Step aboard “Valparaiso”, a 42-foot all-steel four-berth canal cruiser narrowboat, built by Springer UK Ltd in 1985. She has four berths in two separate cabins. This remarkable vessel is ready to become the perfect home for a single person or a couple to live aboard full time, or even serve as a delightful holiday retreat for a family of 4.
The interior is designed for practicality, offering a comfortable lounge area that turns into a king-sized bedroom,, a well-equipped kitchen, convenient shower and toilet facilities.
“Valparaiso” has undergone extensive renovations and improvements, ensuring its optimal condition and functionality. Here are the notable works that have been completed:
Hull Blacking: In February 2021, the hull received three coatings of marine bitumastic paint, providing excellent protection. A professional Ultrasound Hull Survey by M. R. Marine services conducted in January 2021 confirmed the hull’s excellent condition. Engine service and hull blacking, as recommended by the survey, were carried out prior to re-launch.
Interior Upgrades:
1. Kitchen: Fitted with a Voyager 4500 Oven, Grill, and hob, offering versatile cooking options.
2. Gas System Upgrade: Completely replaced the gas system, including maintenance and the addition of a new bubble tester. The boat now supports two propane Calor gas 13kg bottles.
3. Paloma Gas Heater: Installed a new flue and cowl for the Paloma gas heater, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
4. Toilet Area: The toilet faucet was replaced in 2021, and the area has been beautifully tiled, creating a stylish and functional space.
5. Shower Renovation: The shower area has undergone a complete overhaul, featuring Honeycomb core, PVC shower panels, an eco shower head, a custom-made shower tray, and a whale gulper shower pump.
6. Water System: Replaced the old metal water tank with a new 160 Litre Flexible Water Tank in 2021, ensuring ample and clean water supply.
7. Water Pump: Fitted a new freshwater Shurflo pump (12V), providing water pressure throughout the boat.
8. Flooring: Fitted new warm oak wood effect laminate flooring in late 2021, enhancing the interior aesthetics and durability.
Electrical system:
9. Inverter: Added a new Victron Inverter Compact (12V/1600VA), allowing for convenient use of electrical (12V/240) appliances on board.
10. Solar Power: Installed a new Photonic Universe 320W solar panel and a 30 amp controller, harnessing sustainable energy from the sun.
11. Battery Upgrades: Replaced three leisure marine batteries (Albion 100h) and one starter battery in July 2021, ensuring a reliable power supply.
Engine and Gearbox:
The boat is equipped with a Mitsubishi 3-cylinder marine diesel engine.
12. Replaced the gearbox and starter motor in late 2021. The engine received its last service in February 2023, ensuring smooth operation.
Heating system:
The boat is equipped with a Becton Bunny stove, a fully functional and efficient heating system that ensures the boat remains warm and cosy even during the winter months.
13. Stove Hearth and Flue: In August 2022, a new stove hearth and flue were installed, enhancing the functionality and safety of the onboard stove.
With these extensive renovations and upgrades, “Valparaiso” is ready to provide a comfortable and enjoyable canal living experience.
Internet & Wi-fi:
14. It is equipped with a Poynting 4G-XPOL-A0001 Cross Polarised 4G Omni LTE Antenna, along with a TP-Link TL-MR6400 300 Mbps 4G Mobile Wi-Fi Router. This setup ensures a continuous WiFi and internet connection onboard, keeping you connected wherever your canal journey takes you.
Extras:
● Boat Safety Certificate (BSC) valid until 01/2025, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
● All fenders and mooring ropes, which have been purchased within the last 6-24 months, are included.
● RCR bronze membership, providing access to a range of services and support from the RCR (River Canal Rescue).
● An extra Thetford cassette, offering convenience for waste management.
● An additional 100-litre external water butt, increasing water storage capacity for extended cruising.
● Carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, and fire blankets are included as required by the Boat Safety Certificate, prioritising safety measures onboard.
● Fridge and freezer: Versatile unit capable of running on 12V shoreline, battery energy, or gas.
● Retouched painting: Both the interior and exterior will be freshly painted to enhance the overall appearance before new owners move in.
The boat can be viewed at Seend in the Kennet and Avon Canal.
