My cover picture for the April issue of Canal Boat Magazine and possibly my last for the magazine. After 15 years of covering the new Boat Tests each month and supplying over 94% of their cover illustrations, I have thought it time to have a change. I will miss it but as they say a change is as good as a rest and to be frank I am not getting any younger.
But what a nice boat to finish on. Calypso is a 57ft Narrowboat cruiser, very bold and very original in concept. The owners Lynne and John Temple are life time boaters and came up with this concept, found a skilled boat builder Colecraft to create the metalwork and then commissioned Olympus Narrowboats to complete the fit out. Designed for canal or river cruising Calypso has two steering positions, a conventional tiller at the rear and a wheelhouse. The later providing both an undercover helm and great view point especially useful on the broader rivers. Interior layout is very well though out with more than ample space for the crew of two and visitors. Here are a few interior shots to set the scene.
But it would be best to read Kevin Blick’s words that accompany the test for full details of the creation and construction of this very sticking craft that has taken the traditional and added some up to date styling and novel features.
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 