After last weekend’s near disaster aboard Tilly Mint, when we almost sank while mooring up in Newbury, Chris and I decided to return and check on the boat.
The plan was simple: assess the water levels, and if they had reduced enough, we’d carefully move Tilly Mint back downstream. However, things rarely go according to plan when you’re dealing with nature.
As we arrived in Newbury, we were cautiously optimistic. The memories of being wedged across the canal, with strong currents nearly pushing us to disaster, were still fresh in our minds. We hoped the situation would be better this time, but it didn’t take long to realise that was wishful thinking.
The floods had worsened since our last adventure. Water levels were even higher, causing more disruption than before. Train lines in the area were closed due to flooding, and replacement bus services were non-existent because many roads had also been overtaken by water. It was as if the universe was sending us a very clear message:
“Do not move the boat.”
It wasn’t worth the risk. After surveying the scene and weighing our options, we made the tough but sensible decision to leave Tilly Mint exactly where she was. Any attempt to move the boat would have been far too dangerous given the conditions. The floods had turned what should have been a peaceful waterway into a treacherous path, and the last thing we wanted was to repeat the chaos of the previous weekend.
In the end, we left without spending the weekend on the canal. As much as we longed to be back on the water, it was clear that now wasn’t the time. Sometimes, the best decisions in life are the ones where you decide to do nothing – and this was definitely one of those times.
We’ll wait for the floods to subside, for calmer waters, and for a safer adventure ahead. Until then, Tilly Mint will remain in Newbury, awaiting her next journey – whenever that may be.