For U.K. Canal Boat Dwellers, Lockdown Can Be Claustrophobic — But Also Offers Escape
Boaters stress that it's not an easy way of life, with constant repairs, refills of water, gas and coal — and emptying toilets' holding tanks. But in the pandemic era, a moveable home has advantages.
Boasting an engine and a rudder, Michelle Madsen's home is different than most others' in London. She lives on Larkspur, a 38-foot green-and-white canal boat, complete with a kitchen, shower and writing space.
Madsen is one of an estimated 15,000 people in the U.K. who live on the water, according to the Canal and River Trust — a number that's risen in the last few years due to rising rents and house prices. Most boat-dwellers have no
