Boat hire in Reading

Discover Reading by boat

Reading, situated on the banks of the River Thames in England, offers a unique and picturesque setting for exploring by boat. The town, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic riverfront, becomes an even more enchanting destination when experienced from the water.

Scenic River Thames: Boat rental in Reading provides the opportunity to cruise along the River Thames, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and charming riverside views.

Historical Landmarks: Reading boasts historical landmarks such as the Reading Abbey Ruins and the medieval Reading Minster, providing a unique perspective when approached from the river.

Relaxation and Leisure: Boating in Reading offers a tranquil and leisurely experience, allowing visitors to unwind while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Reading?

The cost of renting a boat in Reading is influenced by several factors:

• Season: Prices may vary based on the high or low tourist season.
• Duration: Longer rental durations often come with discounted rates.
• Type of Boat: The size and features of the boat impact the overall cost.
• Port/Marina Rented From: Different ports along the River Thames may have varying rental prices.
• With or Without Skipper: Opting for a skipper can add to the overall cost.
• Extras: Additional services or equipment, such as crew, water sports gear, and onboard amenities, can influence the total price.

Here are some average prices per day for private yacht charter in Reading:

Motorboat: From £616 per day

RIB: From £470 per day

Houseboat: From £158 per day

Sailboat: From £232 per day

How much does it cost to charter a skippered yacht in Reading?

The skipper's fee is a key component, ranging from £50 to£150 or more per day. The skipper ensures a safe and expertly guided sailing experience, enhancing your enjoyment of the journey. The presence of a skipper ensures peace of mind, as they bring local knowledge, navigation expertise, and enhanced safety, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy your sailing experience in Reading.

How much does it cost to charter a crewed yacht in Reading?

The crew fee covers the cost of hiring a professional crew to handle various responsibilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Crew fees can range from £100 to £500 or more per day. Chartering a crewed yacht adds a touch of luxury and convenience. The crew takes care of navigation, services, and enhances the overall experience, allowing you to indulge in a truly relaxing and pampered sailing adventure in Reading.

Where to sail in Reading?

River Thames

Cruising along the River Thames allows you to explore the scenic surroundings of Reading, passing through lush landscapes, charming riverside villages, and historic landmarks like Caversham Lock.

Mapledurham Lock

Located upstream on the Thames, this area offers a picturesque setting with the historic Mapledurham House and Watermill, providing a unique backdrop for your sailing journey.

Sonning-on-Thames

Sailing to Sonning-on-Thames allows you to enjoy a peaceful stretch of the river, surrounded by greenery. The historic village and its old bridge add to the charm of the experience.

Pangbourne

Explore the Pangbourne area, known for its quaint atmosphere, riverside pubs, and the scenic confluence of the Thames and Pang rivers.

Which season is the best to rent a boat in Reading?

• High Season (Spring/Summer): Prices may be higher during the warmer months, when there is increased demand for boating.
• Low Season (Fall/Winter): Off-peak months may offer more affordable rates, and there may be fewer crowds.

Weather Conditions/Sailing Conditions:

• Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures, blooming nature, and generally favourable weather conditions for sailing.
• Summer (June to August): Warm temperatures provide a pleasant boating experience, but it may be busier.

What are the advantages of sailing for a weekend in Reading?

A weekend sailing trip allows for leisurely exploration of Reading's water routes and nearby attractions. Enjoy the freedom to navigate at your own pace, discovering charming spots along the Thames or Kennet and Avon Canal. Sailing for a weekend offers an opportunity to reconnect with nature and spend quality time outdoors.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Reading for a weekend?

Motorboat: From £1,848 per weekend

RIB: From £1,410 per weekend

Houseboat: From £474 per weekend

Sailboat: From £696 per weekend

What type of boat is best to rent for a weekend in Reading?

• Narrowboat: Ideal for a weekend getaway on Reading's canals, narrowboats offer a cozy and traditional experience. Their compact size allows easy navigation through the waterways, providing an intimate and charming retreat.
• Motorboat: With comfortable amenities and the ability to cover more ground, it offers an enjoyable and dynamic weekend on Reading's rivers.

Which places are best to visit for private yacht charter in Reading for a weekend?

Caversham

Cruise to Caversham and explore its riverside parks, charming cafes, and the historical Caversham Court Gardens.

Mapledurham

Visit Mapledurham House and Watermill, an iconic historic site surrounded by scenic landscapes along the Thames.

Pangbourne

A picturesque village with riverside pubs, Pangbourne offers a tranquil setting for a relaxing stopover during your weekend boat trip.

Sonning

Sail to Sonning, known for its beautiful bridge, riverside inns, and the historic St. Andrew's Church.

Goring and Streatley

Nestled between the Chiltern Hills, Goring and Streatley offer stunning scenery, riverside walks, and a choice of waterside pubs.

What are the advantages of sailing for a week in Reading?

A week-long sailing trip in Reading allows for in-depth exploration of its diverse waterways, offering a more comprehensive experience. A week allows for a more flexible and diverse itinerary, enabling you to visit a range of locations, try various activities, and experience the richness of Reading's maritime offerings.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Reading for a week?

Motorboat: From £4,312 per week

RIB: From £3,290 per week

Houseboat: From £1,106 per week

Sailboat: From £1,624 per week

What type of boat is best to rent for a week in Reading?

• Widebeam Canal Boat: Offering more spacious interiors than narrowboats, widebeam canal boats are well-suited for a comfortable and leisurely week-long private yacht charter on Reading's canals.
• Houseboat: For those seeking an opulent experience, a luxury houseboat provides modern amenities, ample living space, and a unique floating residence for a week of indulgence.

Which places are best to visit for boat rental in Reading for a week?

Whitchurch-on-Thames

This charming village offers riverside walks, a historic toll bridge, and the picturesque St. Mary's Church.

Wallingford

Visit Wallingford Castle Gardens, explore the market town's historic streets, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of its riverside.

Henley-on-Thames

Famous for the Henley Royal Regatta, Henley offers a blend of elegance, riverside parks, and a lively town centre with shops and restaurants.

Cookham

Cruise to Cookham, known for its artistic heritage, scenic views, and the historic Holy Trinity Church.

Shiplake

A peaceful location with riverside pubs, Shiplake is ideal for unwinding and enjoying the serene beauty of the Thames.

Goring and Lock

Explore Goring's Lock and Weir, take a riverside walk, and enjoy the village's welcoming pub.

Abingdon

Abingdon boasts historic architecture, picturesque gardens, and the riverside Abbey Meadows for a delightful day ashore.

Benson

Sail to Benson and visit the historic RAF Benson, explore its riverside parks, and enjoy the relaxed ambiance of this Thames-side location.

What is the capacity of boats in Reading?

• Motorboats: Typically range from 4 to 12 passengers. Up to 3 or more cabins for larger motorboats.
• Houseboats: Houseboats can vary significantly, but often accommodate 4 to 8 passengers. Larger houseboats can have 4 or more cabins.
• Sailboats: Larger sailboats can accommodate 6 to 10 passengers. Larger sailboats may have 5 or more cabins.
• RIBs: RIBs can vary, but often accommodate 4 to 8 passengers. RIBs usually do not have cabins, as they are open boats designed for day trips.