Good News 2026

 Yes, the good news is that we are back on the boat and under way. 

Last year was a complete disaster as far as boating was concerned. Low water levels meant that both Foxton and Watford locks were closed and we found ourselves stuck in the middle with nowhere much to go. 

To cheer ourselves up we went instead on the River Douro in Portugal where there was too much water and we couldn't get under all the bridges! 

In October we had another cruise, this time on the Danube. Because the Portugal trip was spoiled by the high water levels we were offered a very good discount for the second trip. Both boats were somewhat larger than Polgara, the bar was definitely more generous and the food, well, their chefs were far better than ours. 

Now onto this year! 

We had planned to take 6 months off with an extra long trip up to Llangollen - what should happen but the canal breach near Whitchurch. Well, we're still taking 6 months away from local commitments but the time has taken on a different look from that originally planned. As soon as we mooted the idea of time away, what should happen but events started cropping up that we didn't want to miss. So, we are now looking at blocks of canal time interspersed with social and family events. 

We have been on Polgara for a few days now, tidying up after a very damp winter. Window surrounds have been sanded and treated with Danish Oil, dripping connection under the sink has been investigated, leaking window has been bodged, we've stocked up on coal and food and, at last, we are out on the cut. 

We haven't come far, only about 1½ miles from the marina. But we are under way. 

And doesn't it look good!