Astrid – An Electric Narrowboat - Bluewater Boats | Canal Boat Builders based in Warwickshire UK

About Astrid

Astrid - A 64ft Bespoke Electric Propulsion Narrowboat

Astrid is a landmark project for Bluewater Boats — not only a beautifully crafted bespoke narrowboat, but also the first vessel to trial the new Vetus 22kW electric propulsion system. Selected by Vetus themselves to showcase the potential of their advanced E-Line electric motor, Astrid is a perfect example of what happens when cutting-edge marine technology meets personalised boatbuilding craftsmanship.

A Vision for Silent, Sustainable Cruising

Commissioned by clients Terry and Charlotte, Astrid was designed around their vision for quiet, comfortable, and eco-conscious living on the water. They wanted more than just a boat – they wanted a space that aligned with their lifestyle, values, and appreciation for thoughtful design.

Boat review - By Waterways World

Power System at a Glance

The heart of Astrid is the Vetus E-Line 22kW electric propulsion system, supported by a smart, integrated energy system for long-range, off-grid capability: • Vetus 22kW electric motor • 6.5kVA Vetus diesel generator (backup/charging support) • 1800W solar array • 8 x 200Ah Victron lithium batteries (housed under the dinette seating) • Victron system management and monitoring This powerful setup allows for quiet cruising, efficient energy use, and generous battery storage, with all components professionally installed and configured by our in-house experienced marine engineers.

Hull Preparation & Paintwork

As with all Bluewater builds, the hull of Astrid was prepared to the highest possible standard to ensure longevity and durability:

Shot blasting to remove mill scale and surface contaminants
Application of a two pack epoxy primer to the superstructure
Full two pack epoxy blacking below the waterline, spray-applied for optimal coverage and protection

Our spray application technique ensures a high micron thickness of paint, extending the protection of the steel far beyond traditional roller methods.

Hydraulic Steering – A Rare Feature on a Narrowboat

One of Astrid’s most innovative features is her hydraulic steering system, positioned to the port side of the stern. This is an unusual addition on a narrowboat, where traditional tiller steering is far more common. By using a hydraulic rack and pinion steering, Astrid not only offers a greater degree of control but also frees up the stern for a full U-shaped seating area – creating a sociable and uninterrupted outdoor space. For owners Terry and Charlotte, this has transformed the way they enjoy their boat. Their feedback has been nothing short of glowing: they are absolutely over the moon with the hydraulic steering system.

A Botanical-Inspired Interior

Terry and Charlotte visited regularly throughout the build, working closely with Sharon and David to create a botanical-themed interior that’s both beautiful and highly functional.

Notable features include:
• A custom koi themed dinette table crafted with care to reflect the natural aesthetic
• Thoughtfully chosen fabrics and colours that echo the botanical theme
• A rotating bulkhead, offering clever guest privacy when needed and enhancing natural light when open — a perfect example of form and function in balance

A Collaborative Build

From the electric system design to cabinetry and fabrics, Astrid was a true collaboration between the clients and our team. Every detail was discussed, refined, and agreed upon during workshop visits — ensuring the final result was uniquely theirs.

Astrid Sets a New Standard

A beautiful, quiet, and technically advanced narrowboat, Astrid not only represents the future of electric cruising, but also stands as a testament to the bespoke craftsmanship and forward thinking design that define Bluewater Boats.

Astrid's Advanced Electrical System

Powerful. Intelligent. Built for Off-Grid Living.

The electrical system aboard Astrid is a prime example of the high-level, bespoke engineering we deliver at Bluewater Boats. Designed in collaboration with her owners, Terry and Charlotte, this fully integrated 48V system supports their goal of quiet, efficient, and sustainable cruising, while ensuring modern convenience and long-term reliability.

Intelligent Power Management

At the heart of Astrid's energy system is a Victron Energy 48V 10kVA Quattro inverter/charger, seamlessly converting DC battery power into AC for household use. When shore power or generator input is available, the Quattro automatically charges the batteries, ensuring uninterrupted energy supply. A Victron 3600W Isolation Transformer is also fitted to: • Prevent electrolytic corrosion • Safeguard the onboard electrical system • Provide soft-start protection to avoid shore power tripping on connection These components are professionally wired, configured, and clearly labelled by our in-house marine engineers.

Battery & Solar System

To deliver long-term off-grid capability, Astrid houses a powerful lithium battery and solar charging setup: • 8 x 200Ah Victron lithium batteries • Housed beneath the dinette for space-saving and balanced weight distribution • 2 x Victron MPPT 250/60 SmartSolar controllers • 9 x 200W solar panels (1,800W total), wired in two separate banks in series • Intelligent charge regulation to optimise energy harvest from the sun During sunnier months, this solar system greatly reduces - and often eliminates - the need to run the generator.

System Monitoring & Control

Astrid features a Victron Cerbo GX system with a GX Touch 50 screen, giving Terry and Charlotte real-time insights and full remote control of their boat’s power systems. With this setup, they can monitor: • Battery state of charge • Solar input and generator status • Power consumption • System temperature readings • Shore power input and auto-generator start settings Remote access is also available via the VictronConnect app and VRM portal, offering full control whether onboard or at home.

12V Systems – Powered by DC Converters

While the propulsion and primary systems run on 48V, Astrid also includes three Victron DC-DC converters to supply reliable 12V power to: • LED lighting circuits • Webasto heating • Water pump • Shower pump This separation of voltage systems ensures optimal performance, safety, and redundancy.

Built to Last – Inside and Out

Once the technical systems were installed and tested, Astrid entered our insulated, extraction-equipped paint workshop for final finishing. The exterior protection process included: • Shot blasting for a clean, mill-scale-free steel surface • High-build epoxy primer • Epoxy finishing primers and undercoats • Non-slip coatings to gunnels • Alexseal top coats with clear coat finish The acrylic urethane Alexseal top coat offers: • High-gloss finish with exceptional depth of image • UV, abrasion, fuel, and scratch resistance • Buffable surface, easily restored from light damage or tree scuffs

Independently Surveyed and RCD Certified

To complete the build, Astrid was fully inspected and certified by an independent marine surveyor to ensure compliance with all relevant safety, design, and construction standards. The vessel is now fully RCD certified, verifying that every component — from propulsion to cabinetry — meets the highest standard of craftsmanship and marine regulation.

Astrid – Where Innovation Meets Craftsmanship

A beautifully finished narrowboat with a cutting-edge electric system, Astrid proves that sustainable cruising doesn’t mean compromise. It means quiet, clean power. Effortless control. And a boat you can truly live with and love for years to come.