Having come to the conclusion that:

• The Solent was too close to ignore
• That the Isle of Wight was within reach
• That this is not intended to be a single-handed enterprise

(of course in the end we moved to the Lake District, so some of these constraints were irrelevant) 

It became clear that an open launch was in appropriate. Some form of cabin or accommodation was needed – not least because of the commonly inclement weather!

While the “Edwardian-style” saloon looks good on a river launch, it seemed that something more workmanlike is needed. I do not want to go for the full “cabin cruiser” profile from the 50s so something more like that drawn on the Ijssel designed from Selway Fisher seems right.

I want to try to provide accommodation which allows:

1. Shelter from the worst of the weather (for the crew if not the captain)
2. Sleeping quarters for two bunks or double?
3. A Loo (cassette-type as this needs to be inland waterways capable too)
4. A limited galley (soup/coffee/sarnies level) – Windemere kettle, stove (multifuel?)
5. Space for charts/navigation/radio etc.

Clearly, all of this would easily fit into a 26ft boat if it wasn’t for the inclusion of the steam plant… we will have to see what can be achieved

Discussion on Other Decisions

• Part 1 – the hull
• Part 3 – the engine, boiler and machinery
• Part 4 – the sailing rig