Your Cruise
Below is some information to, hopefully, help you decide to use Bygone Boating as your number one choice for a wonderful holiday on the River Thames, and the things you will need to know, and take into account!
First of all, below are a few snippets from a review that a couple who hired Bernadette ll in her – and our – first year (2017) – may give you a few ideas, and a feel for what to expect:
“Arrived at the Marina in good time and were directed towards the pontoons where we were met by Jeff & Sue. A baggage trolley was provided for access onto the pontoons which made life a lot easier transporting our gear to the boat. Bernadette was sitting in the sunshine on the end berth looking very grand and welcoming. Jeff assisted with baggage transfer then proceeded to provide us with a comprehensive handover detailing all relevant information that we would require, while Sue pointed out all domestic arrangements. We were then given the opportunity to conduct a test drive under Jeff’s instruction with the additional offer of transiting a Thames lock for the experience if required.
We were waved off on our weeks adventure passing through several locks with lock keepers to assist and advise. Bernadette was particularly well equipped, with all the little extra’s that made living on board very comfortable. Good fridge space to cool the wine, loads of storage for food, colour TV , central heating, shower and 4 berths, with all linen and bedding provided, the galley was particularly well stocked with condiments and spices for cooking if you so wish.
A wonderful week on the Thames on a lovely classic motor cruiser that drew many comments and favourable words from passers by and fellow boat users. Bernadette is a pleasure to handle, with the addition of a larger rudder and fitted bow thruster, she is very manoeuvrable.
We can not wait to book our next adventure on this lovely little lady, extending our cruising range further a field, we do enjoy the Thames, it has loads to offer for all sorts of reasons”.
Back to 'Your Cruise':
On board we will have left you a copy of the River Thames Book. This has all the information you could possibly need for your holiday afloat. In there are phone numbers, chart pages of individual sections of the Thames, moorings, lock information, points of interest, restaurants etc.
This great little book will also help you decide your route – though you will probably have done some reconnaissance work before you arrive!
We will also send you a copy of the Boating Handbook – another excellent book for you to read before getting on board and refer to.
We do require the ‘skipper’ to have boat handling experience.
We will have gone through our handover, covering all areas of the boat, and we will also go through a lock with you if need be, before waving you off. We are, however, also on the end of the phone at any time during your time aboard. Do not hesitate to call us, however small (or large) the question is!
If you do have a problem, mechanically or electrically, and we can’t talk you through it over the phone, we will get someone with you as soon as possible.
A good website to keep your eye on if you are unfortunate enough to have some bad weather is:
http://riverconditions.environment-agency.gov.uk, although we are always on hand with any information you require.
Arrival
We will meet you on your arrival and we will have sent you the access code for the entrance gate.
We aim to have your boat ready to board at an allotted time between 12:30 pm and 4.30 pm. You will be informed of your scheduled arrival time!
If you arrive earlier than the allotted time, just let us know. You can always visit the Waterfront Cafe for some refreshments until your boat is ready.
What to bring?
Although we have tried to give you as much storage space as possible, a boat will not have as much room as your own home, as you know!
Ideally use holdalls for your luggage as they can be folded down and stored away easily. Try and be a bit conservative with the amount of clothing you bring too – not like me who always takes everything apart from the kitchen sink! A torch is handy for when returning to your boat in the dark.
Deck shoes or trainers are essential – you must have non slip footwear.
Food and Essentials
Electricity on Board
There is a lead supplied for connection to shore power when it’s available (marinas basically!) – nb: this will also charge the batteries.
The boats are fitted with 12v batteries for lighting, pumps, fridge, phone chargers.
There is a pure sign wave 1000w inverter fitted to all boats, which allows the use of items such as the toaster, hair dryer and TV. However, if using hairdryer or toaster, you will also need to rune the engine.
The TV is also used through the inverter when no shore power, and the batteries should be ok for a couple of hours or so without running the engine.
Remember, the batteries are your electricity – if you run them down too much – you will have none!
If you have any questions at all, do not hesitate to contact us!
We would love to hear from you.