FAQ's

What experience do I need to hire a boat

Boating experience is always a handy thing to have but no experience is needed to hire a boat on the River Thames.

A safety and boat hand over procedure will be given to you prior to you leaving the marina.

Are lifejackets provided

Top quality Crewsaver lifejackets are provided free to all crew members from baby to adult sizes.

What are the hidden extras

Nothing is hidden.

You pay the appropriate rate for the boat.

The accidental damage waiver.

Fuel cost per hour (metered) for the boat engine (approx 3-4 hours used per 8 hour day).

Generator running time (metered on 270 CR cruisers only) for when moored up along the river bank or you can use shore power in a marina which is payable locally.

Whats included

Our 270 CR cruisers come with towels, bed linen, complimentary tea coffee, toiletries, DVD’s, fishing rods, games, maps and comprehensive boat manual. Electrical appliances on board include microwave, DVD player, stove, fridge, air conditioning & heating and a hairdryer.

All our boats also have a cool box on board so you may want to bring some ice along with you.

How many people can sleep on our cruisers

Our 270 cruisers will sleep four in comfort.

How do I operate the locks

All locks on the River Thames are operated by a lock keeper seven days a week and are free to use. They will help you safely get through the lock and can answer any questions you may have.

Staff from the Environment Agency aim to man the lock during the following hours. However, you are advised to check with notices displayed at the lock or look out for a unmanned board which means you'll have to operate the lock yourself.

January - March 9:15-16:00

April 9:00 - 17:30

May 9:00 - 18:30

June - August 9:00 - 19:00

September 9:00 - 18:00

October 9:00 - 17:00

November - December 9:15 - 16:00

Lock keepers lunch 13.00 – 14.00

Where can I moor the boat

There are moorings at regular intervals along the river, some more obvious than others. We will provide you with a comprehensive guide to moorings. The lock keepers should also be able to point you in the right direction.

If you wish we can arrange overnight moorings for you at Windsor Marina or Bray marina free of charge.

What do I need to bring

First rule - travel light. Having the appropriate footwear is important; high-heeled shoes and smooth soles are not very good for operating in an outdoor boating environment - trainers are acceptable but can be very slippery on wet fibreglass decks. Cheap canvas boating shoes are a good investment. Your casual clothing should be suitable for the outdoors but remember to include waterproofs and warm clothing too.

Where can I take the boat

Anywhere along the River Thames between Teddington Lock and Lechlade in Gloucestershire.

A day's hire from Penton Hook will take you down stream to Kingston and back or going up stream you could reach Windsor.

How fast can I go

The River Thames has a strict speed limit of 8 kilometres per hour, approx 5 mph. Beware a heavy fine awaits if you break it.

Drinking and smoking aboard

The drinking laws that apply to the road also apply to the river. Smoking is not allowed on board, if you decide to and burn the upholstery or carpet you will be charged for replacements as your accidental damage waiver does not cover this.

Car Parking

You may park your car free of charge at Penton Hook Marina.