The true cost of our narrowboat dream

We gave up our jobs to run a cafe on a canal boat (also called a narrowboat) but was it worth it? We're letting you in on how much it cost to buy our narrowboat, how much we spent on turning it into cafe and how much money we make!
Let's talk money. Narrowboat money.

For those of you just joining us, welcome! We're Vic and Jo and we've been narrowboating around the UK for the last few years on our 54ft narrowboat Zero. Last year we decided to give up our jobs in the city and add another boat to our fleet in hope of turning it into a travelling cafe and becoming full time boating baristas.
Follow us as we learn the ins and outs of business on the water whilst cruising around the UK.

Find us on Instagram at /Hollythecafeboat for more up-to-date whereabouts and senseless stories.

To watch more narrowboat adventures:

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Camera equipment we use:

(These are affiliate links btw)

[withwilk]

This is literally my life right now. Just been fired for the 2nd time in 2022 and made homeless at the same time.... so we're buying a van and buggering off into the sunset. Lets go

[margaretzoheir]

As someone of 72 years I think what you are doing is marvelous. From the 80s young people were encouraged to get mortgages, in a way my generation never was. Getting a mortgage then ties you down to earn money to pay it and the quality of life goes. You have quality of life, are young and this experience will enrich you both and your child. The scenery looks stunning. Good luck with your Cafe and may God bless you. 🙏The orange cake looked wonderful. Happy Christmas 🌲🌲

[AngryIrishMan]

I have nothing but major respect for any man who with his back is against the wall, he is ready to come out swinging. A man who loves a good challenge and a fight, all for his family. Cheers mate

[kingsknightuk]

These two people are richer than people with millions in the bank. They have such passion for what they do. You cannot buy that! Nothing but respect for these two and I'm grateful for them sharing it with us.

[brucea]

I have been watching you two from the first show while up here in the interior of Alaska. Reading through the comments I'm amazed how many people don't get it, you are not poor or broke while sitting on two paid for boats and inventory, and have the skills to do a 8 to 5 job in TV or even movies anytime you want, enjoy the time you are having it looks like a wonderful way to spend a few years. God Bless you both and Merry Christmas.

[philcudworth]

Keep going. I've been 18 years on my boat now. Making/selling my woodcarvings, doing a few jobs for money and yeah I'm skint and it's hard. There's no cavalry coming, just gotta keep going. Good luck to you both. Keep smiling 🙏👍😊

[TheBoatingAdventure]

Well done guys as a retired independent cafe owner I feel your dilemmas, that was really good. The one thing I learnt about running a cafe is that it is totally unpredictable. We never made a fortune but we loved what we did. If there is anyway of helping promote you on my YouTube channel I definitely would please let me know if there is a way. I've just finished doing a promotional video for an independent narrow boat hire company which was great fun. Take care Alan.

[CMPInstructor]

Anyone who’s ever taken the entrepreneur’s risk can relate to this video. Every day is test of making more than the cost. But to make it work along with a high quality of life adventure is an art form; one very much worth the effort. May your journey continue to prosper.

[arkansasboy]

"Poor but happy" means much, much more than being "rich and not so happy". You guy's are on the right track.

[louisschorpp]

I’ve watched 2 minutes and you’ve already earned my subscription. The Storytelling, the quality is crazy, you guys are so humble and likable. You’re living the Dream.

[EarleWrites]

I loved this so much. As a fellow boater who is also struggling right now, I really enjoyed your transparency and honesty. Makes you feel like we're "all in the same boat." Thanks again. ❤️

[jillosler]

Fantastic attitudes and inspirational. No whinging that 'the Government' has got to give you some money to supplement your life. No whining that you are having to open on a cold day. No blaming anyone else for the state of your bank balance. Choices + stoicism + love = a happy, if not rich in wealth, life for the three of you. 👏👏👏💙💕👍

[kennethhowell]

Beautiful family. You are a great host and she is a great hostess. The bakery is the right idea for income for your family. Everyone will come to your little cafe!

[kerryfoster]

I loved this video! After I was made redundant in 1995. I was offered the opportunity to buy a Transit van and take over a contract with it. The contract gave me a basic but reliable income. I then had to seek out other work to enable me to make profit. Doing small removal jobs and shifting large items I charged (then) £20 per hour. Some weeks I worked many hours but was turning over 5 to 7 hundred pounds a week. Gaining many customers along the way I did this for over 25 years until I had to retire at 68 when my old but reliable van failed it's test. 220, 000 miles it did!
I love meeting people and helping them even though it could be exhausting at times.
Would love to be still doing it!
Driven over 500, 000 miles!

[marilynoire]

What lovely people who came to support you..Wishing you and your family all the best..!!Keep it up !’

[Grandadgreyhair]

Well done for having a go, it seems like people love your offering so the key for me is obviously footfall, and as you can’t go too far in a day it might be worth considering the following. a) which points have most footfall and which days, b) Are there workers who are near canal that you could tap into c) Are there local shops that would buy your cakes eg like mini farmer markets D ) any walking or cycling groups that have planned walks that you could liaise with organiser so they get timely pit stop. E) Any small marinas which do not have cafe services F) could you organise canal walks or events and bring the people to you. I’m sure there are loads of ideas but good luck hope you make a success.

[johnsampey]

Well done, for being so honest about everything.
Good people always deserve support.

[jimhem]

Dear Vic and Joanna, well done so far. The USP you haven't used to your advantage or excitement, is your community and engaging with it. As you travel around there is an army of followers watching where you go and hoping to visit your cafe. IF you wanted you could advertise where/ when you will be open on these videos (+link to insta updates which are not obvious and prob only seen by 5% of your YTviewers) and encourage your cafe community to visit. This would increase sales on those days but commit you to being there. Engage with your prospective cafe community especially in winter months, Best wishes.

[AsianliteNews]

Heart melts seeing the struggle but heart warming to see your smiles & never dying positive attitude.. Well done both of you & the little one.. God Bless you all..

[tehdreamer]

I lived two years on a narrow boat and loved every second of it... Except maybe waking up freezing cold when the coal runs out in the stove, except maybe spiders crawling down on my face, the dust, the mould.... But loved it haha Now I got a campervan!