Watching another introvert go about typical things in public makes me feel just that little bit more comfortable being different ❤️

Please don’t be intimidated by others just do your own thing your really special and a breath of fresh air😊

So nice to have a boating channel that down't resort to using dramatic titles in an attempt to catch your attention.

That's it, I've decided, I'm coming back as a swan.

even a little out of a comfort zone, skills and confidence ceiling gets higher. ..and you're absolutely nailing it!

You're a breath of fresh air in the boating video world! There's a world of narcissists making videos. Great to see a down to earth, humble person like yourself breaking the mould. Keep doing what you do! And never worry about people watching you when you're out - you seem as competent as any out on your boat and far better than so many I see every day.

Hi Betty … please try not to feel “exposed” or folk watching you… you’re very brave to be a boat owner and I assume a live aboard, most people that “Gongoozle” are just curious and some even envious so just to say be proud of yourself and what you’re doing. It’s a massive learning curve and I can assure you your confidence will grow to new levels, even after 24 years as a continuous cruiser I still get slightly “self aware” if at busy locks with public watching.. it’s just being human.. good luck and stay safe 😊

I don’t feel so weird now listening to you. The times I’ve waited until my neighbours go out so we don’t bump into each other and I have to make small talk 🤣🤣

I recognized myself in you Betty when you said "I feel quite uncomfortable even being out on the boat" etc.... And that is totally fine Betty! No accountability is needed.😉✌

Hello Betty ☺. I could feel your anxiety at the beginner before you even said anything. Don't be intimidated, you go girl. Swans can't get into the air from the water without difficulty! They need a solid runway ... He/she is probably a younger swan or its lost its partner, they mate for life and don't usually mate again, sadly. I lost my beloved husband back in December, afterc54 years together, so I know how that feels 😢. Don't feed them bread, they cant digest it. Rice and oats are ok though. Be careful too, they can be quite aggresive. The geese probably had young near by and was chasing it away. Lots of mythology connected to swans, coud now be your toten animal. Sending love, light and summer blessings 🌻🌺🌼🌾 xx

Well done Betty, you did it. Showed us a bit of other boats moving past you, great stuff. Those interactions you have with people on their boats and the towpath really add to the vlog and so many people are 'vlogging' these days I'd try not to feel embarrassed talking to the camera with other people about. Although I do relate to how you feel when the crowds disperse - that's the main reason I get out on my bike, getting away from the crowds and exploring country lanes and towpaths are fabulous for that. Keep the vlogs coming, your followers and I love the serenity, stunning views and gentle pace!

'Diesel Bug'. Every day is a school day. Thank you for another insightful video. Such a peaceful life, in beautiful surroundings.

Seemingly genuine , gentle and sensitive. I hope things fall in your favour along the towpath . Pygar is definitely infatuated :)

Of course you drive a mini! Nice to watch someone on KZfaq that's not full of themselves. Go girl!

Well anybody who was watching simply saw you calmly and competently operating your boat. Good stuff...

Hi Betty, your videos and commentary are simply delightful. Who would have thought I would have a ridiculous smile on my face watching a swan feeding rice of the back of your boat and a tumbling camera's video. Your films cheer my day 🙂

Just remember Swans mate for life, you may never lose your new companion now.

It's a joy to see someone just doing their thing! Happy days!

There are 500 comments already so I doubt you'll read this. I have agoraphobia, and hate going out. I felt everyone is watching me, judging me, secretly laughing at me. But I am feeling more comfortable going out nowadays compared to a few years ago, since I've come to realise that actually no-one cares. They might glance at you, but most people will barely see you and they just want to get on with their day. So I've come to the conclusion most of my worries are internal. I love your videos by the way. You are so honest and real, nothing pretentious, no gimmicks, and you are very engaging. I love boats and it's very interesting to see your way of life and the stuff you have to deal with. I think you're very brave and amazing to give us a glimpse of it on KZfaq.

Hi Betty, I've just discovered your channel and your presentation style is just so natural, please don't change. I spent many happy years on the canals back in the 1970's but sadly due to ill health I'm unable to handle a boat now, so I'll tag along with you if you don't mind doing all the work. I need to have a quick catch up on your earlier videos, then if you have no objection I have a few questions for you. Keep up the good work Kevin.

I always watch the full video before commenting & Betty, you're always a breath of fresh air. Your personality make it relaxing & enjoyable...you're abviously a caring individual also. That Swan knew he was on to a good thing with you. Keep safe & be happy...always 😊

The waters draw a diverse range of people. Some of the boaters, walkers, and others gravitate to the canals, finding solace in a space when they aren't necessarily at ease in mainstream. The egoless approach to your videos makes them a pleasure and a privilege to watch. Your empathy is compelling, and while you might find it taken advantage of on occasions, it can also lead to encounters with some amazing like minded people and wonderful experiences along the waterways. The stretch bridge 24 to 24a at Willington has rocks in the water alongside the towpath. I hope people feedback encourages you to continue producing videos.

Why am I now looking at narrowboats for sale? 😂. If I ever move back to the UK I’m getting one. I love this level of peace and quiet. Brilliant.

Rockin the bib n braces and heart glasses Betty. Revel in the fact that you a powerful individual bringing happiness to those who watch. Thank you :-)

Thank you for another wonderful video Betty, alot of people don't realise what is involved when you have a boat and a car with thinking about where you most your boat so you have easy access and short walk to your car, I can understand how you feel about being around people when you are moving your boat when you are an introvert as you feel like people want to judge you. As your loyal followers we will never judge you as we care about you too much and want to support you as much as your family and friends do . If you ever feel like you need someone to talk to I'm sure there is a few of us that are willing to give you the time to chat, I know I would for you

Gosh, for someone clearly a little uncomfortable around people I have huge respect for you starting this You Tube journey. That must have taken a lot. Well done for pushing your comfort zone a little bit wider. Not to mention making hugely enjoyable videos.

The Swan must be Starstruck, having met the famous Betty on a Boar😅! Thanks, another entertaing video, despite all the annoying strollers enjoying a bit of Bank Hol sun. I bet at any given time, there are more people watching you online than from the towpath, and besides, that is a boat worth looking at, so they're not all staring at just you. You're doing fine Betty, stick to your task at hand, and sod the gaffering folk.

Oh Betty, I feel for your nervousness around the busy banks. Love your shades 😎❤️ lovely scenery too! That swan looked lonely 😢 He is your bodyguard for annoying heckling men 😜

This swan is probably a "yearling" and has not found a mate yet thus lacking purpose in life, as it really should have been partnered up and nesting while going as mental as those ducks whenever anyone comes half-close to their chicks. They may act a bit weird since lacking a "job", but it is quite normal. Thank you for having restored my inner peace yet again, from a fellow introvert.

I just love your videos, you can see you’re a shy lady but you look so confident in driving (if that’s the term!) your boat. Keep up the great videos Betty & don’t be put off by people watching you, you never know they may be envious of a person like you in total control of their boat. Well done girl

For whatever it's worth.....my wife and I (in North Carolina, USA) love your videos and vlogs. We really hope you will keep going. And don't worry about others seeing you talking to your camera.....there are enough narrowboat vloggers these days that I am sure they will realise that you're just another one making your vids.

The swan looks young Betty they do get Pushed out by their parents after six months to make their own way in the summer . Its kinda sad but they are tuff birds . It says young swans will look for a flock to hang around with . and swans Don’t look for a mate until they four years old this was a sweet and fun episode well Done !! 👍🏻

Ducklings were like “we’re outa here!” 😂, nice wee video 😊

I am flummoxed 😊 by your videos, Betty, I feel so relaxed watching them. Thank you for being you! What an amazing way of life

a fellow 'introvert' showing us how it's done.. respect Betty

The Swan could feel your sweet energy and knew he would be treated with kindness. Love your vlogs! Stay safe.

Thank you for another delightful video - especially for the swan and the rabbits!

That was so lovely Betty, that swan was definitely guiding you through that shallow root.And don't worry about what other people think they are looking because they are seeing a beautiful woman on a boat, and your sunglasses look super cool 😎 look forward to the next one stay safe Nick 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿x

Really love watching these videos , Betty is delightful.

Just found you . I just love narrow boats and seeing the English countryside. So glad to see a young independent woman ! Keep up the good work on the boat. Here in the US we have the ICW, Intercoastal Waterway that is open to the public to travel in on your boat. It also is used by commercial shipping so you can see gigantic boats or tiny boats. My hubby and I are considering buying a boat and doing the ICW for a year. I look forward to more videos. Hope you find your swan friend !

Thanks for taking the time to film your adventure, the Swan following you made me smile, keep the videos coming they are nice to watch.

I thought the person under the bridge would have been more of a distraction than the swan. I don't like being the centre of attention either. That was a lovely video.

I have no idea why this video was recommended to me but I'm glad it was. Never thought about living on a boat before but you've shown me how peaceful and calming it can be. You have such a beautiful calm personality and even your awkward moments are something many people can relate to. I wish you all the best in your future endeavours.

That was really fun with the swan. Loved it when it came up and got some food off the boat. I know how you must feel when in a place where seems everyone’s eyes are on you, you feel sorta on display, I really dislike times like that. Was wondering how for do you move before you go back and move your car? I admire you taking on a one woman show… driving the boat, locks, mooring the boat, filming, editing and maintaining the boat. Girl, you’ve got your hands full !!! But love what you are doing, doing what and when you want to do it. Take care and please be careful ❣️

Yay - Betty on the boat... watch out for those swans. They will befriend you, and before you know it they have moved into your place and started emptying the fridge!

Super episode. Love your style of filming. I find Narrowboat clips so relaxing. Years ago I tripped over a narrowboat rope and fell into a bed of nettles. The old lady inside the boat made me some Nettle tea ironically and bathed my face. I was only 40 years old!

What a special lady you are You don’t have to feel intimidated by people. Most of them will be looking at you in envy.

Another good video, walking backwards and forwards to get to and from your car would really keep you fit, im sure I would want to sit down and have a beer halfway through doing that.🤣🤣

Oh wow she's back! Absolutely adore these videos!

As ever, a delightful and uplifting video. Everything's better with swans and rabbits ❤ thank you, Betty

Hi Betty, I have just discovered your channel, now I have watched all of your videos and I think they are extremely comforting to watch. I guessed that accent from the beginning, I am also a local to Wolvo. There is some history to why you are doing what you are doing, and it's not for sharing I don't think. You are doing great with your videos, occasionally shying away from the public is good, you deal with everything your way hun. I am jealous because the canals and waterways are so idyllic and relaxing but my finances won't yet stretch to a boat, in the meantime Betty, please keep churning out those videos and thank you.

Awww another lovely video of you doing normal things that we do in boat life.. love how you explain things for people and do it in a way that’s interesting and informative.. you’re a breath of fresh air Betty.. keep doing what you do and enjoy. ❤

These videos are so calming

Another wonderful video with you and Little One. You're your own boss and captain. You have a smashing little narrowboat, you are independent and doing your own thing. And now producing fab videos allowing us along to share your travels and adventures. We're enjoying joining you, and you should be proud of how the channel is growing. When the canal gets busy, remember your viewers are with you, wishing you calm waters and peaceful cruising. Anybody nearby who disagrees can take it up with your new feathered friend! 😊

Another totally delightful watch 👍🏼 More power to you Betty 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

Well done with the navigating, so many things to see and do!

Another great vid Betty! The swan deffo stole the show. 🦢🦢🦢

Thanks for another interesting video Betty, which included the antics of your escort "HMS Swan". The background shot at 1:33 reminded me of the Willington Power Station cooling towers that you took some drone footage of in another video. When you approach bridges on bends, I wonder if this would benefit from a simple traffic light system or mounted mirror, so you can see any boaters coming from the other direction. I understand what you mean about feeling watched. When I had my first boating experience back in March, I tried to dock the houseboat I had hired along a bank by myself, which was a fairly complicated operation for me. Unfortunately I made a complete balls up of it and got spooked. I had a speed boat and water skier waiting for me to complete the docking, as well as a crowd of campers on the bank nearby laughing at my antics. Sufficed to say that I high tailed it out of there, but I learned from the experience. Very cool heart shaped sun glasses btw!!!

3:09 you are a modest person in a modern world full of the self obsessed. It’s what makes your videos so lovely to watch. 👍👍👍

Loved the seek and reject swan love story, especially it ending in dinner.

It’s refreshing to see someone prepared to talk & demonstrate the lesser known domestic side of canal life 👍 I never imagined having a car & barge would be an exercise regimen with the towpath walks 😳 Love the sunglasses & bib 😊 Well done on pushing through the difficult part of your trip 😎

There is something very relaxing about your video's Betty (the music helps) but that swan stole the show! cant wait for the next episode. 🙂

Nice to meet your Guardian Swan! I'd like to see how good he is at helping you with locks though... 😁

I can totally relate to being more comfortable in the company of a swan than other people! Also, I think he was trying to impress you by having a fight with those two Canada geese 🙂

Always wanted to travel on narrow/barge boats, your videos are really useful & informative. One day I'll put the theory into practice! 😀

Thanks for another video. This one really made me smile with a "swan love sub plot" 👍. After decades in the corporate world doing company / customer tours I never got used to being "in front" of people but just got on with it nerves and all. Having now transitioned to a full time carer I can allow my social anxiety to have a field day and could feel your pain in the marina. Just keep swimming 👍

Your the only narrow boater i am watching, you are very special. Keep up the videos, if you run out of ideas, just a day in the life is great. Thanks Love from New Zealand.

As someone who prefers to be on my own or just with my family I can fully appreciate that uncomfortable feeling you get in or around crowds of people - you also have to deal with odd folk shouting at you from the canal bank - that can't be much fun either.....

Another brill 1 Betty. The swan was a star. The king would be proud of you.

Great Vid Betty and don't worry about what other people think they are looking because they are seeing a beautiful wonderful free woman on a boat enjoying life to the max.. I'm so jealous of you....

Best of luck on your journey. Looks like you’re a worthy captain. I think the swan took a shine for you and wants to be part of the crew. Safe travels. 😉

The swan would definitely make better company than humans 😊

New video😊 Keep up the good work

Lovely video. Glad you're making a nice life for yourself on the cut. I'm 19 years on board now. I call the the car/boat thing bridge hoping. Keep smiling.

"Why is this lady following me?" -Mr. Swanson

Of course they are looking at you, a beautiful woman driving a narrow boat , awesome, keep them coming enjoy your videos, hi from down under 🙏

Another great video Betty. I never even thought about travelling around with both a boat and car, it must restrict you quite a bit on how far you can move at a time. It seems to be a well mannered Swan you have made friends with. The last one I encountered on the canal bank was quite vicious.

Love your shades, another lovely vlog, I loved your pet swan. Your vlogs, they are so relaxing and you come over as a lovely calm, quiet person. I guess the hard thing about having a car and a boat is finding somewhere safe to park your car. I love your lifestyle and I look forward to more vlogs from you. Take care Betty. xxxx

Beautiful lady❤❤❤❤

Hi Betty great video, lovely with the swan😊👍

You have a swan...we have a resident skunk, lol. BTW, like your sunglasses.

Brilliant to see you doing your thing Betty, if anyone was watching you they were probably thinking the same as me "wish I was doing that" I think you're brave being a solo boater, I would have far too many worries and insecurities! Keep on going Betty👍✌️

Thanks Betty. Wow! That was special with the swan. Glad you fed him. I wonder if he's sussed out that following or leading a boat usually means food. See next time.

Hi, I really enjoy your videos. It's a glimpse into a different way of life, and I love the idea of boating. It was fun to watch you and your new friend, the swan! Take care.

Just the most lovely video. There was something so precious about the swan I just felt my stress melt away watching this. Thanks for making these videos

Feel so chilled out after watching that video. Love walking the Leeds Liverpool canal & always have a passing natter with the passing boaters, a good bunch of people

Thanks for another open and refreshing video. I am facinated how animals try to connect with humans. I feel there is much more about it that we don't understand. Happy cruising

Betty, I’m sure the people are looking at you for all the right reasons. Lovely boat, lovely lady and lovely sun glasses. Greetings again from Australia.

Hi, Betty. Thanks for an enjoyable video. Loved the way the swan was your companion for a while and had something to eat. Never heard of diesel bug before but now I know. Look forward to seeing you along your journey's

Founf your channel by accident and subscribed. This video has an incredible calming effect, something much needed in our troubled world...

Hey cool glasses, very 60's 'chic'. I'd try not to worry, I think their just wishing they were doing what your doing. 'The Guiding Swan' cool name for a boat (or a pub) lol Love it, original & entertaining plus informative content, it's got it all...keep it up Betty! 👏👍🤙🖖✌🤘👌🍻

Thank you for sharing your nice gentle adventure with us 🙏🏻. Take care and stay safe.

Another great video, I love been party to the experience, swans and all! I appreciate a pause and moment to take a deep breath and appreciate your different world view. It might not seem much but out here in the wild it’s an oasis of picturesque calm

Hello Betty, new subscriber here. your channel came up as a recommendation and its nice to see a simple no nonsense channel. like you i am social awkward around other people as i am disabled and also feel people are looking at me and talking about me. anyway here hoping you have lots of success with your channel and boating. Reuben xxx

That swan seemed to be interested in you, Betty. Maybe he’s a subscriber 🤣

I love watching your videos, they are nice calm breath of fresh air. I certainly felt it when you said about not being so comfortable around people, I too am the same, I am an introvert and spend a lot of time on my own. You might find that people generally have a view of boaters being older couples or older men who like engines/boats so I guess it will be a novelty for non-boaters to see a young lady out boating. Love your car too!

Ahhhh how beautiful, (and the Swan ain't bad either lol), it's always awesome to have wildlife encounters. Thanks Betty!

Thankyou for sharing the video, always enjoyable and the swan was very sweet i think it new you as a kind person and glad it had some food to enjoy .good boating and hope to see some more soon robert.

You're videos are so lovely & calming, I feel like I should be paying you therapist fees!

I do like your honesty. I some times wear headphones if there are too many people. Nice video. It's a good job you distracted the swan. He wanted to kill the signet!