The 8 passenger Magna Carta is one of the finest, most luxurious vessels cruising the British Isles. The ambiance created by combining a traditional barge hull (1936) and fine mahogany, teak and oak woods is outstanding. Magna Carta has the most sophisticated modern amenities, including air conditioning, underfloor heating, color tv/dvd and exceptionally spacious contemporary en-suite facilities in the four full width staterooms. The upper deck saloon and dining areas sport picture windows and stylish furnishings, and there is a jacuzzi on the upper sun-deck. Her experienced Captain knows the Thames well and your Master Chef will produce a range of mouth watering dishes, whilst you enjoy the sights of London and the home counties from your luxury floating hotel, navigating England's Royal River. Two house keepers complete the crew of four.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1, Sunday: Afternoon Tea at 3 pm at The Stafford Hotel in London before all departing at 4 pm for Magna Carta, moored in Henley, to be shown to your Suites before a Champagne Reception on board.
Day 2, Monday: Henley-on-Thames is surely one of the most picturesque riverside towns and famous for the annual regatta, the most important amateur rowing tournament in the world. We have time this morning to explore the fantastic River and Rowing Museum. Learn in a hands on environment, see the story of Henley – its people and history and experience the thrills of rowing – its quest for speed.
This afternoon we cruise down the famous Regatta mile, through spectacular countryside and to the ancient village of Hurley where we tie to mature trees adjacent to a field and stay overnight. Plenty of time for a cycle ride or a game of boules by the riverside. Dinner on board
Day 3, Tuesday: We start the day with a walk around the village Hurley. We visit Peter Freebody’s boatyard where craftsmen build and restore wooden launches, the men will lay down their tools for a moment to share with us their love of their trade. Within the village we discover the church (1067) and Ye Olde Bell (1135), the oldest inn in the country. Back aboard Magna Carta we cruise down through Marlow and Bourne End to Cookham. This afternoon we are taken to Bekonscot, an unforgettable day out for everyone. This unique piece of our heritage is just waiting to be explored by children and adults alike. The world famous model villages and model railway continue to delight. Dinner on board
Day 4, Wednesday: Our morning cruise to Windsor takes us through some of the most spectacular river scenery in existence. Below Maidenhead some fine riverside dwellings are home to the rich and famous, while the approaches to Windsor give the finest views of the Castle.
This afternoon we have two options: A tour of Eton College. Founded by King Henry VI in 1440 Eton now educates 1270 boys between the ages of 13 and 18. The history is tangible as we explore the Chapel, Cloisters, Museum and other fascinating areas OR A visit to Legoland. This award winning park has every thing needed for a magical afternoon. Educational attractions, fantastic rides, 4D Theatre, Stunt shows, Boat driving schools etc. Dinner on board
Day 5, Thursday: Again this morning we have two options: A chance to visit Windsor Castle. Built by William the Conqueror soon after 1066, the castle is the largest inhabited in the world, and one of the present Queen’s favourite homes. We see the State Apartments, St George’s chapel, Queen Mary’s dolls house and the grounds OR Ice Skating at a local rink.
In the afternoon we cruise to Runnymede. The river forms a natural mote around the castle and our view of it keeps changing as we cruise through Datchet and Old Windsor. We pass Magna Carta Island where in 1215 the powerful barons confronted King John and forced him to sign the document from which our barge takes her name. Moored outside the Runnymede hotel we can visit the luxurious spa and make use of the pool. Sauna and steam rooms. Dinner on board
Day 6, Friday: Morning cruise via Shepperton and Sunbury to Hampton Ct Palace. This afternoon once again we have a choice. Hampton Court Palace is best known through its connection with King Henry VIII between 1528 and 1547 but it has seen 500 years of royal occupation. Adults will be enthralled by the history, architecture and gardens while the younger guests may get lost in the world famous maze or enjoy a tour with an expert guide in full historical costume. Or Thorpe Park - a fabulous theme park - here are just a sample of the rides… feel the heat on the Nemesis Inferno, fall through time on the Quantum, Colossus- the world’s first ten looping roller coaster, defy gravity and plummet 100ft on Detonator.
Day 7, Saturday: Following breakfast, disembark at 10 am and return to London.
In addition we will be running a treasure hunt and scavenger hunt, plus various other fun competition and games throughout the week.
Groups or Individual Cabin Bookings: Most of our family cruises are for whole boat charter groups but occasionally we are able to offer special Family Cruises for individuals to book on a cabin basis. Please contact our reservations department for further information.
Bicycles: There are adult bikes on board. Children's bikes for all ages and/or child seats for adult bikes can be supplied usually at no charge if requested to our Reservation Department at least 6 weeks prior to departure.
Optional Activities: Optional activities, for example hot air ballooning, pony trekking, quad biking, bowling, fishing etc may be available on your cruise and can be arranged at an additional supplement. Optional activities usually require advanced booking so please advise our Reservation Department at least 6 weeks prior to departure.
Baby/Child Equipment: We are pleased to supply travel cots, high chairs, car seat, bottle warmer, toys, stroller etc at no charge but we must be notified at least 6 weeks prior to departure as to your requirements.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- Open bar
- Free wines
- Gourmet cuisine
- Entry fees to excursions
Suite per person $4,150
Single supplement $1,300
Charter 4 passengers whole boat $20,800
Charter 5 passengers whole boat $24,750
Charter 6 passengers whole boat $26,700
Charter 7 passengers whole boat $28,650
Charter 8 passengers whole boat $30,600
Charter 9 & 10 passengers whole boat – Prices on request
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
England
Boating and Sailing
Archeology/History
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