Mandarin is an extremely well appointed 65ft semi-traditional narrow boat built by Alvechurch Boat Centre in 1993 to an exceedingly high specification and lovingly maintained. The hull is of 15/6mm steel and the superstructure of 4mm steel. The engine, newly fitted in 2006, is an Isuzu four-cylinder 42hp diesel with closed circuit cooling system. As well as doors from the spacious bow and stern decks, there is a useful entrance in the port side amidships.

The interior is light and airy, finished in ash T&G panelling. The windows are of stylish rounded 'top hopper' design with lined curtains. The boat is insulated and centrally heated throughout by an Alde gas boiler. Hot water is from a calorifier heated by engine, boiler or an immersion heater which may be used where a landline mains supply is available. The solid fuel stove in the forward cabin makes a delightfully cosy environment on chilly evenings and there is a fireguard to protect younger crew members.
 

The boat is conveniently wired for 240V electricity derived either from an onboard Rediline rotary converter or from a landline where available. 12 volt sockets are also provided throughout.

 

Mandarin can comfortably sleep up to six. The double bed has a sumptuous, interior sprung mattress and the two fixed single berths are of comfortable high quality foam.  The lounge / dining area has a flexible arrangement, two arm chairs convert to a settee, double or single beds. The dining chairs are stored within the folding dining table that can either be used in the forward cabin or set up on the towpath! Some comfortable folding occasional chairs complete the seating.

The spacious bathroom has a step in shower / hipbath with integral seat and thermostatic shower, a hand basin and Microphor flush toilet with remote holding tank.

The galley area has a 1½-bowl sink and drainer, tiled worktop , an electric refrigerator and four-ring gas hob and cooker. Drinking water is filtered. There is a full complement of crockery.

There are ample storage cupboards throughout the boat.  The comfortable, high quality floor coverings were completely renewed in 2006.

The syndicate is entirely private and non profit making. It has run since 1993 when Mandarin was built. Each member owns a share in the boat until such time as they choose to sell. A comprehensive syndicate agreement is signed on joining. An Annual General Meeting is held at a hotel over a weekend out of season. A Chairman, Secretary, Engineer, Treasurer and Bookings Secretary are elected and the formal business of the Syndicate is agreed. This is also a great social event, meeting up with fellow owners who might otherwise meet only at handovers.

Cruising allocations are flexible, requested in advance of and finally agreed at the AGM. Additional use of Mandarin is generally available outside the season for a nominal sum. Each member is entitled to nominate up to two Associate Members who may use the member's allocation but with some restrictions.

 

 

 

Further details may be found on our website at http://www.mandarinsyndicate.co.uk/