Discover the haunting history of WWII Redsand Towers on a scenic boat tour from Queenborough. Perfect for history buffs, wildlife seekers, and photography lovers alike.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, just dress comfortably for sitting on a boat
Wildlife
History
The Redsand Towers were constructed during WWII to defend against German aircraft and submarines, playing a key role in maritime defense.
Conservation
The tour maintains a low environmental impact, ensuring the preservation of local wildlife habitats and marine life.
Jetstream Tours
Discover the haunting history of WWII Redsand Towers on a scenic boat tour from Queenborough. Perfect for history buffs, wildlife seekers, and photography lovers alike.
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.
Departure Ports
Queenborough · Southend · Rochester
Multiple convenient boarding locations
Trip Types
Day trips, Cruises, One-ways
Options for every itinerary
Historic Sites
Maunsell Forts & Rochester landmarks
Guided commentary on maritime history
Local Base
Based in Southend-on-Sea
Local operator serving Essex and Kent
Check departure times from Southend Pier, Queenborough and Rochester — secure places for Redsand Towers, day trips to Southend, or Medway circular cruises.
Bring your camera
Capture stunning photos of the forts and local birdlife during the trip.
Dress for the weather
Wear layered clothing and bring a waterproof jacket as conditions can change quickly at sea.
Arrive early
Get a good seat and enjoy the onboard commentary by arriving at least 15 minutes before departure.
Keep binoculars handy
Spot Peregrine Falcons and other seabirds more easily with binoculars.
Camera or Smartphone
Ideal for capturing the dramatic structures and wildlife sightings.
Windbreaker or Waterproof Jacket
Protect against wind and spray during the boat ride.
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing, especially bird sightings.
Sunscreen
Protect skin while enjoying the outdoor sea air.