The weather over the past few days has been hit or miss, so I woke up this morning not too sure if I'd take a stroll across the marina to an open invite on a cafe boat.
Buffoonery!
I wasn't sure if there would have been any familiar faces, but I'd not let that deter me from going on a Wide Beam — canal boat that is twice the width of narrowboats and has limited access to the locks on the canal network.
I made sure my camera was fully charged as I was eager to take photos, and I was happy when I got permission as it's like taking photographs at any other cafe.
Polly, the owner, is the warmest and most inviting host, and she's also the cook who lives on the boat. So it's having people eat in her dining room, where she has a set Tapas menu and charges a flat fee per head.
For narrowboat owners and people in the boating community, we take this experience for granted; however, it's a novelty for people who live in conventional homes, who are amazed to learn that people live on boats.
I think this cafe business is a fantastic idea; it caters to groups of 6 to 8 comfortably, and bookings are done in advance.
I had a cup of sweet potato vegan soup that was herby and delicious, and a few glasses of prosecco with an assortment of cakes. All were complimentary to guests and there were other beverages available to purchase.
It was nice to chat with other boat owners, who we cross paths with frequently on the marina.
Live music on a Sunday afternoon by the canals is not a bad way to spend the weekend.
The owner's daughter and her partner serenaded us with some jazz and blues and great acoustic sounds.
Polly has been boating since 2021, and she was a resident of the marina up until recently. However, now she cruises along the Kent and Avon Canal between Devizes and Bath, UK.
The previous owner was an antique dealer, which explains a lot about the decor and furnishings, especially the bathroom.
The bedroom is private, of course, and it's like their storage area. However, the rest of the boat cafe is cosy, with some funky craft throughout, which enhances the overall experience.
The obvious advantage of a wide beam over a narrowboat is the space, and the duality of this being a roving pop-up licensed cafe and a home is a win-win.
The owners also have their water filter system, which is needed to meet health and safety requirements, and also for the convenience of not needing to source drinking water for customers.
I admired the minimalist, rustic-chic decor.
The light, airy vibe on the boat cafe is great and full of personality. It's ideal for private parties and small celebrations.
The owners decide when they want to cater to the public and be open for business, or if they want to have private time cruising or being moored at a marina.
Do you like this concept of dining on a wide beam boat for a private party, in nature along the canals, and would you book it if you wanted to have a memorable occasion?
All the images were captured on Sunday 17 March 2024, at Devizes Marina, UK.
