Crick 2025 - WE'RE HERE!
16th May 2025
After 3 days of travelling, our 25th Ovation Boat arrived safely at Crick Marina.
With grand-daughter, Izzy (17) operating the locks, the final day lasted a whopping 14 hours but did Izzy mind?? No, not one bit, as like all the grandchildren, she loves being out & about on the water!!!
Saddington Tunnel 
Saddington Tunnel
Can we do it!!?? 
YES WE CAN!!!!
Fun for all the family!
This beautiful boat is currently for sale and available to view at the Adueduct Marina stand.
For further details about our 25th Special Edition or any of the boats we currently have for sale, please contact Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboatservices.co.uk
We look forward to seeing you!!
'Breaking Bad' is at Crick 2025!
16th May 2025
In just one week the Crick Boat Show will be in full swing, and Ovation Boats are taking two boats for you to view!!!
In addition to the 'Charnwood Edge' 25th Special Edition (available to view at the Aqueduct stand) will be the beautiful bespoke narrowboat 'Breaking Bad'.
A real head turner...... .jpg)
with many special features....
for a life of leisure..... 
available to view at Crick 2025!
Now, those who follow Ovation Boats will remember how Nigel & Ann bought the Crick 2023 'Charnwood Edge' which they named 'Saul Goodman II'.
Well, they took to the liveaboard lifestyle like the proverbial 'duck to water' and quickly commisioned a boat to be built to their own design & specification which they named 'Breaking Bad'.
Whilst Nigel & Ann will be greeting visitors and showing people around their very special home, the Ovation Team will be on hand at their stand to answer any questions and discuss any dreams you may have about owning your own dream boat.
For further details about 'Breaking Bad' or any of the boats we currently have for sale, contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Crick 2025 - HERE WE COME!
14th May 2025
The countdown to Crick has well and truly arrived and our 25th Special Edition is now wending her way along the Grand Union Canal en-route to this year's show!
Looking stunning in a green and black livery, our 'Charnwood Edge' is already turning heads and initiating lots of questions. YES! SHE IS FOR SALE!!!
Fill her up Tracey! 
Tracey with Chis Williams & John
Here we can see Chris Williams mooring up for fuel at 'The Hampstead Limited' sited on the Mountsorrel side of the Cossington Lock. Owned by Howard Williams and partner, Tracey, this facility provides much needed fuel to passing boaters and can also deliver to boaters along the canal system.
Get ready to push, Izzy!! 
Passing through Cossington Lock
With Izzy & Julia joining the crew, the start of the second day saw our Special Edition passing through Syston, Birstall and on to Leicester, then passing Leicester City Football's King Power Stadium and Aylestone Meadows.
King Power Stadium 
The beauty of nature!
Our 25th Special Edition 'Charnwood Edge'!
There's still a way to go but with the sun shining and the beauty of Wistow and Foxton Locks beckoning, those double locks are worth the effort!!
If you happen to see the latest Ovation Boat when walking along the towpath (or looking over your back garden fence) please give the crew a friendly wave, and if you have a camera to hand, we'd love to have a photo!!!
For more details about owning this beautiful boat, contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboatservices.co.uk
IT COULD BE YOU!!!!
Sleeping versatility in our 25th Special Edition
2nd May 2025
Bespoke hand built upper storage
Twin bunks or King sized bed 
Wardrobe & under bunk storage
Have you noticed that whilst many boaters are happy to share most aspects of their everyday lives on social media (including toilets) sleeping arrangements don’t get a mention?
We all need to sleep but for some reason most of us feel unable to admit they sometimes slip out of bed to get away from a snoring partner or sleep apart on a regular basis because one or the other is a restless sleeper…………….. but what can be done within the confines of a boat?!
Over the years, requests for various interior designs have prompted the Ovation Team to look at alternative sleeping arrangements for our ‘Charnwood Edge’ customers, and overall, we seem to be getting things right.
The versatile forward cabin can be used as day seating for trips out with family/ friends or converted into permanent twin bunk sleeping, or a King Sized bed.
Sofa Barn are well known within the boating community as the ‘go to’ company for comfortable sofas and mattresses and so working to our specific requirements have handmade the upholstery for our ‘Charnwood Edge’ 25th Special Edition, thus ensuring comfortable seating as well as a great night’s sleep for all!
There’s still a little finishing off to do but within a couple of weeks we’ll be beginning the journey by water to Crick.
Of course, if you’d prefer a conventional bed or an alternative layout then you only need to ask! For further details about our ‘Charnwood Edge’ or ‘Charnwood Choice’ range of boats, contact Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Galley on our 25th Special Edition
30th April 2025
In most homes the kitchen is probably the most imporant room, and this can be the same on boats. You don’t need to cook to a professional standard but most of us cook to some degree and we all need to eat – so why not an attractive galley?!!
Our 25th Special Edition comes with ample storage and worktop space, a separate fridge & freezer and family sized washing machine.
Cooking is via a Thetford Midi Prima oven with separate grill, and a three-burner gas hob set to port, whilst the galley sink with drainer & mixer tap are set to starboard.
Windows both sides have neat concertina blinds from Apollo Blinds (Derbyshire) and the sole covering is a Spectra luxury rigid core click vinyl flooring in Oak effect herringbone - ideal for marine environments and anyone cleaning up after muddy paws have padded through!!!!
Whilst our 25th Special Edition is classed as a ‘Charnwood Edge’, Ovation Boats build commission boats to any design or specification. (Charnwood Choice) You just need to speak to Chris Williams direct about your dream boat, and we’ll do the rest!
This soon to be completed narrow boat is currently for sale and available to view at the Aqueduct Marina stand at Crick. However, if you’d like to jump the queue and make sure your name is on her before she leaves the workshop, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Just think…………..you could be heading away from Crick to start new adventures on your own brand new narrow boat!
Hand built storage 
Sink with rinse facility & mixer tap
Family size washing machine 
Fridge (with separate freezer)
3 burner hob 
Long, attractive galley
Comfort & Style - Our 25th Special Edition
28th April 2025
Hand built storage throughout 
Neat leather handles
Nice & toasty! 
Blissful comfort for everyone
The 25th Special Edition from Ovation Boats is a ‘Charnwood Edge’ with upgrades. These will become more apparent when we take our end of fit-out tour, but for now here’s a few tasters to whet your appetite!
The sole covering throughout is a Spectra luxury rigid core click vinyl flooring, in Oak effect herringbone - ideal for marine environments.
The window/ porthole coverings are neat concertina blinds sourced from Apollo Blinds (Derbyshire) which give a great combination of light & privacy and the classy, streamlined look is easy to clean and less fussy than conventional coverings. We’ve also included a fixed sky light with ‘Smart Glass’ to maximise light & privacy, whilst retaining a watertight seal and security.
With so many of our ‘Charnwood Choice’ customers opting for a solid fuel stove, a Morso Squirrel supports the Eberspacher central heating system, and the white, conventional style radiators (Keswick cast Iron) and towel rail are a welcome return.
Storage in the lounge area and throughout, is hand built by our carpenters, and with domestic style handles being prone to catching on clothes, the leather strap handles (which come in various colours) are attractive and decidedly less hazardous!!!
Our previous ‘Charnwood Edge’ fit outs had fixed dinette seating, with the main seating being left to customer choice, but with so many positive reports over the years about ‘Sofa Barn’ we decided to give them a try:
The main settee is both comfortable and functional (Canterbury), and with little effort converts into a large double bed, whilst the custom-built L shaped dinette seating with storage below (Banbury) converts into an additional double bed. In all, and with the versatility of the forward cabin, our ‘Charnwood Edge’ can sleep up to 6 people in blissful comfort.
This boat is currently for sale and available to view at the Aqueduct Marina stand at Crick, but if you’d like to snap up this Special Edition before she leaves the workshop, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
We’ll be posting updates between now and Crick 2025 to include moving this yet unnamed boat by water to Crick!
25th Special Edition - Crick 2025!
27th April 2025
With Crick 2025 only a few weeks away, it’s ‘all hands to the pump’ to get our Ovation Boats 25th Special Edition show ready!!
This beautiful boat is currently for sale on brokerage and will be available to view at the Aqueduct Marina stand, however, if you're quick, you can show your interest before the show by contacting Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Just think…………you could be cruising away from Crick in your very own brand new home!!
Stylish windows 
Coach lines going on!
Handy forward deck storage!
Window coverings on our Special Edition
27th April 2025
'It aint what you do, it's the way that you do it!!' sang Fun Boy Three & Bananarama.............and that's what gets results!
Window coverings are always down to personal choice but with current trends leaning more towards blinds than curtains, the Ovation Boats 25th Special Edition is moving with the times!!
These concertina blinds are from ‘Apollo blinds’ (Derbyshire) and operate on an upper and lower ‘line’, gliding easily to open & close. They maximise light whilst giving total privacy when closed and come in various colours and styles to suit every taste.
They’re brilliant at temperature control by helping to keep summer heat and winter chills OUT and when incorporated with a fly screen are invaluable - especially on duck doors!
There’s still some trim work that needs finishing off on our Special Edition but those unsightly dangling chains associated with Roller blinds or Roman blinds, are a thing of the past and there’s no longer the need to tuck flapping curtains behind a retaining rod!! What could be simpler!!
Our 25th Ovation Boat is currently for sale and available to view at the Aqueduct Marina stand at Crick, but if you’d like to snap this Special Edition up before she leaves the workshop, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Maximise light 
Total privacy!
Neat & tidy! 
A quality finish!
Washing your blues away on our 25th Special Edition
27th April 2025
You know how it is……. you’re searching for your ideal boat but whilst most of the boxes are ticked there’s always something that isn’t quite right for you!
Often, this is down to the shower room as it’s probably the area least used on a boat and valuable inches are ‘pinched’ to make the living space more spacious ……….but who wants to be banging their elbows on structure when drying off from a shower or headbutting a medicine cabinet squashed into space above the basin?
Space on boats is always a compromise but at Ovation Boats a lot of thought goes into our designs, and we feel we get it right more often than not. There’s a logic and reason to everything we do when building a boat and we always leave availability for a new owner to add their own personal touches!
Take the shower room on our Special Edition……
The large shower cubicle with quarter doors gives ample space to move around and the herringbone design shower boards allow the water to quickly drain off.
The upper void behind the shower gives easy access to water pipework whilst also providing ample storage for towels and associated paraphernalia, and the cupboard below is useful for hiding items away.
The Thetford cassette toilet is ceramic, giving a quality feel, and the swivel facility allows the position to change for maximising space or use. Those saved inches allow easier cassette access via a lower panel as you enter the shower room, so no more need to dismantle fixed seating or access cupboards in the lounge to change your cassette.
The towel rail gives maximised heat flow coupled with plenty of space for airing towels & laundry.
The sole covering is a Spectra luxury rigid core click vinyl flooring, in Oak effect herringbone, and the colour is ‘Rich Chocolate’ - which is ideal for shower rooms or marine environments but sadly not edible!!
Whilst our 25th Special Edition is from our ‘Charnwood Edge’ range, Ovation Boats build commission boats to any design or specification. You just need to speak to Chris Willims direct.
Our 25th Ovation Boat is currently for sale and available to view at the Aqueduct Marina stand at Crick, but if you’d like to snap this Special Edition up before she leaves the workshop, then give Chris Williams a call on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
You could be cruising away from Crick in your very own brand-new narrowboat!
Swivel ceramic toilet 
Large shower cubicle
Herringbone shower board 
Easy access to water pipework
Useful towel rail 
Herringbone flooring throughout
A problem shared............!
26th April 2025
At Ovation Boats, not only do we fit out new builds, but offer a whole range of boat services!!
We can bring life back to older boats needing refurbishment or those needing TLC after unexpected circumstances.
This boat was heat & smoke damaged following a fire from a boat moored alongside. If that wasn't bad enough the owner was only half-way through fit-out!! Can you imagine how disheartening that was, but the Ovation Team quickly responded to a request for help!!!
They removed the smoke damaged interior (fitted to date), arranged for the distorted cabin side to be cut out and replaced with new, and are now in the process of rebuilding the boat back to how it was before disaster struck!!
Here we see the new cabin steel work and Dominic painting black bitumen onto plywood boards which will form the sole.
Out with the old and in with new!
Dominic preparing plywood sole
For further details about the services available from Ovation Boats, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
'Saul Goodman II' calls in!!
7th February 2025
Handy front deck storage locker 
Pram cover for all weather living & cruising
A real head turner!
'Saul Goodman II' the Ovation showboat for Crick 2023, was briefly back at the Redhill workshop in January before heading off to brokerage!
Snapped up just before Crick 2023 and named after a favourite TV show, 'Saul Goodman II' helped new owners Nigel & Ann realise that life on the canal was ticking all the right boxes, and before long they'd commissioned the Ovation Team to build a boat to their very own design.
Nigel & Ann moved on to new boat 'Breaking Bad' in December 2024, leaving 'Saul Goodman II' to be moved on to brokerage at Aquavista Sawley in mid February.
For more details about the boats currently for sale or to discuss having your own design of boat built, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk'
New owners Tim & Bridget - ready for the new boating season!
7th February 2025
Key handover for Tim & Bridget!
When Tim & Bridget saw our latest 'Charnwood Edge' at an Open Day last year they knew this was the right boat for them, but with Christmas and everything associated with life in general getting in the way, they had to watch and wait with fingers crossed desperately hoping no-one else would claim her first!!
Thankfully, their patience paid off and last week the keys to this beautiful boat were finally handed over!
For more details about the boats currently for sale or to discuss having your own design of boat built, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Another successful handover!
7th February 2025
Darren with Tim & Bridget
At Ovation Boats we understand the stresses involved in buying a new home, whether bricks & mortar or a boat on the water, and do our best to make the whole process as smooth & stress free as possible.
Chris Williams & Darren Cross are always available for advice & support, and a personal handover allows the customer to fully understand their new boat.
Here we see Darren explaining the workings of a ‘Charnwood Edge’ electrical system but should new owners Tim & Bridget need any further questions answered, Chris & Darren are just a phone call away!!
For more details about the boats currently for sale or to discuss having your own design of commissioned boat, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk'
Open Day - Saturday, 25 January, 2025!
24th January 2025
The Ovation Boats Team are always proud to show off their work by having regular Open Days at their Redhill Marina workshop, but whilst the boats on show are usually in the process of new fit-out, at the Open Day this Saturday (25th January) our Crick showboat 2023 will be joining us!
Ovation Boats 25.01.25 Open Day! 
Crick 2023 Saul Goodman II
Anyone following our YouTube and FB posts will know how Nigel & Ann who bought ‘Saul Goodman II’ were so delighted with their new life on the UK inland waterways, they decided to commission a boat built entirely to their own design - and so 'Breaking Bad' was created!
If you're planning to attend the Open Day tomorrow, there’s plenty to see! Our latest 60ft Charnwood Edge is inside our paint booth and 'Saul Goodman II' (which is currently for sale) will be open for viewing at the front of the workshop.
Rear galley, leading forward to lounge & dinette 
Spacious lounge with dinette convertible into double sleeping
Well equipped galley 
Bubble diesel stove
Spacious shower room 
Two singles, convertible to king sized bed
The Ovation Team will be joined by Nigel & Ann, to answer any of your technical or practical questions, so whether it’s batteries, insulation, propulsion systems or even the right choice of loo for you, then come along for a chat!
For more details about the boats currently for sale, or to discuss having your own design of boat built, contact Chris Williams on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Interested in an electric boat? Say 'hello' to clean propulsion!
17th January 2025
Charnwood Hobbit
With society looking more & more towards 'greener' options in their everyday lifestyles, Ovation Boats have been building hybrid and electric propulsion boats in different shapes & sizes, and to suit every pocket!
This 42ft boat will comfortably sleep four people and would make an ideal getaway for family holidays, allowing short term as well as long term use.
Take a look inside, and if you have any questions about the Hobbit range, having a bespoke boat built to your own design or any of the boats we currently have for sale, give Chris Williams a call on 07963974793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
We can turn your dream into a reality!!
@ovationboats @churchminshullaqueductmari473
'Breaking Bad' - the launch!!!
10th January 2025
The Ovation Team get very excited when a boat finally takes to the water and with 'Breaking Bad' that moment was captured to dramatic effect!!
Probably our favourite boat to date!
We think you'll all agree this is a unique and stylish boat, and for visitors attending the Crick Boat Show in May, they'll have the opportunity to see it first hand!!
If you'd like to commision your own boat build or would like more information about the boats we currently have for sale, call Chris Williams direct on 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Charnwood 25 - Special Edition
5th January 2025
The Ovation Boats 25th Special Edition has a planned completion date of Spring 2025.
With front deck locker 
Semi cruiser stern
Ready for foam spray insulation
Battening out is now done and the foam spray insulation is due within the next couple of weeks!
This 60ft reverse layout semi cruiser narrowboat is currently available for purchase and for anyone wanting to keep to their New Year's Resolution of having a more balanced outlook to work/ lifestyle, then now's the time to get your name down........and if you're quick, you'll even be able to have a say in the final build specifications!
For more details of this build or any of the boats we currently have for sale, call Chris Williams direct 07963 974 793 or email chris@ovationboats.co.uk
Charnwood 25 - Prepared and ready for painting!
5th 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)
Boat 25 cabin top in primer 
Boat 25 cabin side in primer
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
11th 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
Classy, sleek and efficient!
Glamping anyone? 'Breaking Bad' is at it again!
11th December 2024
Happy 'Glamping'!
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!
11th 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!)
Chilli Penguin Eco Stove with pie oven!
‘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!!
10th 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
Ovation Boats 25!
Against All Odds - a tradtional back cabin for 2025!
10th 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.
Wardrobes removed! 
Ready for the table cupboard & bed hole!
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!!
3rd 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!!
'Breaking Bad' is looking good! Wild camping cabin top box, and rainbow swan's neck
Art work by Claire Norton of 'Norton Canal Art' 
A unique narrow boat!
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
4th November 2024
As promised, here's Part II of our 'Breaking Bad' story........... and there's no skimping on design or quality!
Versatility with Bosch
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!
Room to spread out! 
Maximising space!
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.
Extra accommodation space! 
Up you go!
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