Booking

How do I book?

You can book through the website, over the phone or in person on site. Please note that our preference is that you book online to ensure there is an available booking, and to reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19.
If you are booking EM, then you can request a booking online for your chosen date and time. Usually, the bookings are approved within 24 hours. This is because we need to ensure we have a skipper available for the time of your booking.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your booking to allow our staff to run you through how to skipper the boats, the rules of the river and what safety features are on board the boats.

How do I cancel my booking?

You can change your booking up to 48 hours before you’re due to set sail. Please get in contact with us via email or phone to arrange a date change.
We do not offer refunds for cancellations unless the conditions are deemed too dangerous for operation of the hire boat.
Email: Harts@boatsandboards.co.uk
Phone: 020 8399 0297

Can we hire several Boats?

Yes, you can but you need to get in contact with us beforehand. Please call or Email us.

Where are we based?

Harts Boatyard Portsmouth Road
Surbiton
KT6 4HJ
Surrey

Is there parking?

Yes there is parking, however the car park is Pay and Display.

Whilst on Board

How many passengers can the boats take?

This depends on the boat:
Scoop: 7
EM: 11

Where can I explore?

If you are in one of our scoops, you have the whole reach between Molesey Lock and Teddington Lock.

Can we travel through the locks?

Unfortunately, not at the moment.

What are the rules around food and drink?

You're able to and heavily recommended to bring a picnic and any other food on your trip up and down the river. However, we do ask that you keep the boats clean and dispose of any litter in an appropriate manner when back on shore.
Alcohol is permitted aboard our vessels. However, we do limit the amount of alcohol allowed on each trip. Our limits per person are as follows:
- 2L of low strength beverage (5% or less) such as Beer, Cider or Pre-mixed spirits.
- One (750ml) bottle of champagne, prosecco, or wine per person.
- No straight spirits are permitted.

Can we hire a driver?

Currently we do not offer a driver for our self-drive boats, however we do offer trips on EM our classic 45ft launch with a driver, cleck here for more information.

Safety

Are lifejackets available?

Yes, these come free of charge for the duration of the trip and are supplied in various sizes.
Adults may choose to wear Lifejackets. However, Children under 16 are required to wear them for the journey.

Lifejackets for children?

We have these available on site, Children are required to wear a lifejacket at all times whilst on board.

How much boating experience do I need?

None! Our on-site team will give you the instructions you need to safely operate the boat and navigate the Thames.

What if it rains?

If it rains, your booking will still go ahead, however our surbiton boats are fitted with overhead covers to keep you dry during your session, or keep you cool if the sun is beating down. Our mitre boats are alternatively equipt with golf umbrellas.

How old does the Skipper need to be?

The minimum age of the Skipper is 18 years old, and the Skipper may not drink alcohol throughout the trip.

Covid-19

What happens if we cannot make our booking due to government restrictions?

If your booking is cancelled because of Covid-19 rules we can re arrange your booking free of charge.

Can I set sail with people outside of my household?

Trips From the 29th to the 17th of May must be between 6 members of your household only, as per the government regulations with regards to COVID-19.
From the 17th of May onwards, the full boat can be utilised with people outside of your household (Dependant on the regulations at the time)

How are the boats cleaned?

The boats are thoroughly disinfected between each booking.

How are we reducing the risk of virus transmission?

We are reducing the risk of virus transmission with regular cleaning to our facilities, enacting social distancing and following strict goverment guidelines with regards to COVID-19.