Clearance work has already taken place to unblock the waterway but a new boat house, slipway and landing stage will also be needed.

BBC: Wey and Arun Canal boat trip plans on display

Maybe he is right but by this stage we're sheltering near the stern of the boat, clinging to the railings and wedging our boots against coils of rope to avoid sliding on the wet deck.

BBC: Tidal power gets a stormy birth off coast of Scotland

But I don't think at this stage, the Saudis, in particular, but even the Syrians want to miss the boat.

NPR: Low Expectations for a Mideast Peace Conference