Seven years ago, Rich and Jackie MacKenzie made the decision to change their lives by purchasing a secondhand 60ft narrowboat with the intention of living on board permanently with their two children. The initial motivation behind this drastic change stemmed from the realization of how much they spent on rent and bills, the stress they felt, and the lack of quality time they had with their children. They felt like they were not achieving the meaningful, community-focused life they desired and wanted a change. However, they were initially hesitant to travel full-time due to work and school commitments. However, after the passing of Rich’s father in 2020 and a reassessment of their priorities, the couple decided to embrace a nomadic lifestyle, navigating the waterways of Britain with their children, two dogs, and a cat.
After buying the narrowboat, named Bluebell, the couple settled into a new way of life, with roughly halved outgoings and homeschooling their children on board. Rich, who previously worked long hours as a gardener, made a career change by learning how to make bespoke jewelry and quitting his gardening job in favor of a more nomadic lifestyle. Despite facing challenges with the boat’s constant need for repairs and maintenance, Rich learned valuable skills and has embraced the flexibility and freedom of life on the canals. By homeschooling their children and focusing on hands-on learning experiences, the MacKenzies have provided a unique educational environment that allows their children to explore their passions and develop confidence through real-life experiences.
The travelling canal boat community has become an essential part of the MacKenzies’ new life, providing them with a sense of community, connection, and support. They have found that living on a boat allows them to spend much more time together as a family and explore different cities and regions at a fraction of the cost compared to living in a traditional brick-and-mortar home. The financial savings from reduced outgoings have been significant, with the family now spending about £9,000 a year compared to the £18,000 they used to spend on rent and utilities. Their lifestyle also allows them to engage with a wider community, learn new skills, and explore different areas of the country, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Rich’s decision to quit his gardening job and start a charity called Cycling Without Age Oxfordshire demonstrates his commitment to creating meaningful connections and enriching the lives of others. Despite earning less than before, he values the richness of life and the sense of community that his new lifestyle provides. By embracing a more intentional and unconventional way of living, the MacKenzies have discovered a deeper sense of fulfillment, purpose, and happiness. Their journey has been one of transformation, resilience, and authenticity, highlighting the power of following one’s passions and redefining what a meaningful life can look like.
As they continue to navigate the waterways of Britain, the MacKenzie family has no plans to return to a traditional home. Their experiences on the canal boat have not only changed their lifestyle but also their perspective on what truly matters in life. They have found joy, connection, and freedom in their nomadic existence, paving the way for a future filled with adventures, learning, and community. The MacKenzies’ story is a testament to the transformative power of seeking alternative paths, embracing change, and prioritizing what brings true happiness and fulfillment in life.
