On Sun, 02 Mar 2008 09:44:05 +0000, Adrian Stott <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>No. It has much more commercial traffic, consisting of barges >carrying over 1000 T. They don't slow down for pleasure craft (moored >or under way). The locks are designed for them, with equipment in the >wrong place for narrow boats, and the expectation is that you will >work the ropes from on board so they have deck space that provides for >this. They run their engines in gear in locks, creating a *lot* of >turbulence. They travel at speeds most narrow boats can't match. etc. >etc. We did the Maas, Julianakanaal and Albertkanaal in a 7m steel cruiser. It was a bit bouncy, but no real problem. I agree with Neil that a 10m steel cruiser is probably best for touring le continong, unless you're planning to live permanently afloat. It's certainly what we would look for if we ever get the time and the money. I am all in favour of barges, natch, but they have practical limitations. bjg
