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Three places to hire a skippered boat on the River Thames near Bray & Windsor

“There is nothing–absolutely nothing–half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.”

The Wind in the Willows – Kenneth Grahame


Dragonfly skippered boat on River Thames

Boating at Bray


Enjoy a luxury private boat charter on the River Thames with Boating at Bray. Offering a truly unique way to take in stunning riverside homes, historic landmarks and views of Windsor Castle.


Beautifully maintained launches include Dragonfly, an elegant varnished vessel based at Monkey Island Estate perfect for special occasions, riverside dining transfers or relaxed cruising. With a heated cabin and full cover, she’s ideal in any weather.


Midsomer Maiden, moored at Bray Marina, blends traditional Thames style with modern comfort. Featuring a spacious forward cockpit, she’s perfect for social occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries and hen parties, cruising between Marlow and Windsor.


With exclusive use of the boat, expert skippers tailor each trip to your preferences - whether exploring Cliveden Reach, discovering Bray’s riverside charm or enjoying the best views of Windsor Castle.


You can take your own food and drink or choose from curated packages, including brunch, lunch and afternoon tea.


Flexible pick-up points are available. Boats accommodate 2–12 guests, with larger groups of up to 36 catered for across multiple vessels.




Golding Bros


A Little Luxury on The Thames, 'Christobel' is an Edwardian 30’ Gentleman’s Launch. Now well over 110 years old, Christobel has recently undergone a 4 year restoration by Andy Golding of Golding Bros. She’s looking beautiful.


Henry Clarke commissioned the boat to be built by George Mollet in 1911, at his yard in Girlings Lane in Thorpe, Norwich. He named the boat after his daughter, Cristobel, pictured above, who was a keen sailor herself. It appears that the boat’s name has picked up an ‘H’ in her long history.


Step aboard and enjoy a relaxed, vintage-style boat trip along the River Thames from Windsor. Whether you’re gathering friends, celebrating something special or simply taking time out, they will make sure it feels easy, personal and truly enjoyable.


You will have your own private boat with a friendly, experienced skipper at the helm, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the river. Numbers are limited to around 10 guests for comfort (licensed for 12), and are always happy to be flexible with timings to suit your plans.


Bring along your own food and drink or they will arrange something for you. Every cruise takes in the beautiful Windsor stretch of the Thames, with wonderful views of Windsor Castle from the water.



The Boat Hire Company


The Boat Hire Company offer private, skippered boat trips along the River Thames from Windsor, as well as Bray, Maidenhead, Marlow and nearby areas.


Whether you’re planning a celebration, a wedding, a relaxed day out or a corporate gathering, their luxury boats are a lovely way to enjoy the river. Each boat comfortably hosts up to 12 guests, and for larger groups, you can hire two boats to share the experience with up to 24 people.











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