What Are Small Canal Boats Called? Exploring Types of Canal Boats for Every Need

If you’re curious about small canal boats or are looking to explore the beauty of canal waterways, you’ll find a variety of boat styles, each with unique features and charm. From narrowboats to classic Dutch barges, each boat offers a special experience and has deep roots in waterway history. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular types of canal boats and help you discover which one might be perfect for your journey—or even inspire your own boat-building project!

The Most Common Small Canal Boats

Narrowboats

Narrowboats are iconic on British canals, known for their slender build—about 6-7 feet wide and 30 to 70 feet long. Originally designed to transport goods, they’re now popular for leisurely canal cruises, weekend escapes, or even as floating homes for those who enjoy a life on the water. If the idea of crafting a timeless boat appeals to you, narrowboats are an ideal inspiration, combining history and practicality in one vessel.

Day Boats

Day boats are smaller than narrowboats and are typically built for short trips rather than overnight stays. They’re perfect for day trips or sightseeing excursions, offering a simple way to enjoy a relaxing time on the water. Their compact size makes them an appealing choice for new boat enthusiasts, and if you’re interested in creating a similar vessel, a day boat might be an easy and rewarding project to start with.

Electric Boats

Electric boats have become popular for their quiet engines and eco-friendly design. They’re usually smaller, making them ideal for peaceful trips on calm canals while letting you enjoy the scenery without the hum of a motor. These boats are a modern twist on traditional designs, and building an electric canal boat is a fantastic way to combine tradition with sustainability.

Dinghies and Small Rowboats

Dinghies and rowboats are small, simple, and usually powered by oars, making them perfect for short, relaxed trips on the canal. They’re a popular choice for beginners and anyone who enjoys a hands-on, serene boating experience. Crafting a dinghy can be a rewarding project, especially if you’re seeking a small, manageable boat with a traditional feel.

Other Types of Canal Boats for More Space or Longer Journeys

Widebeam Boats

Widebeam boats offer more room than narrowboats, typically around 10-12 feet wide. This extra width allows for larger interior spaces, making them ideal for those who want the comforts of home on the water. Widebeam boats are perfect for longer journeys or even full-time living, and their design can inspire a range of larger boat-building projects.

Dutch Barges

Dutch barges are known for their rounded hull and wheelhouse, adding a touch of old-world charm to any canal. Originally from the Netherlands, these boats were designed to carry cargo but now make excellent houseboats or leisure vessels. Their unique design and functionality make them an exciting option for anyone looking to create a boat with classic appeal.

River Barges

River barges are large, versatile boats with flat bottoms, ideal for navigating both canals and open rivers. These barges can carry heavier loads and are perfect for extended trips where you want space for supplies, cargo, or passengers. Building a river barge gives you the chance to create a multi-functional vessel, allowing you to explore beyond narrow canals.

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats are flat-decked and float on large pontoons, providing a stable, open space for social gatherings on the water. They’re a fantastic choice for a sunny day trip with friends or family. If you’re interested in creating a party-friendly boat with lots of deck space, a pontoon might be just the inspiration you need.

Why Not Build Your Own Wooden Boat?

Each of these boats offers a unique experience and can inspire endless ideas for your own wooden boat project. Crafting a boat—whether it’s a classic narrowboat, a simple rowboat, or a larger river barge—lets you bring tradition and skill together, creating something truly personal and practical. With our wooden boat plans, you’ll have a step-by-step guide to help you build your own boat, tailored to your needs and style.

Imagine the satisfaction of gliding down a canal in a boat you crafted yourself. With our affordable, detailed plans, you can bring that dream to life, whether you’re new to boat-building or looking to add another beautiful creation to your collection. Explore our wooden boat plans today and take the first step toward a timeless boating adventure!