Everyone is new to barging at first. You love the waterways and the lifestyle. You visit people enjoying their barges, maybe in England or France. You decide to buy one.

There is so much to learn. Everything is unfamiliar. You don't know the consequences of your decisions. Is this the right barge? What regulations apply?  Must I pay all these taxes?

You make mistakes. You pay too much for things, or don't get what you really want or need. You do some things twice to get them right. And the bills aren't small!

You look for advice. Many people are sympathetic, answer your questions, and make suggestions. But are they right? And you can't keep bothering them.

Time runs short. You need to move the barge, or check up at the boatyard, or pick up supplies. But you have to go home or back to work, maybe in another country.

You need help. Reading the books gives you good ideas. But you want someone to talk to and get advice from, who can look after things for you, who is on your side.