river boat trips kingston upon thames

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Welcome To JGF Passenger Boats

JGF Passenger Boats is a riverbourne event expert that has been providing Private Boat Hire, Corporate Boat Hire, and Public Trips on the Royal River Thames between Teddington and Staines for almost 45 years. Furthermore, because we are headquartered in Walton on Thames, we can provide excellent Group River Cruises, Day Boat Trips, Private Events, and Dinner Cruises. We have three vessels that can accommodate all needs, so whether you want a tranquil sightseeing tour on your own or with company, a party boat with a fully licenced bar/disco, or even a full silver service evening cruise dinner with live music and all the trimmings, we know we have it covered.

For any inquiries please contact us

River cruises in kingston.

If you want to explore the Upper River Thames, which is probably the most picturesque river in the country, offering calm waters, areas of natural beauty, an abundance of wildlife, and many historical landmarks, or simply relax by hopping on board any of our three vessels for a public or private cruise, make a booking today.

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• 6 Montague Close
• Walton On Thames

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Turks Launches

A warm welcome aboard from all of us here at Turks Thames Cruises, we’re a 310 year old, family run, Thames river boat company. Each year we carry 1000’s of passengers to explore the stunning stretch of Thames between Richmond and Hampton Court Palace.

March  to October, Turk Launches run up-to 45 boat trips daily along the most scenic stretch of the River Thames, capturing the history and beauty of Richmond and Kingston -upon-Thames, and Hampton Court Palace.  Their eye-catching fleet of boats are each stylishly furnished, with a bar, toilet and outside deck. Put your feet up, sip a chilled drink and just take in the stunning views. Kids love it, perfect for tired legs!

Cultural and architectural landmarks along the river include Eel Pie Island, Teddington Lock, Richmond Hill and Hampton Court Palace. Sit back and get a glimpse of the most jaw-dropping riverside properties. Enjoy seeing nature and watching river sports in action – rowing, sailing, paddle-boarding.

And as the bustling cosmopolitan riversides of Kingston and Richmond come into view – or at Hampton Court just take a short walk over the bridge –  take time to explore an eclectic choice of shops, markets, stylish bars and restaurants – all just within minutes of Turk’s three piers. 

Turks two most renowned boats are the Yarmouth Belle – an historical English side wheeler and known as the prettiest boat along the Thames. And the New Southern Belle – an iconic Mississippi styled paddle steamer that brings a flavour of Old New Orleans to our London waterway. You may recognise this boat from scenes in the British TV drama New Tricks and it was also the boat featured in Culture Club’s Karma Chamelon video.

Simply put, everything is made so much more relaxing and interesting when you arrive on a Turk’s river cruise. 

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You are here: Things to Do > Boating on the River Thames > Boat trips

Boat trips on the River Thames

The River Thames offers so much history along its banks. To truly enjoy sightseeing on the River Thames then sit back and let someone else take the helm! Sit and relax as beautiful scenery glides by on a River Thames boat trip or cruise and enjoy the commentary on the sights along the river!

Passenger Boat Trips

Passenger boat operators offer a variety including day trips, round trips, stopping or one-way services. As well as the scheduled services, you might enjoy a themed river cruise. Choose from a spot of sightseeing with wildlife watching or party nights and seasonal day trips, to name but a few!

The main cruising season for the non-tidal Thames (outside of London) is April-September but each operator may have sailings and cruises outside of this time including special events so please check availability with the business.

Here's some of the key boat operators along the Thames:

Oxford: Salters Steamers

Reading: Thames Rivercruise

Henley: Hobbs of Henley

Windsor, Maidenhead and Runnymede: French Brothers

London to Greenwich: City Cruises

Themed Public Cruises

There are so many choices for boat trips on the Thames. Choose from jazz cruises, wildlife cruises, children's cruises and more. See the list below to see what's available.

A selection of Boat Trips on the Thames currently available at various locations including: 

Salters Steamers , boat trips from Oxford , Alice in Wonderland Cruise and Lunchtime Picnic Cruise.

Thames Rivercruise , Reading    is offering 45/60/90 minute cruises and Wednesday and Saturday Evening Sundowner Fizz Cruises.

• Thames Experience 45 Minute Round Trip Cruise  - Take a look at the riverside homes, countryside and the Thames as it passes through Reading with refreshments on board as you watch the wildlife pass as the boat glides along the Thames.
• Thames Experience 60 Minute Round Trip Cruise – Ideal for families, it leaves Caversham behind and heads to the countryside reaching two islands – Apletree Eyot and Poplar Island.
• Thames Explorer 90 Minute Round Trip Cruise -  Cruise from Caversham Pier through twists and turns to Mapledurham Lock and Weir. This is the river as it should be, tranquil and stunning in Wind in the Willows Country.

All above: weekends from 1 April to 29 October, daily Easter Holiday, May Half Term and School Summer Holiday 24 Jul-1 Sep (no cruises 21-29 Aug). 

• Other cruises: Shiplake or Goring Cream Tea Cruise, Goring Circular Cruise, Afternoon Tea, Sunday Lunch or Saturday Sundowner Cruises.

Hobbs of Henley   operates 1 and 2 hour cruises from Henley and themed ticketed cruises.

• Jazz & Afternoon Tea Cruise  (4 Aug 24) – Enjoy the sounds of a traditional jazz band on a three hour cruise whilst enjoying a delicious English Afternoon Tea.
• Vintage Themed Afternoon Tea Cruise  (12 May, 21 Jul, 25 Aug, 15 Sep) - Cruise the Thames on one of the most spectacular vessels, The New Orleans and sample the most incredible afternoon tea whilst doing so!
• Midsomer Murders Cruise with Afternoon Tea  (1 May and 5 Jun 2-4pm) - Aboard The Waterman, these are hosted by a specialist guide who’s knowledge on the TV sensation is superb and enjoy a delicious afternnon tea. Discover many murderous locations along the Thames and which episodes they featured in, the perfect cruise for any fans of this show!
• Henley Regatta River Cruise  (4 July, 11am - 5pm) - Sail the regatta course on-board Hibernia from 11am – 5pm, enjoying a welcome glass of Pimms, canapés, a buffet lunch and afternoon tea. 
• Atul Kochhar’s Henley Festival Cruise  (14 Jul, 7 - 10.45pm) - Aboard ‘The New Orleans’ enjoy the finest Indian cuisine provided by Atul Kochhar’s team. One of the first British-based Indian chefs to receive a Michelin star. Cruising up and down the Henley stretch of the Thames, enjoy the atmosphere of the Henley Festival from the river. The fireworks can be viewed from the open upper deck which will give you the most perfect view point for them!
• Eighties Silent Disco during the Rewind Festival (16 Aug 7-11pm) - Aboard The New Orleans for this fun Eighties night! Put your headphones on and hit our dance floor as you listen to some fab Eighties tunes! This event takes place during Henley’s Rewind Festival so you will be able to take in the sounds and atmosphere from our upper deck during this cruise. The price also includes a cocktail (or mocktail) on arrival and a buffet meal.
• Purdy's Gin and Jazz Cruise  (23 Aug, 7.30 - 10.30pm) – Aboard The New Orleans, is the incredible singer/songwriter Purdy and her band who will be providing sultry Jazz under the stars. Ticket includes a Mr Hobbs G&T on arrival and a fabulous buffet. 
• A Ghoulish Halloween Murder Mystery Cruise (31 Oct, 7-10.30pm) - Step aboard The New Orleans for a scary night to remember, our special Halloween murder mystery cruise for everyone who likes dinner with a fright! Partnering with Little Chico Productions.
• Christmas cruises - Christmas Lunch and Christmas Party Night cruises.
• Santa Cruises - The brilliant Bertie Slippers will have everyone roaring with laughter and he will be adding some magic, balloons and puppets to the children’s entertainment and Santa will be in his grotto bearing gifts for all the children!  

French Brothers   is operating 40 mins and 2 hour cruises from Windsor, Runnymede to Windsor and Runnymed hop-on-hop-off service. 

• Windsor 2-hour round trip – Leaving Windsor Promenade, passengers can enjoy excellent views of Windsor Castle and Eton College. After passing Windsor Racecourse, the boat passes through Boveney Lock and passes Sutherland Grange, The Willows and Bray Film Studios.
• Victorian Paddle Steamer Runnymede hop-on hop-off trip – Daily 29 Mar -18 Apr, 25 May-28 Sep.  Weekends only 15 Apr - 24 May, 9-29 Sep. Board the 'Lucy Fisher', a replica of a Victorian paddle steamer at the Runnymede Boathouse and cruise upstream to the Bells of Ouzeley, which is featured in Jerome K. Jerome's "Three Men in a Boat". Pass the Memorials, and onto the Runnymede Pleasure Grounds.
• Windsor 40 min Round Trip – Daily to 27 Oct, Weekends 28 Oct - 22 Dec. This short cruise goes upstream to Boveney Lock & returns with fantastic views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House, Windsor Racecourse & the Brocas Meadows.
• Runnymede to Windsor Service – Daily 29 Mar - 29 Sep. Leaving from the Runnymede Boathouse, the boat will cruise upstream through Old Windsor Lock and continues through the pretty villages of Old Windsor and Datchet. Travelling through the grounds of Windsor Castle, the boat then passes through Romney Lock and arrives in Windsor.
• Royal Steamboat Voyage - 19 May, 16 Jun, 22 SeptA nostalgic cruise of discovery through the Queen's back garden on a  beautiful  and  genuine  Victorian steam launch. Departing from Runnymede in the morning you will pass through Old Windsor Lock and the pretty village of Datchet. Salute our Monarch's flag as we steam along past the grounds of Windsor Castle. In the afternoon the boat returns to Runnymede. Enjoy either a hearty lunch or afternoon tea.

City Cruises  in London offers sightseeing cruises, dining cruises and Showboat evening cruises. 

• Sightseeing cruises - depart daily every 30 to 40 minutes from piers at Westminster, London Eye, Tower and to Greenwich.
• 24h Hop-On Hop-Off River Pass
• Thames Lunch Cruise – Tues-Sun. Enjoy a delicious two course lunch on a relaxed mini voyage through the heart of London: 2-course meal, 1 hour 45 minutes river Cruise, Commentary, Glass of Moët & Chandon (Champagne Package)
• Afternoon Tea Cruise – Thu-Sun.  See the best views in London while you tuck into tea, scones and all the trimmings of a traditional afternoon tea on the Thames.
• London Dinner Cruise – Wine, dine and dance on this great dinner cruise on the Thames. See spectacular views of London’s iconic sights including the magnificent London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge and the recently lit bridges as part of the Illuminated River project, whilst enjoying show songs and top hits. Includes: A three-hour cruise, Four-course meal, Welcome drink, Dancing till late, Half bottle of wine per guest.
• London’s Evening Cruise – See great views of London's riverside landmarks and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a trip through the heart of central London – on a boat. You can choose between being on the open-air upstairs deck or in the saloon, which has big windows. Includes: Sparkling wine or soft drink, Selection of cold canapés served throughout the evening, Background music, 2 hour river Cruise
• London’s Jazz Cruise on the Thames – Fridays. Enjoy jazz and dinner on the Thames on a journey up and down the river, with great views of landmarks including Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf and more. Includes: 3 hour cruise with our quintet ChiJazz playing jazz, Glass of sparkling wine, 3-course meal with choice of dishes, Cash bar offering Champagne, Pimm's, wines and beers.
• Halloween Murder Mystery Cruise  
• Fireworks Night Cruises  
• Christmas - Thames Christmas Dinner Party , Thames Christmas Lunch Party , Christmas Day Sightseeing ,  Christmas Day Lunch Cruise
• New Year - New Year's Eve Gala Dinner , New Year's Eve Stargazer Cruise , 

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Experience the wonder of the river Thames onboard Excalibur

A luxury experience aboard Excalibur

What could be more British than cruising along the magnificent river Thames? From Teddington Lock, all the way to the dreaming spires of Oxford – 95 miles of stunning waterway combining history, beauty, calm and elegance. There are many ways to explore the Thames - from private hire boats, day boats, even hotel boats – but we offer something different; private use of Excalibur for you, your family, and your friends. Whether you join us for a celebratory day-out (maximum 10 guests), gourmet dining afloat (lunch, dinner or Champagne Tea), a romantic short-break for two, or a longer holiday, we look forward to welcoming you onboard. Excalibur, with her beautiful lines and detailing, is yours for the length of your charter.

From fine dining to holidays we have you covered

So much to see & explore on the Thames

Kingston-upon-Thames

Hampton Court Palace

East Molesey

Walton-on-Thames

About Excalibur

Frequently asked questions

Will I get seasick?

Is it cold on board in the winter, and hot in the summer?

If only British weather was that predictable! But if it is cold outside we have central heating and/or a woodburning stove on board, and if it’s hot outside we have an air-conditioning unit and lots of windows and hatches.

Can we bring guests on board?

Up to two guests are welcome to join you for dinner or even for a day or two of your holiday (and will be charged for accordingly) – whether you know they are coming before your holiday, or during it (with as much warning as possible please!).

Can we smoke on board?

Smoking is not permitted in or on any part of Excalibur.

Can you cater for dietary needs?

In our pre-holiday/dinner/day-out booking process we will ask for dietary requirements – and will aim to cater for most. Also if there is something you just don’t like (e.g. Aubergines, celery, lamb, tomatoes, Marmite) …. Just tell us, and we’ll keep it out of your way!

Can we bring our dog on board?

Unfortunately we are not able to accommodate animals (other than our own two cats, Berty and Mavis).

What is there to do on board Excalibur?

You will have free access to the onboard WiFi (the signal is better in some places than others along the River!), which provides for onboard TV, but there is also a wireless speaker to attach to the music on your phone. We also provide a limited range of board games, packs of cards, and a nice selection of books.

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THE BEST Kingston upon Thames Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in kingston upon thames.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. GoBoat Kingston

2. Harts Boats and Boards

3. Warwick Salzer

4. Excalibur on the Thames

What travellers are saying.

• GoBoat Kingston
• Harts Boats and Boards
• Warwick Salzer

Your location

Rent a boat in Kingston upon Thames

Private boat hire in kingston upon thames.

Enjoy a GoBoat boat ride from Riverside Walk, just next to Kingston Bridge.

Explore the River Thames and view the area from a new perspective. You are your own captain when renting one of our fully-electric boats on the Thames River.

With each boat fitting up to 8 people, you'll enjoy a unique social sailing experience with friends, family or colleagues. The sailing trip is your opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones by being fully present and in the moment.

Seats up to 8 people

No license required

Leisurely speed of 3.5mph

Silent, electric motor

GoBoat in Kingston

How GoBoat works

What to expect on your GoBoat experience. Explore some of the best UK waterways from your own private, fully-electric, picnic boat.

Need to contact us, or just looking for directions to your desired GoBoat location? We look forward to hearing from you.

Company and private events with GoBoat

Book your next company outing on a GoBoat - or why not use us as an alternative meeting location? Find our more about corporate bookings

Weather policy

Read our weather policy to find out more about how weather affects us and what happens when it is not safe for us to operate.

Bring your friends, family and even the dog on your GoBoat adventure!

Renting a boat in Kingston upon Thames

It's easy to rent a boat in Kingston with GoBoat. Just book online and show up 15 minutes before the booked time at our Kingston location. The person renting must be 18 years old.

You could try your luck going to our location at Kingston to see if we have available boats. If so, we are happy to rent you a boat. However, we recommend to book online.

We'll teach you how to sail and instruct you about the rules. No license required. Have a look at how sailing a GoBoat works.

Rules and information about renting a GoBoat in Kingston:

• A maximum of 8 people can fit in a GoBoat
• No license or prior experience is needed
• Alcohol restrictions apply: a maximum of two beers/ cans or half a bottle of wine per person. The captain (driver) must remain sober at all times.
• A GoBoat's speed is about 3 knots (3.5mph) so you can enjoy each other's company and the sights along the river
• You can reschedule or make amendments up to 48 hours before your booking

Pricing for GoBoat Kingston

Choose the number of hours that suits your trip. Each boat can accommodate up to 8 people.

Short and Sweet

The sailing trip where several sights placed in on the Thames River can be seen.

Picnic and sightseeing

Our most sailed trip! Enjoy the Thames. Bring your own food and drinks or buy them at GoBoat.

Good time for a great sailing trip

The perfect trip when you really want to enjoy a full experience with "hygge" on the water with plenty of time to explore hidden gems.

Sailing area in Kingston

Navigate on the Thames with our map. Take a look at the sailing area to prepare yourself for a great trip on the water. You set sail from Kingston and sail through the river. You'll also find the map attached to the picnic table in the boat. Things to see on the River:

• Kingston Bridge
• Raven's Ait Island
• Thames Ditton
• Steven's Eyot
• Trowlock Island
• Teddington Lock
• Hampton Court Palace

Kingston from the water

Photo : Will Nobes

Find inspiration at our social media

How to find goboat kingston.

• Our address: Riverside Walk, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1QN
• Opening time: We're open 7 days a week from 9.30am until sunset. Check the booking system for availability.
• Public transportation: both Kingston rail station and bus station are within a 10 minute walk of the GoBoat pontoon. Find us on Google Maps here.

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• Thames River Boats Home
• Hampton Court Landing Stage River Cruises & Boat Trips with Thames River Boats

Hampton Court Landing Stage

Hampton Court, with the Royal Palace, built in 1515 by Cardinal Wolesey & presented to King Henry VIII in 1529.  Later Sir Christopher Wren rebuilds large parts of the Tudor palace for King William III and Queen Mary II.

The tudor palace houses a large collection of orginal arms, armour, tapestries and fine paintings. It is equally famous for its gardens, maze and the Great Vine, planted in 1769, the largest in the world.

The palace also hosts the annual Hampton Court Palace Festival and Hampton Court Palace Flower Show.

River Cruises from Hampton Court Landing Stage

Our sailings operate on selected days & are subject to change without prior notice, we advise regularly checking this page for the most up to date sailing information.

Transportation

National Rail

Hampton Court Station:  Southwestern Rail Services (34 Minutes to London Waterloo)

Bus Services

Hampton Court Palace:  111, 216, 411, 461, 513, R68

Coach Parking

Hampton Court Station (Managed by Southwestern Trains)

Hampton Court Landing Stage Location

Our cruises to and from Hampton Court call at Hampton Court Landing Stage, a large stone landing stage with a brick ticket office. Hampton Court Landing Stage is on Barge Walk, just under 500 feet from Hampton Court Bridge. Tickets can be purchased online, at the ticket office or on-board our boats.

Hampton Court Landing Stage Address:   Hampton Court Landing Stage, 64 Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU What Three Words Address:  ///coins.duke.placed

• Cockney Sparrow

The Cockney Sparrow was built in 1976 at Eel Pie Island. She is a two level boat with a deceptively large enclosed saloon and an open top deck. 

M.V Connaught was built by Salter Brothers of Oxford in 1911 & has been cruising between Westminster, Kew, Richmond & Hampton Court for over 100 years. Connaught regularly operates on our services & is also available for private charters.

• Princess Freda

Princess Freda was built in 1926 by T.C. Letcher on the Isle of Wight, and has been restored to a particularly high standard.

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