Customer Stories
Willow Haven
A bespoke 57ft narrowboat, handcrafted for comfortable canal living.
Willow Haven was Central Boating's very first customer build and marked the beginning of our journey as a bespoke boat builder. Every stage of the project will be carefully documented, from fabrication and first fix through to the final interior fit-out, commissioning and handover preparation.
As our first completed customer project, Willow Haven helped establish many of the quality standards, documentation systems and customer processes that continue to shape every Central Boating build today.
Meet the Owners
Chris & Morag
The trust that Chris & Morag placed in us as our very first customers will always be something we're incredibly grateful for. Throughout the build, they provided valuable feedback, worked closely with us as the project evolved and have kindly allowed us to share their experience.
Their Experience
★★★★★
"From the outset, working with Central Boating has felt like a genuine partnership rather than a straightforward customer–builder relationship. As their first customer, both sides have been learning along the way, and there have inevitably been a few adjustments and refinements.
What has stood out is that feedback has always been listened to, discussions have been open and honest, and solutions have been found without unnecessary friction.
The fabrication by HD Narrowboats gave us a good starting point. The steelwork, welding and overall build quality we've seen throughout the process have given us real confidence that Willow Haven has been built on a solid foundation.
Central Boating have remained engaged throughout the build, keeping us informed, responding to questions promptly, and being willing to adapt where appropriate. At no point have we felt like just another order in the system.
With around four weeks still to go before delivery, it's too early to comment on ownership or long-term aftercare. However, based on our experience so far, we have every reason to be optimistic and are looking forward to finally taking ownership of Willow Haven."
Chris & Morag
Owners of Willow Haven
About Willow Haven
Willow Haven is a bespoke 57ft narrowboat built to provide comfortable, modern liveaboard cruising while retaining the timeless character of a traditional canal boat.
Every detail was carefully considered throughout the build, from the quality of the steel fabrication and engineering through to the high quality interior, electrical installation, plumbing systems and final finishing touches.
Like every Central Boating build, Willow Haven has been documented throughout construction with comprehensive technical records, quality inspections and owner documentation, ensuring complete confidence both during handover and throughout ownership.
Key Features
✓ 57ft Birmingham Style Narrowboat
✓ Premium Interior
✓ Full-Size Walk-In Shower
✓ Twin Roof Skylights
✓ Diesel Central Heating
✓ Victron Energy Electrical System
✓ Modern Liveaboard Specification
✓ Complete Owner's Manual & Technical File Included
✓ Delivered with Comprehensive Build Documentation
Thank You
We'd like to thank Chris & Morag for placing their trust in Central Boating for our very first customer build.
Their encouragement, honesty and constructive feedback have helped shape the way we build boats today, and we're incredibly proud to have shared this journey with them.
We wish them many happy years aboard Willow Haven.
Interested in Building Your Own Boat?
Whether you're just starting to explore ideas or you're ready to begin your build, we'd be delighted to hear from you.