london oxford boat trip

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River Thames Cruises From London to Oxford

Cruises on the River Thames travel between London and Oxford for overnight cruises. You won’t find large river boats on Thames. Instead you’ll find cruises on smaller barge vessels, which typically accommodate up to an average of twelve passengers. Most itineraries are seven days long and stay within the Thames Valley region of the river.

More commonly, though, you’ll find day and evening cruises   on the Thames . Several companies offer scenic cruises through London.

An Interesting Fact: Did you know there is a river with a similar name located in the United States? The Thames River is formed from the confluence of the Yantic and Shetucket rivers in Norwich, Connecticut. It’s a very short river – only about 15 miles long.

River Thames in London

  By Diliff (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia Commons

River Thames Facts

The River Thames is 215 miles long and has over 80 islands. It is the longest river located entirely in England and the second longest river in the United Kingdom.

There are three parts to the river – the Thames Head, Thames Valley and the Thames Estuary. The river begins in Gloucestershire, England where it is referred to as the Thames Head. It flows basically in an easterly direction throughout most of its course.

The Thames Valley extends from Oxford to west London . And the Thames Estuary is the portion of the river from east London to the town of South-end-Sea in Essex, England where the Thames River empties into the North Sea.

River Thames Destinations

Whether you take an overnight cruise or a day or evening cruise on the River Thames, you’ll spend some time cruising through the city of London. The river is lined with many historical sites and popular tourist attractions.

As you cruise through London, you’ll pass under quite a few bridges. The River Thames has 34 bridges just in London! A few of them include the Tower Bridge , London Bridge and the Westminster Bridge .

Westminster Bridge on the River Thames in London, England

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia

In addition to its many bridges, you’ll see many other famous sites along London’s skyline. The Big Ben , Tower of London , Houses of Parliament and the London Eye are all visible from the River Thames. The London Eye – a 443-foot ferris wheel - is one of the city’s most famous and popular attractions. It’s located on the south bank of the Thames.

Other destinations in the Thames Valley are west of London and include Windsor, Henley, Reading and Oxford. During your visit to these cities, you’ll have a chance to see some famous castles like the Hampton Court Palace, the Windsor Castle and the Highclere Castle, which is featured in the television series “Downtown Abbey”.

There are a few companies that offer cruises on the River on the Magna Carta – a river barge boat that carries up to eight passengers. This definitely provides a unique experience for travelers.

Aboard the Magna Carta

By Gloverepp (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia Commons

For those who want a customized itinerary, Isabella River Cruises offers cruises to only one party at a time. They do not have a predetermined schedule or route and allow guest to choose what time they want to eat, where they want to go, what they want to see, and how long they want to stay at each destination.

What are others saying about this cruise? Read some reviews here .

Just looking for a 1-day cruise? You’ll also find several options for day cruises and evening cruises on the River Thames.

If you enjoyed reading this page, please share it with other people you think would also enjoy reading it. Thank you! :)

Lauri Wakefield  is a travel writer who specializes in  river cruises in Europe and the U.S. Connect with her on Twitter and Google+ .

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Oxford Boat Hire

For those who wish to have a more hands-on experience, we offer a wide variety of self-drive craft for hire from Oxford.

Public River Cruises

We offer a variety of hugely popular river cruises through some of the most beautiful scenery in England.

Private Charter

Salter’s passenger vessels provide the perfect venue for all kinds of events from works parties to birthdays.

Salter’s have been building boats since 1858 and are renowned for producing high quality robust craft.

Our boat hire station is now open – please pre-book day boats in advance by clicking here to avoid disappointment.

We will be offering Boat Trips from Oxford & Marlow this summer.

We will also be running our Oxford to Abingdon Service to the Public during the summer school holidays – Monday to Thursday only.

Please see the Public Boat Trips page for more information.

Private Charters are available – please click here to enquire.

Our phone lines have now reopened however our incoming calls are extremely high, please contact us via email where possible alternatively please be patient and we will call you back as soon as we can.

160 years in the making.

Salter’s Steamers are a family firm that has provided first-class hospitality on the Royal River Thames for over 160 years  – Est. 1858. As one of the longest established firms on the Thames we own one of the largest and most exclusive fleets operating on the river. Our cruises combine traditional style, contemporary comforts and the highest modern standards.

We offer a variety of hugely popular boat trips through some of the most beautiful scenery in England. During the summer we offer boat trips from every major location on the Upper-Thames between the university city of Oxford and Marlow, including such famous places as Abingdon, Reading and Henley.

Celebrations on the Thames.

Our exclusive craft can be privately chartered as the perfect venue for all kinds of function, party or celebration, including showpiece events such as the Henley Royal Regatta.

We also hire out punts, day-boats and other small craft from Oxford, as well as operating charters on the Solent. In addition we are now offering a timetable of one-off special cruises held from a number of different locations throughout the year. These include public jazz cruises from Oxford and Windsor, special services along unusual routes such as Oxford to Wolvercote as well as different trips to mark certain events such as Bunkfest at Wallingford.

Instant bookings

Book your tickets within a few clicks to experience one of Oxford’s finest boat trips.

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Oxford River Cruises

£ 22.00

Discover Oxford from a unique perspective on a relaxing Oxford River Cruise.

Description

Take in the stunning scenery on the River Thames in and around Oxford. Oxford River Cruises offers a range of luxury boat trips, sightseeing tours and unique picnic cruises in the heart of the historic city of Oxford. Their vessels provide a comfortable and intimate setting for an unforgettable river experience and one of the most memorable things to do during your visit to Oxford.

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Oxford River Cruise with Afternoon Tea 2024

Take a cruise down the thames in oxford and have a wonderful river experience while enjoying typical afternoon tea, about oxford sightseeing river cruise.

Explore one of England’s most famous cities by going on a lovely afternoon tea cruise along the Thames River. Indulge in the typical English tradition of afternoon tea with abundant opportunities to spot wildlife during your sightseeing river cruise.

DESCRIPTION

Oxford afternoon tea river cruise.

There is no better way to enjoy the stunning scenery of Oxford and a traditional spot of English Afternoon tea than on a calm and picturesque river cruise. See Oxford’s sandstone college buildings and pastoral greens. Get a glimpse of quintessential England and genuinely enjoy the afternoon tea on your cruise down the Thames river.

Cruise the tranquil water meadows, observe the fascinating buildings combined with countryside nature and enjoy getting to know the city of Oxford from a different perspective. Get to know the river life of Oxford on this splendid boat trip on the Thames River.

Pass along the University’s Regatta course and observe the college boat house. You’ll also arrive at Iffley Lock, where the Oxford boating culture is most prominent. While you enjoy your tea, you’ll see Rose Island, a favorite spot of Lewis Carroll.

• 1.5-hour sightseeing river cruise
• Traditional English Afternoon tea
• Live commentary on board
• Additional food and beverages (available at the departure point before the cruise departs)

Meeting Point

The meeting point of the Oxford River Cruise is at The Folly restaurant. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour starting time and have your smartphone ticket ready.

UNCOVER THE BEAUTY OF OXFORD BY GOING ON A RIVER THAMES CRUISE WITH AFTERNOON TEA!

An experience you don’t want to miss!

Indulge your senses by booking this Oxford river cruise. Get an authentic taste of England with a delicious afternoon tea.

See some of Oxford’s most famous landmarks, and pass Christ Church Meadows and university colleges.

Pass through Iffley Lock and onto serene waters where willows hang over the water and wildlife flourishes.

How long does the Oxford River cruise last?

What do oxford cruises offer, what is the best way to explore oxford, this tour is selling fast why wait and miss your spot, easy & fast online booking process, good to know before you go.

• Please arrive at the tour meeting point 15 minutes before departure.
• Any additional food and drinks are not included in the cruise price.
• This tour isn't suitable for wheelchair users.

Perfect Experience!

I highly recommend this cruise if you’re visiting Oxford! From perfect nature to tasty sweets and finger sandwiches - everything was wonderful. We enjoyed a peaceful cruise and saw Oxford from a new perspective which was very lovely.

Lovely tour

Great experience in Oxford! I had a lovely time driving around the Thames River on a cruise boat. The trees form a picture-perfect scenery and an amazing background for your traditional English Afternoon Tea. We saw the Folly Bridge, Christ Church Meadows, and training rowing crews' punts.

Book Your Oxford River Cruise with an English Afternoon experience Right Away!

• Free cancellation
• Reserve now & pay later
• Easy booking process!

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10 Gorgeous Oxford Boat Trips (Where To Hire a Boat)

Insider Oxford is supported by readers like you. If you buy something through the links on the website, I may earn a small commission. Cheers! Learn More

Dreaming of taking a boat trip in Oxford? Oxford’s rivers and canals deserve exploration. These are the best places for boat hire in Oxford. 

So you’ve decided to go on an Oxford boat trip? Your next step is deciding which Oxford boat rental is for you. 

Depending on the service you choose, you may go on a guided tour with others or hire a private boat that you can enjoy with your friends. 

Take your pick from these recommendations. 

Best Boat Trips in Oxford 

Oxford sightseeing river cruise.

If you’re looking for another brilliant excursion, then the scenic sightseeing cruise with gourmet picnic could be for you. This outstanding sightseeing river cruise lasts 2.5 hours, taking in numerous landmarks. 

The scenery along the river in Oxford is gorgeous, and you’ll see sights such as Folly Bridge, the Head of the River, and Christchurch College and Meadows. This cruise offers a gourmet picnic that typically features homemade tart or quiche, finger sandwiches, and homemade scones accompanied by clotted cream and jam. 

Book The Scenic River Cruise Here

Row Along the Isis

You’ll have the chance to traverse the Isis section of the Thames River in the Oxford Experience Cruise . With this 50-minute boat trip, you’ll explore the Thames River along the University Regatta Course. 

You’ll see Folly Bridge, an ancient landmark, as well as Christ Church College and Meadows. As well, you’ll have the chance to glimpse the university rowing houses. It makes sense that these are located here, as the Isis is one of the most important rowing locations for the university. 

A bit confusingly, the name “the Isis” is sometimes used to describe the whole of the Thames. However, you’ll usually only hear it at Oxford. 

Book The Oxford Experience Cruise Here

Punting Along the River Cherwell

We highly recommend experiencing punting on the River Cherwell, as there are so many iconic sites to see on its banks. You can do this by going on the Oxford University: Combo Walking & Punting Tour with Alumni . 

This relaxing tour is led by Oxford graduates, who provide expert knowledge and insight into the city and university’s history. The River Cherwell punting portion of this tour lasts for 30 minutes, and follows the walking tour. 

Book The Oxford University Walking & Punting Tour Here 

Oxford Afternoon Tea River Cruise

The 1.5 hour Oxford Afternoon Tea River Cruise is a must-visit when sightseeing in Oxford. What’s more, there’s little that is as quintessentially British as afternoon tea. Tea and Oxford? The perfect combination. 

One of the most scenic river trips in Oxford, you’ll take in the majestic sights through the Iffley Lock and experience Water Meadows. 

Book The Afternoon Tea River Cruise Here

Isis Punting Tour with Optional Walking Tour

If you want to go punting on the Isis, then consider booking this Oxford punting river trip with an optional walking tour . As one of the more popular Oxford boat tours, it has a variable duration, ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours. 

Taking a punting tour can be a fascinating way to discover Oxford’s centuries-old traditions and landmarks. Punting or rowing is the most significant recreational activity in Oxford, and this trip will offer you the chance to learn all about how it is done. 

Book The Isis Punting Tour Here

Oxford Canal Boat Hire

Oxford canal boats are a great means to explore the area. There are popular tours available , including a narrowboat. These are ideal for touring the Oxford canal and the numerous historic sites that are dotted along the banks. 

Each vessel has its own name and background. A favourite is the Balliol, and the company points out it’s perfect for a family trip. 

Book The Canal Boat Here

Evening Cocktail Cruise

For something even more sophisticated and exciting, consider an evening cocktail cruise that starts at sunset. 

The evening cocktail cruise by Oxford River Cruises holds itself to the highest standards, and provides both tranquillity and conviviality as you cruise down the Thames River. 

Book The Evening Cocktail Cruise Here

Tasting Menu Cruise 

Looking to indulge? Consider a 30-minute cruise followed by a six-course tasting menu with The Folly Restaurant . If you want to go all out and enjoy the most luxurious experience with your Oxford river cruise, this is a great option to look at. 

Once at The Folly, you’ll find exquisite meal choices perfect for an irresistibly decadent experience. 

Book The Tasting Menu Cruise Here

Cruise with a Picnic

Another great option with a tasty meal is the Oxford Picnic Cruise . You are given a delicious picnic lunch catered by The Folly. Your picnic will include an array of classically British finger sandwiches, tart or quiche of the day, scones with jam and clotted cream, and more.

This cruise offers excellent views of the University boathouses and Christchurch College and Meadows. 

Book The Picnic Cruise Here

Oxford Cruise with Edwardian River Launch

If you’re a history enthusiast, go for an Oxford cruise with an Edwardian River Launch . While you learn about Oxford history on the other excursions we’ve mentioned, this specific cruise goes to greater depths. The skipper is especially knowledgeable. This cruise is a great way to view Folly Bridge. 

Book The Edwardian River Cruise Here

Practical Tips for Boating in Oxford 

Let’s look at some practical tips for boating in Oxford. 

Places to Get a Boat 

Of course, boating in Oxford means you need to find a boat or a punt, depending on which you prefer. There are both chauffeured and self-drive boats available, and there are different types to choose from. 

A boat ride in Oxford is a memorable experience, so take your time choosing the right one for you. There are rowing boats for hire in Oxford, as well as pedalos and basic punts. 

Boating in Oxford can be a little intimidating at first, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly. The locals are friendly and will be happy to give you tips. 

How to Take a Boat on the River

If you’ve never boated before, you will want to start slowly. If you’re going on an independent trip on the Thames River, begin somewhere quiet and less challenging. 

Always stay near the shore, not pushing yourself past your skill. Whether you’re looking for a canal boat or a rowing boat, a boat hire in Oxford is one of the best ways to go on a city adventure. 

Need to Work on Your Punting Technique? 

If you have a punt, position yourself at the rear end. You’ll want to be partially facing a side of the boat, and for most people, the right side is appropriate. 

Hold the pole. Keep it vertical and aligned with the punt side. Slightly relax your grip, letting the pole slip a bit. Continue until you sense it coming in contact with the riverbed. 

Once you’ve accomplished this correct position, you are ready to start making your punt move on the river. 

Oxford Boating Destinations: Map

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You are here: Things to Do > Salter Steamers Ltd - Oxford

Salter Steamers Ltd - Oxford

Type: boat trip.

Tel: +44 (0)1865 243421

Fax : +44 (0)1865 248185

Visit Website

Salter's Steamers is a family firm that has provided first-class hospitality on the Royal River Thames for over 150 years (est. 1858). Cruises combine traditional style, contemporary comforts and the highest modern standards combined with some of the most beautiful scenery in England. They operate from a number of locations along the river including Reading. They also offer boat hire and boat sales.

Scheduled Public Trip: Oxford to Abingdon Service

Daily in season from 25th May to 8th September 2019.

NEW: BUY TWO ADULT RETURN TICKETS GET ONE CHILD RETURN FREE This is one of the most popular services which starts by Christ Church Meadows and finishes in the picturesque market town of Abingdon. Highlights include:

Christ Church Meadows, Oxford University intercollegiate regatta course, House, Iffley Church (Norman Era) and Iffley Lock, Rose Island and the house that was once the "Swan Inn", Sandford Lock (deepest lock on the non-tidal Thames- 8'10"), Radley (St Peter's) College Boathouse, magnificent Nuneham House (built in 1756 for the First Earl of Harcourt), Carfax Conduit, Culham Motocross, Abingdon Lock and nearby Abbey Grounds. The journey also links two hugely popular waterside pubs the Head of the River pub at Oxford and the Nag's Head at Abingdon. Boats depart from Folly Bridge, Oxford at 9.15am and 2.30pm stopping at Iffley Lock and Sandford Lock before reaching Abingdon (Abingdon Bridge Marine) at 11.05am or 4.30pm – Total cruising time around 2 hours.

The return journey leaves Abingdon at 11.15am and 4.45pm returning to Oxford at 1.15pm and 6.30pm.

Enjoy time in Abingdon . Explore the Abbey Buildings or walk along the Thames Path National Trail to Abingdon Lock.

Prices for full return journey are: Adult £20.80, Senior £19.80, Child £11.70. See the website for all prices.

Short Trips from Oxford

• 40 Minute return trips to Iffley Lock daily from 1st April to end of October 2019: 11:00, 12:00, 13:00,14:00, 15:00, 16:00 & 17:00 (Subject to weather). Adult £8.00    Child £4.50     Children under 3 go free
• 2.5 Hour Trip daily from 1st April to end of October 2019: Departing at 12:00 Alice in Wonderland Cruise     Adult £20.00     Child £12.00     Children under 3 go free Lunchtime Picnic Cruise          Adult £32.50     Child £24.50     Children under 3 go free

Punting and Boat Hire in Oxford

Open from Easter to October according to weather. Our boat hire pontoon is located outside the Head of the River pub.

• Oxford Boat Hire from Folly Bridge - A wide variety of self-drive craft is available for hire from rowing boats, electric motorboats or diesel day boats. From £20 per hour (self-powered) or from £45 per hour motorboat.
• Punting Hire from Folly Bridge - Why not try your hand at punting? This remains one of the most enjoyable summer activities and a quintessential pastime for Oxonians. 
• Chauffeured punt service is available for £60.00 an hour if booked in advance.

See website for full list of prices. All boats are hired on a first-come first-serve basis. An advance booking service is available on all of the day boats (these must be pre-paid for). Self-powered craft (such as punts) can be pre-ordered, but only if more than one is required. The timings of advanced booking cannot be changed once they are reserved. 

The hire-fleet boats are also available for purchase (all built to order). Click here for more information on boat sales. 

Scheduled public trips operate from every major location between Oxford and Staines. Boat charter is also available for corporate hospitality and weddings.

TripAdvisor

Map & directions, road directions.

Oxford (Folly Bridge). Salters' boats depart from below head office on Folly bridge (which is the road which links St Aldates to the Abingdon road - nearest postcode is OX1 4LA). Approach the city from the south, taking the Abingdon road (A4144) into Oxford from the Redbridge roundabout. The landing stage is on the right hand side as you pass over Folly bridge (on the opposite side of the river from the well-known riverside pub Head of the River). Nearest parking is at the Westgate shopping centre on Oxpens road or customers can use the Park and Ride from the Redbridge roundabout. Oxford train station is 0.8 miles from Folly bridge and coach parking is on the Oxpens road by the Oxford ice-rink.

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Oxford by Boat

Oxford nestles between two rivers – the cherwell and the isis (the local name for the thames), famed for providing the inspiration for lewis carroll’s alice in wonderland stories and the place where oxford’s tradition of rowing began. after your walking tour of the city why not take a relaxing boat trip on one of oxford’s rivers, boat trip to sandford or abingdon (half-day).

Take a Salter’s Steamer from Folly Bridge to Sandford (40 minutes each way) or Abingdon (two hours each way) and see Oxford from the river.

You will pass Christchurch Meadows and the College Boathouses where, during University term-time, you may see the eights and scullers practising their rowing.

You will see some of the beautiful English countryside which inspired Lewis Carroll to write stories about Wonderland for a little girl called Alice and her sisters. You will also pass through some of the beautifully maintained locks that enable pleasure craft, punts and Steamers to navigate the River Thames from Lechlade to London.

Cruises depart at various times during the day, morning and afternoon, between May and September, and may be taken one-way or return. Please visit the  Salter’s Steamers Website  for further information, or telephone: 01865 243421

Short Pleasure Cruises on the River Thames

For those customers who would prefer a short pleasure cruise rather than using the scheduled services, Salters now offers a variety of day trips and cruises, including :

River Experience A forty-minute round trip taking in some of Oxford’s finest riverside scenery, including Christ Church Meadows, The University Boat Houses and Regatta Course and the picturesque Iffley lock.

Lunchtime Picnic Cruise A 2.5 hour round trip, including all the sights of the River Experience and taking in views of Iffley Lock and Port Meadow. This cruise includes a gourmet picnic lunch. Departs from Folly Bridge.

Alice in Wonderland Cruise A 2.5 hour round trip, including all the sights of the River Experience and taking in views of Iffley Lock, Osney Lock and Port Meadow. All the riverside places Alice used to go! Departs from Folly Bridge.

To learn more about prices and timing for these crusies, please visit the  Salter’s Steamers Website , where you will find further information as well as details on how to book.

Punting on the River Cherwell and from Folly Bridge

Try your hand at this curious form of boating which is particular to Oxford and Cambridge by hiring a punt and taking a trip along the River Cherwell or the Oxford reaches of the Thames. You will pass the University Parks and the gardens of several of the Colleges. You can take a picnic and stop to eat on the banks of the river or you can hire the punt for a whole day and punt down to a typical English Pub – the Victoria Arms – for lunch. Bottles of champagne and towels are advisable! Punt hire is usually per hour, with space for up to five people (including one punting!).

Magdalen Bridge Boathouse

£25 per hour Monday to Friday

£30 per hour weekends and bank holidays.

Chauffered punts: £35 per 30 minutes Mon – Fri and £40 per 30 minutes weekends and bank holidays.

To book, please email  Magdalen Bridge Boathouse .

Cherwell Boathouse £20 per hour and £100 per full day Please call 01865 515978 or email the  Cherwell Boathouse .

Chauffeured Punts from Magdalen Bridge Boathouse

An option for the slightly more cautious: Hire a punt which is chauffeured by an expert puntsman – just sit back, relax and enjoy the landscape. Don’t forget to bring some refreshments. The standard price for a chauffeured punt from Magdalen Bridge Boathouse is from £32 per half-hour for up to four passengers. To reserve a chauffeured punt, please email  Magdalen Bridge Boathouse .

Punting and Lunch or Dinner at the Cherwell Boathouse

A very pleasant way to spend a leisurely lunch or a romantic evening. Hire a punt from the Cherwell Boathouse (5 minutes from City Centre) and spend one hour punting before having lunch or dinner at the delightful and extremely popular Cherwell Boathouse restaurant overlooking the river.

The Cherwell Boathouse can also supply picnic lunches for those hiring punts, with prices starting from just £9.50 per person, and Afternoon Teas are available, by appointment. Restaurant reservations: Telephone: 01865-552746, or visit the  Cherwell Boathouse website .

Please note:  All details, including timings and prices, are subject to change, and are offered here merely as a guide and indication. Please check with the individual companies concerned if you wish to make a booking, or to determine exact times for availability and confirmed costs.

Cruises on the Oxford Canal also available – Please ask!

What Our Guests Say

Call us on any of the numbers below and we will be happy to help you with booking a tour with us.

Landline: +44 (0)1869 340 090

Mobile: +44 (0) 7976 246 967

Mobile: +44 (0) 7860 222 408

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Oxford River Cruises

• Evening Cocktail Cruise

If you are looking for the perfect way to spend a summer evening, this serene cocktail cruise offers a unique way to enjoy the river

Setting sail in an Edwardian River Launch just as the sun is waning in the sky, you can experience the wonderful changing light and distinctive calm of evening on the water, cocktail in hand.

Choose from a selection of cocktails freshly prepared by skilled bartenders at The Folly .

The cruise is a classic tour of the River Thames as it meanders around Oxford. Enjoy the tranquillity as you gently drift past Christ Church meadows, and experience the serenity of the river winding down as we pass the university boathouses. 

Departs from our moorings at The Folly, Folly Bridge, Oxford, OX1 4JU. 

The cruise lasts approximately 40 minutes. Further drinks can be purchased and enjoyed in The Folly bar.

Advance booking is essential.

This trip operates between March and October.

EVENING COCKTAIL CRUISE

Duration – 40 min

Capture the beauty of an Oxford evening, sun setting over the River Thames, accompanied by delicious cocktails on an evening cruise.

PRICES FROM

£19 Per person

AT A GLANCE

• Carefully crafted seasonal cocktail of your choice from The Folly menu
• From £19pp Off Peak, £24pp Peak times
• 40 minute cruise aboard an elegant Edwardian river boat
• See Folly Island, Christ Church meadow, university boathouses and regatta course
• Available March to October

“What a relaxing end to our day. It felt like the perfect time to be on the river, with the light fading and the rowing teams out. Perfect!”

TINA CRANE, BRISTOL.

Experience a taste of river life with our wonderful partner restaurant The Folly.

Float away down the river whilst enjoying afternoon tea. A truly memorable experience.

IN THIS SECTION

• Cruise & Tasting
• Picnic Cruise
• Oxford Experience Cruise
• Cruise & Dine
• Afternoon Tea Cruise

Who was on superyacht that sank off Sicily?

Twenty-two people were on board the Bayesian superyacht including British technology tycoon Mike Lynch, his wife and 18-year-old daughter, and Morgan Stanley International boss Jonathan Bloomer.

Friday 23 August 2024 12:34, UK

Details have emerged of the 22 people who were on board the superyacht that sank off the coast of Sicily.

The British-flagged vessel named Bayesian was carrying 12 passengers and 10 members of crew when it got into difficulty in the early hours of Monday.

Seven bodies have now been recovered. The other 15 people on board were rescued.

Here's what we know about those who were on the yacht.

Follow latest updates on the superyacht sinking

British technology tycoon Mike Lynch was among the original six people missing. On Thursday, divers confirmed his body had been recovered.

Raised in Ilford, east London by Irish parents, the 59-year-old made millions with the software company Autonomy he set up in 1996.

He had an estimated net worth of £852m, according to the 2023 Sunday Times Rich List, and is believed to have owned the yacht.

Off the back of Automomy's global success, Mr Lynch was given the roles of science adviser to former prime minister David Cameron and non-executive director of the BBC.

The Cambridge maths and sciences graduate sold the firm for £8.64bn to US giant Hewlett Packard (HP) in 2011.

Dubbed the "British Bill Gates", Mr Lynch has been in the headlines in recent months over a high-profile fraud case related to the sale of Autonomy to HP in 2011.

HP accused him of deliberately overstating the value of the company before it was acquired by the American technology firm. Mr Lynch denied any wrongdoing.

In June, a US jury cleared him of all charges .

Read more: Lynch's co-defendant dies days before yacht disaster

Hannah Lynch

Mr Lynch's 18-year-old daughter Hannah Lynch was also on board. A body believed to be that of the teenager was recovered on Friday from the yacht wreckage.

She had been on holiday with her parents, having secured a place to study English at the University of Oxford, according to reports.

Her former school, Latymer Upper School in Hammersmith, west London, said they were "incredibly shocked by the news that Hannah and her father are among those missing in this tragic accident" when the yacht first sank.

Angela Bacares

Mr Lynch's wife Angela Bacares was on board the yacht and was rescued.

The 57-year-old said she and Mr Lynch were awoken by the boat "tilting" at 4am - half an hour before it sank.

Jonathan Bloomer

Jonathan Bloomer, the chairman of investment bank Morgan Stanley International, was confirmed dead on Thursday.

According to the Financial Times, Mr Bloomer appeared as a defence witness for Mr Lynch during his US criminal trial and the pair were good friends. He also chaired Autonomy's audit committee.

The 70-year-old was the chief executive of UK-Hong Kong insurer Prudential until he was ousted by the board in 2005.

He was also chairman of the insurance provider Hiscox.

Judy Bloomer

Mr Bloomer's wife Judy was on the yacht trip with her husband. Divers confirmed they found her body on Thursday.

Mrs Bloomer was a former board member at The Eve Appeal charity, which focuses on gynaecological cancers.

The charity described her as a "brilliant champion for women's health and medical research... an incredible supporter, committee member, and trustee of our charity for over 20 years".

Read more: 'Alarming' potential cause of superyacht disaster What we know about superyacht that sank

Recaldo Thomas

The yacht's on-board chef Recaldo Thomas died in the sinking.

He was Canadian-Antiguan and part of the crew of the Bayesian.

His body was the first to be recovered from the wreckage.

Chris Morvillo

US lawyer Chris Morvillo was among those divers found dead on Thursday.

The father-of-two worked on Mr Lynch's US fraud trial and was a partner of law firm Clifford Chance's US branch.

Mr Morvillo was assistant attorney for the Southern District of New York between 1995 and 2005 and worked on the terrorist investigation into the 9/11 attacks.

In a recent LinkedIn post, he thanked the legal team that helped win Mr Lynch's trial.

Signing off the post, he said: "And, finally, a huge thank you to my patient and incredible wife, Neda Morvillo, and my two strong, brilliant, and beautiful daughters, Sabrina Morvillo and Sophia Morvillo.

"None of this would have been possible without your love and support. I am so glad to be home. And they all lived happily ever after…."

Neda Morvillo

Mr Morvillo's wife Neda died in the disaster alongside her husband.

The 57-year-old had a luxury jewellery brand, which she ran under her maiden name Neda Nassiri.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Ayla Ronald

Ayla Ronald, a senior associate at Clifford Chance, survived the yacht disaster, the law firm confirmed.

The 36-year-old worked alongside Chris Morvillo in helping defend Mike Lynch in court.

Clifford Chance said in a statement: "Our utmost priority is providing support to the family as well as our colleague Ayla Ronald, who together with her partner, thankfully survived the incident."

She is originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, but lives in London, her father told local media there.

He said she was left "very shaken" but "she and her partner are alive".

Charlotte Golunski

Charlotte Golunski was on board the yacht and was rescued along with her one-year-old daughter, Sofia.

She spoke to Italian newspaper La Repubblica, confirming she survived the yacht sinking and told how she kept her daughter alive after she was rescued.

"I held her afloat with all my strength, my arms stretched upwards to keep her from drowning," she said.

"It was all dark. In the water I couldn't keep my eyes open. I screamed for help but all I could hear around me was the screams of others."

The 35-year-old is a partner at one of Mr Lynch's firms - Invoke Capital - and has worked there since 2012, according to her LinkedIn profile.

She also worked at Hewlett Packard, which acquired Autonomy in 2011, for 11 months.

Before that, she studied history at the University of Oxford.

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James Emsley

Ms Golunski's partner James Emsley was also rescued from the yacht, according to Sicily's civil protection agency.

The 36-year-old is the father of her one-year-old daughter.

James Cutfield

The 51-year-old captain of the yacht spoke to Italian newspaper La Repubblica after he was rescued.

Mr Cutfield, from New Zealand, was taken for treatment at the Termini Imerese emergency unit, where he told the newspaper: "We didn't see it coming."

Leah Randall

Leah Randall was part of the Bayesian crew and survived the sinking.

She was pictured going ashore in Porticello on Monday morning and is from South Africa.

Her mother Heidi told Sky News said she was "beyond relieved that my daughter's life was spared by the grace of God".

"It doesn't make it any easier living with the heartache of those who have lost their lives [or are] missing. My very deepest condolences to the chef's family as they formed a great friendship," she said.

Katja Chicken

Katja Chicken was another South African member of crew on board the Bayesian and was pictured being brought to safety in Porticello on Monday.

The Italian coastguard confirmed on Tuesday evening that Leo Eppel, a crew member, also survived the yacht sinking.

Related Topics

• Superyacht sinking