What sort of boat will it be?
We currently operate four difference craft – Boat Details
Where do I embark?
See Find Us
What route do the trips take?
Public trip routes are detailed in the individual cruise description pages. Private hire routes can be determined based on your requirements.
Do I need a ticket for my child / infant?
Infants under 12 months are carried without charge and do not need a ticket. Reduced pricing is available for children under 12 years.
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Food – you are permitted to bring your own food aboard if you have privately hired a vessel, however you are not permitted to bring your own food aboard any of our public cruises (other than food for children). Food can be ordered in advance for most of our cruises at the time of booking, which can be done by contacting us via email or telephone.
Drink – all of our vessels are licensed premises meaning customers are not permitted to bring their own alcoholic drinks aboard. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased at the departure point to take on your cruise.
Will the cruise go ahead in bad weather?
Cruises will go ahead in all weather conditions, other than during extreme weather events (storm, flood, etc). Should your public cruise be cancelled we will contact you giving as much notice as possible. All our public cruise and private hire boats can be fully enclosed in the event of bad weather.
Can the boats accommodate wheelchairs?
Unfortunately, our vessels do not offer level access for wheelchairs. We will offer all possible assistance to help passengers with limited mobility to board the vessels. Should you wish to discuss access options before your cruise please don’t hesitate to contact us. We recommend a site visit to view boarding arrangements if you have particular concerns.
Can I bring my pet aboard the vessel?
Pets are not permitted aboard any of our public cruises. If you have privately hired a boat you may bring well behaved dogs aboard.
Can you cater for special dietary requirements and allergies?
For information regarding special dietary requirements and allergies please see our Diets and Allergies page.
Are there toilet facilities on board?
There are no toilets on the boats, but passengers are free to use the facilities at The Folly restaurant before departure. On longer cruises there is usually a stop at a location with facilities, if you have any special needs for an extra stop please contact us and we can arrange this discreetly.
Private Hire Frequently Asked Questions
Will my cruise go ahead if the river conditions are bad?
The cruise will go ahead in all but the most exceptional circumstances and we will be in contact with you if this is the case.
What are the payment terms?
A deposit equal to 20% of total boat hire fee is payable at the time of booking. Balance payments are due 10 days before the date of the cruise. If the booking is made within 10 days of the cruise full payment must be made. If you have an account with us we can accept a purchase order at the time of booking and issue an invoice on 30 day terms.
When can guests board? Can I come and decorate the boat early?
Boarding is permitted 15 minutes before the scheduled start time of your booking. Earlier access for organisers may be possible but must be arranged well in advance and cannot be guaranteed.
When do you require numbers for catering to be finalised?
You should advise us of your estimated numbers for catering at the time of booking and confirm this number two weeks before the date of your cruise. Upwards alterations can be made until 24 hours before your cruise.
Can we make stops during the cruise?
Yes, you may make stops during your private cruise. Popular stops include river side pubs and restaurants but games of rounders, boat races and walking tours can be organised.
Can you cater for special dietary requirements and allergies?
For information regarding special dietary requirements and allergies please see our Diets and Allergies page.
How much explanation will be provided about the landmarks on the river?
All our skippers are knowledgeable about the modern and historical significance of the River Thames in Oxford, but for a more informed insight into the local history and the rich literary heritage of the river we work with experienced local historian and author (and narrowboat resident) Mark Davies. Prices start at £60 per hour.