Small Boats for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Small Boats in London

So you’ve decided to start looking around for a small boat for hire in London? There are a few things to keep in mind before you book to ensure that you get the best possible service for your money:

• Passenger limit – Most small private boats on the Thames have a strict passenger limit. You can find small boat venues with different capacities, but make sure you book the right one for your guest count!
• Cruise purpose – There are a variety of services offered by boat venues in London, so you should pick one based on the goal of your cruise. If you just want to enjoy the view, then book a boat that can accommodate passengers on deck in comfort. A Thames dinner cruise? Ensure that it has dining facilities on board! A boat party? Make sure to check the boat's event and partying rules before you book. And if you are planning a Christmas party cruise, check the available dates and book at least a few months in advance.  

Now that you’ve officially decided that hiring a small private boat on the Thames is the way to go, let us have a look at the prices. These vary based on the amenities offered but there are some general basics to keep in mind:

• If you’re looking to hire a small private boat on the Thames for a cruise, you’re going to be looking at a roughly £2000 minimum spend (you pay nothing to hire the boat but agree to spend a set amount on food and drinks during the event) or an approximate £1200 hire fee with food and drinks added on separately.
• If your interest leans more towards sharing a good meal and drinks on the water (rather than cruising up and down the river), you can find more flexible pricing options. Flat hire fees typically range around £500, minimum spend remains at around £2000, and per-person pricing is typically around £35 per head. (All data from Tagvenue.)

Tips for Decorating a Hired Boat for Special Occasions

Decorating a hired boat for special occasions can transform it into a festive and memorable venue for events such as birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate gatherings. Whether you have hired a small yacht, a compact sailboat, or a cosy fishing boat, there are plenty of creative ways to spruce it up for any celebration. Here's a guide with tips and ideas to help you decorate your vessel, ensuring it's not just any ordinary small craft but a splendidly adorned floating celebration spot.

1. Select a Theme: Choose a theme that resonates with the occasion. You can opt for a playful, colourful theme for a birthday. Anniversaries may call for more romantic decor. Aim for a professional yet inviting atmosphere for corporate events on a mini-cruiser or a modest-sized charter.
2. Lighting to Set the Mood: Illuminate your boat with string lights, lanterns, or LED strips. If you're on a small runabout or pontoon, carefully arrange lights to highlight spaces without overcrowding. Solar-powered lights are great for energy efficiency and can be a fantastic choice for small watercraft.
3. Colour Scheme: Choose a colour palette that compliments the boat's interior. For a cabin cruiser or a personal-sized inflatable dinghy, avoid overwhelming the space with too many colours. Use cushions, tablecloths, and banners that align with your chosen palette.
4. Floral Arrangements and Greenery: Flowers and plants can add a fresh, natural touch. Opt for small, hidden arrangements on a small RIB or a compact motorboat. Hang garlands or place potted plants strategically around the deck and cabin.
5. Seating Arrangements: Ensure there's enough seating for your guests. Use throw pillows and cushions on an open boat or a day cruiser for extra comfort and aesthetic appeal. Consider rearranging seating to facilitate conversation and enjoyment of the scenery.
6. Dining Setup: If hosting a meal on your hired pleasure craft or small fishing boat, set up a dining area that's both practical and stylish. Utilise foldable tables and chairs to maximise space. Choose unbreakable dinnerware for safety and convenience.
7. Music and Entertainment: A good sound system can enhance the ambience. Portable Bluetooth speakers are a great choice for a small rowboat or a tender boat. Ensure the volume is at a level that's enjoyable but not disruptive to others.
8. Decorate Responsibly: Safety is paramount. Ensure decorations don't obstruct navigation or safety equipment on your raft or small keelboat. Keep pathways clear and avoid flammable materials.
9. Adding Unique Elements: Personalise your space with items that reflect the occasion or your personality. You can use display photos, banners, or custom signage on a small catamaran or a dinghy boat to add a unique touch.
10. Cleanup Plan: Plan for an easy cleanup. Use decorations that are reusable or easy to dispose of responsibly, especially important in the confined spaces of a small sailing boat or inflatable craft.

By integrating these tips and ideas, you can turn your small boat hire into an enchanting venue for any special occasion. Remember, the key is to balance aesthetics with practicality and safety, ensuring an unforgettable and enjoyable experience for everyone on board. 

FAQs about Small Boats in London

What is the capacity of small boats for hire in London?

Boats for small events in London offer spaces for as little as 6-10 people, usually on smaller yachts and in semi-private areas on a larger vessel. You'll find many boats for between 20-50 guests, and some larger options in case your definition of small differs!

First of all, make sure you have enough space for everyone who will attend your event - London's boats for hire usually provide you with information on capacity depending on the layout you pick. If you're unsure of the guest count, it's better to go for something slightly larger than you need. Too much space will just mean you have a few empty spots, but booking a boat smaller than necessary will create serious issues.

What are some event ideas for a small boat in London?

Here are some ideas to host a variety of events, including:

• Company outings and corporate events on a boat 
• Boat birthday parties
• Boat weddings
• Romantic engagement parties on the water
• Dinner parties with friends

How can I book a cheap small boat in London?

Many people are surprised by the fact that you can hire an affordable boat in London, but it's actually quite simple! Most of these venues are owned by individuals and not large companies, so they're often more flexible with their pricing and willing to work with you on making an event that will fit within your budget. If you're looking for a great place to host a small gathering on a boat in London, then check out our tips for booking one:

• Consider hiring someone who specialises in managing events at small boat venues in London; this person will know what has worked well in the past and can help guide you through planning yours. Although hiring a professional might be an expense in itself, it might just save you from paying huge fees if you were doing it by yourself instead.
• Serving alcohol and other beverages? You probably are, in that case you might want to consider a BYOB option which is sure to cut some costs. Bring your own alcohol and drinks and pay a fraction of the final price. 
• Negotiate! There’s no better option for cutting costs than negotiating with the venue host. Depending on the time of year, week or for how long you’d like to book the boat, the host might just go down on the price!

Are there any special permits required for hosting an event in a small boat in London?

Yes, this will include having a valid navigation licence for the boat, which the boat hire company typically manages. You may need to secure an event permit if your event involves activities like live music, catering, or large gatherings. Additionally, adherence to safety regulations set by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency is crucial, including ensuring necessary safety equipment and respecting capacity limits. For events serving alcohol or featuring live entertainment, a Temporary Event Notice from the local council might be required. Environmental considerations are also important, particularly for events that could impact the environment. It is recommended to consult with the boat hire company and local authorities to ensure all legal requirements are met. For more detailed information and permit applications, visit the Port of London Authority's website.