The condensation problem does appear to be endemic to canal boats, but each boat will have its own problems and I can only give you our solution.

In a properly insulated boat (spray foamed throughout) we have found that the only place we get condensation is on the windows and particularly on the metal window frames.

At the risk of teaching granny to suck eggs I just want to explain the reason for all this water. It’s very cold outside, in your boat the heating is running and you’re toasty warm. But this means that the air is holding a lot of moisture. This contacts the very cold windows and frames and suddenly you have rivers of water running down them.

First of all make sure that the drain holes in the bottom of the window channels are clear. Then, in winter, buy some of the secondary double glazing film that’s available from B&Q and several other DIY outlets. This stuff is supplied with sticky tape to apply it over the window area so enclosing that area, not allowing the warm, moist air from reaching the cold metal and glass. it works for us, no more mopping up every morning.

Of course all of the above does depend on the rest of the boat being properly insulated because any uninsulated metal inside the boat will condense in winter, and if this is behind panelling where you can’t see it, then a lot of water can accumulate before you notice it and you may even think it’s coming from somewhere else.

Not bought my own boat yet but from years of living in a council house with only a single coal fire plus boating on a nb with similar I can only suggest:

1. make sure your nb has sufficient ventilation and good insulation

2. a multi/solid fuel stove will provide dry heat, better I believe than gas CH

3. whilst waiting for your kettle to boil for your morning cuppa, wander around your boat and wipe the windows

4. Don’t leave your clothes on the floor or against the steels sides.