What a lovely response :) thank you.
I can imagine all the questions you have, as it really is an alternative way of living. Over the years I've been inquisitive with narrowboat owners, mainly because I had so many questions and actually wanted to know if I could ever live this way. Honestly, every boat has an individual layout and they all feel different. Ours is a modest length, so from the outside compared to other boats which might be longer, an outsider might wonder if we have proper living facilities...we do and very comfy. The previous owners did an excellent job in making it feel like a luxury hotel suite.
Before living on a nrrowboat I was always concerned about the safety (can't help it being Jamaican :) and yes there are sections where we know we must lock up patio chairs etc, however, in the countrysides its just us moored amdist acres of empty land, and passersby who walk their dogs and its a friendly vibe.
It truly is a wonderful way to live and see the UK. We have long tiring days navigating our way through the locks, but it's fun :)