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    Considering having someone move your boat?

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    Maybe you've just bought a new boat and need it brought to your home mooring. Or perhaps it's time for maintenance, you're dealing with illness, moving the boat to a brokerage to sell, or simply need it relocated before or after a trip—but don’t have the time to do it yourself. That’s where I come in.

    I offer a friendly, professional boat-moving service across the UK’s inland waterways. With over seven years of hands-on experience living on board my own boat, navigating the canals and moving boats for friends, I’ll move your boat with the same care and attention I give my own.

    Your boat will be in safe hands—I'm fully insured, DBS checked and a qualified helmsmen certified by the RYA (Royal Yachting Association). I am committed to making the process smooth, efficient, and worry-free.

     

    How much time should I allow for moving my boat?

     

    Boat moves are generally calculated using lockmiles — one lockmile equals one mile of canal or one lock. For example, a two-mile stretch of canal with two locks equals four lockmiles.

    Boats typically move at around 3 lockmiles per hour, and an average travel day of about 8 hours results in roughly 24 lockmiles per day. This can vary depending on weather, daylight hours, and canal conditions. For instance, the longer daylight hours in summer make it possible to travel for extended periods compared to the shorter days of winter.

    While I always aim to deliver your boat as efficiently as possible, please note that I can’t be held responsible for delays beyond my control, such as:

    • Unforeseen CRT stoppages or problems with locks, bridges etc.

    • Queues at busy locks

    • Mechanical issues or breakdowns

    Route planning and estimated travel times are based on CanalPlanAC.

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    Pricing

     

    Please contact me to discuss pricing, as this will depend on your route, timeframe, and specific requirements. For example, summer's longer days allow for more travel time, potentially shortening the duration.

    Additional costs such as fuel, my travel to/from pick-up and drop-off locations, or other necessary items will be charged at cost — receipts will be provided.

    A £50 deposit is required for a single day booking or £100 for a multi day move to secure your booking. 

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    Pre-Move Checklist & Conditions

     

    When I arrive, I’ll carry out an inspection to make sure your boat is ready and safe for the journey. I’m always happy to help where I can, but if I feel the boat isn’t fit to cruise, I may need to postpone or cancel the move until any issues are resolved.

    Please note: if the move can’t go ahead due to the boat not being in a suitable condition, any deposits and expenses already incurred will be non-refundable.

    Required Documentation:

    • Proof of ownership (if possible).

    • Valid boat insurance.

    • Current Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) certificate, (or if the boat is under 4 years old it should have a Boat Builder's Declaration of Conformity (DoC) or equivalent).

    • CRT license (plus any additional licenses for non-CRT waterways on route).

    Logistics:

    • Key handover should be arranged in advance. In-person is preferred, though alternatives can be discussed.

    • Emergency contact details must be provided.

    • If the boat is in a marina or private mooring, the relevant party must be informed of the move (both collection and delivery).

    • Provide any specific mooring instructions or requirements for the destination.

    Boat Condition:

    • Boat must be in good working order overall.

    • Engine must be well maintained: oil, coolant, and drive belts checked (spare belt recommended).

    • Gearbox oil level checked.

    • Start and domestic batteries must be in working order and charging properly.

    • Essential systems must be operational: bilge pump, horn, tunnel and navigation lights.

    • Isolation switches and their locations should be clearly identified.

    • Stern gland should be serviceable with enough grease; propeller free of obstructions; steering and tiller functional.

    For Multi-Day Moves:

    • Working toilet, running water (hot and cold), cooking facilities, heating, and suitable sleeping arrangements are required.

    • Let me know in advance about any limitations on use of onboard facilities or systems.

    • Please advise if domestic items are on board such as cooking and cleaning items.

    Supplies:

    • Sufficient diesel, gas (if used), and heating fuel for the journey. Additional fuel will be invoiced at cost.

    • Carry spare engine oil and coolant if possible.

    • Fresh water tanks should be filled; waste tanks emptied.

    Boat Equipment Required:

    • Mooring pins, hammer, hooks, chains and fenders.

    • Bucket and hose pipe with fittings.

    • Windlasses, BW key (British Waterways/Canal River Trust) and anti-vandal key.

    • Adequate ropes: centre, bow, and stern lines. Anchor if route involves any rivers.

    • Fire safety equipment: detectors, extinguishers, etc.

     

    I know this list can feel like a lot when you're getting started with a new boat, but I'm more than happy to talk it through with you and help ease any concerns you might have.

     

    Moving Your Boat

     

    Your boat will be treated with the same care and respect as my own. While I do everything possible to avoid damage, minor scuffs or bumps can occasionally happen due to the nature of canal boating.

    • Any supplied fenders will be used when moored, and your boat will be secured properly.

    • I will maintain cleanliness of the boat throughout the trip to a high standard.

    • Daily checks of the engine, gearbox, and essential items will be carried out.

    Should any faults or breakdowns occur, I’ll notify you immediately and work with you on the best course of action. In case repairs aren’t possible, the boat will be left safe and secure until a solution is arranged.

    In the unlikely event of an accident, I’ll inform you right away and take steps to secure and protect the boat from further damage. I do not tow boats.

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    Trip Updates

     

    Before departure, we’ll agree on how frequently you’d like progress updates during the move. I’m happy to keep you informed as much—or as little—as you prefer.

     

    ​Ready to Book?

     

    If you'd like to use my services or have any questions, please get in touch via the form on the Contact Page.

    When you book my services, it’s understood that you’re happy with and agree to the conditions outlined.

    Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or want to discuss specific arrangements.​​

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    Information and Conditions

    © 2025 by Graham's Boatmovers. All rights reserved.

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