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Dragonfly was named by the Trust's patron, The Duchess of Cornwall on 8 Sept 2010 as part of celebrations to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Wilts & Berks Canal.
The boat has been largely funded by a very generous donation from the Underwood Trust, which has for many years been a staunch supporter of the restoration of the canal. The Underwood Trust is keen to see further parts of the canal opened for public enjoyment, and the trip boat will provide additional incentives to open more lengths of waterway as early as can be achieved.
The boat is of traditional construction, having a steel hull and superstructure. At 36 feet long she is approximately half the length of a traditional working narrowboat, but she has the standard narrowboat beam of 6 feet 10 inches. She is designed to carry up to 12 passengers, and can be used as day boat for Trust members as well as for public trips. The boat has been designed with extra wide doors and provision has been made for the installation of a wheel chair lift to provide access for all. Funds are now being sought by the Trust for the procurement and installation of a suitable lift.
On 9th September 2010 Dragonfly arrived in Swindon in time to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the canal at the Wichelstowe Canal Festival on Sunday 12th September.
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Meets MCA, IWA and BSSC codes for small passenger craft.
Meets MCA stability requirements
Robust enough for canal day trips (approx 60-100 days/ year)
Capacity for 12 x passengers + 2 crew
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Length = 36'
Width = 6’ 10”
Draft = 2’ 6”
Steel hull & roof; 10 gauge steel bottom
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Engine
Sound proofed
“Hospital” Silenced exhaust
35 bhp Isuzu marine diesel
PRM Marine Transmission
Low maintenance
Three batteries, split system. 2 x batteries for cabin & services.
Separate battery for engine starting.
Battery isolators (for security & safety)
Twin Alternators
Fixed 3 blade, bronze
Strong protection (rudder support bar)
Weed cutter
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Inside
Removable table
Seating for 12 passengers
Heads
Galley
Twin ring LPG hob
Fridge
2 x sinks with hot & cold water
Storage for cups & plates
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Safety equipment
2 x Fire extinguishers
2 x Life buoys
Boat Hook
Long pole
Boarding ladder / plank
Float switch / automatic; engine & cabin & cockpit
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Security
Secured from "casual" vandals & thieves
Window covers when not in use
Front & rear door security
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