Private boat tours on Thames in Windsor offer a unique and luxurious way to explore the historic river and its surroundings. These tours provide intimate experiences for small groups, couples, or families, allowing them to enjoy the scenic beauty of Windsor and its royal connections from the water. With various operators offering different boat types, amenities, and tour packages, visitors can choose from a range of options to suit their preferences and budget.
What Types of Boats Are Available for Private Tours?
Private boat tours on Thames in Windsor offer a variety of vessel options to cater to different group sizes and preferences:
- Luxury Yachts:
- Thames Charters offers the ‘Domani’, a 40ft luxury yacht
- Maximum capacity: 12 passengers
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Features: all-round deck space, large aft deck with table, canopy, inside and outside seating, toilets, air-conditioning, heating, WiFi, TV, and USB charging
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Vintage Boats:
- Golding Bros provides beautifully restored vintage boats
- Licensed for 12 passengers, typically limited to 10 for comfort
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Equipped with lifejackets and safety equipment for all passengers
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Modern Vessels and Steamboats:
- French Brothers operates a fleet of 16 craft
- Includes modern boats and two genuine coal-fired steamboats
- Capacity varies by boat, suitable for various private events
What Amenities Are Offered on These Private Boat Tours?
Private boat tours on Thames in Windsor come with a range of amenities to enhance the experience:
| Operator | Refreshments | Seating | Restrooms | Other Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thames Charters | Complimentary wine, tea, coffee, soft drinks; BYO option; catering available | Inside saloon and outside deck | Available | Air-conditioning, heating, WiFi, TV, USB charging |
| Golding Bros | Welcome glass of wine/fizz, tea, coffee, soft drinks; BYO food option | Inside and outside seating | Available | Lifejackets and safety equipment |
| French Brothers | Fully licensed bars; boxed afternoon tea for longer trips | Inside and outside seating | Available | Special event cruises |
How Long Do These Private Tours Last and What’s the Pricing?
Tour duration and pricing vary among operators:
- Thames Charters:
- Duration: 1 hour to full day
- Pricing: Available on website (varies by package)
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Special events: Weddings, team building, birthdays, anniversaries
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French Brothers:
- Duration: 40-minute return, 2-hour return, full-day cruises
- Pricing:
- 40-minute return: Adult £8.50, Child £5.65, Senior £6.00
- 2-hour return: Adult £14.50, Child £9.65, Senior £10.80
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Group discounts available
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Golding Bros:
- Duration: 2-hour, 4-hour, or 6-hour cruises
- Pricing:
- 2 hours: £350
- 4 hours: £580
- 6 hours: £950
What Special Events Can Be Accommodated on These Private Tours?
Private boat tours on Thames in Windsor can accommodate various special events:
- Weddings and anniversaries
- Birthday celebrations
- Corporate events and team building
- Henley Royal Regatta
- Royal Ascot
- Sunday lunch cruises
- Victorian steam boat trips
- Swan Upping
- Henley Festival
- Henley Traditional Boat Festival
How Accessible Are These Private Boat Tours?
Accessibility information for private boat tours on Thames in Windsor:
- Parking:
- Thames Charters: Free parking at Racecourse Marina
- French Brothers: Parking available near departure points in Windsor and Runnymede
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Golding Bros: Pay-and-display car park near Windsor Leisure Centre
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Transport Links:
- Thames Charters: 10-minute walk from Windsor & Eton Riverside and Windsor Central stations
- French Brothers: Regular sailings from Maidenhead and Runnymede, accessible from town centre and riverside hotels
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Golding Bros: Departure point near Windsor Leisure Centre, accessible by car or public transport
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Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities:
- Specific details on accommodations for individuals with disabilities are not provided by the operators
- Boats are generally accessible from the riverside
- It’s recommended to inquire directly with the operators for specific accessibility needs
What Should I Consider When Booking a Private Boat Tour on Thames in Windsor?
When booking a private boat tour on Thames in Windsor, consider the following:
- Group size and preferred boat type
- Desired duration of the tour
- Budget and pricing options
- Specific amenities or facilities required
- Any special events or celebrations to be accommodated
- Accessibility needs for all members of your group
- Preferred departure point and parking availability
- Seasonal considerations and weather conditions
- Catering requirements or BYO food/drink preferences
- Additional activities or attractions to combine with the boat tour
By considering these factors, you can choose the most suitable private boat tour option for your Thames in Windsor experience.
