River Cruises

This is one of the most naturally beautiful and un-spoilt stretches of navigable river anywhere in the UK so come and enjoy it aboard some of the country’s finest Edwardian passenger vessels.

Dog Friendly

Boat Hire

Open

7 days a week from 10 AM - 4 PM

Family

& Couples Activity

River Cruises & Private Charter

Our famous fleet of traditional vessels take you on a sightseeing tour on which you will enjoy stunning and unique views of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Holy Trinity Church as well as experiencing the tranquility of the countryside, which the river Avon passes through as it winds its way towards Alveston.

Public River Cruises

Enjoy a 30 minute cruise aboard one of our traditional Edwardian passenger launches. Cruise downstream past the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Holy Trinity Church.

Small Group Private Charter

Private 45 Minute cruise for a group to a maximum of 12 aboard our historic Edwardian vessel ‘SWAN OF AVON’. The cruise will follow the same route as our popular public sightseeing tour.

Large Group Private Charter

Enjoy a 45 or 90 minute cruise aboard one of our traditional Edwardian passenger launches. Cruise downstream past the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Holy Trinity Church and upstream passing under the 15th Century Clopton Bridge.

Gin Tasting Cruises

We are partnering with the local company Shakespeare Distillery to offer Gin Tasting Cruises to the public.

These cruises will take place every two weeks, starting in April through to October.

Operational Times and Locations

Public Cruises operate from Mid March to the end of October.

Cruises can be boarded from the Bancroft Gardens everyday throughout this period with two or three boats available to board every 15-30 minutes, weather and river conditions permitting.

During peak periods, we also operate from our Boathouse on Swan’s Nest Lane.

If you have booked a private charter either location can be used for boarding, depending on what is most convenient to you.

Electric Powered Boats

Our fleet used extensively for public trips are electric powered, meaning they are quiet and vibration free and a more enjoyable experience for all onboard.

Our boats are zero emission and are therefore kinder to the river and its wonderful ecosystem.

For further information please see our Terms and Conditions.

River Safety – Children must be accompanied by someone who is at least 18 years old. All children under the age of 16, non-swimmers and those with reduced mobility must wear a lifejacket, which will be supplied free of charge. Lifejackets and buoyancy aids are freely available to all who wish to have them.