water in hull

[narrow_boat_uk]

I recently moved onto a narrow boat and after some exploration found that there was a lot of water under the floor.  Just wondering how much water I should expect to get in, also... how does it get in? (I am talking about more than just condensation)  Also the hull on the inside is quite rusted... is this anything to worry about?

Thanks.

[Admin (Chris)]

Hi narrow_boat_uk

Welcome to the forum

Normally the only place water gets in is through the stern tube stuffing box or deep sea seal, whichever is fitted.  It is possible the water has come from an internal leak from the fresh water tank or pipework, or simply rain water due to a hatch being left open.  In a hull that has seen some life a bit of rust is to be expected, but if it is deep flaked rust and not just surface rust, e.g. if it leaves deep indentations 1mm or more when removed, you might consider getting an ultrasound check done the next time she is pulled out to determine the hull thickness. Most hulls are 6mm sides and thicker for the base plate, this can vary but not usually by much, and it takes a long time to rust through 6mm.