At the heart of our business is Ardea, a stunning 62ft narrowboat with a renowned Tyler Wilson hull.

Built in 2004 to bespoke specifications, Ardea was designed for performance and elegance on the water.

When we became her proud owners in2021, our original dream was simple: a life of weekend holidays andcanal adventures.

However, the magic of the waterways inspired a bigger vision. In 2023, we decided to merge our passion for the nomadic lifestyle with our successful online retail business, transitioning The Ardea Candle Makers into a fully operational floating shop.

To support a busy retail business on the move, Ardea is equipped with a powerful Beta Marine 43hp engine featuring hydraulic drive and an Archimedes hydraulic bowthruster for precision handling through the tightest places. Power is never an issue thanks to our integrated 11kw generator, which provides up to 150amp regulated battery charging - essential for keeping our workshop running smoothly.

In 2025, we officially transformed the interior, removing the traditional dinette to install custom retail shelving for our stock. This allowed us to turn our living space into a high-capacity floating warehouse.

Staying connected is vital for fulfilling customer orders from the remotest corners of the Midlands and Wales, which is why we rely on Starlink satellite internet to manage our online store from the towpath.

Ardea is more than just a 62ft Tyler Wilson narrowboat; she is a masterclass in off-grid business innovation.

Whether we are moored at a bustling floating market or hidden in a quiet rural cutting, Ardea ensures we can bring our hand-poured candles to you, wherever the water takes us.