Running on Empty: Life Afloat in a Dry Summer

Troubled Waters on the Canals

It’s been a tricky week for those of us cruising the waterways. Closures seem to be popping up all around due to low water levels and breaches, and our planned route has had to change more than once.

We were heading into the Caldon, but that’s now closed. So, the plan shifted — we thought we’d head straight up onto the Macclesfield. But earlier this week, CRT sent out an email advising that, given the water shortages, it’s not advisable to head that way either.

So, for now, it looks like we’ll be shuttling between Stoke and Stone, with the occasional drop-off at Barlaston as we go. Thankfully, this stretch is still open at present.

We only move when we need water, and at this point we’re keeping everything crossed that the locks stay open so we can keep topping up. Like so many boaters right now, we’re hoping the rain starts to fall soon — not just for us, but for everyone who calls the canals their home or their escape.

Until then, it’s a waiting game.

Foraging time check the hedgerows and bake a tasty cake.

Hi, it’s the time of year again when our hedgerows give us tasty treats. Even with the weather being so dry this year, there is an abundance of blackberries, so why not get out into the countryside and cook up a tasty cake? This recipe is my go-to, and it’s so simple to do, but you will be impressed at how tasty it is.

Here you go. It’s one I made up a couple of years ago. Cooking time can vary as it’s the boat’s oven on my timescale.
This cake is so moist and rich and just perfect for this time of year.

Ingredients:
2 eggs
1 cup sugar
2 heaping teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 cup oil
2 medium apples peeled and cubed
1 cup washed blackberries
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder

Directions:
Preheat oven to 180. Mix the eggs, sugar, cinnamon and oil well. Cube the apples and add them to the mixture. Also, add blackberries to the bowl. Mix together the baking powder and flour and add them to the ingredients in the bowl. Mix gently. Pour the mixture into a greased 12-inch loose-bottom tin. Bake for approximately 55 minutes.

I hope you enjoy it

Maxine x

🎨 New Release: Mexi the Boat Dog and Friends Colouring Book!

We’re thrilled to announce that “Mexi the Boat Dog and Friends – Colouring Book” is now available!

This delightful colouring book is packed with beautiful illustrations inspired by our children’s book series, The Adventures of Mexi the Boat Dog. Whether you’ve been following Mexi’s watery adventures or are just discovering her now, this book offers a wonderful way for children and adults to bring the stories to life through colour.

It features scenes from the canals, charming animal friends, and, of course, Mexi herself. It’s perfect for quiet afternoons. It is also great for creative play or even a bit of relaxing colouring therapy.

🖍️ Available now:

  • Direct from our narrowboat (pop by and say hello!)
  • On Amazon, it’s easy to order from anywhere

Let your creativity flow and join Mexi and friends on a colourful canal adventure!

We’re Back Open!

After a short break, we’re delighted to be back and open for orders!

Looking for a thoughtful gift or something special for yourself?

🌟 Our bespoke coin jewellery is handcrafted with care and makes a truly unique keepsake.

📚 We also have copies of The Adventures of Mexi the Boat Dog – perfect for young readers – and our popular recipe books full of delicious, easy-to-make dishes.

Feel free to browse the site, and if you have any questions or custom requests, just drop us a message. We’d love to hear from you!

Thank you, as always, for supporting small and handmade.

Shop Closed

We will be away from the boat from the 15th of June until the 23rd of June. The boat is coming out of the water to be blacked. We will not be able to post anything during this time. Apologies for this, but we will resume with the orders as soon as we return. Thank you for your understanding Steve Maxine and Mexi the Boat Dog

A Heartfelt Thank You from Aboard Never Two Late

We just want to say a huge thank you. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to message us. We also appreciate those who have left such kind comments on social media after watching our episodes of Narrow Escapes. We’re absolutely thrilled that so many of you have enjoyed not only our story but the series as a whole.

It was a big step to open up our lives to the cameras. We’re used to having full control over what we film and share on our YouTube channel. Letting go of the reins and trusting others with the editing process was quite the change. However, the positive feedback has made it all feel so worthwhile. Your support has meant the world to us.

We’re also extremely pleased that so many of you have shown interest in Steve’s handmade coin jewellery. A huge thank you for the growing number of orders over the last week—it really does mean so much. If you’re looking for a special year, perhaps a birth year, anniversary, or meaningful date, please get in touch. Steve will always do his best to help.

I’d also like to say a personal thank you for the recent increase in book sales. Sharing The Adventures of Mexi the Boat Dog brings me such joy. I’m thrilled to announce that it’s now officially a bestseller! There’s another Mexi adventure in the works and due to be released later this year. You can purchase the books on Amazon or directly from the boat if you’re passing by.

And finally, if you missed us on Narrow Escapes – Season 2, don’t worry! You can catch up anytime over on Channel 4’s on-demand service.

Thank you all for following and supporting our journey. It really does mean the world.
With love,
Steve, Maxine & Mexi 💛🚤🐾

🎬 We’re on Narrow Escapes! | Watch Us on Channel 4

We’re absolutely thrilled to share that we made our TV debut on Channel 4’s brand new series, Narrow Escapes!

You can watch the full series right now via this link:
👉 Watch Narrow Escapes on Channel 4

📸 Behind the Scenes of Filming

We filmed our episode last year with the amazing team from Bowled Over Media. We can honestly say they were a joy to work with. From the first day of filming to the final take, they made the entire experience enjoyable, relaxed, and truly memorable.

🚤 Celebrating Life on the Cut

Narrow Escapes is a celebration of the rich and varied lives people lead on the water. The series showcases an amazing mix of boaters:

  • Floating cafes and music venues
  • Newbies finding their way
  • Comedians, boat movers, liveaboards, and holidaymakers
    Every story is different, and that’s what makes this series so special. It shows just how versatile, creative, and adventurous life on a narrowboat can be.

💬 Let Us Know What You Think!

We’re so proud to be part of something that reflects the joy, quirks, and community of canal life. If you watch the episode (or the whole series—we won’t blame you 😉), we’d love to hear what you think!

Drop us a comment, or a message, or come say hello on social media. We hope you enjoy watching it as much as we loved filming it.

Thanks for cruising with us,
Steve, Maxine and Mexi the Boat Dog

Alternative Living Chat PodcastAlternative Living Chat is BACK – Let’s Tell Your Story!

I’m beyond excited to announce that Alternative Living Chat is officially back—and better than ever! ✨

Some of you may remember when it all started three years ago. I was just beginning my off-grid journey aboard Never Two Late. What began as a way to document this unconventional life quickly turned into something more. It became a celebration of unique paths. It became a source of inspiring choices. It embodies the freedom that comes with doing life your own way.

Now, I have more time and passion than ever to pour into what I love. I’m relaunching the podcast to spotlight the incredible stories of people who’ve said “no thanks” to the status quo.

🎧 In today’s comeback episode, I sit down with the amazing Sandra Willis. She is a true adventurer who splits her time between boat life and van life. Her insights, honesty, and humour will leave you inspired, whether you’re already on the road (or river!) less travelled or just dreaming about it.
👉 [Listen here: Sailing through life, Sandras journey from career to canal living]

Get Ready to Tune In! Narrow Escapes Season 2 is Coming Soon!

Steve Maxine and Mexi the Boat Dog

Mark your calendars, folks! We have some exciting news to share. Narrow Escapes Season 2 is just around the corner, and guess what? We’ll be featured in the very last week! We can hardly contain our excitement to finally see the episodes ourselves.

Filming for the show was an absolute blast! The entire Bowled Over Media team was simply amazing. They had a knack for making us feel completely at ease throughout the whole process. Our furry friend, Mexi, was in her element with all the extra attention – she genuinely thought everyone was just there for cuddles!

Make sure you set your reminders: Narrow Escapes Season 2 kicks off on Channel 4, airing Monday to Friday at 4 pm. You won’t want to miss any of the incredible stories, and of course, keep an eye out for us in the final week!

We recently had a fantastic time attending the launch party, where we had the pleasure of catching up with lots of the wonderful production team and fellow participants. There was a delicious buffet and plenty of drinks to go around. It was such a treat to connect with everyone involved. We even came away with personalized mugs and a lovely handwritten card – such a thoughtful touch!

  • The Cast and Crew of Season 2 narrow Escapes
  • The dogs of Season 2
  • Mexi the Boat Dog
  • Sarah, Chris and Us
  • Julie Martin and Us
  • Heidi and us

So, don’t forget to tune in to Narrow Escapes Season 2 on Channel 4, 5th of May, Monday to Friday at 4 pm, and let us know what you think when our week airs! We can’t wait to hear your reactions!

Navigating the Unexpected: Stratford, Birmingham, Crick & Beyond!

Well, it seems the waterways have thrown us another curveball! As many of you know, we were really looking forward to a leisurely cruise down to Stratford-upon-Avon, not just for the beautiful scenery but also so Maxine could participate in the Stratford Half Marathon. Sadly, due to unforeseen closures on the canal, our narrowboat journey to Shakespeare’s birthplace has been scuppered.

However, ever the optimists, we’ve quickly adapted! Thankfully, due to our planned boat blacking in June, we’ve still got “wheels” – our trusty car! So, Maxine will still be heading to Stratford to conquer those 13.1 miles, albeit with a slightly less scenic commute. We’re determined not to let a change of plans dampen the spirit! We’ll still soak in the atmosphere of this historic town and cheer Maxine on every step of the way.

But Stratford isn’t the only adventure on our horizon! We’re also incredibly excited about an upcoming trip to Birmingham. We’ll be swapping the gentle sway of Never Two Late for the rhythmic chug of a train as we head to meet the wonderful film crew and fellow participants of Narrow Escapes! It’s going to be fantastic to connect in person, share stories from our time on the show, and catch up with everyone involved. We’re really looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and hearing all about their latest adventures.

And speaking of familiar faces and canal camaraderie, we’re absolutely buzzing to announce that we’ll be taking Never Two Late to the Crick Boat Show this year! It feels like ages – a whole three years, in fact – since we last wandered the bustling aisles, admired the beautiful boats, and caught up with friends we haven’t seen in far too long. Crick is always a highlight of the boating calendar, and we can’t wait to immerse ourselves in the canal community once again. If you’re planning on being there, please do say hello!

Following the excitement of Crick, it will be time for Never Two Late’s essential spa treatment – her blacking! We’ll be taking a slow and steady cruise back towards our base at Armada, enjoying the familiar stretches of canal before she comes out of the water in June. Once that’s done, we’ll be setting our compass firmly northwards for the remainder of the year, ready to explore new waterways and discover fresh adventures.

However, as any seasoned boater (and indeed, anyone navigating life!) knows, plans are often written in the water – subject to change with the next lock closure, weather system, or unexpected discovery. We’ve certainly learned to embrace the flexibility that this lifestyle demands, and while we have a general direction in mind, we’re always open to the unexpected detours and hidden gems that the canals have to offer.

So, while our Stratford cruise might be on hold for now, our adventures are far from over! Stay tuned for updates from Stratford, our Birmingham rendezvous, all the fun of the Crick Boat Show, and our eventual journey north. We can’t wait to share it all with you!