Narrowboat Wordsworth is a compact craft capable of cruising all the inland waterways of England and beyond.
Dimensions and construction
At 45 feet long, Wordsworth is easy to handle a pleasure to navigate and cheaper than many to moor and license. Constructed in 2017 by respected builder, ABC boats of Boston Lincolnshire, the steel work is of high-quality. Externally all is in excellent condition – the hull especially so as it has been protected from New by hot zinc spray. This is essentially a process that’s near to galvanising, with the hull being grit blasted and stream of molten zinc applied. Carried out at Debdale wharf Marina, the process carries a 10-year guarantee.
Capable craft
Designed to be safe and capable in almost all inland waterways situations, the enclosed foredeck and ship-style bow can take on reasonably rough water without risk of swamping. The engine produces 40 horsepower,more powerful for this length of boat, making tidal rivers and likely, estuaries safe to navigate.
External features
All windows are double glazed, regulation complying navigation lights are fitted and new solar panels have been added very recently (360W). The cruiser stern has been designed to be spacious enough for relaxed outdoor activities such as alfresco dining or just relaxing while moored .
Keeping warm
Heating comes courtesy of a 5 kW diesel burning stove in the main living area, backed up by a further 5 kW of diesel fired, blown-air heating in the rear cabin. This is also designed to provide a good method, washing lines above, of drying laundry in bad weather.
Inside story
Insulation consists of spray foam to roof and walls and 50 mm of block material beneath the subfloor. The interior fit-out is best described as rustic; fully painted and creating a homely atmosphere. Layout consist of living area forward, followed by a well equipped kitchen diner that benefits from a brand-new fridge freezer and hob. The washroom features a wetroom style floor with mahogany slatted base above built-in waste tray. Above, there’s a rain showerhead that provides good water flow. The toilet is the dry type (sometimes referred to as composting), meaning no chemicals are needed and disposal is easier than many other systems used onboard boats.
Service department
Aft is a spacious cabin designed to be multi use. In pride of place is the 1960s Hotpoint Countess washing machine. A quirky addition I know, but it was was chosen as it uses little electrical energy and can produce a large load of washing in half an hour and finished quite dry thanks to the motorised ringer. Freshwater is supplied by an 800–litre tank, giving excellent range between fill ups. The hot water tank (52 L) is heated either by immersion heater and by the engine when cruising. Diesel also, at 315 litres, gives excellent cruising range with the engine drinking around just half a litre per hour.
Living area electricity supply is provided by a 300amp hour, lithium battery, while 230 V mains features a 2 kW inverter. This, the mains battery charger and solar regulator are all made by respected company Victron.
Just right for you?
Wordsworth has recently undergone a part refit where living area space has been expanded. The main living area has been left unfurnished as there are many options for both sleeping, relaxing and storage. The same idea has been applied to the rear cabin where space has been left aside for the new owners needs. Thus, there is room for things such as bicycles and trolleys or just additional storage if required. The rest of the cabin provides cupboard and drawer storage and a large multi use work surface. Other details see plenty of LED lighting and a drinking water filter with separate faucet.
So why am I selling this lovely craft? Well, as someone currently in his 70th year, Narrowboat Wordsworth was going to be the partner of my last adventure and I have lived on her for more than four years. However, a new opportunity has arisen that will see me living on and sailing a yacht in the Mediterranean– one more adventure while I can still stand up and remember my name!? currently, I am finishing all the little jobs before Wordsworth is sold. She is on the hard at the moment (so a hull inspection is easy to do) but re launch is already paid for and there is around 300 litres of diesel in the tank. It’s possible to view at any time – weekdays or weekends.
Kind regards and hoping to see you soon, Dave Hurrell.
Vessel type: | Cruiser Stern Narrowboat |
Builder: | ABC Boats (Boston) |
Make: | ABC Boats |
Model: | 45 Cruiser Stern |
Fit Out: | Self fit out |
Constructed: | 2017 |
Registration: | 527725 |
Berths: | 2 |
No. of engines: | 1 |
Engine model: | Barrus Shire |
Engine power: | 40 |
Engine hours: | 160 |
Fuel type: | Diesel |
Drive type: | Shaft drive |
Length over all: | 45' |
Length at waterline: | 45' |
Beam: | 6' 10" |
Maximum draft: | 2' |
Bridge clearance: | 5' 6" |
Hull type: | Displacement |
Hull colour: | Black |
Keel type: | Other |
Displacement: | 28 metric tons |
Fuel capacity: | 315 Litres |
Water capacity: | 800 Litres |
Note: Indicated location is approximate general area only.