Step aboard Argie Bargie, a 45ft cruiser stern narrowboat that’s bursting with charm and stories from the cut. Built in 1988 and lovingly restored and enhanced over the years, this well-balanced vessel offers the best of both worlds: the timeless appeal of traditional boat design, and the thoughtful comforts needed for modern, full-time living. Having been a cherished liveaboard since 2017, she’s been not just well-maintained but carefully refined to create a warm, inviting, and highly functional floating home.
In Spring 2025, Argie Bargie underwent a full internal and external repaint, stripped right back to the metal to ensure long-term durability and a fresh, clean finish throughout. Prior to that, extensive maintenance and upgrades were carried out with care and precision. From a reconditioned BMC 1.5 engine to a new stainless steel water tank, this boat has been thoroughly invested in. Structural works include Uxter overplating in 2018, new stern boards, a new weed hatch and prop shaft, and a new cratch cover in 2018, offering extra protection and usable space at the bow.
Every aspect of the boat has been considered—from practicalities like a steel security door and resealed windows, to aesthetic and lifestyle features that make living aboard a pleasure. Annual servicing has been diligently kept up, with a log of work carried out by the owner and River Canal Rescue.
Argie Bargie’s interior has been carefully laid out with liveability in mind. Enter through the generous cruiser stern—a sociable space that invites you to sit with friends, watch the water drift by, or simply enjoy the peace of your mooring. Inside, you’re welcomed into a cosy living area, complete with a multi-fuel stove for warmth on winter nights and a double sofa with built-in storage for added functionality. Bookshelves line the walls, creating a snug reading nook or space to display treasures collected along your travels.
The kitchen is bright and well-equipped, with a gas oven and hob, 12V fridge, stainless steel sink with hot and cold water, and a separate tap for an optional water filter—perfect for anyone looking to spend time off-grid. Plenty of countertop space and storage cupboards make meal prep easy and efficient.
Clever use of space continues in the corridor, which houses a full-sized wardrobe and extra storage under the gunnels. The fold-out dinette, added in 2021, provides a flexible dining or working space with stools neatly tucked away when not in use.
At the bow of the boat lies a peaceful and private bedroom, where a fixed double bed with storage beneath creates a restful space to retreat at the end of the day. Natural light filters in through the forward windows, and the cratch cover outside adds further protection and privacy.
The bathroom was tastefully re-decorated in 2020 and includes a hot water shower, sink, and a composting toilet—ideal for eco-conscious cruising. However, for those who prefer, the original large pump-out tank remains installed, offering flexibility for future owners.
Argie Bargie has been more than a boat—she’s been a home, a companion, and a reliable traveller on the inland waterways of the UK. She’s ready now for her next caretaker, whether that’s someone seeking a full-time floating lifestyle, a peaceful getaway, or a new adventure on Britain’s canals and rivers.
Whilst every care has been taken in the preparation of these specifications, no guarantee is given or implied as to their accuracy. These particulars are intended only as a guide and they do not constitute a term of any contract. Lakeland Leisure Estates Ltd advises prospective purchasers to obtain an independent survey from a qualified Marine Surveyor to satisfy themselves as to the condition of the craft.
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