Thames Sailing Barge Match

FOLLOWING FROM THE MV PRINCESS POCAHONTAS

One way to follow the Match, which is ideal for anyone wanting a scenic day out on the River Thames to watch this annual maritime heritage event - with or without a camera, is from onboard the MV Princess Pocahontas. Normally, there is also a running commentary provided on the barges as they progress around the course. There is also a licensed bar on board, and sandwiches are available.

Copies of the Match Programme published by the Thames Sailing Barge Match Committee are available to the passengers. The Programme will set the scene for the day's event. It is sold at £1 a copy and the proceeds go to help fund the next year's Match.

The Princess Pocahontas picks up passengers at Gravesend West Street Pier on the Kent shore and Tilbury Landing Stage on the Essex shore. See the map here. Look for "Ferry P." on it to work out where to park your car, then print it out. Then use your browser's "Back" button to return here.

A Long Running Tradition

'The barge match had become a popular river event, and to accommodate the crowd of spectators for the 1866 match, at least six steamers were chartered, one, the Oread, being taken over by Mr. Dodd for his party. In 1867 there were seven steamers following the racers [...].'

F. S. Cooper, Racing Sailormen, Percival Marshall, London, 1963

M. W. 2003

2007 Match Fares from Gravesend & Tilbury: Adults £24, Senior Citizens £18, and Children [age 5-15] £14. You will need to get your bookings in early - this is a very popular event on the lower River Thames.

Telephone bookings: to The Lower Thames & Medway Passenger Boat Company on 01732 353448.

E Mail: enquiry "at" princess-pocahontas.com [replace the "at" with an "@"]

If you know little or nothing about Thames sailing barges - don't worry. An ex - professional bargeman usually gives a running commentary for the benefit of the passengers.

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