserves of food, toilet paper, toiletries, and other essentials is crucial for ensuring the comfort and safety of life on the water. Some supermarkets in cities are located near canals, making shopping convenient.

However, in rural businesses located in isolated areas, the variety of necessities available is limited. Therefore, boat people need to stock up on daily supplies in time to consume until the next suitable anchorage or supply point.

Cost of Living on a Canal Boat

Living on a canal boat appeals to those seeking freedom, low costs or a close connection to nature. However, this lifestyle is not without its costs and involves several ongoing expenses. Below is a breakdown of the costs of the core items:

Canal and River Trust (CRT) Fees

CRT licences vary in price, depending on the length and width of the boat. For example, from April 2025, a Canal and River Trust licence for a typical narrowboat will cost around £106 per month. For those who would like to experience living on a canal boat in Scotland and learn about the licences involved, please visit the Scottish Canals website.

Mooring Costs

How you moor your boat has a direct impact on the costs. The average mooring fee is around £300 per month. For example, residential moorings for long-term use come with high fees, depending on the location and facilities. Continuous cruisers do not rent fixed moorings but instead sail continuously on the waterways in compliance with CRT regulations, and have slightly lower mooring fees.

Fuel Costs

For boaters, fuel costs are a significant ongoing expense. The fuel on board is mainly diesel, which powers the boat's engine, and its price fluctuates in line with the oil price. The monthly fuel cost (diesel) is approximately £60, depending on the frequency of cruising.

Insurance Costs

You must purchase boat insurance to apply for a CRT license. Its insurance costs vary according to the boat's value and the level of insurance coverage. If you only purchase third-party liability insurance, the annual fee is between £100 and £200. The yearly cost of comprehensive insurance ranges from £200 to £400.

Maintenance Costs

The maintenance of the boat includes hull anti-corrosion treatment, pipeline dredging, painting, leak inspection, and electrical maintenance, among other tasks. On average, the maintenance cost of a canal boat is about £52 per month.

(Data Source: Insure4boats)

Based on the above, the basic monthly cost of living on a canal boat is around £722.35.

Any Tips and Tricks for Living on a Canal Boat?

Whatever your reason for seeking to live on a canal boat, a little more information can make the experience more enjoyable and affordable. Below, we share some practical tips and tricks for those who are about to live on a canal boat:

Tip 1: Keep Things Organised

Canal boats have limited space, thus proper organisation is vital. For example, use the space under the bed to store seasonal apparel or sundries, or put storage racks on the wall to hold towels. Consider foldable furniture to maximise space efficiency, such as stackable tables and chairs that can be folded away when not in use.

Tip 2: Regularly Inspect the Hull and Equipment

Boat owners should inspect their hulls regularly for cracks and leaks, particularly around the joints and bottom of the boat. Every month, inspect critical equipment such as the engine, steering gear, and battery and replace any ageing parts.

Tip 3: Regular Cleaning and Pest Control

Canals are often humid environments that are prone to mold and insect infestations. Regular cleaning can prevent the growth of other bugs and nasty creatures. The easiest way to do this is to clean up food residues and stagnant water promptly. Alternatively, you can place natural insect repellents, such as lavender, cedarwood blocks, and mint, in the corners of the room.

Tip 4: Keep It Dry and Ventilated

Excessive moisture not only breeds mould but can also corrode the hull from the inside. Even on rainy or cold days, leave a small gap for ventilation if there is a ventilation cover. Regularly ventilating the bottom of the mattress and bedding can also inhibit moisture and mould growth to a certain extent.

Tip 5: Save Water

Canal boats have a limited water supply; therefore, boat owners without residential moorings must locate a freshwater supply point to replenish. If water is conserved, the canal boat's water tank typically lasts two to three weeks. In the absence of a guarantee that fresh water would be replenished at any time, it is better to save water.

Tip 6: Use Sustainable Energy

Today, many canal boat owners choose to purchase solar generators (such as the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2 / 2000 Plus) or install solar panels instead of traditional diesel generators to charge electronic devices and power appliances. Some boaters install wind turbines or hydroelectric generators to achieve energy self-sufficiency.

Jackery Solar Generators for Living on a Canal Boat

Canal boats frequently move between moorings, many of which lack shore power hookups. This makes reliance on the boat's engine alternator or a separate generator essential for charging batteries. Running the boat's engine for extended periods solely to charge is noisy, produces fumes, and consumes expensive diesel. Traditional generators are also bulky, loud, and require fuel. Many canal boats still use lead-acid leisure batteries, which have limited cycles and don't tolerate deep discharge well.

Instead of a noisy, polluting diesel engine or generator, a Jackery Portable Power Station powered by Jackery Solar Panels operates silently and produces no emissions. This is highly valued by other boaters and residents along the canal, as it avoids noise complaints, especially during quiet hours (often from 8 PM to 8 AM).

You can run essential appliances, charge devices, and maintain comfort without needing to constantly run your engine or seek shore power with Jackery Solar Generators. Even if your boat has an existing 12V system and an engine charging system, a Jackery can act as a powerful supplement. It can take the strain off your primary leisure batteries, extending their lifespan, and provide 240V AC power for higher-draw appliances without needing a large, expensive inverter setup for your whole boat.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2 (the combo of Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 portable power station with Jackery SolarSaga 200W solar panel) is a strong contender for canal boat living in the UK, offering a compelling blend of features for off-grid power.

2042Wh Capacity: This provides a good amount of stored energy, capable of running essential canal boat appliances for extended periods. For example, it can power a 90W fridge for approximately 21 hours, LED cabin lights for 260 hours, or an 850W electric kettle 16 times.

2200W Continuous Output (4400W Surge Peak): This allows you to run most common household appliances, including microwaves (around 1160W for 1.5 hours), coffee makers, toasters, and even some power tools, without overloading the system. It typically includes UK 230V~13A AC sockets, USB-C (100W for laptops), and USB-A ports, allowing you to charge and power various devices simultaneously.

Lightweight and Compact: Weighing in at around 17.5 kg (38.6 lbs), with a foldable handle, it's designed to be relatively easy to move around your boat or transport. Its compact dimensions (13.2 × 10.4 × 11.5 in) make it suitable for smaller spaces.

Whisper-Quiet (under 30dB in quiet charging mode): This is a significant advantage for canal boat living, as excessive noise can be disruptive in a small living space and to your neighbours on the canal.

UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) Functionality: With a quick transfer time of ≤20ms, it can seamlessly switch to battery power during outages, protecting sensitive electronics such as laptops and Wi-Fi routers. It allows you to monitor and manage power usage via the Jackery App conveniently.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is an excellent choice for canal boat living in the UK, as it combines a Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus portable power station with Jackery SolarSaga 200W solar panels, making it particularly well-suited for this unique lifestyle.

Expandable Capacity: With 2042.8Wh capacity, it is a solid starting point for powering typical boat appliances (lights, phone/laptop charging, water pump, small TV, fan). With an expandable capacity of up to 12kWh, the 2000 Plus truly shines for canal boat living. Run with the base unit in summer when solar is abundant, and add an extra battery for winter when solar input is minimal and engine charging is less frequent.

High Power Output for Essential Appliances: 3000W continuous output (6000W surge) is a very robust output, capable of running almost any domestic appliance you'd typically find on a canal boat, such as a kettle, toaster, microwave, power tools, and more.

Advanced LiFePO4 Battery: With over 4000 cycles to 70% capacity, its industry-leading lifespan (equivalent to approximately 10 years of daily use) is incredibly valuable for constant usage in off-grid canal boat life. You're investing in a system that will last. LiFePO4 chemistry is inherently more stable and safer than other lithium-ion types, which is a significant consideration in the confined space of a boat.

Fast Solar Recharging: It can be fully charged in as little as 2.4 hours with 6* SolarSaga 200W panels. Even with fewer panels, the high input capacity ensures efficient charging on sunny days. Alternatively, you can recharge the Explorer 2000 Plus via an AC outlet for 2 hours.

Silent Operation: Unlike noisy diesel generators or running your boat's engine for hours, the Jackery Solar Generator is virtually silent. This is a massive benefit for maintaining peace on the canals and adhering to noise regulations, especially when moored near other boats or residential areas.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about living on a canal boat:

1. Can you live permanently on a canal boat?

Yes, if you have a residential mooring, you can live on a canal boat year-round. However, this requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, such as boat maintenance and potential challenges in different seasons.

2. How much does it cost to live on a canal boat?

According to Insure4boats, the basic cost of living on a canal boat is around £722.35 per month.

3. Is living on a narrowboat a good idea?

The advantages of freedom, closeness to nature and low initial costs are attracting more and more people to choose living on a narrowboat. However, living on a narrowboat also comes with significant challenges, including limited space, maintenance requirements, and potential costs. Therefore, whether living on a narrowboat is a good idea depends on personal circumstances and needs. For those who love adventure and are willing to learn and adapt, living on a narrowboat can be a good experience.

4. Can I claim benefits if I live on a narrowboat?

Yes. If you live on a narrowboat and it is your primary residence, then you can claim benefits. These benefits can help you cover expenses such as mooring fees, continuous cruiser licenses, and rent. Additionally, people of working age can apply for Universal Credit to help them find a job. People of retirement age can apply for Housing Benefit.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, living on a canal boat is a pleasurable and exciting experience in the UK. It offers a unique opportunity for individuals to experience a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle while appreciating the beauty of the UK's waterways. But before you make a decision, think about whether you can do what you need to do before you start living on a canal boat, including purchasing boat insurance, obtaining a license, finding a suitable mooring spot, and stocking up on daily supplies.