Queens Diamond Jubilee Celebrations on the River Thames
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, announced that on Sunday 3rd June 2012 the River Thames will provide the backdrop for the Diamond Jubilee River Pageant — the largest flotilla to be assembled on the river in modern times — as the public are invited to take part in one of the major celebrations of Her Majesty’s sixty year reign.
The Queen will lead a flotilla of up to one thousand boats assembled from across the UK, the Commonwealth and around the World. With a Bank Holiday the following day, the event organisers are planning for well over one million people to line the banks of the Thames to witness the pageant and join in the celebrations.
The River’s Revenge
As a fellow Thames lovers, I thought I’d drop you a line to tell you about my recently published book ‘The River’s Revenge’.
A crime novel, the backdrop is the Met’s Marine Unit at Wapping, although I have chosen to keep their former, more romantic title of Thames Division, which has rarely appeared in crime fiction. However, it’s a very contemporary story about a very real terrorist threat, which begins with a body being pulled from the river.
The story based on meticulous research, supported by information from serving and former marine officers including former PC Bob Jeffries, now a trustee of the Thames River Police Museum and Archive,who rewardingly described The River’s Revenge as a “A cracking good read!”
My website obviously promotes the book (!), but there’s also lots of background to see and read about the origins of the river police, the surrounding community and more.
http://www.riversrevenge.co.uk
Trevor
Henley Royal Regatta
Henley Royal Regatta is one of the highlights of the rowing season. Based up river from London on the non-tidal Thames at Henley in Berkshire the first of the annual races were held back in 1839. The tradition continues today attracting a wide array of people, and not just to watch the rowing, but to enjoy the atmosphere, fine food and plentiful beverages.
An event for all to enjoy it could be compared with the horse racing at Ascot and the tennis at Wimbledon. Pimms, champagne and fine food at the hospitality marquees contrast with the competitive and tense action on the river. For more information on the many races held over the five days please select this link: Henley Royal Regatta Races
There are many packages you can book on to in advance some in busy riverside location, others in quieter settings with hospitality boats escorting you to observe the racing. The Henley Regatta Garden Party offers the peace and quiet of a riverside venue just off the main course, but with several trips on traditional luxury passenger boats to watch the action out on the River Thames.
For more information about the Henley Royal Regatta see the official website: HRR
For hospitality packages see Henley Regatta Garden Party
The Henley Regatta is this year being held on Wednesday 30th June – Sunday 4th July 2010
Options for group bookings such as an all inclusive private boat party
The River Thames in London has many luxurious party boats. The problem is often knowing what you can get for your budget. I recommend spending some time checking out the various websites and talking with the operators, however time is not a luxury many people have a lot of! If you are short on time and have a per head budget then an all inclusive boat party maybe the solution you have been looking for. Ideal for christmas parties, celebrations, birthdays, leaving parties and other events, having an all inclusive package means you know exactly what you are paying at a glance.
There are many companies offering a ‘from‘ price for groups booking of a private London boat party. Woods offer a package which starts at around £100 per cover. TLC and Livett’s Launches have all inclusive private charters starting at just £40 per head.
The great benefit of an all-inclusive charter is that it includes everything; a four hour cruise, drinks, food and entertainment. You can easily upgrade or remove elements of the packages to fit with your requirements and obviously prices vary accordingly.
These all inclusive charters also allow you to compare a boat party on the Thames in London with land based venueswhich often provide all inclusive package prices. Of course remember on a boat party you get the added benefit of cruising along the river Thames through London. The beautiful scenery, lighting, World famous sights and ever changing backdrop adds a whole other element to a party, which you simply can’t get from a land based venue.
Make sure you are aware that the prices change with the size of your group. If you are booking for a group be careful as if you collect £40 from everyone and find you don’t quite meet the minimum numbers due to drop outs the price will probably increase. This can then leave you in an awkward position…
If you can’t get a large enough group together to book an all inclusive boat party it is still worth contacting the operator as they maybe offering special rates, or have other options available. For example you could join a riverboat disco cruise and simply buy tickets for those who have confirmed with you. As there are no minimum numbers and the cruise goes ahead if you are onboard or not it reduces the risk of getting a large group of people organised for a private boat hire. Prices start at £25, but you are sharing the boat with others and as such are unable to specify food, music style, pier boarding times and points. Drinks are also not included in this price! Of course if none of this matters then these are great value for money.
As I mentioned earlier the best place to start is with a google search!
River Thames Boat Barbeque
We are due a hot summer. Well I certainly think we deserve a hot summer after the last two depressingly wet ones! Combine the past two years of poor weather with the current economic doom and gloom and all seems very grey! Whatever hand you have been dealt for 2009 you can be sure of one thing. If you want to get away from it all the River Thames provides a welcome escape from the stresses and strains of life in the City in 2009!
Give yourself something to aim for this year with a boat party on the River Thames this summer. Soak up the scenery from the deck of a luxury Thames river boat whilst cruising through the heart of our beautiful capital City. Leave all your worries and problems back ashore and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Thames waters.
If you are looking at chartering a London Party Boat this summer why not consider a barbeque. With more promising weather for 2009 the boat barbeque is this years cool catering choice. Even if you are caught out by the unpredictable British climate the food can be cooked in the galley ‘barbeque syle’ so you can still get that summer feeling from within your dry cozy cabin!
What to drink aboard your Thames river boat? This year is all about a welcoming Pimms on reception, followed by a glass of cool crisp Rose, finished off with a Mojito or two….
For smaller groups look for a Disco Cruise or upmarket Dinner Cruise. These are a great way to get out and enjoy the Thames without having to charter the whole boat to yourself. Looking for something a little less relaxing – try a River Thames speed boat RIB Blast or for the ultimate thrill ride jump into a customised version of the Special Boat Service High Speed Jet Boat.
Whatever you choose to do make sure you enjoy this summer, it is time we had a good one.
A guide to enjoying the River Thames in London this Spring
The River Thames in London becomes even more inviting as the days grow longer and the warmer weather draws ever closer. Spring is well and truly in the air now with some glorious days over the past few weekends. Lets hope the cold winter means we will get a hot summer this year!
With this warmer weather brings the annual rush to get outdoors, and where better than the banks or flowing waters of the River Thames in London. With so many different boats on offer you really are spoilt for choice.So how do you choose which river boat, speed boat or Thames River cruise is right for you?
Here is a guide to getting the most from your boat cruise on the River Thames this Spring:
- Decide what you want to do – wine and dine or blast through the city!?
- How many people are in your party as this will affect which boats and cruises will suit?
- Be aware of the weather – we are in Britain after all!
- Decide what times and dates suit you and how long you want to be out on the River Thames?
- London has many other things to offer so you may want to combine your trip on the River Thames with another activity in the City – this may affect where you want to get on and off the boat in London.
- If you choose a speed boat charter or a jet boat make sure everyone in your group is keen!
- Disco Cruises and Dinner Cruises offer an ideal solution for smaller groups.
If you are booking a River Thames boat charter for the summer and you have a specific date in mind make sure you book early. You will not only get a favorable rate if you book before the 1st April, but you will be more likely to get the date you want.Also make sure you look at a few different boats as the style and quality of service does vary. The old adage, ‘You get what you pay for’ does apply, although the difference in price between the cheap and the top end is not as great as the difference in standards and service!
Remember to plan ahead to ensure you choose the right boat or cruise for you and you have an enjoyable trip on the River Thames this year.
I hope this guide has been helpful.
Enjoy the River Thames on a budget…
With the current squeeze on wallets I thought an article guide on low cost Thames boat charters would be interesting and helpful. The River Thames in London is a picturesque and exciting location and enjoying it is more affordable than most people think…
To most people a boat on the River Thames is seen as either an extremely luxurious private London Party Boat, more basic sightseeing boat, or high speed commuter boat. However over the past 5 years the choice for enjoying the Thames in London has grown significantly with many new options and boats.
If you are looking to celebrate on the river, but after a low cost budget option you will be pleased to hear there are plenty to consider.
As with any cruise the first thing to do is decide how many people you wish to book for, when and what style of charter you are after.
A good way to save money if you have a small group is to join a scheduled cruise. There are many options for scheduled ticket cruises in London including daily River Thames Lunch Cruises, Silver Service Jazz Dinner Cruises and Party Boat Disco Cruises.
Thames Lunch Cruise from £25 per ticket
Thames Dinner Cruises with Live Jazz from £71.50 per ticket
Thames Disco Cruises with Live DJ from £25 per ticket
If you are looking for something a bit different the Thames speed boats are a popular option with many available for ticket bookings and private charters. For the ultimate in adrenaline their is also the London Jet Boat Experience, true spins and high speed turns.
Many of the operators are now offering James Bond RIB cruises which adds something a little extra to your charter. Again these are great value, partyl because of the many different competing companies!
Private charters on the RIB’s start from just £325 for an hour and that is for up to 12 passengers! (£27.50 each)
If you are looking for a private charter Thames River Boat there are also some real deals to be had if you book early in the year. For example one company is offering 2008 charter rates for any booking made before March 2009 for the whole year. Others sometimes offer discounts for bookings placed in January. Both these deals on are some of the most luxurious party boats available on the River Thames.
It is always worth hunting for a deal, but at the end of the day that old saying ‘you get what you pay for’ still rings true in most cases! If in doubt ring round some of the companies and just ask – everyone knows everyone on the Thames in London, and if they don’t then you have your answer!
Celebrating on the Thames this Christmas and New Years Eve
The river Thames in London is a magical place at Christmas. The boats are all decorated and with the cooler weather shut outside the heated luxurious cabins leave everyone with that snug warm feeling. Most have covered outside space for guests to get some fresh air during the festivities or have a quick smoke!
There are many types of cruise for celebrating your Christmas Party and welcoming in the New Year.
- Private Christmas Boat Parties
- Scheduled Thames Dinner Cruises
- Christmas Lunch Cruises
- London Party Boats for Disco style parties
- Thames Fine Dinning Cruises
- Cruise to Dinner at Le Pont De La Tour
Here is a brief guide of what we recommend you consider when planning your Christmas Boat Party or New Years Eve celebrations on the River Thames in London.
First of all decide what type of event you would like, a Black Tie Christmas Boat Party, Formal Fine Dining Boat Cruise or simply a Christmas Disco Cruise?
What are you numbers and are you set on a certain date – i suspect you are for your New Years Eve celebrations!!!
I recommend contacting a range of companies – those on page 1 of google are a good place to start. Contact them and find out which vessels are available which are suitable for your numbers and style of party – see who else has chartered them in the past.
Judge the way your enquiry is handled; generally the quality of service onboard is similar to that you expereince when enquiring. If the person is causal or formal then their boats and service will most likely reflect this level and style of service – is this what you want for your Christmas Boat Party?
Generally fine dining lends itself to more formal service therefore avoid ‘one man band boat operators and go for a larger more established operation with a fleet of London Party Boats. If you are after a disco party then a more casual and relaxed atmosphere then the quality of service and luxury of the boat is generally less important…
Price is also a good measure to what you can expect – the old saying ‘you get what you pay for’ certainly rings true on the Thames in London. Saying that when comparing similarly priced vessels of very different styles one may be seen as better value to you over another – e.g. comparing a traditional Thames boat with a modern contemporary London party boat of the same charter price.
Remember a boat’s recommended capacity for a party in the summer is not the same in the winter. In the summer generally operators increase recommened party sizes due to the outside deck spaces. Maximum licaensed capactiy as per the vessels Marine Coast Guard Certificate is never a good guide as it is based on the maximum the boat can hold safely not comfortably!
Check when the Christmas decorations are going up – not all operators have them and they all put them up at different times. Generally they are good and worth having!
Discuss your preferred route as the Thames in Central London is beautiful at night with all the famous buildings and architecture lit up. You also need to condsider people getting to and from the boat. Embankment Pier is popular as it is central with a tube and mainline station on it’s doorstep. Festival Pier is opposite and Westminster just around the corner should Embankment be taken – there are around 30 piers you can use on the Thames so don’t panic if the main ones are booked already!
If you would like any further tips please leave a comment below – and have a great end to 2008!
A guide to Thames Speed Boat Charters in London
The Thames until relatively recently was a slow and tranquil place where tripping and charter boats slowly cruised up and down the river whilst people enjoyed the sights gliding past. Over the past few years there has been a growing fleet of high-speed river buses and small speed boats, RIB’s and jet boats on the Thames in London.
This has brought a new element to the traditional river boats and London party boats; a new fast, adrenaline fueled, fun angle for enjoying the beautiful River Thames as it carves it’s way through the heart of the City.
So when looking to charter a speed boat on the Thames in London, try out the jet boat experience, or RIB blasts what do you need to be aware of…?
Numbers: Most of the speed boats on the River Thames in London cater for up to 12 passengers, but some of the smaller speed boats can only cater for up to 6 or 8 passengers. The biggest jet boat can hold 20.
One thing to note – the less people in the boat the faster it goes… simple physics! If you are having a private charter discourage everyone from joining you, particularly with the Jet boat, and everything is faster and more ‘interesting’…
Saying that the boats have vast engines so are more than capable of providing high-speed fun when loaded, they are just more maneuverable when lighter.
The Weather: most of the speed boats are open with no covered areas making the unpredictable British Weather of a higher importance. There are solutions – a speed boat or powerboat with a cabin or the more popular one – waterproofs! The open speed boats and jet boats on the Thames all offer loan of yachting waterproofs for occasions where the weather is not behaving. These are generally included in the hire fee.
Facilities: the nature of a speed boat charter on the Thames means it is usually brief – i.e around an hour in total. Therefore most have few facilities. For example unless you charter a luxury powerboat or traditional wooden boat they are unlikely to have toilets or the option of drinks and catering…
Time: Most are not able to go out on charter after sunset. It depends on the boat here. A good rule of thumb is if they have facilities such as toilets, food and drinks then they will be available for charters after dark. Generally the smaller boats are restricted.
Cost: The charters are often quite short which sometimes means the rates are ‘lower’ than on the larger London party boats. However in general speed boats are expensive to charter due to the fact they don’t hold many people, have no facilities to cross and up-sell other services and use a lot of fuel. They have to be money making to continue so please bear this in mind.
Type of experience: From a candle lit dinner to 360 degree spins there is a Thames speed boat for almost every occasion. If speed and adrenaline are key then nothing beats the Jet Boat experience, but if a more sedate evening of private luxury is sought then a powerboat or traditional wooden speed boat offer pure style and sophistication.
Boats: There are many styles of fast boats for hire on the River Thames in London. There are open RIB style speed boats, James bond style powerboats, traditional wooden cabin speed boats and High-power Jet Boats for the ultimate thrill ride experience.
- Thames Speed boats
- London Jet Boats for Hire
- London RIB Charters
- Traditional Thames speed boat
- London Powerboats for hire – James Bond style
I hope this guide has been useful – more info on boating on the River Thames in London can be found in the many articles below.
Summer Cruising on the River Thames
Now the warm sunny weather has arrived a charter on a Thames party boat provides a pleasant fresh and invigorating environment amongst the busy parks, river banks and stuffy streets of London.
The River Thames calves it’s way right through the heart of the bustling City. It provides a large and uncluttered arena for London’s boats to cruise, providing space from the crowds on the embankments, parks and adjacent streets.
The Thames generally has more air movement as well making it a much cooler fresher and more pleasant place to relax. You can unwind along the many embankment bars and restaurants, but to really get the full effect nothing beats a Thames boat charter. There are few more pleasant options in the City to escape the air conditioned offices, stuffy streets and noisy overcrowded parks.
If you are looking to charter a boat on the Thames in London this summer make sure you consider all the elements to ensure you and your guests have a perfect charter – no matter what the British weather does on the day!
The summertime presents many alternative interesting options for your party boat hire. With a little more warmth and longer evenings popular choices could be; to have a barbecue on the boat instead of a more standard buffet or seated meal, drinks – Pimms instantly springs to mind, but cocktails are also very popular. With the longer warmer evenings guests can enjoy the outer decks so make sure the Thames boat you hire has plenty of outside space for your party size. Some boats even have opening roof sections so you can dance under the stars as the night wears on safe in the knowledge that bad weather can be quickly shut outside!
The key thing to get the most from your summer Thames boat charter is to ensure you have the right boat for your numbers and desired party. There is no point selecting a small boat with no outside space if everyone is going to want to be outside, similarly a small boat with less inside space could be equally frustrating if it is cold or wet. Make sure you view before booking your Thames party boat and really a minimum of 3 boats is advisable.
More info below…
