WATERWAYS explorer Robbie Cumming will be back on the small screen in 2026 as the star of Canal Boat Diaries series seven.
The popular programme, which will again be aired on U&YESTERDAY and UKTV’s free streaming service, U, is being filmed now.
Robbie will begin a brand-new journey around the UK from Wales to West Yorkshire, showing the reality of living on a narrowboat while travelling through a secret world of remote waterways, picturesque landscapes and industrial marvels.
After 10 years of living aboard Naughty Lass, this is Robbie’s first journey to Wales by narrowboat, and as with previous series, he will continue to share the highs and lows of life afloat, from the daily challenges of living and travelling on an ageing vessel to the unexpected running repairs that come with it.
Robbie said: “Crossing the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a rite of passage for a boater like me. The Llangollen at that point is notorious for being the busiest and most chaotic narrow canal in the world, which is probably why I’ve put it off for so long!
“After a brief time in Wales, the plan is for Naughty Lass and I to weave our way across England, working my way back along some of the most beautiful and challenging canals and rivers I’ve ever been on.
“As always, I’ve got the route all planned out – but I’ve absolutely no idea what will happen along the way, which is just how I like it.”
Kirsty Hanson, UKTV’s senior commissioning editor (factual and factual entertainment), said: “Robbie is the perfect travelling companion through Britain’s waterways, giving an honest account of life on the water.”
Filming for a new series of Channel 4’s Narrow Escapes is also underway, as reported, and due to be aired in 2026.
