There’s a small art to preparing for an hour or two on the Thames. New visitors often arrive at the jetty carrying half their day’s belongings: bulky bags, extra coats, and cameras in large cases. Yet the key to a smooth outing is the same principle that guides our entire service—keep things simple. A boat doesn’t need much, and neither do you. This short guide shares what to bring, what to leave behind, and a few things we’ve learned watching hundreds of calm river departures from our dock at 11 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PL.
Start with the basics: water, sunscreen, and something dry to sit on. Even on cloudy days, the Thames reflects enough light to tan your face before you notice. A small bottle of sun cream, kept in a resealable bag, saves both your skin and your seat. Water is essential not because the trip is strenuous, but because gentle rowing or steering in the sun can be surprisingly drying. We supply one small bottle per person, but an extra one never hurts.
Footwear matters more than many realise. Hard soles and heavy boots tend to scrape or slip on fibreglass. Soft trainers or flat shoes work better, especially when stepping off onto the wooden landing stage. If the forecast hints at drizzle, pack a light waterproof jacket rather than an umbrella—winds on the river can turn umbrellas into instant sails.
For items you can’t afford to get wet—phones, wallets, small cameras—we provide a dry pouch at handover. Still, bringing fewer electronics makes the experience quieter and less stressful. Most guests find they take more thoughtful photos once they’ve stopped worrying about equipment. If you’re after the perfect castle shot, take it on your return leg when the boat faces west and the afternoon sun touches the stone.
Food is welcome aboard, but again, lighter is better. Our optional picnic sets contain fruit, a roll, and a small bottle of water—just enough for an hour’s drift. Avoid unpacking full hampers or glass bottles; they shift when you lean and are hard to stow. A soft lunch bag with screw-top drinks works far better. Remember that swans and ducks, however charming, shouldn’t be fed bread; it harms both them and the riverbed.
Many people ask about bringing pets. Calm, small dogs on short leads are fine, though a spare towel is useful if they decide to paddle. Cats are less predictable near water, so we generally suggest keeping them ashore. Whatever companion you bring, keep a hand on their harness when boarding.
Documents and valuables can safely remain on land. You don’t need identification for casual hire—just a booking confirmation email on your phone. We record minimal information under our River Data Notice, so there’s no risk of your details drifting further than your boat.
One last consideration: timing. Pack with departure in mind. If you arrive ten minutes early, you’ll have time to adjust your seat, stow your bag, and breathe before launch. There’s something about sitting quietly on the dock, hearing the light clunk of hulls against the posts, that begins the trip before you even untie the rope.
A Thames outing is less about what you carry and more about what you leave behind—noise, hurry, excess. At Windsor Rivercraft Hire, we keep every detail as practical as possible so the river can speak for itself. Call 441 753 642 915 or email [email protected] if you’d like to know which boat suits your lightest day out.