A brand new all-electric community trip boat, to be based in Campbell Wharf Marina, has a problem. It has no name.
The charity building the boat, the Bedford & Milton Keynes Waterway Trust, is appealing to the public for help, seeking suggestions for a name, ready for the boat which will be launched next spring.
BoatyMKBoatface, Jolly Roger, Super Trouper, Black Beard and Lekky Boatie have already been suggested, but the Trust is looking for ideas that reflect its ‘state of the art’ electric power and eco-friendly specification, together with its location on the Milton Keynes part of the Grand Union Canal.
Based on a 54’ traditional narrowboat design, the electric motor will provide a unique experience, gliding almost silently along the canal and without any emissions associated with traditional diesel powered boats. The boat will carry up to 12 passengers and be fully accessible, with lavatory provision and access lift for wheelchair users.
The Trust’s chair, Jane Hamilton, said: “We have commissioned this boat not only to provide a community facility but to also raise funds to take forward proposals for the brand-new waterway park, with a wide canal at its heart linking Bedford & Milton Keynes.”
James Clifton, the Trust’s volunteer leading the search for a name, commented: “It will bring a breath of fresh air to local people, particularly those furloughed or working at home, allowing them to enjoy the scenery and open spaces along this beautiful stretch of canal.”
“The trip boat will be fully Covid-compliant”, he noted.
James asks for suggestions to be emailed to boatname@bmkwaterway.org by Saturday 9th January, so the boat can be launched with a name.
The new boat shown below is taking shape at Colecraft.
© MKFM News 2020
