Meet the river-based charity helping to make the Thames accessible for all

By Nub News Reporter

21st Apr 2023 | Local News

The royal borough of Richmond is perfectly placed for residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the River Thames.

Whether that might be via a leisurely riverside stroll, a bite to eat at a nearby cafe or restaurant, or boarding a boat for a river cruise.

Unfortunately though, experiencing the tranquility of the Thames is not always as easy for some, which is where the river-based charity The River Thames Boat Project comes in.

With a decorated 32-year history, the charity provides therapeutic cruises for people of all ages, particularly the elderly and those with a special need, disability or mental health condition.

The organisation's two community boats, Thames Venturer and Thames Discoverer, are located at The Barge Dock in Canbury Gardens of Kingston, and treat groups of up to 12 people from Teddington or Kingston to relaxing cruises upstream towards Shepperton and back.

The Thames Discoverer is used purely for cruises, with the 65ft long custom-built river boat boasting large panoramic windows making passengers feel in touch with the river whilst on board, an includes a spacious front deck for those aboard to soak in the sunshine during the summer months.

The organisation's two community boats, Thames Venturer and Thames Discoverer

A small team of crew staff are supported by more than 70 volunteers who provide a warm and safe environment for their passengers to enjoy a period of respite.

Education and outdoor learning is the second key service The River Thames Boat Project offers, with its volunteering and crew team passionate about sharing knowledge with school children.

Typically, the charity's converted Dutch barge, Thames Venturer, is moored for the day either at Teddington Lock or Kingston, and provides an exciting base for young students to learn from its informative workshops including 'Drastic Plastic', focusing on plastic pollution, how it flows from the Thames into the sea and its global impacts, and also 'Eco Venturers', for KS1 or KS2 eco-warriors who want to achieve an eco-schools' green flag, or who are interested in climate change, sustainable technology, and recycling.

East Sheen Beavers enjoy an engaging workshop from the volunteer crew

As well as serving as a hub for crucial education and residential cruises, the Thames Venturer also boasts a fascinating history. Once belonging to business tycoon Richard Branson, the Venturer was also used as a German troop ship during WWII and starred on the renowned BBC series Challenge Anneka during the 90's.

The river-based charity now has an exciting opportunity for those looking for a rewarding role in their local community, with a volunteering open day set to be hosted May 13th at The Barge Dock at Canbury Gardens from 11am - 3pm.

The day will provide a chance to discover how the work carried out by the River Thames Boat Project helps thousands of people a year in the local community, and what you will get out of joining the volunteering team, who received the prestigious Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2021.

As well as the charity looking for members who can help the crew and skipper with therapeutic cruises, there are also fantastic opportunities to help lead workshops with local schoolchildren.

Speaking to Kingston Nub News, Chris Deavin, Chair and Trustee of the River Thames Boat Project, said: "Being on the river is incredibly peaceful and as a charity we work to make sure everyone is able to access its beauty and relaxing nature. People talk about green therapy and green spaces but blue therapy is just as beneficial and there are so many people in the local area who live near the river but are not able to utilise its respite offering.

"By joining the voluntary team at The River Thames Boat Project, you are able to join our mission in ensuring people experience the river and waterways environments to the benefit of their personal, social and educational development."