Rocket is an impressive 61ft Narrowboat built in 2001 by the highly regarded boatbuilder Steve Hudson. One of his distinctive designs, Rocket even featured in the Canal Boat Magazine in 2008, a testament to her quality and design pedigree. Steve Hudson boats are celebrated for their traditional craftsmanship, curved bow profiles, and signature riveted hull construction, all of which are evident in this striking vessel. Rocket also benefits from unique inset cabin side panels, adding an extra layer of character and refinement to her exterior lines. Her robust 15mm base plate further reflects the care and over-engineering associated with this respected builder. The interior is beautifully finished in 18mm European oak, offering a warm, solid wood fit-out that will particularly appeal to lovers of traditional boat joinery and craftsmanship. Designed in a classic forward layout, Rocket features a traditional boatman’s style cabin aft, a master cabin with a fixed double berth, an engine room housing an impressive Gardner 4L2 diesel engine, a walkthrough bathroom with cassette toilet, a well-equipped galley, and a comfortable saloon which opens onto a tug-style bow deck. Propulsion is provided by the 1957 Gardner 4L2 diesel engine, renowned for its iconic sound. Heating is supplied via a multifuel stove in the boatman’s cabin alongside a diesel-powered Lockgate stove with back boiler feeding radiators throughout the vessel. Hot water is generated through the diesel heating system and a 240V immersion heater, ensuring year-round comfort. Rocket is fitted with both 24V and 240V electrical systems, providing a practical and modern onboard setup while retaining her traditional character. An ideal narrowboat for leisure cruising, extended holidays, or comfortable residential use, Rocket offers a spacious and practical layout combined with exceptional craftsmanship and classic styling. Available to view at Pyrford Marina. To arrange a viewing, please contact the team on 01932 343275.

General Information

Stern Type - Traditional

Builder - Steve Hudson

Fit-out - Billy Harris – Skilled Narrowboat Joiner

Plating Specification - 15/6/5/4

Insulation - Spray Foam

Number of Berths - 2 + 2

Number of Cabins - 1

Side Hatch - 4

Canopies - Storage covers for sky lights and pigeon boxe

Toilet Type - Porta Potti

Widow Type - Single Glazed

Recent Works

Boat Safety Certificate Expiry Date – May 2030

Last Blacking - 2021 with 2 Pack Epoxy

Last Engine Service - 2025

Last Survey - 2021

Engine Specification

Make & Model - Gardner 4L2

HP - 40

Number of Cylinders - 4

Cooling Type - Air

Gear Box Make - PRM 500D1.5

Diesel Tank Capacity (L) – 600 approx.

Year - 1957

Bow Thruster - N/A

Hot Water & Heating Systems

Source of Hot Water - 240V Immersion, & Lockgate Diesel Stove

Central Heating - Lockgate Diesel Stove with Back Boiler

Multi Fuel Stove - Yes

Water Tank Capacity (L) - 550 approx.

Electrical Systems & Components

24v - Yes

240v Landline - Yes

Inverter - Victron 3000W

Generator - N/A

Batteries - 2 x starter – 105Ah, 8 x Domestic 148Ah

Solar - X4

Interior Arrangements

Master Cabin

The cosy master cabin features a fixed double berth, complemented by built-in cabinetry and an Art Deco-style reading light positioned above the bed. A traditional Boatman’s-style cabin is situated aft, offering generous storage compartments and a comfortable, characterful space for extended stays onboard. A multifuel stove provides additional warmth during the colder months, making Rocket well suited to year-round cruising and onboard living.

Engine Room

The engine room is dominated by the impressive Gardner 4L2 diesel engine, paired with a modern PRM500 hydraulic gearbox. Batteries and electrical systems are neatly arranged within this space, maintaining practicality and ease of access. Port and starboard side hatches provide additional natural light and ventilation, while also offering an excellent opportunity to showcase the engine when underway.

Bathroom

The walkthrough bathroom is well appointed, featuring a separate shower cubicle, a stainless-steel hand basin set within a vanity unit, and a neatly concealed Thetford Porta Potti. The layout is designed for both practicality and efficient use of space.

Galley

The walkthrough galley is thoughtfully designed and well equipped, featuring a ceramic butler-style sink with distinctive brass taps, a Thetford four-burner gas hob, oven and grill, and a 24V fridge. Plentiful drawers and cupboards provide excellent storage for kitchen supplies and onboard provisions. Large skylights, along with port and starboard side hatches, ensure the space is bright, airy, and well ventilated, creating a highly practical and enjoyable cooking environment.

Saloon

The open-plan saloon provides direct access onto the bow tug deck, enhancing the indoor–outdoor living experience. The flexible layout allows for free-standing furniture, giving the new owner the opportunity to tailor the space to their own style, a sofa bed could also be incorporated to provide additional sleeping accommodation for up to two guests. A skylight further enhances natural light throughout the space. A Lockgate diesel stove is positioned to starboard, creating a warm and inviting focal point opposite built-in storage cupboards. Additional storage is available beneath the bow deck, with provision for a washing machine and further onboard storage options.

As a Broker, our understanding is that the vessel you are purchasing should have been built and correctly CE marked to satisfy the requirements of the Recreational Craft Regulations and there is no such proof provided by the vessel owner. You should satisfy yourself of any implications that may arise from purchasing the vessel. You are advised to seek further advice should you see fit. However, whilst the purchase is not illegal, you should be mindful that there could be implications for future saleability or value of the vessel.