THE WIDE BEAM PROJECT
The Wide Beam Project offers transformative days out on board Ibbidy - a beautiful solar-powered wide beam canal boat
THE BACKGROUND
Inspiration behind the build of ‘Ibbidy’ came at the beginning of 2019 whilst Davide was running down by the canal at Kings Cross. He and Kate had been thinking for some time about creating a platform for a project to help those in the wider community; a place where they could invite people to get away from their everyday lives, to find peace and connection.
The journey to create this multi-purpose space began during uncertain times in 2020, a process that took almost three years to complete.
Davide, an experienced craftsman, designed and built the interior of the boat and much of the furniture, using sustainable materials and upcycled pieces.
The boat's namesake is Kate’s late mother, Elizabeth, Ibbidy being her nickname.
THE BOAT
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Ibbidy is a 65 x 12ft steel boat.
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She is fully electric with solar panels on her roof.
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She has two bedrooms, a bathroom and large living/ dining room and kitchen.
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An awning covered seating area is at the stern with a small seating area at the bow.
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There is the capacity to host up to 12 people on board.
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She is moored in North West London, a 20 minute train journey from London Marylebone, or a 15 minute drive from the nearest London Underground station.
THE PEOPLE
Davide and Kate Renna are both active in their community and are passionate about the work in which they involve themselves.
Davide has been volunteering at a London prison for the last 7 years, mentoring and supporting prisoners both inside and after their release.
They both mentor young people in the community through various organisations.
Kate is a skilled communication and confidence coach, with experience in the corporate world as well as working with individuals, young people and children. She is also an experienced drama teacher.
Davide is a skilled carpenter, joiner and furniture designer.
THE PROJECT
The Wide Beam project is a CIC, Community Interest Company, set up by Kate and Davide.
They would love to invite you to partner with them to offer their guests respite from the challenges of everyday life; a transformative space to re-evaluate and re-energise. Alongside navigating the waterways and operating the locks, there is the opportunity to prepare and eat food together on board, do activities such as art or music, or just sit back, relax and enjoy the countryside.
Kate can also offer impactful coaching sessions, group or 1:1.
The running of the project is supported by companies who hire the boat for corporate and team days out.
Living area
Kitchen and dining area
Bedroom and meeting area
Bathroom
At Wide Beam Project, we believe that every person deserves a calming break, and that it can be instrumental in helping to bring about transformation in people's lives.
We offer tailored programs and want to work with you to provide an experience that aligns with both your organisation’s goals and your beneficiaries’ needs.
Please contact us to discuss your outing: thewidebeamproject@gmail.com