Ballinger is a 57’9” historic traditional narrowboat, originally built in 1895 by Bantock Bros as a joey boat for the BCN. In the 1960s, it was converted by Max Sinclair. The fit-out was done by Ken Brenchley, who was working at Brinklow Boat Services at the time, and the traditional decoration was completed by Phil Speight.

Significant steelwork has been carried out in recent years, and the hull is in excellent condition considering the boat’s age. A hull condition survey conducted in May 2024 confirmed that the hull and plating are in good order. An office copy of the survey is available for viewing with the craft.