Calcutt Boats, Grand Union Canal, nr junction with the Oxford Canal

"NB Meridian" was built for The Boatshare Company by John White, fitted out by Dursley & Hurst Limited and launched in April 2002.

It originally had a Lambardini 4 cylinder engine that proved to be problematic and was subsequently replaced in 2005 with a new Beta Marine 33hp engine with hydraulic gear box.

Heating is by a Diesel Central Heating system and a solid fuel stove. There is a 150 gallon freshwater tank of stainless steel construction fitted below the front deck. A 12 volt electrical system provides lighting and runs a full size electric fridge. A high level oven and hob is run from a Calor Gas supply.

The bathroom contains a basin, bath with shower above, and a pump out toilet. There is a full range of kitchen, dining and, of course, boating equipment.

The sleeping arrangements comprise of a fixed double bed with mattress, a diner that converts to a double bed and two single sofa bed chairs. The owners recently decided that they would provide their own sheets, pillowcases, duvets etc.

In boat entertainment consists of a Television and fixed Radio/CD player.

The Owners have an Annual Meeting each October when decisions are taken regarding maintenance, mooring and overall running of "Meridian".

We have had the share for eight years but my wife has developed a mobility problem so the boat is no longer suitable.

Weeks for sale are weeks 34, 35 and 49.

This year these have been starting Sundays 21/08, 28/08 and 04/12. The weeks are based on the first Sunday of the year - week 1 being the first Sunday in January. Our weeks always include August Bank holiday as the first weekend or the middle.

To see where weeks will align in future years go to a "timeshare calendar"

Annual charge per week owned is £230 - this includes all maintenance costs and mooring fees, licenses etc.

We have used Meridian for 8 years and have enjoyed all those cruises. The private group is very well run and managed and communicate regularly. Everyone looks after the boat as though it were their own (which is is). The boat was originally on the Macclesfield canal when we started but was moved to the Oxford a few years ago. It may move again in the future when everyone agrees that it would be a good idea.

The annual meeting is well attended every year with people either meeting up at a suitable pub or via telephone.