Thames Estuary Forts Cruise with Brownes Boat Trips
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily a seated boat trip with minimal physical exertion required.
Overview
Cruise the Thames Estuary on Brownes Boat Trips to see WWII Maunsell Forts up close. A 4-hour voyage blends history, wildlife, and unforgettable views.
Leigh On Sea to Red Sands Maunsell Forts (Including: Southend Pier, Mulberry Harbour & Shoebury Boom before crossing the shipping channel towards the Isle Of Sheppey)
For all ages! • 4 hours • Great for photos and videos! • From £500.00
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 4-hour cruise from Leigh On Sea to the historic Maunsell forts, the Red Sand Towers, remnants of World War II. Experience stunning views, wildlife sightings, and unique photo opportunities as you navigate between these surreal structures. Join skipper Angus aboard the cozy “Starfish” for an unforgettable adventure at sea.
A fantastic & memorable day at sea!
##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
Rates
- Starfish: £500.00 (cost is for 6 passengers. Add additional passengers up to 9 in total for £80.00 per person) Minimum hire charge of £500.00 applies.
Duration
4 hours
Please Note:
You must e-mail: info@brownesthamesestuaryboattrips.co.uk to arrange the departure time & pick up point.
About
Take a cruise from Leigh On Sea to the Eerie World War 2 Maunsell forts, called the Red Sand Towers. These Historic monuments stand in the Thames Estuary some 20 miles from Southend shoreline and 5 Miles from Whitstable. It will take approximately an hour & half to reach the Towers. Transport yourself back to the Second World War by visiting these previously armed towers built in the Thames & Mersey Estuaries to help defend the United Kingdom. They are a pretty surreal sight. You will get the chance to take plenty of photos in and around the towers as our vessel is small enough to pass between and under the structures (you cannot board them).
Join me, Angus the skipper and our beautiful boat “Starfish”(9 seats) for a memorable day on the river.
More info:
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.
What you can bring:
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.
Places to Eat & Drink:
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
Adventure Tips
Check Tide Times Before Booking
Tidal conditions affect the route and timing—confirm tides with the operator to ensure the best experience.
Dress in Layers
The weather on the estuary can shift quickly; bring waterproofs and warm layers even on sunny days.
Bring Bin Bags for Trash
Guests are encouraged to take all waste home to help keep the estuary clean and protect wildlife.
Seatbelt Safety and Life Jackets
Under-16s must wear life jackets onboard; adults can choose to wear them for added safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbour seals along tidal sandbanks
- Gulls and terns common in the estuary
History
The Maunsell Forts were constructed during World War II to defend the Thames approaches from enemy aircraft and naval threats, now standing as eerie maritime relics.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to minimize waste and avoid disturbing wildlife to protect the fragile estuarine ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against wind and spray in the variable estuary climate.
all specific
Binoculars
Helps spot seal colonies and seabirds from a distance.
all specific
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Provides protection against sun exposure during daytime cruising.
summer specific
Camera with Zoom Lens
Ideal for capturing detailed shots of the Maunsell Forts and wildlife.
all specific