Sailing Holidays and Short Breaks On Board Traditional Thames Sailing Barges

Feedback From Our Visitors

Children's day August 2024

I just wanted to say thank you so much for putting it on though, our children absolutely loved it and it was so well organised! Really lovely experience for them to do in the summer holiday, thank you.

May 2025

TSBT's involvement in the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships is testament to the dedication and diligence of the fantastic personnel of the Trust. The emotional departure from Ramsgate was heart-felt. The sheer volume and generosity of the visitors in Dunkirk was overwhelming. The crews' professionalism, patience and skill are second to none. Boarding our registered historic vessels enables individuals to become part of history. Sailing bonds individuals and nations through order, tradition, skill, and synergy... be part of it!

A wonderful experience with great sailing time.

This trip MUST be repeated. It was an unforgettable experience and thanks goes to all onboard who represented Pudge and TSBT so enthusiastically.

Friendly, knowledgable, highly competent crew. Comfortable, well-fitted, immaculate barge. An amazing trip to Dunkirk to join the 85th anniversary of the 1940 evacuation.

June 2025

Excellent barge experience hands on or just sit back and enjoy the trip , the choice is yours

An excellent sailing adventure suited to all types of people given the stability, size and space on board. I would recommend a trip on these vintage craft even to the most unlikeliest of sailors.

Wonderful experience of maritime heritage, hands on sailing, companionship and relaxation.

I was a last-minute addition to the river cruise, sailing from Harwich, that my sister and friends had signed up for. I am so glad that I was invited to join their party. We sailed on Pudge with an excellent crew and congenial companions - 14 of us in all. As my first experience of sailing on a magnificent Thames sailing barge, this trip was perfect, helped by the exceptional weather. Everyone mucks in to assist the crew and prepare meals, so we quickly get to know each other and feel part of the ship’s company. I would certainly recommend this cruise on such a beautiful vessel.

July 2025

TSBT can offer an experience like no other. This is down to the staff expertise and facilities. For those who enjoy adventure it is perfect for you.

My time on the historic sailing barge Centaur with my friends was a memory I will hold onto for the rest of my life! Getting involved in the sailing of the barge and having fun with my friends and the crew was a unique experience I would recommend to anyone!

Incredible way to spend my 30th with friends. Unforgettable experience - cannot recommend enough!

Most memorable weekend charter, taking part in sailing a barge, cooking in the galley and seeing porpoises each day was just incredible. I couldn’t recommend the trip more, thank you.

We booked as a group with TSBT to spend a birthday weekend on Centaur. Everyone had a fantastic weekend experiencing life on a sailing barge. The crew were fantastic and encouraged us to get involved with sailing. There are plenty kitchen amenities to cook and a large dining and seating area. To top it off the views are beautiful and we saw porpoise on both days!

August 2025

Nothing comes close to looking up at the taut red canvas of a Thames Sailing Barge as she tacks her way up the Blackwater estuary, especially if you are responsible for steering her. We were part of a mixed paying and training crew on a weekend afloat from Maldon and even the weather cooperated to make this a special trip. From start to finish the professionalism and genuine friendliness of the crew shone out and we were entertained, educated and kept safe.  Throughout the trip, we were encouraged to join in under numerous watchful eyes and gentle reminders  to “stay behind the horse”.   The highlights for us were Pudge under sail and the camaraderie of the people on board. Where else can you find yourself casting off at midnight, wresting ropes on deck in bright sunshine and then be entrained by a communal singing session in the cabin at night? We can recommend this as an adventure to any land-locked, inexperienced wanna-be salty sea dogs equipped with sou’westers, sensible footwear and suncream – you will need them all!

I have been a member for over 50 years, on and off, and try to have one sail a year and the one-day sail is perfect for me. I hope to be fit enough to do the same next year.

Would recommend TBST to anybody who wants an experience that is fun and exciting but also challenges.

Knowledgeable and friendly crew who share their enthusiasm with their guests.