If you live on a canal boat on the inland waterways, or are planning an extended cruise on the English rivers and canals, you may be researching the various options out there for accessing the internet while on the move.

When I started living on a boat, in the year 2000, I had some kind of archaic dial-up system that allowed my computer to connect to my mobile phone using Bluetooth wireless technology. Technology has changed a bit since then.

Most liveaboard canal boaters now seem to use a dongle; a small piece of hardware that connects to the computer through a USB port, a cable or through WiFi. In areas of poor reception some boaters find they also need an extension lead connecting to an aerial on the roof of the boat. I have found that as well as running my online business, a mobile connection can also stream music and television if desired. From my own experience and through word of mouth I would say that Three is the best UK network for mobile internet, but I do have a pay-as-you go Vodafone dongle for those emergency moments when the Three network is inaccessible.

In 2011 I also tried out the 3 Mifi device which was really good. Like a dongle you pay for it with a monthly contract and you can run up to three devices wirelessly.

Some people use a wireless router attached to an external aerial. The router can take a broadband sim. I was also recommended to try a T-Mobile Wireless Pointer which connects any WiFi Device to the Internet without cables; you can combine this with a magnetic roof aerial. It can be effective depending on the data package you purchase from T-Mobile. However, it has mixed reviews on Amazon which point out that you cannot use it to access iTunes Store, Skype or Yahoo Messenger as T-Mobile blocks their use. One reviewer says it will not enable you to watch videos, films or TV programmes.

So the device you choose will depend on your personal usage requirements. However, a decent internet connection on board can enable you to ‘live the dream’ of continuously cruising while working at home.

Working on a Boat

Careers that make use of mobile internet can include web design, freelance writing, online marketing, photography, graphic design and selling products or services on line. (Baddie the Pirate deserves a special mention simply because it’s a cool name for a business. She supplies LED lighting for canal boats!) More ‘hands-on’ occupations such as making cratch covers and top boxes, artist, musician or creating traditional crafts such as ragrugs, doilies, peg dolls and painted canalware can all benefit from an online presence to promote and sell the products.

Does Making Money On Line Really Float Your Boat?

Many of our Boatshed brokers have managed to create a business and life they love. Our technical systems are based online in the ‘cloud’. We’ve made great headway in becoming the world’s largest brokerage, and are now seeking enterprising people to join our ranks. All business models include training and support, marketing materials and access to the ground breaking Boatshed™ System. Find out more at BoatshedBusiness.com

You may also like:
How to buy a boat – the process / Thinking of selling your boat? / Can Boatshed sell your boat twice as fast as other brokers? / 2013: Our amazing year! / Get started with your own Boatshed business / More news articles and stories.

See when the next boat auction is.

New here? Follow us on Facebook or Twitter to hear of new listings, and regular boating, sailing and brokerage news.