Notes for first-timers

Chris and Ron Colverson were enjoying an idyllic first river trip aboard their new Freeman 22 Mk2 cabin cruiser-until Ron fell in

- Claudia Myatt

Looking back at our disastrous first trip aboard Kay, we were under-equipped and complete novices who were convinced we could bring her down the river from Wargrave to Shepperton in a couple of days. We were loving it - we thought we'd bought the entire Thames - but within hours we were in trouble as first the engine started cutting out and then Ron fell into a lock!

Even though burly chaps appeared from nowhere to yank him out of the water, we had to leave the boat at Windsor for a week and our son had to come and help crew us home.

On 15 July 2016, we were beyond thrilled to be on our way to complete the purchase of Kay-our very first boat. Kay is a 1968-registered Freeman 22 Mk2 cabin cruiser, and was lying at Val Wyatt Marine in Berkshire, a couple of hours away by car.

We had already fallen in love with her, she was as neat as a pin, with a new hood and spotlessly refurbished interior. Fully equipped with kitchenware and crockery, four berths and a bar, she would make the perfect holiday home for a sprightly couple in their 60s.

That weekend we planned to bring her some 40 miles down the Thames to Shepperton Marina, where we had moorings agreed.

Our marine surveyor had previously looked at Kay on the hardstanding, and today he completed his inspection while she was afloat. He said that she was sound, with just a few minor problems regarding the electrics and freshwater pump, and she was without curtains. She would need antifouling in the autumn. Otherwise, she was ready to go.

Delighted, we went for a trial spin with Martin from the brokerage, handed over the dosh, set up the insurance and practically leapt aboard.

Bold intentions