What's it like living on board B-Hive?

Take a virtual tour for yourself

(sorry - we're not up to moving pictures and sound)

The top of the boat gets used for all sorts of things from the decorative to the useful.

If you look carefully, you can see the boat poles (essential when you go aground), the folding boat (B Flat - work it out for yourself) and the omnipresent Blue Bucket.

Not only do we have flowers, but bees, a windmill and a plastic pigeon called Coo.

And, of course, coal for when it gets colder.

Look hard and admire the painting. There are bees trying to get into that hive.(Susan did the hive and bees, and Alan did the lettering.)

Go in through the front door and you find the saloon - you can tell the weather's colder now, the stove's alight.

Lots of bees to spot - and our plate collection. Also please admire the CD/video shelf. (Alan's handiwork)

The Milton Keynes Chair - now covered to match the sofa. It reclines very comfortably thank you.

Yet another bookshelf - thank you Alan.

bee - hind a picture.

buzzy in the galley

Van model courtesy of TDSI sitting by the stove with yet another bee.

bee knobs in the bedroom -- say no more.

We do have rather a lot of little bees on board - many given to the boat by well-wishers. (or not).....

We just bee hanging around

It bee warm up 'ere

I hope it's bee bee see

mee too

It's a honey of a programme

.....including a ridiculous flying bee, bought in Newark market at the same time as the frog (see Newark page) which does really fly around the saloon, though it more usually lives attached to the cabin top.

I think it was its intelligent expression that attracted us! (the bee, not Alan)

it's amazing what keeps him amused!

again and

again!

Yes we do call it the galley.

Nick is occasionally prevailed upon to clear up his cabin. Note the emerging pony tail!!

They were supposed to be washing up!

Washday - even with the new washing machine it's quite a palaver and takes over the whole galley as you can see. Luckily we don't do the washing very often. (Mucky lot!!)

note the change of worktop, courtesy of B&Q mooring in Northampton and a hardworking Alan.

You'd be lucky to get three persons in here!!

Past the galley leads to the washroom and loo

The shower tray hides under the floor and Nick has now learned how to use it on his own which is a relief to all. (see left for reasons why!)

The bed slides away in daytime to leave a seat for general use.

Next comes Alan and Susan's cabin.

The bedding hides away.

The wardrobe was cleverly designed by Cyril to hang over the bed, leaving just enough room for the feet.

The next cabin was originally Ro and Michael's but has been converted to house the computer and the guinea pig. (an obvious combination)

but signs of the previous occupants are still there if you look.

Above the windows, Janet painted dragons appropriate to the occupant of the bunk below.

I wonder if they still think they're appropriate?

These were above Michael's half of the cabin. He never looked that angelic playing the cello even then!!

This is the ballerina Ro. I think the expression on the face says it all, don't you?

Moving swiftly on through this door, and ignoring Nick's loo and washroom (you need to ask why?) and the general stores cupboard, we come to.....

Nick's cabin.

His bed also becomes seats during the day.

He's never short of reading material. Thanks again to Alan for the extra shelves.

Through the door to the Engine Room. It's never been this tidy!!!

and yes, there really in an engine in the Engine Room - hiding under the floor of course.

Outside past the mooring spikes and waterproofs and we emerge once again in the sunshine/rain/wind/snow. (delete as appropriate!)

Ship's bell - used to summon crew from the cosy warmth and comfort inside on a wet and windy day to do locks/moor up/get the steerer a drink etc. etc.

That's the end of your guided tour. Hope you enjoyed it. If you want to see more then you'll have to come and visit us.