easy
3 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires only the ability to board the boat.
Celebrate the season aboard a festive Christmas lunch cruise on the River Thames with Windsor Maidenhead Boat Company. Enjoy mulled wine, a delicious holiday meal, and caroling while taking in the peaceful Berkshire winter landscape.
Set along the serene River Thames in Maidenhead, Berkshire, the Windsor Maidenhead Boat Company offers a distinct winter holiday experience with their Christmas Lunch Cruise. This three-hour festive journey combines seasonal cheer with riverside calm, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional holiday gatherings. Maidenhead itself sits about 30 miles west of London, a riverside town known for its charming waterfront and as a gateway to some of England’s most scenic stretches of the Thames.
Aboard a comfortable vessel, guests are welcomed with steaming mulled wine that mingles with the crisp winter air. The cruise’s highlight is a carefully prepared holiday meal served while onboard, allowing everyone to relax and absorb the views of the gently winding river. Adding to the atmosphere are spirited carolers and inviting holiday stories relayed by the Skipper, whose knowledge of the Thames’ history and landmarks adds depth to the festive mood.
The waterway itself is a historic artery lined with clusters of winter-flowering plants and leafless trees silhouetted against the sky, providing stark yet beautiful scenery. The area around Maidenhead includes remnants of Georgian bridges and riverside paths that reveal centuries of local culture and transportation. This seasonal cruise stands out as a singular way to experience the Thames, combining history, nature, and holiday tradition in a unique setting.
Located within easy travel distance from London, this boat company anchors a local niche for outdoor-centered celebrations along the water. For visitors, it’s a way to engage with the region’s outdoor spaces in winter, forging memorable connections with the landscape enhanced by festive warmth. Whether for families, couples, or groups, the Christmas Lunch Cruise by Windsor Maidenhead Boat Company offers a genuine taste of English holiday spirit on the water.
This popular festive cruise fills up quickly during the holiday season—reserve your spot well in advance.
Though the vessel is heated, temperatures on the river can be chilly—wear layers to stay comfortable.
Plan to arrive at the dock early to allow time for boarding and pre-cruise mulled wine reception.
Check in advance if you require special assistance; the boat company can provide details on accessibility features.
The River Thames has been a key commercial and cultural passage for centuries, with Maidenhead serving as an important coaching town before the rise of the railway.
Windsor Maidenhead Boat Company emphasizes eco-friendly operations, promoting low-impact river use and supporting local habitat protection.
Keeps you comfortable against chilly river breezes during winter cruises.
winter specific
Protects against unpredictable rain showers common in autumn along the Thames.
fall specific
Ideal for spotting birds and distant landmarks along the riverbanks.
Capture festive moments and the scenic winter landscape.