Ratchet Windlass by GOWindlass for Inland Waterways

We have just taken delivery of a ratchet windlass. The advertising statements for the ratchet windlass suggest it can be used across the inland canal network. That is NOT the case. At 80 it is an expensive piece of kit and works well on the South Oxford Canal because it fits the spindles but when we got on to the Grand Union Canal heading up through Warwick it wouldn't fit on any to the paddle spindles !! Don't know if that applies to the whole of the Grand Union or indeed any other canal. Wouldn't have bought one had I realised that.
May 8th, 2019

Used this for the 1st time on the Stratford canal. Worked really well, much easier on stiff paddles than the traditional ones. Not cheap but well worth the money- just don't drop it in the drink!
Jan 17th, 2022

What a fantastic windlass so much lighter and easier to use than other ratchet windlasses. The wife loves it.
Nov 11th, 2021

This is the best windlass you can use if you are a serious boater- my sister lent me her GoWindlass for 3 weeks over the summer and it is very easy to use and a great help for stubborn paddles . I cant recommend it highly enough and have now ordered my own ready for our summer cruising.
Jan 4th, 2020

Solid bit of kit but needs a lot more research for lock spigot sizes. Example Aston Lock Trent and Mersey canal. Unable to use on ground paddles as will not fit them as spigot to big for gowindlass. This makes it dangerous and could cause a boat to sink if only able to open flap paddles. Not much point in having this kit if it does not work properly. Suggest do not buy until they recall and sort problem.
Jan 4th, 2020