The Windsor Castle Boat Tour, operated by French Brothers Ltd, offers a unique and captivating way to experience the grandeur of Windsor Castle and the surrounding River Thames. This 40-minute cruise takes you on a journey upstream, providing breathtaking views of the iconic castle, Eton College, and the picturesque countryside.
Overview of the Windsor Castle Boat Tour
The Windsor Castle Boat Tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Windsor area. The tour departs from the Windsor Promenade on Barry Avenue, taking you on a scenic journey along the River Thames. During the 40-minute cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the stunning architecture of Windsor Castle, the prestigious Eton College, and the charming Mill House, as well as the Windsor Racecourse and the Brocas.
Operating Hours and Ticket Prices
The Windsor Castle Boat Tour operates on a seasonal schedule, with more frequent departures during the peak season from February 11 to October 29. During this time, boats depart every 30 minutes from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. In the off-peak season, from January 1 to February 10 and October 30 to December 22, the boats run on weekends only, with hourly departures from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, subject to river conditions.
The ticket prices for the Windsor Castle Boat Tour are as follows:
| Ticket Type | Return | Single |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | £8.50 | £5.00 |
| Child | £6.00 | £3.50 |
Special Events and Themed Cruises
In addition to the regular boat tour, French Brothers Ltd. offers a variety of special events and themed cruises. These include private charters for milestone events, corporate functions, and social gatherings, as well as an extensive program of special events on Victorian steam boats, which can be booked online.
Onboard Facilities and Accessibility
The Windsor Castle Boat Tour boats are equipped with fully licensed bars, offering a selection of refreshments for passengers to enjoy during the cruise. While there is good access for disabled passengers, with nearby disabled parking, there is no direct drop-off point beside the embarkation point.
Booking and Cancellation
Tickets for the Windsor Castle Boat Tour can be booked online, and e-tickets must be scanned at the ticket office before departure. Free cancellation is available up to 48 hours in advance for a full refund.
Additional Information
The Windsor Castle Boat Tour welcomes children under 3 years old to travel for free, and seniors (65+ years old) are eligible for discounted tickets. Friendly, well-behaved dogs are also welcome aboard the boats, traveling free of charge.
Conclusion
The Windsor Castle Boat Tour offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the grandeur of Windsor Castle and the surrounding River Thames. With its seasonal operating schedule, special events, and onboard facilities, this tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Windsor area. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing and scenic journey, the Windsor Castle Boat Tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
References
- https://www.windsor.gov.uk/things-to-do/french-brothers-ltd-p43213
- https://www.frenchbrothers.co.uk/public-trips/windsor-40-minute-round-trip
- https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/49253183-french-brothers-windsor-boat-trip
- https://www.goldentours.com/windsor-castle-tours/windsor-boat-trip
- https://www.visitbritainshop.com/us/en/french-brothers-windsor-boat-trip