So how much does a move cost?
It depends on where and when. I charge per day of work, plus travelling costs. I work 21 lockmiles per day on average.
Currently, my per diem is £90.00 and my travel costs for moves in the Midlands are usually £60.00. You can work out how much a move is likely to cost with this handy web-app, but when you contact me we can talk through all the options for itineraries and costs.
Some people ask for a price for boat transport per mile, on average my price per mile comes in somewhere between £5 and £10 (much cheaper if you are going further.)
Where are you based?
I live in London, but I'm happy to move boats anywhere on the UK's inland waterways.
What if I'm moving only a short way?
Moves that take only a couple of hours or less still require me to give up any other work for that day. Because of this I will still charge my day rate as a minimum.
If you want to hire me for regular work of several hours a day on a weekly basis, contact me and we can discuss an hourly rate.
How long does a move take?
Most boats move at around 3 lockmiles* per hour. My working day is around 7 hours long (including mandatory breaks), so I work on moving 21 lockmiles* per day. This is the basis for the estimated number of days for a move given here.
*A lockmile is a mile of canal or a lock. So a 3 mile stretch of canal with 2 locks, is 5 lockmiles.
Are you qualified and insured?
Yes. In addition to my considerable experience, I have been certified as an Inland Waterways Helm & Crew Instructor by the RYA and have passed through the Canal & River Trust's volunteer skipper training, I also hold the CEVNI and ICC international qualifications. You can look over some of my various qualifications here.
As a business skipper, I hold public liability insurance to the value of two million pounds against any unforeseen accidents.
Will you fix my boat?
No. I will maintain your boat according to your instructions during its move, but I will not attempt any engine or other repairs.
If I think your boat is not fit to move, I cannot move it.
Can you tow my boat?
No. I don't use my own boat for towing, nor can I use someone elses unless the boat is specifically insured for towing.
I'd like to crew, have you any jobs going?
I can't employ anyone ATM. If a move requires two crew, then I call on a small group of suitably qualified friends to help out, and make arrangements with the client.
If you are my client, I'm very happy to have you observe and help, under my instruction.
Are there boats you will not move?
Yes. If the journey is any longer than one day, I will not move a boat powered by a petrol, outboard motor. Petrol is not an easy fuel to find canalside and I'm not prepared to carry cans of petrol to and from your boat.
And again, if I think your boat is not fit to move, I cannot move it.