However appealing the prospect, that is exactly what happened!

Jo and Jan May arrived in The Netherlands in 2007 and bought an old barge that was not in the first flush of youth - by about a hundred years actually.

In the early days there were times when they wondered what they'd done. The engine barely ran, the heating system didn't work and the rusty patches were growing like fungus on an old loaf. Professional help was generally unaffordable so they learned to do things themselves. Over time they gradually improved things to the point where they could at least have lunch without an alarm going off.

Life on a barge is one of glorious compromise, less space yet more freedom, less cash but infinitely richer. Travelling on rivers, lakes and canals can be exciting or frightening and their story offers a unique perspective on an alternative way of life.

They discover the pleasures and quirks of new countries including culinary surprises such as Snert, an explosive pea and ham soup! In a small bible-belt town that is home for two years, there's the joy of meeting a wacky assortment of people. And, according to Jo, 'everybody over the age of 4 is taller than me. Despite that, it's a lovely, friendly place where we are made incredibly welcome.'

There is no typical boater, they are all uniquely different, having drifted into this watery existence from any number of directions. There are common problems such as misbehaving lavatories and dribbly windows but also shared delights such as wildlife, windmills and wine.

A six-month journey from central Netherlands to Burgundy in France was a trip of a lifetime within an adventure of a lifetime. Every thump of the engine took them further south and round every bend there waited another treasure.

The adventure continues in A Barge at Large II where boating days eventually wind down. However, due to 'a minor mismanagement of funds' they end up living in a 25-year-old campervan for six months! It proves to be another rusty stepping-stone across the river to a land-based existence - just something else they take in their stride.