Avon Boating Ltd

About

Avon Boating offer the Original 40 Minute River Cruise on our famous fleet of Edwardian vessels. For over 100 years we have been hiring out small boats from the Boathouse and running passenger vessels on the Avon.

The river, one of the finest reaches for boating in the country, has remained virtually unchanged in all this time. It is still a real delight, a pleasure to be out on its peaceful waters. Come and relax and enjoy it with us. Large groups and tour parties welcome!

River Cruises:
Our famous fleet of traditional vessels take you on a sightseeing tour on which you will enjoy stunning and unique views of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Holy Trinity Church as well as experiencing the tranquility of the countryside, which the river Avon passes through as it winds its way towards Alveston. This is one of the most naturally beautiful and un-spoilt stretches of navigable river anywhere in the U.K so come and enjoy it aboard some of the country’s finest Edwardian passenger vessels.

Operational Times and Locations:
Cruises can be boarded from the Bancroft Gardens everyday throughout this period with a boat available to board every 20-30 minutes, weather and river conditions permitting.  During peak periods, we also operate from our Boathouse on Swan’s Nest Lane.
If you have booked a private charter either location can be used for boarding, depending on what is most convenient to you.

Electric Powered Boats:
Our fleet used extensively for public trips are electric powered, meaning they are quiet and vibration free and a more enjoyable experience for all onboard. Our boats are zero emission and are therefore kinder to the river and its wonderful ecosystem.

Private Charter:
Hire one of our fleet of passenger launches with crew for your own private use. Choose a departure time and book a trip for up to two hours. Our cruises are always popular for those wishing to celebrate in style or enjoy some time together in beautiful relaxed setting.
We have a number of bespoke packages for group bookings including cruises with meals in conjunction with our partners The Bear Free House and The Bistrot Pierre or with a cream tea from the Swan’s Nest Hotel. Please visit our ‘Special Packages’ menu for details.

Boat Hire:
Rowing Boats, Self-Drive Motor Boats, Punts and Canoes are available for hire from our Boathouse in Swan’s Nest Lane. In our hire boats you can explore over 3 miles of peaceful river, enjoy a quiet picnic under the willows or simply laze on the river and have fun. Our experienced staff will give full instructions on the safe operation of your choice of boat, along with an instruction sheet on the rules of the river.  For those that require, lessons in rowing or punting will be given.