Jetsettersblog

Picture yourself in a boat on the River Thames
Luxury cruises of the Thames in classic comfort

Imagine arriving at one of Britain’s best restaurants on a classic boat, having a wonderful meal and then gently cruising away for a memorable night on board. Or picture yourself sipping cocktails in a refined saloon or beautiful open deck as the river slips by. The newly refitted ‘New Venture’, a classic Bates Star Craft, now offers this ‘super yacht’ style from its base at the Beetle & Wedge in Moulsford, Oxfordshire.

Launched in 1960 ‘New Venture’ conjures the refinement of a forgotten era, conjuring echoes of smart set parties at Cliveden, Christine Keeler and Princess Margaret. Offering four berths, and including a skipper, guests will be transported back to a tranquil world of elegance to enjoy the hidden delights of the River Thames.

Bates Star Craft were the luxury river cruisers of their day. Built between 1946 and 1975 they offered high quality fittings with classic design. The ‘New Venture’ at 40 foot is the ideal river craft; sympathetically restored in mahogany, chrome and leather she provides boutique facilities that perfectly complement her sleek lines.

A cruise on the ‘New Venture’ is the opportunity to step back in time, ideal for honeymooners, anniversaries, or a luxury break away from the hustle of modern life.

One option is to take a gastronomic cruise, enjoying the many high quality restaurants along the river’s banks including the Waterside Inn, Bray, French Horn in Sonning and Leatherne Bottle, Goring.

What’s more guests can let responsibilities fall away as the vessel’s experienced skipper navigates the byways of the river for them, before mooring in a quiet spot and departing for the evening allowing guests to indulge in a relaxed or romantic night on board.

In addition an on board chef can create an impressive meal in the ‘New Venture’s’ fully fitted galley which can be enjoyed with friends on the spacious flying bridge or in the saloon.

Flexible and adaptable the options for enjoying this wonderful boat are endless, with charter options available from from one night to a week or more.

Gillian Nahum Director of Henley Sales & Charter, operators of the ‘New Venture’ commented, “This is a unique way of enjoying the River Thames. She is the only boat on the river that can offer such indulgence. We like to think of her as an exclusive super yacht, which just happens to be perfect for the Thames.”

The New Venture luxury experience launches in September 2009, ready for the 2010 season and the cruiser’s 50th anniversary.

For more information and bookings contact Henley Sales & Charter on 01491 578870 or email gillian@hscboats.co.uk

Henley Sales & Charter Ltd have over 20 years experience operating and selling boats on the River Thames and further afield.

The refit and launch of the ‘New Venture’ fulfils a demand from customers wanting to experience the delights of the River Thames in comfort without having to purchase a rare cruiser of their own.

The quality and attention to detail on board make the ‘New Venture’ the river based equivalent of a luxury yacht charter.

Star Craft wooden river cruisers were built by William Bates & Son in Chertsey, Surrey on the River Thames between 1946 and 1975.

The boat builder aimed to produce an English built luxury motor cruiser to compete with Chris Craft.

Initially, the hulls were built using double diagonal construction in mahogany, with mahogany decks and cabin sides. Over time, the decks and then the hulls were made from teak.

The boats ranged in size from 20 foot day cruisers to 47 foot ocean going vessels.

Most of the boats were built for private clients, but Bates also operated a hire fleet that included Star Craft. ‘New Venture’ is one of only twenty three 40 foot Star Craft built.

Her size allows her a flying bridge offering birds-eye views of the river and an excellent place to enjoy dinner with friends.

The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse Restaurant is set on the site of the original Moulsford ferry service, on the banks of the River Thames where Jerome K. Jerome chronicled the escapades of his friends’ visits in ‘Three Men in a Boat’. The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse Restaurant emphasis is on quality of food, wines and service making it a magical setting to enjoy the tranquillity and peace of relaxed riverside dinning.