Terms & Conditions self drive and skippered Picnic boat hire
BBQ Picnic Boats 2026
By booking a boat with Thames River cruise, you agree to the following terms and conditions:
1. Acceptance of Terms. Completing payment confirms your acceptance of these terms. The Hirer is responsible for ensuring all guests are aware of these conditions.
2. Hand Over. Hand Over procedure of the vessel will take around 10 Minutes. This will start at the time of booked sailing time. This is Mandatory and part of the booking.
3. Age Requirement. Boats are available to hire, only to individuals aged 18 or over. Under 18 ‘s are allowed on but must be accompanied by a responsible adult over 25 or above.
4. Payment Policy. Full payment is required at the time of booking, whether online or otherwise.
Holding deposit of £150 for up to 2 hours will be taken prior to departure and returned after assessment of boat condition on return.
Should you not be able to supply a deposit, the booking will be cancelled with no refund. Deposits will be made on Credit/Debit Card.
5. Booking Changes. You may reschedule your booking free of charge up to 48 hours before departure, subject to availability. Requests must be emailed to bookings@thamesrivercruise.co.uk and confirmed in writing. Changes within 48 hours are at the company’s discretion and incur a £40 administration fee. Which will be deducted.
6. Liability Policy. Thames Rivercruise (“the Company”) accepts no liability for loss, damage, injury, or death to the Hirer or guests except where caused by proven negligence of the Company or its employees. The Hirer is responsible for the safety and conduct of all passengers and for operating the vessel in accordance with all instructions.
The Hirer is liable for any damage or loss to the vessel, fittings, or equipment resulting from misuse or negligence. Repair or replacement costs may be deducted from the deposit or invoiced separately.
The Company is not responsible for personal injury, property loss, or third-party claims arising from the Hirer’s or guests’ actions. The Hirer indemnifies the Company against all such claims.
The Company shall not be liable for cancellations or delays due to weather, river conditions, or other circumstances beyond its control. Rescheduling or partial refunds may be offered at the Company’s discretion.
Safe and moderate alcohol use and proper BBQ operation are required. The Company accepts no liability for injury, fire, or damage caused by misuse or unsafe behaviour.
The Hirer must comply with all safety instructions and local regulations. Failure to do so may result in termination of hire without refund.
The Company’s total liability shall not exceed the hire fee paid. Nothing limits liability for death or personal injury caused by proven negligence.
7. Right to Refuse Hire. The company may refuse hire if staff deem a person unfit to operate the vessel (e.g., due to alcohol, drug use or just unfit to control the vessel and people onboard). No refund will be issued in such cases.
8. Passenger Conduct. All passengers must act responsibly to ensure safety, including moderate alcohol consumption, appropriate clothing, and following staff instructions. Courtesy to other river users is required. Abusive language/ behaviour toward staff will not be tolerated and may result in cancellation with no refund and reporting to the police.
9. Safety Equipment. Buoyancy aids are available on request, recommended for all non swimmers, and mandatory for small children.
10. Food and Cleanliness. Passengers may bring food and drinks but must remove all rubbish and clean up spills. No waste is to be put in the river and has to be disposed of, when ashore in a waste bin.Boats must be returned in a clean condition, or a £50 cleaning fee applies.
11. Damage and Breakages. Any damage caused by negligence or failure to follow instructions will be charged in full. All breakages must be reported and will be charged regardless of cause.
12. Capacity Limits. The maximum passenger capacity provided at booking must be strictly observed. Passengers can only board at the departure point of hire, NO picking up of people is allowed along the river bank.
13. Cancellations by Company. If the company cancels due to weather, breakdown, or other issues, an alternative will be offered (e.g., date,). If no alternative is agreed, a full refund will be issued.
14. Return Policy. Boats must be returned to point of departure on time. Late returns incur a minimum charge of one hour’s hire.
15. Pets. Up to two well-behaved dogs are allowed with prior agreement
16. Glassware. Glass items are not permitted on board.
17. Smoking. All boats are strictly non-smoking.
Our vessels operate under Maritime and Coastguard Agency, British Marine and Environment Agency regulations.
