FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Do I need a driving licence to drive a boat on the Thames?
A: The driver does not require any formal qualifications providing the number of passengers does not exceed 12 people, however, for peace of mind many customers new to boating have benefited from a brief session in boat handling from ourselves.

Q: Do I need a tax disc/MOT for a boat?
A: A boat requires an annual licence from the Environment Agency – this is similar to a vehicle tax disc.

Also, all powered boats are required to conform with current Boat Safety regulations – an examination must be carried out every four years by a qualified examiner and a certificate obtained. We can assist with regards to both these items.

Q: What about insurance?
A: Whilst insurance cover on private pleasure craft is not compulsory, we do recommend that insurance is taken out for your boat – we can assist in this regard by putting you in contact with an insurance company specialising in marine cover.

Q: I don’t live beside the river, is there somewhere I can keep the boat?
A: Here at Hurley we can offer long term moorings in the heart of one of the most picturesque stretches of the river Thames – please contact us for prices and availability.

Q: How do I go about refuelling/recharging my boat?
A: Whether petrol, diesel or electric, we can of course, with prior notice, ensure that your launch is refuelled/recharged ready for your next trip.

Q: What happens in the unlikely event that we break down during a trip on the Thames?
A: As a full service boatyard with engineer on site, we would endeavour to help as promptly as possible.

Q: Can you collect/deliver my launch?
A: Yes, whether by river or road, we would be happy to discuss your specific needs.

Q: What happens to the boats in the Winter?
A: The majority of our customers take advantage of our out of water winter storage facility – this involves craning the boats from the water during early November, setting up on hard standing, double covering for Winter, and repainting bottom in Spring prior to returning to the water – please enquire for further details and prices.

Q: Do you build boats for use outside the UK?
A: Yes, we have built boats for a number of foreign destinations including the US and many European countries.

Q: What river events take place locally on the Thames?
A: There are many local regattas which are fun to attend such as Wargrave & Shiplake, Hurley, Marlow and Cookham in addition to the world famous Henley Royal Regatta which takes place in early July. The Henley Festival of music and art takes place the week after the Regatta and is well worth attending.

The annual swan upping takes place in mid-July with the procession of boats passing through Hurley – boat owners are encouraged to join the swan uppers on their way upstream.

The Traditional Boat Rally is a pleasant weekend event taking place towards the end of July each year during which, owners of traditional craft meet together to create the largest gathering of wooden boats on the Thames.

Q: Are there many places to eat and drink along the Thames?
A: Yes there are plenty of good pubs and restaurants/hotels situated along the Thames, many of which have their own private jetties available for the use of patrons. In addition the middle and upper reaches of the Thames are rich in charming and historic towns and villages accessible by river.

Q: What next?
A: Just call, email or pop in with any questions or for an informal chat.