Coming from a seafaring family, Herd has long held an ambition to fit out a boat. After exploring the options available, he finds an old working narrowboat and transforms it into a state-of-the-art floating holiday home - the ultimate canal cruiser.

The series will feature his skills as he refits the vessel, as well as his journey around the waterways of Britain visiting fantastic examples of the boatbuilding craft and meeting their owners.

Herd's project is Dover - a1937 Town-Class, large (72.6 feet) Woolwich motorboat. The 68-year-old vessel will be given back its traditional rear cabin and given an authentic 1930s external look, while internally it will be completely fitted out with state-of-the-art technology.

While the work is being carried out, the series will also uncover Dover's history.

Once complete, Herd aims to take Dover to the IWA National Boat Show 2005 in Preston Brook, Cheshire, in a bid to win first prize for his efforts - but not before he has got the narrowboat back on to the water, and more importantly, learned how to handle her.

Narrowboat is due to premiere on Discovery Real Time as part of Real Time Retreat on Wednesday September 14 at 21.00 and 21.30.