easy
2 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; seated vessel reduces physical exertion.
Cruise calm waters from Leigh On Sea to Benfleet Creek aboard the “Starfish,” spotting seals, seabirds, and historic ruins on a two-hour boat trip with Brownes Thames Estuary Boat Trips. A perfect blend of wildlife, history, and gentle adventure awaits.
For all ages! • 2 hours • Great for photos and videos! • From £400.00
Experience a serene 2-hour boat trip on the "Starfish," perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Glide through calm waters, spotting birds and seals while enjoying stunning views of Hadleigh Marshes and ancient castle ruins. With a knowledgeable skipper and opportunities for photography, this inland adventure promises unforgettable moments on the river.
##We highly recommend you contacting us by email or phone before making this booking to check availability & tidal heights Email info@brownesthamesestuaryboattrips.co.uk or call +44 7590637233
2 hours
You must e-mail: info@brownesthamesestuaryboattrips.co.uk to arrange the departure time & pick up point.
A more inland trip for those who do not wish to venture out far to sea. This trip will involve calmer conditions and is great for spotting numerous birds and wildlife in the expansive nature reserve. You will also get a great view of Hadleigh Marshes, the 13th century castle ruins & the sea wall from this trip!
Join me, Angus the skipper and our beautiful boat “Starfish”(9 seats) for a memorable day on the river.
Hopefully we will get to see some wildlife (ie: seals & birds) & big container ships out at sea.
We have a small toilet on board Starfish. We kindly ask that you go before we depart if possible.
All safety procedures and practices: When you come aboard Starfish a brief 5 minutes safety talk will be given before we set out to sea. Life jackets will be provided to those that choose to wear them (optional). Under 16`s by law must wear them at all times while onboard our boats.
Please bring appropriate clothing to suit the weather of your trip. Hats, sunglasses, sun cream, waterproofs, woolly hat, towel & change of clothes. The weather can change very quickly out at sea so please be prepared for everything. We provide Guy Cotten waterproof jackets/smocks onboard if needed.
Please bring a plastic bin bag to take ALL of your rubbish home with you & do not throw any litter into the sea.
You can also bring your own but ALL food & drink must be consumed outside on deck & not in the wheelhouse. There are no cooking facilities onboard. Alcohol is allowed in moderation. Lots of water is a good option to keep you hydrated at sea.
If you have a camera or binoculars you are very welcome to bring them out as there will be some great photo/video opportunities.
We are offering an afternoon Tea onboard our boats at £18.00 per person from Sara's Tea Gardens in Old Leigh. Please contact me if you would like to arrange this. *Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements.
https://www.sarasteagardens.co.uk/
No1 Cockleshed Restaurant is a family owned and run bistro style restaurant with view across the Thames estuary and the workings of the cockle sheds in Old Leigh. For dining and drinks, we have a cosy restaurant and a dog friendly terrace which is open all year round. You can see Angus and his boats from our terrace, so it’s the perfect location to have dinner, drinks before or after your voyage. For bookings please call: 01702 474961 or email: info@no1cockleshed.co.uk
Boat trips depend on favorable tidal conditions—contact the operator to confirm timing before booking.
Pack layers, waterproof jackets, and sun protection; waterside weather can shift quickly.
Bring binoculars and cameras for excellent bird and seal spotting opportunities along the route.
Food and beverages should be enjoyed outside to keep the wheelhouse clear and comfortable.
The route passes ruins of a 13th-century castle, a reminder of the region’s medieval past.
Brownes Thames Estuary Boat Trips promote low-impact practices, urging visitors to take all rubbish ashore and respect local habitats.
Protects against sudden showers and gusts on the water.
fall specific
Enhances wildlife viewing from the boat.
For capturing birds, seals, and scenic vistas.
Shields from strong sun glare during open water cruising.
summer specific