DAY EXCURSIONS DISCOVER THE ROYAL RIVER THAMES IN LONDON AND WINDSOR WITH OUR MEMORABLE GROUP CRUISES 2018/2019 WWW.WMBCBOATS.COM GROUPS@WMBCBOATS.COM TEL: 01628 621 286
What s inside Welcome 1 Windsor Afternoon Tea Cruise.. 2 Thames at War Lunch Cruise..... 3 Homes of the Rich & Famous Lunch Cruise.. 4 Ploughman s Lunch Cruise... 5 Windsor Champagne Lunch Cruise... 6 Cheese & Wine Cruise.... 7 London Sightseeing Cruise 8 Fish & Chip Lunch Cruise 9 Windsor Race Night.. 10 Henley Regatta. 11 Christmas Lunch Cruise.. 12 Terms and Conditions.. 13 How to Find Us. 14
Welcome Great value & enjoyable group cruises of the upper Thames and central London. Welcome to Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company s river cruise day excursions brochure for group travel organisers. We are committed to providing a top quality and memorable cruise experience to all our customers. With delicious food from our custom menus, to interesting and informative guides, your cruise will not only be value for money but also provide a unique experience aboard our comfortable fleet of boats. Each of our craft is equipped with modern toilets and central heating for those chilly days, however, more importantly, open spaces for those sunny ones too. If you re looking for refreshments, then we can offer you cappuccinos, lattes and specialty teas. Alternatively if you fancy something a little stronger, then why not head to our licensed on board bar serving chilled wine and refreshing beers. Our day excursions offer a whole range of cruises with various menus to suit your budget, tastes and interests. So come aboard, relax and enjoy the day.
Windsor Afternoon Tea Cruise Our Windsor afternoon tea cruise brings together all the great traditions of the local area, departing and returning to Windsor Leisure Centre, aboard one of our iconic vessels. With one of the best views of Windsor Castle this cruise has everything for a wonderful afternoon activity. An hour after departure enjoy a delicious afternoon tea with Darvilles of Windsor s loose leaf English breakfast tea served with three tier cake stands. Enjoy our live running commentary packed with local facts about Windsor and the surrounding area. There is also a selection of table top games on board to enjoy along with classical songs gently playing in the background. Sample Menu Fresh selection of finger sandwiches; Glazed ham and mustard on white bread Brie and cranberry on wholemeal bread Cucumber and cracked black pepper on white bread Smoked salmon and dill mayonnaise on brown bread Fruit scones with strawberry preserve and clotted cream Mini Strawberry Eton mess Selection of petite four cakes 23.95 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 36 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
Maybe it s because I m a Londoner
Thames at War Lunch Cruise Step back in time and walk aboard our Thames at War cruise. As you board you will be taken back to the atmosphere of World War II with our victory themed vessel even down to the tape on the windows. The Captain and Sergeant in charge of the vessel shall welcome you aboard. Also our live war time commentary will inform you of war time facts about this iconic water highway and the local area. Furthermore, keep your eyes open for the Windsor Hurricane! This full sized replica stands as a reminder that Windsor remains protected and defends the Thames at war. By the same token listen out for Hitler s dream home however that is to say ultimately unfulfilled. Also enjoy our small on board collection of war time items. Enjoy our true dig for victory meal that will be served one hour into this three hour cruise. Sample of Our Dig For Victory Meal Sausage meat loaf with mashed potato and gravy Vegetable turnover with baby new potatoes and parsley Dessert Roly poly and custard Our Chef is happy to cater for your dietary needs yet please confirm any requirements when booking to insure your food is available on the day. Finally, after your lunch enjoy the tunes that inspired a nation against great odds and imagine what life would have been like not only during the world wars but as part of England s military history. 19.95 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 36 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
Homes of the Rich and Famous Lunch Cruise Take a glimpse into the world of celebrities, captains of industry and commerce, oil rich arabs, the aristocracy and assorted lottery millionaires. Enjoy the homes of the rich and famous as you cruise along the River Thames. The Homes of the Rich and Famous cruise lets you into the secret world of the inhabitants of some of the country s finest waterside houses. Firstly, depart from Maidenhead Riverside Gardens, near the bridge, before cruising past the old home of Diana Dors, scene of many a riotous party, then entering Cliveden Reach, where the majestic home of the Astor family lies atop of the hill, the opening scene for the Profumo Scandal. Lunch shall be served as we cruise through the Cliveden Reach. After lunch we pass the Waterside Inn, famed hostelry of the Roux brothers, the homes and former homes of Rolf Harris, Billy Connolly, Sheila Ferguson of the Three Degrees, Gerald Ratner, and Sir John Mills. Finally whilst we cruise enjoy stories of the notorious Botany Bay, the Thames very own red light district, the pretty cottage of Edward VII s mistress, Lillie Langtry and much more! Sample Menu A plated cold meal to consist of all the following; Galantine of chicken with pistachio & smoked bacon stuffing Smoked salmon quiche Sweetcorn, mange tout and pepper salad Traditional coleslaw Mixed leaf seasonal salad Potato salad with chives Assorted breads & butter Dessert Apple flan with cream Our Chef is happy to cater for your dietary needs yet please confirm any requirements when booking to insure your food is available on the day. 27.50 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 36 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event hostelry Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
I could see myself living in that one
Ploughman s Lunch Cruise The Ploughman s Lunch Cruise is perfect for those looking for a simple relaxing river cruise along the Thames or as part of a longer day out. With a choice of departures, this cruise offers you a Windsor Leisure Centre departure or a central London departure such as Millbank, Waterloo or Festival Pier. The skipper and crew await to welcome you aboard one of our premier vessels to enjoy your cruise. Sit upstairs in the open air or downstairs to enjoy the view as we pass the beautiful sights along the Thames, listening to a live commentary from your skipper. The Ploughman s lunch shall be served one hour into the cruise on the lower deck. Sample Ploughman s Lunch Menu Mature cheddar cheese Cured and cooked sliced ham Pickled onions Fresh garden salad Chunky pickle Baked baguette and butter Dessert Choc Ices After you have had a chance to enjoy your Ploughman s lunch, explore and wander around the vessel taking in the views of Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament or Windsor Castle and Eton College depending on your departure point. If you book one of our earlier departures, such as 11am, you may find the time to include a visit to one of the many local attractions to complement your day. Windsor Departure 24.95 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 36 persons) London Departure 28.95 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 36 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
Windsor Champagne Lunch Cruise An elite luxury cruise taking in the tranquillity of the River Thames and its surroundings on our three hour Windsor Champagne Lunch Cruise. Start your experience with a relaxing cruise and a chilled glass of champagne before sitting down to a three course meal, freshly prepared on board. So look no further for a perfect treat in order to spoil yourself. Sample Menu Starter Slow cooked pork belly and comfit duck terrine with apple chutney Main Course Parma ham wrapped chicken breast with chestnut and pancetta stuffing served with roasted garlic mash and wilted spinach Dessert Three tier chocolate mouse Our Chef is happy to cater for your dietary needs. However please confirm any requirements when booking to insure your food is available on the day. 35.00 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 20 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
Cheese & Wine Cruise Whether it be a pre theatre cruise or a relaxing two hours after a busy day sightseeing in London, the cheese & wine cruise is sure to be ideal. Board one of our iconic vessels at a central London pier, and be welcomed aboard with a premier glass of wine chosen by our Sommelier or a soft drink, before taking your seats on either the upper or lower decks. Watch the sights of London slowly light up in the dusk sky whilst enjoying boards of interesting and tasty cheeses with freshly baked bread and butter. Find out about the cheeses you are eating from the fact cards on the tables including their origins, most of which are from around the British Isles. Sample Cheese Wine Menu British Stilton Blue Kidderton Ash Goats cheese Handmade Wendslydale Cave Aged Chedder Cornish Brie Selection of chutney Caramelized red onion chutney, Tiptree quince jelly, sweet piccalilli Selection of crackers and breads Malted wheat biscuit, oat, cheese & seed thins Oregano round, oat & chive biscuit Kalamata olive bloomer Served with mixed red and green grapes As you enjoy your cheese and wine our experienced skipper will provide you with a commentary of the sights and history of the famous waterway you are travelling on. On board there is a fully licensed bar for those who wish to drink something other than our wine selection. 22.95 per person including VAT 2 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 42 persons) Groups booking over 60 guests will get a discount off the price per person to 20.95 per head. Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
London Sightseeing Cruise After you board your vessel at a central London pier you will make your way up river passing Vauxhall, Battersea and Chelsea before turning to head down river to see the Houses of Parliament, London Eye, South Bank and Tower Bridge during the London Sight Seeing Cruise. During the three hour cruise there will be a live, informative and interesting commentary by the skipper. Also a sandwich lunch buffet with a cup of warm soup shall be served one hour into the cruise. Sample Menu Beef and horseradish on white bread Ham and wholegrain mustard on brown bread Cheese and pickle on wholemeal bread Tuna mayonnaise on brown bread Homemade tomato soup Tea & Coffee Our Chef is happy to cater for your dietary needs yet please confirm any requirements when booking to insure your food is available on the day. After you have had a chance to enjoy your lunch explore and wander around the vessel taking in the views of Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament. On board is a fully licensed bar serving a range or beers, wines, soft drinks and juices. 23.95 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 40 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
Fish & Chip Lunch Cruise There is no better way to enjoy a great British tradition of Fish & Chips than to sit back on the River Thames watching the world go by. Book your fish chips cruise today. Before departing Windsor or Hampton court you will have a chance to pop to the bar for some refreshments. Once you are all settled, your fish & chip lunch, freshly cooked on board, will be served. On this two hour cruise you will get to take in the sights around you with a dinner of fish & chips to enjoy. Our skipper will provide you with a commentary of the sights you are passing, giving you an insight into the Thames rich and interesting history. Sample Fish & Chips Menu Freshly fried white finish in a light beer batter Chunky steak cute chips Homemade tartar sauce Minted pier puree Lemon slice Our Chef is happy to cater for your dietary needs. However please confirm any requirements when booking to insure your food is available on the day. 21.95 per person including VAT (Minimum numbers for this cruise 40 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. 21.95 per person including VAT 2 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 20 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
Windsor Race Night Situated on the banks of the River Thames, Windsor Race course gives a perfect setting for a fantastic evening. Therefore what better way to arrive than by our own Windsor Race Night cruise. While En route to the race course enjoy a half bottle of champagne and a traditional afternoon tea buffet. Whilst you take in the sights and relax along the Thames, browse through your race card and racing post to pick your winning horses. We will arrive at the race course 30 minutes before the race giving you plenty of time to head on over with your club enclosure ticket and pick your perfect spot. Once racing has concluded, your vessel will be waiting for you to take you back to Maidenhead. A two course hot buffet and complimentary bar of beers, wine and soft drinks is served on the return journey. So sit back and unwind after a busy evening winning at the race course. At least we hope you have had some winners. Sample Hot Buffet Menu Main Course Butterflied chicken breast with honey and mustard glaze (V) Asparagus and spinach risotto Roasted new potatoes with rosemary and garlic Glazed carrots, parsnips and broccoli Mixed leaf salad with cucumber and cherry tomatoes Dessert Strawberry Eaton mess Our Chef is happy to cater for your dietary needs yet please confirm any requirements when booking to insure your food is available on the day. 119.50 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 12 persons) Windsor Race Night cruises operate Mondays from spring until summer departing maidenhead at 3pm. So that you and others enjoy the day please drink and gamble responsible For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
What better way to spend a truly British afternoon!
Henley Regatta Ever fancied joining in a British tradition of Henley Regatta? Then look no further as we have vessels there each year for the Regatta with full day hospitality available. Begin your day with a selection of morning pastries cooked on board and freshly brewed coffee as we head to the Henley Regatta course. Before we reach the course have a look through the days racing program. Enjoy the sights of the rowing, sipping Pimm s and fresh canapes prior to a three course lunch. Meanwhile there is still plenty of racing and excitement to see. When all is done, we shall start our return to Hurley Lock with a cream tea to finish the day. Sample Menu Arrival with tea, coffee and morning pastries Pimm s reception with canapés Starter Potted lobster and tiger prawn in crab crème fraiche with toasted ciabatta bread Main Course Para ham wrapped chicken breast with chestnut and pancetta stuffing served with roasted garlic mash and wilted spinach Dessert Three tier chocolate mouse Fresh Strawberries and cream, warm scones with jam and clotted cream all served with freshly brewed Darvilles loose tea For Wednesday 4 th July, Thursday 5 th July for 160.00 per head For Friday 6 th July, Saturday 7 th July and Sunday 8 th July for 180.00 per head (minimum numbers for this cruise is 20 persons) For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
Christmas Lunch Cruise Christmas is always just around the corner and here at the Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company our Christmas lunch cruise is becoming increasingly popular. With centrally heated vessels and a glass of mulled wine, our Christmas lunch cruise will certainly keep those winter blues at bay. Your Christmas Lunch cruise begins with a warm welcome and a glass of mulled wine waiting for you at your table. Enjoy topical and historical anecdotes along the route of the River Thames, narrated by your Skipper, during this three hour cruise. furthermore your Christmas lunch shall be served one hour into the cruise at which point we shall play some festive music. Finally after your meal we invite you to join in the Christmas carols and Christmas classics like Rockin around the Christmas Tree and a Winters Tale. Also please enjoy the licensed cash bar on board along with a seasonal gift stall with fantastic stocking filler ideas. Sample Menu Main Course Glazed roasted turkey breast & pigs-in-blankets with Yorkshire pudding and sage and onion stuffing Roasted potatoes and roasted winter vegetables served with buttered seasonal greens, gravy and bread sauce. Dessert Traditional Homemade Christmas pudding with brandy cream. Vegetarian Option on prior request Mushroom and chestnut wellington with a vegetable gravy, roasted potatoes and roasted winter vegetables served with buttered seasonal greens. Our Chef is happy to cater for your dietary needs yet please confirm any requirements when booking to insure your food is available on the day. 31.00 per person including VAT 3 hour cruise (minimum numbers for this cruise is 20 persons) Cruises run weekdays from April to October. This cruise is not available during the week of Henley Regatta, 4th to the 8th of July. Windsor race days may restrict Monday bookings between May and July. For more information about our cruises or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
Terms and Conditions 1. BOOKING & PAYMENT. A 100.00 non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking with balance payable seven days prior to the booking date. We reserve the right to cancel your booking if full payment is not made seven days prior to the booking date. 2. CANCELLATION. 2.1 Cancellation by you within seven days prior to the hire date shall be charged at 100%. Cancellation prior to this period shall receive a refund excluding the non-refundable deposit. 2.1 Cancellation by Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company will result in a full refund. 3. ALTERATION. 3.1 We are happy to make alterations to the cruise that you may require, subject to cost, seven days prior to the hire date. Alterations after this time may not be possible. 3.2 We shall do our best to deliver the cruise as agreed however if a modification is required we shall inform you as soon as possible. 4. ON BOARD CONDUCT. 4.1 The Master of the vessel is in charge of the vessel and shall conduct their operation in compliance with MCA regulations and company policy. A copy of such may be viewed on board. 4.2 You and your group must take account of their own safety and that of other passengers. You will be liable for any damage or accident caused by you or your group. You are prohibited from bringing aboard any food or drink, other than that which is prearranged. 5. SMOKING. No smoking is allowed by anyone inside the vessel. 6. DIETARY REQUIREMENTS Any dietary requirements must be notified at least 7 days prior to the booking date. Failure to do so will result in your guest not being catered for on the day. In this instant no refund shall be given. 7. DISABILITY AND REDUCED MOBILITY. We will, wherever practical, aid the safe access and egress of passengers with disabilities. Prior knowledge is helpful to ensure that they can be catered for. It is the Masters decision based on the safety of the vessel, crew and passengers as to whether it is possible to accommodate passengers with a disability. 8. MARKETING. 8.1 During the cruise we may take pictures of your group. These images may be used for our printed, internet and social media marketing. By completing a booking you agree for these images being used free of charge. Should you object to this please inform us via email to groups@wmbcboats.com. 8.2 If after your cruise you decide that you do not consent to a published image then we will remove this from our marketing in due course. If the image has been used in printed media it shall remain until the end of the materials marketing campaign. 9. LIABILITY. Other than death, injury or illness caused by company negligence, liability is limited to the cost of the charter. 10. THE COMPANY Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company is a trading subsidiary of Berkshire Boats Ltd. Registered address: 2 Cherry Tree Grove, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG41 4UZ
How to Find Us The Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company have a range of locations to start and end your day excursion cruise. Riverside locations are not easy to find so please pay particular attention to this section. More directions are available on request. Windsor Leisure Centre Useful Address Windsor Leisure Centre, Stovell Rd, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 5JB Maidenhead Riverside Gardens Useful Address - Jenner s Cafe, Ray Mead Rd, Maidenhead, West Berkshire SL6 8NP Central London piers are booked on confirmation of booking with a deposit. Recommended piers are Millbank, Waterloo, and Festival Pier. More pier options are available and are best discussed on booking. All our vessels are available for private hire, birthdays, weddings and anniversaries. For more information about how to find us or to book your event Call us on 01628 621 286 or email groups@wmbcboats.com
OFFICE ADDRESS Weir Bank Business Park, Monkey Island Lane, Bray-on-Thames, Berkshire, SL6 2ED TEL: 01628 621 286 Email: groups@wmbcboats.com www.wmbcboats.com