Distant Shores TV · video

What this video covers

Cruising the Nivernais Canal in France requires specific boat-handling techniques for navigating narrow locks and tight quarters in a single-engine, rudder-steered vessel.0:44 Because the boat pivots around its centre, standard steering often fails when the hull sits flush against a dock or lock wall.7:55 To manoeuvre away from a wall, operators must use a bow thruster to nudge the bow out, then use the rudder to push the stern away before re-centering to continue forward.8:20 This "crabbing" technique allows the vessel to move laterally within locks that provide only one foot of clearance on each side.9:39 Rental canal boats typically feature built-in rubber fenders to protect the hull during these manoeuvres.3:05 The Nivernais route features locks approximately 5 metres wide and bridges with vertical clearances as low as 11 feet.5:38 Most towns along the waterway provide public quays with access to water, power, and historic villages.4:36 No boating licence is required for these bareboat rentals, which are designed for beginners.2:33

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