Charnwood 25 - Special Edition

5^th January 2025

         

Charnwood 25 - Prepared and ready for painting!

5^th January 2025

Ovation Boats 25th Special Edition is coming along nicely, with the cabin in two pack primer and prepared for the applications of undercoat and top coats. (International Perfection Pro) 

This 60ft reverse layout semi cruiser narrowboat is available to purchase and will be ready to launch in Spring 2025 but if you're quick and get your name down now, you can have an input into the final build specifications and be out on the canal for the new boating season.  

For more details about the Ovation Boats 25th Special Edition or any of the boats we currently have for sale, contact Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
 

'Breaking Bad' - Bonded Flush Windows

11^th December 2024

The Cauldwell Bonded Flush Fit windows on our latest custom-built narrowboat ‘Breaking Bad’ are going down an absolute treat with her new owners, and the Ovation Boats Team are loving all the positive comments! 

If you’re thinking of upgrading to a sleeker and more efficient window system for 2025 and would like to know the options available, or maybe you’re considering what windows to have on your own dream boat, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Glamping anyone? 'Breaking Bad' is at it again!

11^th December 2024

With the healing properties of nature becoming more widely recognised and ‘glamping’ an increasingly popular past-time, who wouldn’t want to bring ‘wild camping’ into their lives!?

Always willing to try out new ideas, the Ovation Boats Team jumped at the chance of fitting this classic Tent Box to the roof of ‘Breaking Bad’.

New owners, Nigel & Ann, are very much looking forward to trying their Tent Box out and whilst probably the first boat owners to have this head turning feature, they’ll likely not be the last!

Happy 'Glamping!'

If you would like to discuss any of the features of 'Breaking Bad', are planning on having your own boat built or already have a boat in need of an upgrade or modernisation, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Warm Boats & Food - Chilli Penguin Stove with pie oven!

11^th December 2024

As we head towards Christmas, the New Year and falling temperatures, an efficient heating system and warm comfort food are a great combination!

On the latest commission boat from Ovation Boats, owners Nigel & Ann have combined an underfloor heating system with a stylish eco-design Chilli Penguin Stove with pie oven.

Sporting an Evergreen finish to compliment the copper fire surround and Walnut boat interior, the overall effect is stunning! (and the food delicious!)

‘Breaking Bad’ will be available to view at the Crick Boat Show 2025 – further details to follow – but in the meantime, to discuss your own build requirements, or chat about any of the boats we currently have for sale, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk Hard to believe we know, but in a blink of an eye the new boating season will be here!

Ovation Boats - Number 25!!

10^th December 2024

With the arrival of the Christmas season the significance of the 25th new build being brought into the workshop isn't exactly lost on the Ovation Boats Team!! What an achievement!

Grit blasted and with base coats and primer already applied, this 60ft narrowboat with semi cruiser stern has a completion date for early 2025!

If you would like more information on this boat or any boats currently for sale, give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk  

Against All Odds - a tradtional back cabin for 2025!

10^th December 2024

Not satisfied with fitting out new narrow boats, the Ovation Team are looking forward to replacing previously fitted wardrobes on this modern 70ft narrowboat with a more traditional back cabin.

As you can see, the functional (but unexciting) wardrobes have been removed in readiness for a bed hole, table cupboard and seating to be built, and will be complemented with authentic artwork by Claire Norton of Norton Canal Art.

We’ll be popping back from time to time to see how the fit-out is progressing but if you’ve been thinking of using the Winter months for having your boat spruced up for the 2025 season, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk to see how we can make that happen!

'Breaking Bad' - quite possibly our favourite boat build to date!!

3^rd December 2024

The latest 'Charnwood Choice' from Ovation Boats has now been officially handed over to her proud new owners!

Sporting some amazing artwork by Claire Norton from Norton Canal Art, 'Breaking Bad' will be turning heads everywhere she goes........... but have a look on the inside now she's had a good clean and see what you think!!

The few small jobs that needed finishing off have all been done, and Nigel & Ann are now happily settled in their dream boat.

A new 60ft narrow boat shell is now in the workshop and ready for fitting out!

For more details on designing the boat of YOUR dreams or any of the boats we currently have for sale, please contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboatservices.co.uk 

Breaking Bad - a boat with a difference Part II

4^th November 2024

As promised, here's Part II of our 'Breaking Bad' story........... and there's no skimping on design or quality!

The galley has a Bosch all in one oven with built in air fryer which delivers cooking versatility without the need for extra gadgets or work top clutter.

.............And talking of worktops, how often have you stood wondering where to put all those necessary items in the shower room?! Well, wonder no more! On 'Breaking Bad' the larger than average work top and basin give plenty of room to spread yourself out...........and those with an abundance of creams, potions & lotions know exactly what I mean!

For unexpected visitors sleeping arrangements don't need to cause a headache as 'Breaking Bad' has a wild camping roof tent box (which is more bedroom than tent) specifically for those needing their own private space when stopping over.

For further details about 'Breaking Bad' or any of our boats currently for sale, or to discuss your design for a bespoke boat, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Cutting edge windows and coverings!

25^th October 2024

       

Making good use of space!

25^th October 2024

Ticking off those Winter jobs!

20^th October 2024

After many years of good service, these side doors were beginning to leak.

Ovation Boats replaced the double glazed units, modified the design and replaced the Ash lining.

As you can imagine, the customer was delighted! Here's what they had to say about their experience!

"Ovation replaced double glazed panels and renewed Ash inner lining on our 2 pairs of side doors. 

The attention to detail from the initial review of the job, measurements and care taken when removing the existing doors and securing the aperture with weather proof board was impressive. When the replacement doors arrived the attention to detail continued with Darren making many small adjustments to ensure that the fit was perfect. The exterior steel was made good with the paint matching the cabin sides to perfection. 

Chris and Darren were very pleasant and helpful in every exchange that we had, nothing seemed too much trouble to explain or to do. 

We would highly recommend Ovation for boat work"

If you have any niggling jobs you've been promising yourself (or the other half) you'll get fixed very soon but never have, then why not give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk to see how Ovation Boats can help!?

We can work off site and come to you to complete, or your boat can come into our workshop at Redhill Marina for those jobs requiring a dry environment over Winter.

Fancy taking an Electric Cruise?!

9^th October 2024

Are you considering owning a boat with electric propulsion but unsure about technical details?

Interested in a smaller boat due to rising costs but unsure about onboard facilities and space?

Want to meet the builder of your new boat in person and discuss onboard equipment & options?

How about a year's free mooring thrown in? Interested!?

Then why not come down to ABNB boat brokerage for their Demo Day on 26th October 2024?!

Chris Williams and Julia from the Ovation Boats Team will be on hand to take you for a short Demo cruise aboard the electric propelled 42 ft Charnwood Hobbit.

Refreshments will be provided, and who doesn't like free tea & biscuits!!

Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to explore your boating options and get your questions answered!

Book your appointment today by phoning 01788 822 115 or email admin@abnb.co.uk

Appointments are from 10am - 4pm! See you there!!

Aqueduct Marina Autumn Showcase!

16^th September 2024

On Saturday, 14 September 2024, Aqueduct Marina opened it's doors to promote both new and preloved boats!

Never ones to miss an opportunity for a get together and natter with old friends, Chris Williams and Julia spent the day showing off the latest Charnwood Edge (now on brokerage) and answering many questions put to them by visitors.

Just like the Summer Open Day, Paul and Anthony from YouTube's 'Narrowboat Life Unlocked' also attended the event, and caused quite a stir!

Following their recent announcement about moving on from 'Morning Star' everyone was interested to know who would be building their new boat, but of course, our lips are sealed!

Whoever their builder is, the Ovation Team wish the boys the best of luck in their new venture and will be eager to see how their new project progresses!

If you'd like further details on the boats currently for sale or planning your own boat design and looking for a bespoke boat builder, then why not phone Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk.

Who knows, you may even be launching yourselves into 2025 alongside 'Paul & Anthony'!!

Breaking Bad - A boat with a difference Part I

16^th September 2024

'Breaking Bad' is coming along nicely so why not have a peek at what's been happening so far!?

Just sit back and relax and imagine how things will look!!

For futher details about 'Breaking Bad' or any of our boats currently for sale, or to discuss your design for a bespoke boat, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

What is this life........?

13^th September 2024

"What is this life if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare?

No time to stand beneath the boughs, and stare as long as sheep and cows..."

This poem by Welsh poet W.H. Davies is as true today as when written in 1911.

Nowadays, we gallop through modern day life without having time to enjoy the beauty around us, and that can also be true when travelling along our wonderful canal system!

Chris Williams, like the rest of the Ovation Boats team, is a true boatman. His knowledge of the canal system is vast having been a boater since boyhood.

Chris can find signs of canal history which is hidden to most passing by, and he’s always happy to point something out, whether rope marks on walls & ground paddles, or grooves through bridges, and spindles, denoting the passage of the long gone horse drawn canal boat!

In these pictures you can see all of the above as well as a separate tunnel (Shrewley Tunnel) used for pedestrians AND towing horses whilst the boaters ‘legged it’ through!

If your life is rushing by and you'd like to pause, breathe and take back control, a narrowboat with a canal based lifestyle may be just what you need!

To speak with Chris Williams direct about any of the boats we're currently fitting out or have for sale call 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk............. and if you're planning on having your own bespoke boat built then we'd love to help you achieve your dream!

Let's Get Smart!!!!

13^th September 2024

Given the Winter lock closures looming, now's probably a good time to start thinking about getting those promised modifications and alterations done for next year's boating!

Here we can see how standard duck doors can be modified with inner glazed panes, enabling light in and cooler temperatures out and how original L shaped dinette seating can be replaced by a Pullman dinette!

No job is too big or too small, and we can even come to you!

For further details on what services are available contact Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk.

Breaking Bad......with a few twists!

31^st August 2024

At Ovation Boats we pride ourselves on listening to our customers and putting their ideas into practice!

As a bespoke boat builder we have an endless supply of both experience & talent and are more than happy to accommodate any request, whether large or small!!

When asked if the traditional rear slide could be replaced by a hinged hatch to make access easier - no problem! And those conventional stirrup step fittings have been replaced by convenient toe apertures inset into the cabin side.

To keep 'Breaking Bad' even better insulated from varying temperatures, a layer of 'Thinsulate' material was placed over the foam spray before the cabin lining was fitted, however, the boat now has sound proofing like no other - and that's even without the double glazing yet being fitted!!

'Breaking Bad' has a skylight with a difference too! 'Smart Glass' will provide a clear & open aspect to the sky until a switch is operated, turning the glass to black and giving total privacy without the need for an internal blind.

With 'Breaking Bad's' new owners being keen walkers as well as 'liveaboard' boaters, the need for a larger water capacity for those daily showers, is essential. Afterall, with lives to live who wants to be tracking down a towpath water tap when there's fun to be had??!! 

Two large water tanks have replaced the single domestic water tank usually found under the well deck. The one to port takes from the domestic mains water whilst the tank to starboard purifies water from the canal system to drinking water standard! Clever eh!?

In 'Breaking Bad' the team have been given a specification like no other and with the new owners having foresight as well as great attention to detail, the team look forward to their every working day!

We will be posting more details and photos shortly!

To speak with Chris Williams direct about any of the boats we're currently fitting out or have for sale call 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk and if you're planning on having your own bespoke boat built then we'd love to help you achieve your dream!

'Breaking Bad' is looking GOOD!

6^th August 2024

When Nigel and Ann asked the Ovation Boat Team to build a 'Charnwood Choice' of their very  own design, the guys were only too willing to accept!

'Breaking Bad' arrived at the workshop in July and within a day had been grit blasted to remove all millscale then brought into our temperature controlled paint booth for the painting process to begin.

With the exterior safely underway, the process of fitting the inside of 'Breaking Bad' also began. This included laying down ballast and preparing for underfloor heating.

If you would like to discuss having your own design of boat built, whether narrowboat, widebeam or, like 'Breaking Bad' a boat in a Dutch Barge style, then give Chris Williams a call direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

Bliss - before and after!

2^nd August 2024

Who doesn't like 'before & after' photos and videos, and today the Ovation Team would like to take you on a tour around 'Bliss'.

At 70ft and with a sociably long Well deck, this 2004 narrowboat fabricated by Measham Boats has been totally stripped out & grit blasted back to clean steel before being given a brand new fit out at a second hand price!

An ideal boat for family living, this beautifully stream lined narrowboat is ideal as a liveaboard whether marina based or continually cruising around the inland waterways.

If you would like to discuss your own boat build or for more information on 'Bliss' call Chris Williams direct on 07963974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk

   

New & Used Boat Co Open Day!

9^th July 2024

Out with the OLD, and in with the NEW!

24^th June 2024

You know how it is! You'd like a new boat but the purse strings don't stretch that far, and anyway, you love the boat you have and can't bear the thought of selling her on to someone who won't love her the way you do!

So! What's the solution!?

At Ovation Boats, our team of experienced fitters can give your boat a make-over to satisfy your desires at a price you can afford, whether external paintwork or internal modifications.

Here we see an example of what can be done to bring a beloved boat into the modern world and, with a new galley, under gunnel storage and an upgraded heating system as part of these changes, this little gem will be giving her owners pleasure for many more years to come!

If you're considering giving your boat a make-over and would like impartial advice and a no obligation quote, give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboatservices.co.uk

Giving your boat a makeover!!

24^th June 2024

We've all seen them..........people moored along the towpath with sandpaper and paintbrush in hand, trying their best to hold back the the ravages of time & weather, and prevent the rust from taking over their boat!

Whilst a lot can be done to touch up peeling paint and rusting steelwork, eventually there's no alternative than to have a more thorough job done and that's where the Ovation Boats Team can help!

With both internal and external facilities at our Redhill workshop, your boat could be brought back to life and turning heads in no time!

This boat was really in need of some TLC and with thick layers of previous paint jobs coupled with corrosion around windows & portholes (resulting in leaking windows) a proper sanding down using the correct tools for the job, was a must.

With windows removed, and corrosion treated, the preparation of steelwork could begin in earnest and layers of new paintwork applied. At Ovation Boats we paint the more traditional way by using rollers and brushes. This ensures a more even covering and a paint job which lasts.

As you can see from the photos, the process of bringing this beautiful 40ft David Piper back to glory was messy & dirty, but well worth the effort!

If you are considering a partial or full repaint of your boat, and possible modifications like replacement of wooden doors or corrective action to fix leaky windows, then call Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 for a no obligation quote, or email chris@ovationboatservices.co.uk

Bliss to the fore!

5^th June 2024

The Ovation Team are back on board 'Bliss' and with only three weeks before the next commission boat comes through the workshop doors, the guys are hoping to have her all but finished very, very soon.

Of course fitting out any narrowboat causes some degree of mess but we thought you'd like a sneak peek at how things are progressing!

Leading from the front:

• long well deck for socialising
• lounge area/ saloon with ability for additional sleeping
• galley
• pullman dinette/ additional sleeping
• fixed double bed
• large walk through shower room
• rear cabin with two single beds, adjustable to double sleeping
• utility area with walk in wardrobe/ storage
• back cabin with engine below

'Bliss' is a 70ft narrowboat with traditional stern.

Originally built in 2004 by quality boatbuilders Measham Boats, 'Bliss' was totally stripped out and grit blasted back to clean steel (including the base plate) before preparation and a new fit out began.

With a steel specification of 10mm baseplate, 6mm hull sides, and 5mm cabin sides & top, and long head turning well deck, this shell was built as a classic and to last! 

For further details about 'Bliss' or any of our boats, or to discuss the boat of your dreams, please contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk