The classic narrow beam canal boat has been a staple of British waterways since the birth of the canal network in the 18th Century. Originally working boats, designed for carrying industrial supplies, they were horse-drawn and working on them was a hard graft.
Fast forward three centuries later and life on the canals has changed drastically. No longer used for industrial transportation, the waterways are instead a place for leisure and even to live. As a result of this shift, the modern narrowboat, whilst retaining some of the industrial features of its origin, is a different animal altogether. With many people looking to them for recreation and as a place to call home.
At Collingwood, we have taken the humble narrowboat and created a craft that is fully adaptable to 21st Century life. Our Shearwater range retains the standardised 6ft 10in beam of traditional industrial craft but inside, you’ll find a world far removed from the hard-working conditions that boatmen and their families endured during the industrial revolution.
The Collingwood Shearwater range has all the features of a modern-day apartment, and whether you’re looking to liveaboard or to cruise the waterways in your free time, is the ideal introduction to the quality craftsmanship and luxury that the Collingwood name instils.
This brief tour will take you through our Shearwateer collection from bow to stern so you can see first hand what a boat from the UK’s largest canal boat builders can offer.
The ideal place to cruise and to enjoy the outdoors
Starting at the very rear of the boat we have both traditional and cruiser style stern options. Pictured is a semi-trad stern, notable for its additional seating areas. Depending on the means for which you will be using your boat the stern can be either a functional place to man the helm or a relaxing outdoor area to entertain guests on a summers evening.
Serving up a treat below decks
Straight from the hatch entrance, we have a fully fitted galley in a shaker style. Finished with granite work surfaces and featuring an integrated fridge. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply preparing home-cooked meals the Shearwaters galley has everything you could need.
A place to put your feet up
The lounge of the Shearwater comes with several fitting options and is the ideal place to relax and unwind after a day of manning the tiller or entertaining. Its open-plan design allows for easy access to the galley or the adjoining corridor to the bathroom or bedroom. With freestanding furniture and an enclosed TV cabinet featuring a 32inch smart TV, it’s a place you can truly call home.
Creature comforts for life on the waterways
Relax and refresh in a luxury fitted bathroom, featuring ultra-modern designs and pace saving, storage features. With a sleek quadrant shower enclosure, ergonomic ceramic washbasin and stylish granite work surfaces you can revitalise yourself in luxurious comfort.
Rest your bones in a spacious double bedroom
The bedroom of the Shearwater features a super comfortable double bed for a great nights rest. With plenty of storage including a double fronted mirror, overhead cupboards and under bed storage it’s the perfect place to relax and get some well-earned rest after a long day on the waterways.
The bedroom also features access to the bow deck where you can enjoy the tranquillity of a mid-summers evening a mere stepping distance from the comfort of your bed.
The fully-fitted Shearwater narrow-beam canal boat comes with the following specifications:
- Handcrafted shaker style galley with granite work surfaces and integral fridge
- Walkthrough bathroom with quadrant shower enclosure, ceramic washbasin with granite work surfaces
- Open lounge area for free standing furniture with solid fuel stove and 32″ smart TV in surround cabinet
- 1 bedroom with fixed double bed with overhead cupboards and storage underneath, double fronted wardrobe with mirrored doors
- Selection of carpet and curtains available
- Webasto 5kw central heating system with double designer radiators
- Canaline 35hp engine
- 2.5 Sterling inverter combi
- Painted 2 colours and coach line
A multitude of options
There are plenty of options when it comes to designing your own liveaboard or recreational Shearwater narrowboat. From fully fitted specifications to the DIY selections in our Sailaway and Sailaway Lined ranges.
Want to experience more about what life onboard The Shearwater range is like? Take our virtual tour below.
Contact Collingwood today to discuss your options and start building your ideal waterway home.
