Navigating the Summer Canal Traffic: An Unforgettable Narrowboat Journey

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Topping up the diesel tank
3. Refilling Water and emptying the toilet cassette at Phase Li marina
4. Shopping for food and plumbing bits at the retail park in Tamworth
5. Seeking shade to escape the heat
6. The busy canals during the summer
7. Cruising towards Fred Lee Junction
8. Passing through Phase Li Junction
9. Mooring in Hopwas
10. Encounter with other boaters on the canal
11. Finding a peaceful spot in the countryside

Article

Introduction

Being in a particular spot for a couple of days, I decided it was time to move on and Continue my Journey. With a busy day ahead, I had several tasks planned. First on my list was topping up my diesel tank. Although I still had a good amount of diesel left, it made Sense to fill it up while I had the opportunity. Additionally, I needed to visit Phase Li marina to refill water and empty my toilet cassette. Furthermore, I needed to make a stop at the retail park in Tamworth for some food and plumbing bits. With the forecast predicting an exceptionally hot day the following day, I also aimed to find a shady spot to keep the boat cool. This article follows my adventures and captures the bustling atmosphere on the canals during the summer season.

Topping up the diesel tank

After a short journey of a couple of hundred yards and a left turn down the Birmingham and Phase Li canal, I arrived at Phase Li mill marina. I made my way to the fuel dock to top up my diesel tank. Calculating the amount of diesel I had used since setting out in April, I estimated that I needed about 70 liters. The cost of the fuel came to around £70. While refueling, I took the opportunity to have a chat with the owner of the boat moored next to me, who happened to be a viewer of my vlog.

Refilling water and emptying the toilet cassette at Phase Li marina

Phase Li mill marina not only provided fuel but also offered water and disposal services for passing boaters. As the Canal and River Trust had closed their offices at the nearby junction, Phase Li marina had taken over the responsibility. This made it convenient for me to refill my water tank and empty my toilet cassette. With the tank topped up and the waste disposed of, I was ready to continue my journey.

Shopping for food and plumbing bits at the retail park in Tamworth

To replenish my food supplies and acquire some plumbing bits, I made my way to the retail park in Tamworth. The retail park housed a couple of supermarkets along with a B&Q store. As I reached the park, I was spoilt for choice with the variety of options available. I took my time browsing through the aisles, gathering groceries and selecting the necessary plumbing supplies. One particular plumbing issue I encountered was related to my washing machine. Despite following the instructions and having a one-way valve installed correctly, water from the washing up bowl was siphoning back into the machine. This called for some reengineering of the plumbing setup to rectify the issue.

Seeking shade to escape the heat

With the forecast predicting scorching temperatures, I had to come up with a plan to keep the boat cool. I decided to find a shaded spot and open all the doors and windows to allow for maximum airflow. Due to the absence of air conditioning, which requires a significant amount of power, this was the most practical solution. After searching for a suitable location, I finally found a stretch with some shade. Although the shade wasn't thick, it was enough to provide some relief from the heat and allow the solar panels to continue charging.

The busy canals during the summer

As I resumed my journey, I noticed a significant increase in boat traffic on the canals. It was apparent that the summer season brought with it a bustling atmosphere. Passing through Fay's Lee Junction and continuing up the Coventry Canal, I encountered several boats along the way. I made sure to navigate cautiously, keeping an eye out for oncoming traffic and ensuring safe passage through tight spots and bridges. The canals became livelier with fellow boaters greeting each other as they passed by.

Cruising towards Fred Lee Junction

The stretch from Phase Li Junction up to where the Coventry Canal meets the Trent and Mersey Canal at Fred Lee Junction was new territory for me. This part of the journey was uncharted, making the experience even more exciting. Although the stretch was relatively short, I anticipated that it would take a couple of weeks to navigate. With each passing day, I discovered Hidden Gems and witnessed the stunning beauty of the canals.

Passing through Phase Li Junction

Approaching Phase Li Junction, I had to make a left turn to continue up the Coventry Canal. This junction marked a significant point in my journey. Observing the distinct bridges and the surrounding landscape, it was evident that this junction had a unique Charm. I navigated through the junction carefully, ensuring there was enough space for my boat to maneuver. Sounding my horn would have been an option to inform other boats of my presence, but since there was ample space to move aside if needed, I decided to proceed cautiously without sounding the horn.

Mooring in Hopwas

One of my planned stops along the way was the village of Hopwas. With a long stretch of visitor moorings, it seemed like an ideal place to take a break. Despite the narrowness of the moorings, I managed to find a spot to tie up my boat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The village offered a temporary escape from the busy canals, allowing me to bask in the tranquility and take some time for self-reflection.

Encounter with other boaters on the canal

As I continued my journey, I encountered several other boaters along the way. The canals were abuzz with activity, and it was heartening to see fellow boaters enjoying their time on the water. From friendly greetings and conversations to spontaneous encounters, these interactions added an element of camaraderie to the experience. Boaters shared tips, stories, and even recommendations for places to explore further along the canals.

Finding a peaceful spot in the countryside

Seeking solace from the busy canals, I embarked on a Quest to find a peaceful spot in the countryside. With the goal of avoiding the crowds and finding a serene environment, I navigated further until I found a stretch with ample shade and fewer passing boaters. Mooring my boat, I embraced the tranquility and indulged in the beauty of the surrounding nature. It was a perfect opportunity to unwind, appreciate the simplicity of life on the water, and recharge before continuing my journey.

In conclusion, my journey on the canals provided a unique perspective on the summer season's bustling atmosphere. From topping up my diesel tank and refilling water to shopping for supplies and seeking shade to beat the heat, each experience added a layer of excitement. The encounters with fellow boaters and the peaceful moments in the countryside highlighted the sense of community and the beauty of nature along the canals. As I continued my journey towards Fred Lee Junction, I looked forward to new adventures and cherished the memories created along the way.

Highlights

1. Topping up the diesel tank and ensuring a smooth journey
2. The convenience of Phase Li marina for water refills and toilet cassette disposal
3. Shopping for essentials and resolving plumbing issues in Tamworth
4. Seeking shade to escape the sweltering summer heat
5. Embracing the busy canals and connecting with other boaters
6. Exploring new territory on the way to Fred Lee Junction
7. Navigating Phase Li Junction with caution and appreciation
8. Finding tranquility and relaxation in the village of Hopwas
9. The joy of encountering fellow boaters and sharing experiences
10. The serenity of the countryside and the opportunity to recharge amidst nature

FAQ

Q: How often do You need to top up your diesel tank? A: The frequency of topping up the diesel tank depends on various factors, such as the distance covered, cruising speed, and fuel efficiency of the boat. In my experience, topping up every few months or after covering a considerable distance ensures a smooth journey without the worry of running out of fuel.

Q: Are there services available along the canals for refilling water and disposing of waste? A: Yes, many marinas and designated service points along the canals provide facilities for boaters to refill their water tanks and dispose of waste, including toilet cassettes. It is crucial to plan stops at these locations to ensure a comfortable and hygienic journey.

Q: How do you cope with the hot temperatures on the boat during summer? A: Coping with hot temperatures on the boat during summer can be challenging, especially without air conditioning. To keep the boat cool, I seek shaded spots and open all the doors and windows to allow for natural ventilation. Additionally, having access to a water source enables me to spray the boat's roof and sides to create a cooling effect through evaporation.

Q: How do you navigate through narrow spots and under low bridges? A: Navigating through narrow spots and under low bridges requires caution and precise maneuvering. It is essential to assess the width and height clearance of the passage before proceeding. Slowing down and ensuring there is ample space to pass through safely is crucial. In some cases, sounding a horn to alert other boaters can help avoid potential collisions.

Q: Is it common to encounter other boaters along the canals? A: Yes, encountering other boaters along the canals is quite common, especially during the summer season. The canals become busier, creating opportunities for socializing and exchanging experiences with fellow boaters. It adds a sense of community and camaraderie to the journey.

Q: How do you find peaceful spots away from the crowd on the canals? A: Finding peaceful spots away from the crowd on the canals requires exploration and observation. It often involves venturing further from the popular routes and seeking areas with minimal boat traffic. Natural features such as tree cover, open countryside, or secluded stretches can provide the desired tranquility. It may require some patience and perseverance, but the rewards are worth it.