Having a Stretch

Everyone knows that 57 ft 6 ins is the optimum length to cruise the Pennine canals, i.e. especially the Calder and Hebble and Huddersfield Broad. However, it can be done in a 60 footer - if you go the right way round. We did it in 2003 prior to having a 'stretch' in 2004. Now we are 70 feet long and cannot do the Pennine canals any more. BUT, by having a 10 foot extension we managed to increase our living space by in excess of 20%. And, if you are a liveaboard, 20% is a lot more space, bigger bed, by going across the boat you can have a 5 foot or even 6 foot wide double bed!!, extra wardrobes, extra drawers, second toilet, separate cabin for the granddaughter to sleep in when she visits, the list is endless, Do we regret it? No, we don't, it took longer than anticipated, cost more than anticipated but in the long run was well worth it. I also now have somewhere to escape to from her who must be obeyed! A picture of the boat after the stretch is available at www.flickr.com/photos/78944572@N00/438067925. Apologies for the advert!