Thames Sailing Barge
  • Thames Sailing Barge
  • Thames Sailing Barge
  • Sunset Cruise with Topsail Charters
  • Sunset Cruise with Topsail Charters
  • Sunset Cruise with Topsail Charters
  • Topsail Charters
  • Thames Sailing Barge
  • Sailing Barge Hydrogen Saloon

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About

Step aboard a vintage sailing barge for a memorable river cruise. Sailing Barges ‘Thistle’ built in 1895 and ‘Hydrogen’ built 1906 were once part of the East Coast's traditional fleet of cargo vessels; two of over 2,000 barges then. Today only a handful survive. A gentle cruise on one of these vessels allows you to enjoy the beautiful and peaceful rivers of the East Coast in a memorable and interesting way. 

Join us for one of our public cruises or be part of a group booking, catering for up to 50 people.  Choose from a wide range of catered river cruises onboard our fleet of historic Thames Barges for individuals and groups plus  2 hour cruises, day sails, weekends away and static parties.

Secrets of the Blackwater Day Sail - A relaxing day sail from Maldon exploring the river Blackwater. 

Two Island River Cruise - Join at Maldon Quay for a two hour cruise, past Northea Island to Osea Island before returning.

Orwell River Cruise - A Three or four hour Cruise from Ipswich to the mouth of the river and back.

Suffolk Rivers Cruise - A relaxing Day sail exploring the Rivers Orwell and Stour

“Hands-on” Day Sail - Join our crew for a participation day to help set sails, take the wheel, find out how a barge is sailed by just two people.

See more examples on our website. We also offer weekend breaks for groups of up to 12 people.

Tickets limited. Book online via website or by phone.  Escape your world and relax in ours!


Sorry disabled access restricted - please contact us for further guidance.

Book Tickets

Guide Prices

Private Hire - depends on location, duration etc - please ring office.
Public trips - full programme with prices on our website.

Facilities

Accessibility

  • Disabled access

Meeting, Conference & Wedding Facilities

  • Sole use of venue

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

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      Map & Directions

      Road Directions

      Maldon Quay - from A12 South take A414 for Danbury and Maldon and follow into Maldon. Follow signs for town Centre and come down High Street. At bottom of high street, take left fork down Church Street to Quay. Parking at bottom of High Street in Edward Bright Close (Marked "P-Hythe Quay". From A12 North take exit for Witham and follow signs to Maldon.  

      Public Transport Directions

      The nearest railway station is Witham, which is 7 miles away.

      Topsail Charters

      Type:Boat Trips

      Cooks Barge Yard, The Hythe, Maldon, Essex, CM9 5HN

      TripAdvisor Traveller Rating

      TripAdvisor Traveller Rating - 225 reviews225 reviews
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      Tel+44 (0)1621 857567

      Awards

      • Visit EnglandVistEngland VAQAS Gold VistEngland VAQAS Gold 2018

      Opening Times

      * Available any day, any time.

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