Formation Plastics Presents: FP Technologies
At Formation Plastics, we are transforming the waterways with FP Technologies, our specialist division committed to designing and manufacturing the world’s first HDPE canal boats. With an award-winning team of expert fabricators, cutting-edge technology, and an uncompromising commitment to sustainability, durability, and innovation, we are setting a new standard in the narrowboat industry.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) has been widely used for decades in marine engineering, commercial vessels, and extreme environment workboats—but until now, no one in the world has engineered an HDPE canal boat. At FP Technologies, we have spent years researching, developing, and perfecting this revolutionary concept, ensuring that every aspect of our canal boats meets the highest performance and environmental standards.
Proudly part of British Marine, we uphold the industry’s most rigorous quality standards, and our boats are built using trademarked and patented materials, guaranteeing the best in class for reliability, longevity, and innovation.
Why HDPE is the Ultimate Material for Canal Boats
HDPE has already proven itself worldwide in marine applications, from heavy-duty workboats in the Arctic to high-performance rescue vessels, passenger ferries, and aquaculture support boats. These vessels endure the harshest conditions, from freezing temperatures to tropical heat, without deteriorating.
But why has no one built an HDPE canal boat before? The answer is simple: the engineering challenges of creating a narrowboat entirely from HDPE required extensive research, testing, and expertise—something FP Technologies has successfully accomplished.
Now, we are bringing this globally trusted, corrosion-free, low-maintenance material to the UK inland waterways, offering a boat that lasts for generations with minimal upkeep.
1. Superior Durability – Built to Last a Lifetime
Unlike steel or wood, HDPE is immune to rust, corrosion, and rot. This makes it perfectly suited for canal environments, where long-term exposure to water, sediment, and fluctuating temperatures can rapidly degrade traditional materials.
Our HDPE boats:
✔ Do not corrode, eliminating the need for costly re-coatings or anti-rust treatments.
✔ Do not absorb water, meaning no swelling, cracking, or warping.
✔ Resist impacts and abrasions, making them ideal for lock navigation and mooring in busy areas.
✔ Withstand extreme weather, whether it’s icy winters or blazing summers.
While steel boats require expensive reblacking, repainting, and hull maintenance, HDPE boats never need these treatments, drastically reducing lifetime ownership costs.
2. A More Sustainable Boating Future
HDPE is an environmentally responsible material, offering a greener alternative to steel and fiberglass.
✔ No toxic coatings or antifouling paints – Traditional boats require chemical treatments that pollute the waterways, while HDPE remains naturally non-corrosive.
✔ Less fuel consumption – Being significantly lighter than steel, our boats require less energy to move, reducing fuel or battery drain for electric propulsion.
✔ Fully recyclable – While the hull must be made from virgin marine-grade HDPE (HDPE PE300) for structural integrity, all offcuts from production are classified as PIR (Post-Industrial Recycled) material, ensuring minimal waste.
✔ End-of-life recycling – Once your boat has served its decades-long lifespan, it can be recycled into PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) material, reducing landfill waste.
All non-structural components—such as cabins, seating, consoles, and benches—can be manufactured from recycled HDPE, reinforcing our commitment to a circular economy in boatbuilding.
3. Low-Maintenance, High-Performance
Traditional narrowboats demand regular and costly maintenance. HDPE removes these hassles entirely:
✔ No hull blacking or repainting – The surface remains clean and functional for decades.
✔ No rust, rot, or decay – No need for expensive treatments or repairs.
✔ Naturally anti-fouling – Algae and marine growth struggle to adhere, reducing cleaning time.
✔ UV-resistant – Our HDPE boats do not degrade under sunlight, ensuring a long-lasting, pristine appearance.
More time enjoying the water. Less time in dry dock.
4. Lighter, Stronger, and More Efficient
HDPE is significantly lighter than steel, yet incredibly tough and impact-resistant. This translates to:
✔ Better fuel efficiency – Less weight = lower energy consumption = reduced running costs.
✔ Easier handling and maneuverability – Effortless navigation in tight waterways.
✔ Reduced wear on engines and batteries – Ideal for electric propulsion systems.
Our HDPE canal boats integrate seamlessly with modern electric and hybrid propulsion technologies, making them a future-proof investment for the next generation of boaters.
5. Custom-Engineered for Unparalleled Design Flexibility
Because HDPE is thermoformed and precision-cut, it allows for bespoke designs that aren’t possible with traditional materials. Whether you prefer a classic narrowboat aesthetic or a sleek, contemporary look, we can create it.
✔ Completely customizable layouts
✔ Modern or traditional styling options
✔ Precision-engineered fittings and features
✔ Enhanced comfort with optimized thermal insulation
Every FP Technologies boat is tailor-made to match your vision and lifestyle.
6. Investing in Excellence – Why FP Technologies Stands Above the Rest
When you purchase an HDPE canal boat from FP Technologies, you are not just buying a boat—you are investing in the future of narrowboating, backed by:
🏆 An Award-Winning Team – Recognized for excellence in fabrication and innovation.
🔬 Years of R&D Expertise – We have spent years refining and perfecting HDPE canal boat technology.
🇬🇧 Proudly British-Made – We uphold the highest standards as part of British Marine.
🛠 Trademarked & Patented Materials – Our unique boat designs incorporate protected technologies, ensuring industry-leading quality.
🌍 Proven Global Performance – HDPE boats are used worldwide in commercial, industrial, and rescue applications. Now, we are bringing this innovation to UK canals.
Our Prototype Widebeam is For Sale – HDPE & Steel Construction – with Engine – £36,000 (Including VAT)
We’re pleased to exclusively offer our prototype widebeam boat shell for sale, currently moored at Rodley Marine on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal.
Key Features:
- Length: 45ft
- Beam (Width): 10ft
- Construction:
- Hull and superstructure built from HDPE PE300 (High-Density Polyethylene)
- Reinforced with steel girders for added structural support
- Stage: Shell stage – a perfect blank canvas ready for your custom fit-out
- Engine: Fitted with an engine (installed and included in the price)
- Status: Prototype model – ideal for anyone looking for an innovative and durable build
Price: £36,000 (Including VAT)
📍 Currently moored at Rodley Marine, Leeds & Liverpool Canal
Viewings welcome by appointment.
This is a unique opportunity to purchase a solid, forward-thinking prototype widebeam made with high-durability materials and reinforced for strength. It’s the perfect foundation for your own design and fit-out.
For more information, please get in touch.
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