Training Example: Moet Chandon (John and Irene Plunkett) – Review the Data, Give Your Score & Compare to the Real AI Evaluation

[H1] Boating in France with John and Irene
Home - The dream
[H2] Archives
Cruising the canals and rivers in france, and other trips we have done.
2004 England to France2005 Paris to Carcassonne2006 Carcassonne to Bordeaux2007 Carcassonne to the Camargue2008 Carcassonne to the Lot River2009 Cruising the South of France2010 Cruising South West France2011 Renovating our house in Moissac2012 Renovating our house in Moissac
[H2] CEVNI : Signs and Marking for European Waterways
Here is an overview of the waterway sign, signals and markings for the canals and rivers in France as found in the CEVNI (Code Européen des Voies de la Navigation Intérieure), European Code for Interior Navigation. cevni signs
[H2] Canal du Midi History
[IMG: ancient canal map of the carcassonne region]
The Canal du Midi has not always gone through Carcassonne port but followed the Fresquel river. Canal du Midi history
[H2] The new owners of Moet-Chandon
[IMG: we sold our boat]
Moet Chandon continues to travel the French water ways with her new owners. We hope this dream life aboard Moet continues for them, we wish you all every happiness.
[H3] Southern France
We enjoyed good moorings in all the ports while cruising from Moissac to Buzet and back on the Canal de Garonne.
The Canal du Midi is like a fine wine you take it in slowly, taste and sample every village as you cruise discover as much as you can along the way.
[H3] Living on our boat in France
[IMG: Cruising canal de Garonne and river Baise]
Cruising Garonne canal and Baïse river August 2010
Our web site is intended to help us keep in touch with family and friends whilst living aboard our boat "Moët Chandon".
We never tire of the different landscape here in the South of France, the different medieval villages also the wonderful Mediterranean light which draws me out of the boat time and time again to photograph and capture the moment, especially when sharing it with family or friends for the first time that is always a bonus for John and I.
The scenery is so varied and impressive especially the medieval villages, the wonderful Gorge's we visit, and the patchwork of vines seen here just outside Carcassonne all are typical of the Languedoc we love this area ~ hence it is now our third winter here in the port of Carcassonne. Many friends we have made who are living in this area. House hunting might be on our agenda.
[H3] Boating in France, a new life style
[IMG: Coming out of the Moissac lock onto the River Tarn]
Cruising Moissac and Tarn River October 2009
Lots of walking and exercise for our creaking bones (those damned locks can be so hard at times, but we do love them). We enjoy lots more fresh air and we are constantly meeting other boaters. We have time to stop, just chat and exchange ideas, give support to each other.
It's also nice to spend more time with family and friends (though still never enough time). We now have time for US! It's a time to discover what we both want for this next phase of our lives.
We hate packing and unpacking when traveling and we have done a great deal of traveling over the years. We are learning to live with less baggage, so buying a boat seemed a good solution, our home comes with us... and we can move on when we are ready to!
[H3] Boat maintenance
[IMG: Cruising Toulouse to Moissac]
Cruising Toulouse to Moissac August 2009
The high maintenance of the boat keeps us busy. Moet Chandon keeps us on our toes and there's never a dull moment with her. It thrills us that our children share our passion for the Moet and want to join us when they can, which is a wonderful bonus.
[H3] Cruising France
Thanks for dropping in, we hope you enjoy joining us as we cruise France to discover new and exciting things. Hopefully it will be a way for you to see where we're at and what we're up to. You never know you might want to come and join us for some time out, our kettle is always on.
[H3] We feel very lucky indeed...
"Throw your dream's into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country." - Annais Nin

[H1] Boating in France Archives
Maps - CEVNI - Canal du Midi history
Pages : all 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
The rivers and canals in france, and other trips we have done.
[H2] 2004 - Moving from England to France
1. July 2004 Getting ready to set off from Leeds Organizing our trip across the Channel. We will be lifted out at Newark Marina and go back in the water at Chantier Fluvial De Migennes France, south of Paris.2. August 2004 York to Newark on the River Ouse and River Trent All enjoying the sunshine in York, captain Sharon taking the helm on the river Ouse3. August 2004 Boat lifted out at Newark Marina Transport to France Newark Marina doing our CEVNI European Waterways regulations course and prepare the boat to go to France.4. September 2004 Chantier Fluvial De Migennes boatyard in France From Newark Marina to Chantier Fluvial De Migennes boatyard at 25km from Auxerre on the River Yonne at the entrance of Canal de Bourgogne in France.5. September 2004 River Yonne Migennes to Auxerre, Joigny and Sens Our first experience on the French canals and rivers towards Auxerre Joigny and Sens on the River Yonne6. September 2004 Canal de Bourgogne Migennes to Dijon Setting off from Migennes along the Canal de Bourgogne towards Dijon. The Canal de Bourgogne is 242km long and has 189 cut stone locks.7. October 2004 Canal de Bourgogne Saint Jean de Losne River Saone We had a good mooring in Dijon and now we are heading for Saint Jean de Losne at the junction of Canal de Bourgogne and River Saone.8. November 2004 Winter mooring Saint Jean de Losne Burgundy France Our first winter mooring in Burgundy France, time to explore Saint Jean de Losne.9. December 2004 Christmas Xmas and New Year in Saint Jean de Losne Burgundy France Christmas in Saint Jean de Losne we are all getting ready for the Xmas decorations on our boats and prepare the New Years party in Burgundy France.
[H2] 2005 - From Paris to Carcassonne
10. January 2005 Saint Jean de Losne to Wengen Switzerland Lots of snow and ice in Saint-Jean-de-Losne so we made atrip to Wengen Switzerland to see the world men's ski race.11. February 2005 Car touring journey to South France and Spain We wanted to see the south of France to look at possible moorings for next winter.12. March 2005 Spain, South France and back to Saint Jean de Losne Driving back From Spain, South France to Saint Jean de Losne through fields of lemon and orange groves then onto the vine fields and back.13. April 2005 Salon Nautique PaquesBoat Saint Jean de Losne Wandering around Salon Nautique PaquesBoat at Saint Jean de Losne. We visited some very nice boats, need to win the lottery to buy one, but worth viewing for ideas.14. May 2005 River Saone and Doubs, Canal du Centre towards Paris We headed for the town Digoin were the Canal du Centre ends and becomes Canal Lateral a la Loire after crossing the River Loire, via the spectacular aqueduct.15. June 2005 The Bourbonnais Route from Chalon sur Saone to Paris The Bourbonnais route : Four canal's in the centre of France from Chalon-sur-Saone to Paris16. June 2005 Paris Port Arsenal-Bastille Marina Port de Plaisance We were moored in Paris Port Arsenal-Bastille marina for a month. The port de plaisance is just off the River Seine via a lock.17. July 2005 Paris to Auxerre via River Seine and River Yonne On the move again from River Seine onto the River Yonne heading for Auxerre, we are now bound south for the mediterranean like the swallows do for the winter.18. August 2005 Canal du Nivernais from Auxerre to Decize The Canal du Nivernais links The River Yonne to Decize in the Loire Valley, 174 Kilometres long and 110 locks, was first proposed in 1708 opened in 1842.19. September 2005 Chagny to Valence via Canal du Centre, River Saone and River Rhone We are traveling from Chagny to Charlon-sur-Saone, Macon and Lyon where River Saone meets the River Rhone to Port de Plaisance Valence20. October 2005 Valence to Carcassonne via Camargue, Etang de Thau and Canal du Midi Port de Plaisance Valence River Rhone to the Camargue, cruising Canal du Rhone a Sete to Etang de Thau and Canal du Midi to Port de Plaisance Carcassonne.21. November 2005 Port de Plaisance Carcassonne on the Canal du Midi Port de Plaisance Carcassonne our new home for the winter, it has a world-famous mediaeval citadel, and the Canal du Midi runs in the middle of the town.22. December 2005 Christmas Xmas and New Year in Port de Plaisance Carcassonne France Christmas in Carcassonne with Xmas decorations on our boats and Mayor gives permission for New Years party in Port de Plaisance of Carcassonne.
[H2] 2006 - From Carcassonne to Bordeaux
23. January 2006 Carcassonne France to Andorra and Gibraltar Spain On our way from Carcassonne France to Gibraltar Spain, we stopped over night in Andorra, just over two hours drive from the boat.24. February 2006 Gibraltar Spain to Carcassonne France We thoroughly enjoyed the roller coaster ride of the cliffs and wonderful mountains along this very scenic coast from Gibraltar back to Carcassonne.25. March 2006 Trips to Andorra and Spain from Carcassonne This month we explored Carcassonne area, visited Andorra twice and went to the Salvador Dali museum in Figueres Spain.26. April 2006 Wine Festival in La Digne d'Aval near Limoux We paid 5 euros each on entry and where given a special wine glass all engraved, plus tokens for four glasses of wine of your choice.27. April 2006 Carcassonne to Castelnaudary on the Canal du Midi We left Carcassonne cruising to Bram and Castelnaudary on the Canal du Midi. Castelnaudary is very famous for it's Cassoulet.28. May 2006 Fete-du-Nautisme Castelnaudary on the Canal du Midi We were invited by the president of Fete-du-Nautisme in Castelnaudary he thought our boat was magnificent and wanted it to be on show.29. June 2006 Castelnaudary to Toulouse on Canal lateral a la Garonne Toulouse marks the end of the Canal du Midi and the start of the Canal lateral a la Garonne.30. July 2006 Canal lateral a la Garonne Moissac Buzet Meilhan Moissac on the Canal lateral a la Garonne is famous for it's Romanesque architecture and especially it's 11th century cloistered abbey.31. August 2006 River Baise from Nerac to Valence-sur-Baise Nerac is on the river Baise it's 46km long with 17 locks from Buzet-sur-Baise to Valence-sur-Baise32. August 2006 Liverpool Mum at home with her family celebrating her 75th birthday33. September 2006 Canal lateral a la Garonne Castets-en-Dorthe Nerac We have now reached Castets-en-Dorthe end of the Canal lateral a la Garonne 193 km from Toulouse with 53 locks.34. October 2006 Canal lateral a la Garonne Moissac Carcassonne Autumn is on it's way in the Midi so we are going back to Port de Plaisance Carcassonne on the Canal du Midi.35. November 2006 Car trip from Carcassonne to England Getting the boat ready for winter in Carcassonne, Visiting some friends on our way to England36. December 2006 Christmas Xmas and New Year in South France Moet has new Xmas lights a present from my mum, most of the boats are looking very festive, New Years party in South France
[H2] 2007 - From Carcassonne to the Camargue
37. January 2007 Renovating our house, Special anniversary Mum and her eight very proud children together to celebrate dad's life38. February 2007 Renovating our house, Trip Marrakech Morocco Work continues on our house - work rest and play is what we say, a welcome break in city of Marrakech in Morocco was a wonderful tonic39. March 2007 Renovating our house, Trip to Carcassonne Hanging up my painting clothes for now - after adding the finishing touches to the new kitchen.40. April 2007 Spring in Carcassonne on the Canal du Midi Carcassonne Port the winter mooring boats are no longer here - the cruising season is underway41. May 2007 Canal du Midi to Marseillan Port on Etang de Thau We had wonderful moorings in Marseillan Port on Etang de Thau and we returned to Port Cassafieres on the Canal du Midi.42. June 2007 Family holiday uk Liverpool Crosby Beach Manchester Family holiday started with a bottle of Moet Chandon Champagne delivered to our room, we visited Manchester, Liverpool and Crosby Beach43. June 2007 Agde to Narbonne Canal du Midi and Canal de la Robine Cruising from Agde on the Canal du Midi to Narbonne on the Canal de la Robine and back to Port Cassafieres not far from Agde.44. July 2007 Agde to River Aude and Carcassonne Fireworks From our mooring at the round lock in Agde on the Canal du Midi to the River Aude to see the Carcassonne fireworks45. July 2007 Boat painting Boatyard Grau d'Agde River Herault France Boat painting in chantier naval Allemand boatyard on the river Herault at Grau d'Agde in South France46. August 2007 Cruising to Aigues Mortes moorings on Canal du Rhone a Sete Cruising to Aigues Mortes (Grau du Roi) and our moorings in ports on Canal du Midi, River Herault and Canal du Rhone a Sete47. August 2007 Camargue Aigues Mortes River Vidourle and River Lez Cruising the Camargue from Aigues Mortes to Le Grau du Roi and river Vidourle and river Lez towards Montpellier48. September 2007 Cruising Minervois Le Somail to Carcassonne Canal du Midi Cruising the Minervois region with good moorings in Le Somail, Ventenac, homps, marseillette, trebes and carcassonne on the Canal du Midi49. October 2007 Carcassonne wine festival and lifesaving Midi Canal Winter mooring in Carcassonne port South France, wine festival with live music every night and we saved a man in a wheelchair who fell in the Midi Canal50. November 2007 Friends, Family and Art classes in Carcassonne port We have had a really good month for social activities with the boaters of Carcassonne port and the Art classes on our boat were a great success51. December 2007 Christmas celebrations in England and Canada A white Christmas the most enjoyable and relaxing Christmas day I ever remember. The Christmas tree was beaming out with love...
[H2] 2008 - From Carcassonne to the River Lot
52. January 2008 Grand Cayman Islands Scuba Diving Stingray City Grand Cayman islands at seven mile beach, Scuba diving at Stingray city, touring the Island by boat visiting North sound and Rum point and the Oro Verde Wreck dive53. February 2008 Cayman England France Carcassonne Carcassonne Port our winter home town, nice to see everyone busy getting their boats ready for cruising54. March 2008 Friends, family and Limoux wine festival Limoux Toques & Clochers Wine Festival is to celebrate the region's finest chardonnay's having a massive street party! This was the 19th Toques & Clochers wine festival55. April 2008 Cruising Canal du Midi and Canal de Garonne Cruising the Canal du Midi to Toulouse and the Canal de Garonne to Moissac with good moorings in Toulouse port, Castelsarrasin port and Moissac port.56. May 2008 Moissac to Villeton - Canal de Garonne Before we knew it we had spent a month in Moissac Port. Breathing in new life as we cruise on the Canal de Garonne Moissac to Villeton57. June 2008 Canal de Garonne Villeton Meilhan Serignac Cruising Canal de Garonne, we stopped in some lovely ports during our cruise, Villeton, Meilhan-sur-Garonne, Serignac-sur-Garonne, Castets-en-Dorthe58. July 2008 River cruising the lower River Lot France, July 2008 Cruising the navigable part on the lower River Lot in France from Nicole lock to Saint-Vite lock with good moorings in the ports along the river.59. July 2008 Visiting the Upper Lot River France Visiting the upper Lot River area around Cahors and cruising from Saint-Cirq-Lapopie to the end of the navigable Lot River.60. August 2008 Moissac Port France Canal de Garonne River Tarn Family and friends in Moissac Port. Cruising Canal de Garonne, River Garonne and River Tarn in Moissac France61. September 2008 More family gather in Moissac Port France Every day someone we know arrived in Moissac Port, now a very busy port indeed, not always room for everyone62. October 2008 Canal de Montech Port Montauban Canal Cruising to Montauban Port end of the Montech canal and cruised back via Toulouse onto the Canal du Midi to our winter mooring in Carcassonne Port France63. November 2008 Family trip Fort Belan Wales Family party in Fort Belan Wales. Fort Belan is a unique and historical natural outpost on a beach, accommodation in five unique restored cottages inside the fort.64. December 2008 Christmas in France Canada and England This year we spent Christmas in France at Carcassonne, Christmas in Canada at Toronto and Christmas in England at Manchester and Liverpool
[H2] 2009 - Cruising the South of France
65. January 2009 Malras Carcassonne France and Storms We spent New Year in Malras and visited the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire on our way to Carcassonne Port, Lastours and John's birthday cake66. February 2009 John's 60th birthday Family arrives for John's 60th birthday celebrations in the village of Malras. Moët-Chandon family in Carcassonne port.67. March 2009 Carcassonne Liverpool family My birthday present was two nights in the Hard Days Night Hotel Liverpool... Happy cruising season from the Carcassonne boaters to all our friends & family.68. April 2009 Carcassonne Trebes cruising Canal du Midi Wine Festival Cruising the Canal du Midi from Carcassonne port to Trebes and the Malras 2009 Toques et Clochers wine festival in France.69. May 2009 Visiting London and Liverpool Uncle Richard with his friend John giving us a personal tour of the Chelsea Pensioners Home.70. May 2009 Cruising the Canal du Midi Cruising from Carcassonne to Villeneuve les Beziers. The Canal du Midi is like a fine wine you take it in slowly, taste and sample every village as you cruise71. May 2009 Wedding in London Theo and Gemma married in London a very special family wedding followed by a cruise on the Thames.72. June 2009 Villeneuve les Beziers, sightseeing and beaches From our mooring in Villeneuve-les-Beziers we visited most of the beaches between Beziers and Etang de Thau, nice restaurants & bars, my beach cocktail was so nice.73. July 2009 Canal du Midi Etang de Thau Toulouse This month John and I cruised the length of the canal du Midi from Etang de Thau to Toulouse, then continued on the Canal de Garonne to Moissac.74. August 2009 Cruising Canal de Garonne from Toulouse to Moissac Two locks lead from the canal at Moissac on to the river Tarn, a wonderful cruising river, many boats just anchor on this river and go for a swim75. August 2009 Katie and Mathew's Wedding Adel Leeds This old church had a wonderful feeling when you entered, warm and inviting also the church was filled with the smell of fresh cut flowers.76. September 2009 Visiting Lourdes in the Pyrenees Lured to Lourdes - a childhood dream of mine to visit, the timing felt right for me to go.77. September 2009 Cruising Moissac to Buzet on Canal de Garonne We enjoyed good moorings in all the ports while cruising from Moissac to Buzet and back on the Canal de Garonne.78. October 2009 Cruising to Moissac and River Tarn We enjoy cruising the Canal de

[H1] French canals and rivers maps
Maps - CEVNI - Canal du Midi history
[H2] Our cruising seasons and winter moorings.
[H3] Cruising Season 2004
[IMG: cruise route map for 2004]
September 2004 - We started in Migennes at the junction of the River Yonne and Canal de Bourgogne
September 2004 - River Yonne, Sens to Auxerre and back to Migennes
September 2004 - Canal de Bourgogne, Migennes to La Bussière-sur-Ouche
October 2004 - Canal de Bourgogne to Dijon and Saint Jean de Losne
[H3] Winter mooring 2004-2005
Winter mooring in Saint Jean de Losne at the junction of Canal de Bourgogne and River Saone, 21170 Saint-Jean-de-Losne, Côte-d'Or, Bourgogne
Saint-Jean-de-Losne
Xmas New Year
Switzerland
France Spain
Spain France
Salon Nautique PaquesBoat
[H3] Cruising Season 2005
[IMG: cruise route map from St.Jean-de-Losne to Paris]
May 2005 - River Saone, River Doubs and Canal du Centre
June 2005 - The Bourbonnais Route, From Chalon-sur-Saone to Paris. A collection of four canals in the centre of France. Canal du Centre, Canal lateral a la Loire, Canal de Briare and Canal du Loing
June July 2005 - Paris Port Arsenal-Bastille
July 2005 - From Paris on the River Seine to Auxerre on the River Yonne
August 2005 - From Auxerre to Chagny on the River Yonne, Canal de Nivernais and Canal du Centre
[IMG: cruise route map from Chagny to Valence]
September 2005 - Chagny, River Saone and Rhone, Valence
[IMG: cruise route map from Valence to Carcassonne]
October 2005 - Valence, Rhone a Sete, Canal du Midi, Carcassonne
[H3] Winter mooring 2005-2006
Winter mooring in Carcassonne Port on the Canal du Midi, 11000 Carcassonne, Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon
Port de Plaisance Carcassonne
Xmas New Year
Carcassonne to Andorra and Gibraltar
Gibraltar Spain
Trips to Andorra and Spain
Wine Festival near Limoux
[H3] Cruising Season 2006
[IMG: cruise route map for 2006]
April 2006 - Carcassonne to Castelnaudary on the Canal du Midi
May 2006 - Fete-du-Nautisme at Castelnaudary and two days trip to Le Segala
June 2006 - Castelnaudary to Toulouse on the Canal du Midi and on to Montech on the Canal lateral a la Garonne
July 2006 - Montech to Meilhan and back to Buzet
August 2006 - River Baïse from Nerac to Valence-sur-Baïse
September 2006 - Canal lateral a la Garonne to Castets-en-Dorthe and Moissac
October 2006 - Canal lateral a la Garonne - Moissac Carcassonne
[H3] Winter mooring 2006-2007
Winter mooring in Carcassonne Port on the Canal du Midi, 11000 Carcassonne, Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon
Car trip from Carcassonne to England
Xmas and New Year
Jan 2007 Renovating our house
Feb 2007 Renovating our house
Mar 2007 Renovating our house
[H3] Cruising Season 2007
[IMG: cruise route map for 2007]
April 2007 - Carcassonne to Marseillette on the Canal du Midi
May 2007 - Canal du Midi - Etang de Thau - Marseillan - Port Cassafieres
June 2007 - Agde on Canal du Midi to Narbonne on Canal de la Robine
July 2007 - Agde to River Aude and Carcassonne Fireworks
July 2007 - Boat painting, Boatyard Chantier Naval Allemand Grau d'Agde
August 2007 - Canal du Midi, Canal du Rhone a Sete to Aigues Mortes
August 2007 - Camargue Aigues Mortes River Vidourle and River Lez
September 2007 - Cruising Le Somail to Carcassonne on the Canal du Midi
[H3] Winter mooring 2007-2008
Winter mooring in Carcassonne Port on the Canal du Midi, 11000 Carcassonne, Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon
Wine festival and lifesaving
Friends, Family and Art classes
Christmas in England and Canada
Grand Cayman Islands Scuba Diving
Cayman England France Carcassonne
[H3] Cruising Season 2008
[IMG: cruise route map for 2008]
March 2008 - Carcassonne to Negra on the Canal du Midi towards Toulouse
April 2008 - Negra on the Canal du Midi to Toulouse and the Canal de Garonne to Moissac port
May 2008 - Moissac to Villeton on the Canal de Garonne
June 2008 - Villeton to Castets-en-Dorthe and Serignac on the Canal de Garonne
July 2008 - Cruising the navigable part on the lower River Lot from Nicole lock to Saint-Vite lock with good moorings in the ports along the river
July 2008 - Visiting the upper River Lot Cahors and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
August 2008 - From Buzet to Moissac on the Canal de Garonne
September 2008 - From Moissac to Montech on the Canal de Garonne
October 2008 - Canal de Montech to Montauban and back to Carcassonne on the Canal de Garonne and Canal du Midi
[H3] Winter mooring 2008-2009
Winter mooring in Carcassonne Port on the Canal du Midi, 11000 Carcassonne, Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon
Family trip Fort Belan Wales
Xmas in France Canada and England
Malras Carcassonne and Storms
John's 60th birthday
Carcassonne Liverpool family
[H3] Cruising Season 2009
[IMG: cruise route map for 2009]
April 2009 - Family trip from Carcassonne Port to Trebes on the Canal du Midi and the Toques et Clochers Wine Festival in Malras
May 2009 - Cruising the Canal du Midi from Carcassonne to Villeneuve les Beziers
June 2009 - Villeneuve les Beziers
July 2009 - Cruising the Canal du Midi from Marseillan on Etang de Thau to Toulouse
August 2009 - Cruising the Canal de Garonne from Toulouse to Moissac
September 2009 - Cruising the Canal de Garonne from Moissac to Buzet
October 2009 - Cruising back to Moissac and River Tarn
[H3] Winter mooring 2009-2010
Winter mooring in Moissac Port on the Canal de Garonne, 82200 Moissac, Tarn-et-Garonne, Midi-Pyrénées
England Lake District
Visiting Hong Kong
Visiting Perth Australia
Albany Western Coast
Perth to Adelaide
[H3] Cruising Season 2010
[IMG: cruise route map for 2010]
March 2010 - Spring and birthday celebrations in Moissac
April 2010 - Boat Jumble Moissac Port Vide Bateau
May 2010 - Sightseeing around Moissac France
June 2010 - Louise and Allan's Wedding in Toronto
July 2010 - Buying a house in Moissac France
August 2010 - Cruising the Baïse River France
September 2010 - Mediterranean Cruise

[H1] Boat Report 1998
Reports : 1998 - 2008 - Français
[H2] Broad beam canal boat
Moet Chandon is a broad beam canal boat, beautiful example of boat building from the Ledgard Bridge Boat Company in Mirfield, as written by Jim Sharpe for Canal & Riverboat Magazine
One if the many pleasures of testing boats for Canal & Riverboat Magazine is the wide variety of vessels I see. Many would say: 'When you've see one canal boat, you've seen them all', well I can assure you that simply is not true. Every canal boat is different in one way or another, and not only in size, for every single boat has at least one characteristic which identifies it from all the others.
[IMG: broad beam and narrow boat]
The broad beam of Moet Chandon is accentuated by the diminutive narrow boat, Lystra.
Now, at a time when most boat builders are only building to order - the days of stock narrow boat building being largely a thing of the past, most bank managers don't like it - yet more individuality is gradually, but inexorably creeping in, with the prospective customer's wanting to place their own personal 'stamp' on their particular boat.
Also gone are the days when boaters were prepared to rough it a bit, like people did in the days of the working boats. On the contrary, they want their boat to be a home from home with all the comforts and facilities they would normally be used to on land. consequently the boat builders must be prepared to accommodate the customers own ideas and preferences. One such boat builder is Richard Fee, proprietor of the Ledgard Bridge Boat Company's at Mirfield, where I recently tested one of his latest creation's Moet Chandon which to misquote the old saying slightly, has everything including the kitchen sink!
[IMG: turning the boat]
Moet Chandon during our test, turns away from Ledgard Bridge Wharf.
Moet Chandon can by no means be classified simply as 'just another canal boat', to begin with 24 tons (24,384 kg) steel broad beam cruiser style vessel must rank amongst the heavier weights in the canal boat world. At 56ft 6in (17.22 metres) long, by 10ft 6in (3. 2 metres) across the beam there is certainly enough room to pack in a lot of personal preference.
The well deck is very large and uncluttered, on the day of the test it was so hot the owner had two full size garden chairs out there, and there is sufficient space for at least two more plus a table if required.
Large forward cabin doors permit easy access to the interior, they are half-glazed with rectangular frames in gold anodised aluminium, and above them is a headlamp centred at the forward edge of the cabin roof. The remainder of the forward bulk-head is plain green steel, the reason for that becomes apparent on entering the luxurious open plan cabin.
Three steps lead down to the saloon floor which is covered with top quality lounge carpet. Moet chandon is fully lined and fitted out in light oak capping's. On each side of the forward entrance are matching display cabinets with leaded glass doors which fill the top third of each corner. Below each cabinet is a full-width shelf. Two further cabinets with beautifully crafted solid oak doors fill the corners beneath. These have table tops on which to display ornaments or, as in the case of Moet Chandon, the television and hi-fi system. Although small the cupboards are quite spacious inside.
Moet Chandon saloon is certainly not lacking in internal space, the broad beam creating internal accommodation with dimensions akin to those of a small cottage, the open plan design accentuates the feeling of openness.
[IMG: saloon kitchen 1]
Forward Cabin - saloon and galley are open plan.
[IMG: saloon kitchen 2]
This shot illustrates the sheer size of this boat.
A squirrel solid fuel boatmen's stove stands on a hearth with a brightly tiled back, edged with light oak, it is situated near the centre of the starboard saloon wall. the stove has a black boiler, and is the power source of this boats extensive central heating system.
Four large windows with neat curtains and valances matching those at the forward entrance let in a good supply of daylight, their is also a transparent roof hatch at the aft end of the saloon. Electric lighting here, is provided by five circular lights set into the ceiling lining boards.
Between the windows on the port side is framed picture, this can be lit by a single brass wall light. The familiar brass clock and barometer are also in evidence in the saloon, one on the port wall the other on the starboard side. A brass tidy and coal shuttle adorn the hearth by the stove. the only other furniture in the saloon is free standing, it consists of a small stool in forward starboard corner, an expensive leather settee with matching chair, and three bar stools which are lined up on the saloon side of the breakfast bar room divider which separates the saloon from the galley.
Moet Chandon saloon is certainly not lacking in internal space, the broad beam creating internal accommodation with the dimensions akin to those of a small cottage, the open plan design accentuates the feeling of openness. As previously mentioned, the division between saloon and galley is a breakfast bar, above which is mounted a display unit with three glass doors like those of the saloon corner units. The three stools nestle under the front of the breakfast bar under the corner of which is a beautiful turned oak pillar, at first glance it appears to support the table. It is however, purely cosmetic because the one piece bar top is actually supported by the galley cabinet beneath, nevertheless the pillar adds a very nice touch to the overall appearance.
The galley is situated on the port side of the boat, it has a dark green sink/drainer unit under the window and there is a sizable utility cupboard beneath. All the other fittings and equipment are installed on either side, to form a rectangle with an open end onto the fore to aft corridor. On the right - fore end - at head height is the back of the saloon display cabinet, its doors matching those in the saloon, here it is used for storing the crockery. The galley side of the breakfast bar is an extensive - at least in boating terms - area of working surface with a storage cupboard beneath, together with the full-size domestic refrigerator.
[IMG: kitchen saloon 3]
Combined breakfast bar, work surface and fridge space.
[IMG: saloon]
Extra Beam which creates a very spacious interior.
To the left - the aft end - is a four burner gas hob again full-size and on either side of that, yet more areas of work top. Above and two fitted oak cupboards and in between a wall-mounted kitchen clock. The base unit is further drawer and cupboard space, with the domestic gas cooker and grill in a specially made unit on top, this contains a microwave oven. With the notable exception of the fridge, all the galley equipment is colour co-ordinated in green to match the sink/drainer. The floor here is covered in a good quality linoleum for easy cleaning. Unlike the saloon, the galley has a venetian blind over the window, which in my opinion is far more practical than curtains for this part of the boat. the port side of the galley has no window at all, here it has been replaced by a side hatch.
Moet chandon starboard fore to aft corridor, with its oak walls and doors, 18in (45.72 cm) porthole windows centre hinged to open, wall mounted radiators, and ceiling light fittings is extremely impressive, the extra width of the boat allowing much more room to move freely. The bedrooms, shower room, toilet and laundry etcetera, are located here. These also have the advantage of the extra space afforded by the broad beam hull.
The shower room has a complete shower cabinet, a pump-out toilet, and a vanity basin. The basin is set into the top of an open-fronted compartment used for keeping spare towels. Above the basin is a large mirror and a narrow shelf. This room is also used to store utility items such as cleaning equipment and ironing board, and it is also vessels laundry, it houses a full size washing machine and dryer.
Moet Chandon is designed as a four berth boat, with one double bed and two single bunk beds. In the main bedroom the double bed occupies the fore to aft position along the port wall, it has a shelf over the bed head with light units beneath. There is a full length fitted wardrobe just inside the door, and a half-length unit adjoins it, across foot of bed. the window is one of the 18in opening porthole type. Here, as with the rest of this boat much thought has gone into the selection of soft furnishings to create exactly the right atmosphere.
The second bedroom is also a spacious compartment, this too is fitted with an 18in porthole window. This room contains two single sleeping berths, bunk-style, but not directly over the other. The top bunk is wall mounted, and runs in the fore to aft position beneath the porthole window. Whilst the lower bed runs transverse, along the right - fore end - compartment wall, with it's head beneath the head end of the upper bunk.
Furnishings here consists of five large cupboards on the left of the entrance one of which runs under the foot of the top bunk. A shelf runs along the port wall from the cupboard to the lower bunk head. Yet more cupboard space is provided just inside the door on the right at about head height. Each bunk has it's own independent light source for reading. Here again the soft furnishings are in keeping with the surroundings.
[IMG: kitchen]
Cooker, grill and microwave are fitted at eye level over each other in the same unit.
[IMG: engine]
The 1957 ford 592E 57hp diesel engine.
Having described the internal accommodation aboard this superbly fitted out vessel, I now turn to the engine. The engine is one of the really unique features of Moet Chandon, it is here the owner's personal preference have been brought into sharp focus, in his rejection of a new marinised diesel engine, in favour of a unit first built 40 years ago!
Ledgard Bridge Boat Company would normally fit a Beta BV2203 50 bhp engine in a new boat of this size. However, on this occasion, the customer - Moet Chandon's owner - supplied a 1957, Ford 592E hp diesel engine. The unit had been completely stripped down, re-conditioned and rebuilt before being installed on the boat. Power is transmitted through the gearbox to the 15 x 11 propeller. The diesel fuel tank has a capacity of 66 gallons (300litres).
Electricity is supplied by a Lister/Petter 5.5kva diesel generator, in a compartment behind the engine and electrical control panels. Their is 4 x 130 amp batteries and a single engine start battery. A 45 amp alternator is used to charge the batteries when the engine is running, and a separate 50 amp charger, powered from the mains or generator, can also be used to maintain the battery bank. All this heavyweight power supply equipment is required to ensure all the full-size appliances have a permanent electric power source.
Out on the water, it is important to remember that Moet Chandon is a larger and heavy broad beam boat and as such, control must be exercised with care. The size and weight of the boat are major factors in determining its ultimate manoeuvring capability.
Control is of course achieved by the usual and well-tried system of tiller and single lever engine control, these are situated inside the port side of the aft cabin hatch, above the circuit breaker switches for the electrical services.
Despite its age, the boat owners claim to have thoroughly overhauled the Ford engine, and this was apparent. It was much quieter than I anticipated it would be, and it has power to spare, pushing the boat along with ease, it preformed perfectly.
[IMG: bedroom]
Second bedroom with two single bunk beds, one running for to aft, other port to starboard.
At 57ft 00in long and 10ft 06in wide, Moet Chandon presented no problems to speak of and the vessel cut smoothly through the water producing a relatively small amount of wash. the boat is well ballasted and the trim is excellent. Response to the tiller is not slow in coming, although the weight and width of the boat obviously make steering response slightly slower than that of a narrow boat. To overcome that minor difficulty, one simply has to think a little way ahead. that said however, with care this boat can be manoeuvred admirably in quite tight areas.
The same applies to stopping, with a little forward thinking, Moet Chandon can be stopped where the helmsman wants her to stop. One simply has to realise the extra weight causes the forward momentum of the boat to continue for a while, even after action has been taken to stop it. For obvious reasons the reverse trust of the propeller cannot be expected to take instant effect. Just like applying the brake on ones car will not instantly arrest the forward momentum of the vehicle.
[IMG: saloon furniture]
The saloon has a nice mixture of fitted units and free standing furniture.
Left & right turns were well executed, with the boat following the predetermined course, and side drift was non-existent. Reversing from a standing start was accomplished without difficulty, but there is a little less steering in reverse.
Turning to return to base, at the only point available to us on that part of the waterways, involved the equivalent of a three point turn. I confess I was surprised how easily Moet Chandon coped with what could have been a difficult move, because there was only ten feet to spare fore and aft when broadside on to the waterway.
What then is my personal assessment of Moet Chandon? this boat is a shinning example of what can be achieved when the boat designer and builder work closely with the customer. The input of ideas and the resolution of difficulties on both side has been interpreted perfectly to design, build and fit out a broad beam boat of outstanding quality. The craftsmanship is of the highest standards, both in terms of hull construction and fit out, and the maroon, green and white paint work, together with the associated artwork, add a splendid finishing touch.
The open plan cabin layout is ideal, and the extra hull width allows for the more adventurous layout of both fixed and free-standing furniture. Here it must be said that Moet chandon owner supplied all the free-standing furniture, carpets, curtains, and other soft furnishings. Although I perceive the apparent intervention of the female half of the ownership in selecting these.
In general Moet Chandon handles very well, in some respects it is a little slow to respond as I said earlier. Yet one must bear in mind that this is a broad beam boat, and as such, it's handling characteristics will inevitably be slightly different to those of a narrow boat. On the whole I was pleased with the way it performed on the test run, and highly impressed by everything else about this boat.
[H3] Canal Riverboat - February 1998
Ledgard Bridge Boat Company, Mirfield, West Yorkshire.