Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome, but all must be able to walk unaided and manage staircases aboard ships.

Are food and drinks included?

Food and drinks are not included; visitors should bring their own or purchase on-site where available.

Can I wear 1940’s attire on the tour?

Absolutely; dressing in period clothing is encouraged to enhance your experience but not required.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

No, due to the historic nature of the dockyard and ships, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

How long is the boat journey from Southend to Chatham?

The boat ride lasts roughly 2 hours, traveling along the scenic Medway estuary.

Will I have free entry to the Salute the 40's event?

Yes, the tour includes admission to the Salute the 40's at Chatham Historic Dockyard.

Salute the 40's Historic Tour with Jetstream Tours Southend | History Tour | Events

Southend-on-Sea, stretching along England’s Essex coast, serves as the vibrant launch point for Jetstream Tours’ final voyage of the “Salute the 40's” event. Departing from Pier Head at Southend Pier, one of the longest pleasure piers in the world, this daylong adventure transports guests back to a pivotal era in British history while weaving through distinctive outdoor and cultural landscapes.

Jetstream Tours offers a one-of-a-kind experience along the Medway River, heading towards the legendary Chatham Historic Dockyard—an iconic naval site brimming with echoes of Britain’s maritime past. The journey itself floats past notable landmarks like the SS Richard Montgomery wreck, Sheerness Docks, the estuary island, and Upnor Castle’s historic walls, merging natural river scenery with centuries-old architecture.

On arrival, visitors step into the heart of a sprawling 1940’s-themed event. Vintage cars and steam trains punctuate the dockyard’s quays, set against a backdrop of authentic naval vessels open for exploration. The site also doubles as a film location where fans can stroll through the recreated streets seen in "Call the Midwife." This final Salute to the 40’s melds nostalgia, history, and outdoor activity, making it a standout experience for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Jetstream Tours elevates this experience by including exclusive access: a private pier train transports guests to the end of Southend Pier to board the boat, while entry into the event is seamlessly included. The combination of river cruising, walking through historical naval grounds, and soaking in the 1940s ambiance in an open-air setting makes this trip unique on the UK’s adventure calendar.

The Salute the 40's tour encapsulates both regional heritage and outdoor exploration, carving a niche within Southend’s vibrant coastal recreation scene. For anyone looking to step away from routine and immerse themselves in a tangible slice of history, this final edition provides a rare and memorable opportunity before it sets sail for the last time.

About Jetstream Tours

Jetstream Tours is a Southend-on-Sea based boat operator offering a range of scheduled cruises and day trips across the Thames Estuary and River Medway.

Departures operate from Southend Pier, Queenborough and Rochester, serving routes that include one-way transfers, circular cruises and full-day excursions. Popular itineraries feature the historic Maunsell (Redsand) Towers with dedicated three-hour visits, scenic day trips between Queenborough and Southend with up to six hours of leisure, and one-way services timed for pier arrivals and evening returns.

Onboard commentary highlights local maritime history as vessels pass Rochester Bridge, Upnor Castle and other Medway landmarks. Wildlife sightings are noted on multiple trips, with opportunities to photograph Peregrine Falcons and observe estuary birdlife. Amenities vary by cruise but include toilets, a cash bar on select services, and staff-led commentary to enhance the visitor experience.

Day-trip options enable visitors to spend free time in Southend enjoying classic fish and chips on the beach, Adventure Island, or a train ride to the end of Southend Pier. Kent-bound excursions call at Queenborough’s fishing harbour and castle grounds for up to four hours ashore. Special event sailings include seasonal departures such as the Salute the 40's trip to Chatham Historic Dockyard and fireworks cruises.

Jetstream Tours publishes scheduled times for departures, provides route-specific summaries, and operates services that connect Essex and Kent coastal destinations for sightseeing, wildlife watching and local exploration. Public timetables, clear departure points and route details are available for each tour to help visitors plan their day ashore in advance online.