Stunning Narrowboat Renovation: 'Moth' Transformed by Kingsground Narrowboats

At Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales, we love to see the incredible transformations that our customers' boats go through, and the story of 'Moth' is one of the most impressive examples yet. But before 'Moth' came to life, this narrowboat was known as 'Rendezvous,' a truly special vessel with a rich history.

The Story of Rendezvous

The 61ft 11 inch narrowboat 'Rendezvous' was built in 2005, standing out as a splendid example of a traditional tug deck narrowboat from the highly regarded, and now increasingly rare, boat builder Steve Hudson. Renowned for their craftsmanship, Hudson’s boats have become collector’s pieces, prized for their traditional design and superior build quality.

Rendezvous featured stunning recessed panels and was powered by a JD3 tug engine by Beta Marine. This gave the boat the nostalgic sound and feel of a classic engine, but without the temperamental challenges that often come with older motors. Equipped with a Nobels bow thruster powered by a separate 24v battery bank, she was as easy to maneuver as she was to admire.

The heating options in Rendezvous were extensive, with a diesel boiler connected to radiators, a Morso Squirrel solid fuel stove, and an Epping solid fuel mini range in the boatman's cabin, ensuring warmth throughout. The boat also had beautiful traditional touches, including scumble-glazed roses and castles, adding to her authentic narrowboat charm.

Rendezvous was meticulously maintained, with regular treatments to ensure her longevity. In 2018, the boat was grit blasted, zinc-coated, and treated with two-pack epoxy, with four new anodes installed. In July 2022, the boat received another two-pack epoxy treatment, along with a full engine service, making her turn-key ready for her next owner to enjoy many more years of rewarding service.

This gorgeous vessel was sold at Tattenhall Marina, Cheshire, by Andy Burgess of Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales, where she began her transformation journey into what is now known as Moth.

The Transformation into Moth

Following the purchase of Rendezvous, the new owner took her to Kingsground Narrowboats for a full renovation. The boat was lifted out at Tattenhall Marina's boatyard, transported by road and craned into Kingsground’s workshop, where the expert team began the meticulous process of unpicking the craft and rebuilding her from the ground up.

After months of work, the boat emerged as 'Moth'—a stunningly transformed narrowboat that retained its traditional roots but introduced modern comforts and style.

Introducing Moth

The team at Kingsground Narrowboats worked their magic to create a boat that perfectly balances traditional charm with modern comfort, exactly matching the current owner's vision. Key features include:

The Red Galley: The bold, eye-catching galley instantly adds vibrancy and sophistication to Moth’s interior. The deep and rich red cabinetry offers a striking contrast against the warm, natural wood tones that flow throughout the boat, creating a dynamic balance between elegance and warmth.

Copper Diesel Stove by Lockgate Stoves: This stunning copper stove not only provides efficient heating but also serves as a show-stopping centerpiece in the living space. With its gleaming finish, it exudes both warmth and character, becoming an iconic feature that elevates the boat's cosy atmosphere.

Oak Leaf Pattern Tiles: Originally crafted for the bespoke luxury narrowboat 'Highgrove', built by Kingsground in 2024 exclusively for Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales. Highgrove's aesthetic is timeless, elegant, and influenced by the stunning National Trust propetty, Alfriston Clergy House, the first built property in the care of the National Trust and bought for £10 in 1896.

These exquisite oak leaf tiles bring nature’s beauty into the heart of Moth. Their intricate design and luxurious finish add a distinctive touch of refinement to the bathroom, while fostering a deeper connection to the natural world. Featuring a satin base and a gloss screen print, the collection offers a beautifully tactile experience, perfectly blending craftsmanship with style.

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Cosy Vibe: Moth exudes warmth and character, thanks to the thoughtful combination of warm colours and custom woodwork that runs throughout the interior. Handcrafted wooden wall paneling and charming circular porthole windows with custom blinds enhance the boat's classic charm, while modern comforts are seamlessly integrated. The living area has been masterfully redesigned to create the ultimate cosy retreat, offering a homely, lived-in feel that’s often missing in brand-new modern fit-outs. Every detail, from the wood grain to the soft furnishings, works together to make Moth a welcoming sanctuary on the water.

Traditional Features with a Twist: The renovation of Moth masterfully blends classic narrowboat tradition with contemporary design elements. The exterior's fresh repaint harmonises modern and traditional aesthetics, maintaining the boat’s timeless appeal. Inside, the boat is equipped with all the modern amenities needed for comfortable living on the water, while still honouring her roots with beautifully preserved painted details on the hatches and doors. This thoughtful mix of old and new ensures that Moth retains her traditional character without sacrificing the conveniences of modern life.

A Vision for Prospective Boat Buyers

'Moth’s' renovation is a true testament to the possibilities available when it comes to purchasing and customising a narrowboat. Whether you're thinking of DIY-ing your own boat or working with a specialist like Kingsground Narrowboats, there’s no shortage of ways to make a boat your own.

This renovation is proof that a good quality shell, like a Steve Hudson narrowboat, can be taken to a specialist yard and emerge as an entirely new craft. The transformation doesn’t just save money compared to building new; it also offers the satisfaction of giving an old boat a new lease of life.

At Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales, we pride ourselves on connecting buyers with the right boats to suit their dreams, whether it's a narrowboat ready for immediate use or one with potential for a grand transformation like Moth.

So, if you’re considering a boat purchase and have a vision for transforming a shell into your dream floating home, let Moth be your inspiration. Get in touch with our expert team at Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales, and we’ll help you start your journey to creating your perfect boat.

Interested in learning more about narrowboat renovations? Or ready to start your own boat-buying journey? Contact Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales today, and let’s get you on the water!