"Sweet Dream": The Narrowboat That Proves Anything Is Possible
A bespoke narrowboat is a chance to turn your unique vision into a floating reality. For Nigel and Jennie Eveleigh, that vision included an extended cabin and a full-width bed, but they didn’t want to sacrifice the functionality of a classic well deck.
Here at JD Narrowboats, we thrive on these challenges. The story of "Sweet Dream" is a perfect example of how our team works with you to blend your desires with practical, expert craftsmanship.
A Custom Boat for a Unique Life
Nigel and Jennie are experienced boaters who love spending extended periods on the water. They knew exactly what they wanted from their new narrowboat: a spacious, modern interior with a huge bed at the front. But as seasoned cruisers of the Thames, they also knew the small bow deck was essential for safe handling in locks.
The solution? We designed a clever, extended cabin that still features a small, functional 18-inch well deck. This design keeps the interior as spacious as possible while giving them the crucial space they needed for a comfortable and safe journey. From the outside, the glazed bow doors are a perfect touch, making the boat blend in with more traditional designs while hiding a custom interior that is anything but.
Stepping Inside: The Perfect Fit-Out
The interior of "Sweet Dream" is a true reflection of the owners’ desire for a comfortable, warm, and highly functional home. Following a reverse layout, the galley is at the stern and the bedroom is at the bow. The finish is a beautiful blend of oak and painted ash-faced ply, creating a modern yet cosy feel.
The Galley: The heart of the boat is a stunning galley, featuring thick, 45mm oak worktops crafted right here in our workshop. Every detail was considered, from the Belfast sink with a filtered water tap to the hidden handles on the cupboards that create a clean, minimalist look. Clever pull-out racks for wine and spices add to the practicality. The lighting is a standout feature, with dimmable LEDs and under-shelf lights creating the perfect ambiance for any time of day.
The Saloon: The space opens into a comfortable saloon with a large L-shaped sofa and a media unit. Nigel and Jennie prioritised comfort over compromise, choosing not to have the sofa convert into a guest bed. A stowed table and high-level shelving add to the practical design.
The Shower Room: The walk-through shower room is both spacious and functional, featuring a large 900x900mm shower and a ceramic bowl Thetford cassette toilet. The tongue-and-groove ceiling gives this private space a lovely, cosy feel.
The Cabin: The main attraction awaits at the bow. This space is dominated by a full-width, oversized bed with substantial storage beneath. It’s an incredibly luxurious use of space that truly defines the boat’s purpose as a personal sanctuary. Wardrobes and drawers line the entrance, making it easy to store belongings for their long trips. The half-doors at the bow open to the mini well deck, providing a beautiful view out onto the canal.
Graceful on the Water
"Sweet Dream" is powered by a Beta 38 engine and a Vetus bow thruster, ensuring a smooth and responsive performance. The boat handles beautifully, with a quiet engine and minimal wash. Whether cruising or reversing into a lock, the boat feels solid and confident. The semi-cruiser stern also provides a spacious, sociable spot for guests to stand or sit when moored.
Ready for the Next Adventure
Nigel and Jennie's "Sweet Dream" is more than just a boat—it's a testament to how a unique vision, combined with expert craftsmanship, can create the perfect floating home. They’ve already embarked on a two-month summer trip and plan to explore the Pennines, proving that the perfect boat is the one built just for you.