CanalAbility is celebrating a major milestone in its mission to provide accessible and inclusive boating experiences.
Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers, donors, and the National Lottery Community Fund, the charity has successfully raised the necessary funds to place an order for a state-of-the-art, electrically-powered canal boat.
This exciting addition will join CanalAbility’s existing fleet of two diesel-powered, wide-beam boats, allowing even more individuals with disabilities, mobility challenges, and significant health conditions to enjoy the waterways. The move aligns with the charity’s commitment to sustainability, reducing its environmental impact while increasing the availability of trips for those who benefit from its services.
“Thanks to our dedicated volunteers and supporters and a substantial grant from the National Lottery, we are making a huge step forward in both accessibility and sustainability,” said Marc Balkham, CanalAbility Chairman. “This new electric boat will offer a quieter, cleaner experience for our clients, giving more people the opportunity to enjoy the peace and beauty of the waterways in an accessible and inclusive way. It will allow us to run more trips for those who need them most while helping us reduce our carbon footprint and champion the benefits of green technology.”
The new electric boat is expected to join the CanalAbility fleet in Spring 2026, offering even more people the chance to experience the beauty of the waterways in a sustainable and accessible way. This will be a celebratory event for all those who have contributed to the success of the project.
CanalAbility sincerely appreciates the invaluable legal support and guidance provided by maritime law specialists, HFW, which has played a key role in helping us navigate important milestones, including our electric boat project.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Boating
The introduction of the electric boat will bring significant environmental benefits:
- Lower Carbon Emissions: The switch from diesel will save approximately 5,130kg of CO2 emissions per year. These savings are based the guide produced The Inland Waterways Association, with additional specific items for our own charity.
- Cleaner Waterways: Eliminates diesel pollutants such as particulates and nitrous oxides, reducing environmental harm.
- Quieter Experience: Unlike traditional diesel engines, the electric boat will provide a peaceful journey, allowing passengers to enjoy the sounds of nature and conversation without engine noise.
- Solar Power Integration: The new boat will harness solar energy for much of its internal power requirements, further reducing its environmental impact.
Further Support Needed to Complete the Project
While the project is now underway, and a boat build slot of October 2025 is in place, additional funding is still needed to furnish the boat and ensure it is fully equipped to provide the best possible experience for its users. CanalAbility is reaching out to individuals, businesses, and supporters to help complete this groundbreaking project.
Get Involved
CanalAbility is inviting businesses, donors, and volunteers to be part of this exciting journey. To offer your support, please contact CanalAbility by calling 01279 424444 or email
Donations can be made here:
