Celebrations
Make your event a day to remember; hire a boat on the River Thames!
Whether it’s a corporate function, a private celebration, or just a group trip, our fleet of elegant riverboats will ensure that your event goes off without a hitch. We offer a range of different event packages, so we’re sure to have something to suit every group.
What type of celebration are you having?
“Everything was absolutely perfect – from the boat arriving bang on schedule to the amazing catering and blue badge guide – faultless.”
FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
-
What boats are available for a celebration for more than 12 people?
There are three larger passenger vessels to choose from depending on your numbers and the type of event: The New Orleans can accommodate a maximum of 125 guests, The Waterman 100 guests, Hibernia 60 guests.
For celebrations of 12 people or less, please see the page for our Piper Motor Yacht, ‘Lilibet.’
-
Where can we go during our private charter?
Generally, we recommend heading upriver, towards Shiplake. That way, you pass through Marsh Lock and see the beautiful views along the Wargrave and Shiplake riverbanks. Then, conditions permitting, we will cruise downstream, passing along the famous Henley Royal Regatta Course as far as Hambleden, at which point we will turn and head home to Hobbs.
-
Where and when can my guests board?
Our boats depart from and return to our jetty at RG9 1AZ. We can pick up guests elsewhere by arrangement, but we must have the landowner’s permission to moor up, which may incur a charge. For more information, please contact the office.
Please note that the charter for the boat will include the time it takes to travel to and from the mooring destination.
Boarding is permitted 15 minutes prior to departure. Early access for organisers is available by arrangement.
-
Is there parking?
For all passenger boat bookings we can reserve two car parking spaces at our riverfront car park. The remaining guests will need to find alternative parking in Henley. We recommend nearby Mill Meadows or Henley Train Station (a few minutes walk from Hobbs).
-
What catering options are available?
Catering must be organised through Hobbs of Henley. For a list of our caterers and their menus please see our menus page.
Self catering is permitted at certain times of the year on our Hibernia vessel.
-
What drink options are available?
There is a bar onboard The New Orleans, The Waterman and Hibernia. The bar is fully stocked and we can arrange drinks for arrival and wines for the tables.
Self catering is permitted at certain times of the year on our Hibernia vessel.
-
Are there any restrictions on events you take?
We do not permit 18 or 21st birthday parties. Well behaved hen parties and stag dos are permitted.
-
Can you accommodate customers with reduced mobility?
Hobbs of Henley is more than happy to welcome passengers with mobility constraints.
Unfortunately, the design of our vessels means that there are a number of unavoidable limitations, including steep stairs, limited toilet facilities, and constraints on what our crews are permitted – and able! – to lift.
We strive to provide all our clients with a safe and enjoyable river cruise. To avoid
disappointment, please contact us to discuss any access concerns before you book your trip. We will try our hardest to accommodate clients with reduced mobility.