Step aboard for the unforgettable experience of a river cruise on board a vintage sailing barge
Sailing barge cruises
Discover Our Public Cruises & Special Events
Explore our fantastic range of ever-changing public cruises and experiences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing morning on the river, a leisurely lunch afloat or a special evening out, we have something to suit every occasion.
Choose from our popular Lunch Cruises, Cake Cruises, Morning Coffee Cruises, Sunday Roasts and Sunset Cruises, or join us for one of our exciting Special Events, Race Days and Weekends Away.
With a varied programme of trips and new dates being added regularly, there's always something new to discover.
Whether you're planning a day out with friends, celebrating a special occasion or simply fancy doing something a little different, come aboard and enjoy the unique experience of cruising with Topsail.
Wonderful trips, beautiful scenery and memorable experiences – there's something for everyone aboard Topsail!

PRIVATE HIRE
A truly unique venue for your special occasion
Looking for something a little different? Our beautifully preserved vintage vessels provide a wonderfully unusual and memorable setting for all kinds of private events and celebrations.
Whether you're planning a birthday party, wedding reception, anniversary celebration or special family gathering, our boats offer a venue with a real difference.
Perhaps you're looking to entertain clients, reward your staff, host a corporate event or organise a special day out for your club or group. Whatever the occasion, we can help create an experience that's truly memorable.
With the charm and character of our historic vessels, combined with the ever-changing scenery of the River Blackwater and beyond, your guests are sure to enjoy something out of the ordinary.
Celebrate, entertain and make memories aboard Topsail – a venue as special as the occasion itself!

Fantastic Food
Delicious food, freshly prepared and served with a smile!
Good food is an important part of any great day out, and aboard Topsail we're proud to offer delicious catering supplied by our excellent catering partners.
Using locally sourced, high-quality ingredients, our menus feature a tempting selection of homemade food, freshly prepared with care.
Everything is served by our friendly and fabulous galley team, who are always on hand to make sure your dining experience is as enjoyable as the cruise itself.
Great food, lovely surroundings and friendly service – all part of the Topsail experience!
We sail from:
- Maldon
- Ipswich
- Harwich
- Brightlingsea
- London
Upcoming trips
Find your perfect cruise
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Sat 07 Nov
Maldon Firework Night
Maldon 2 HoursQuayside seats for the fantastic Maldon Firework Display (no sail). £5 from ticket price to the Rotary Club. -
Sun 08 Nov
Morning Cruise
Maldon 1.5 HoursEnjoy a relaxing morning cruise from Maldon Quay, sailing along the beautiful River Blackwater. Take in the scenic views as you cruise past Northey Island before heading towards Osea Island, then sit back and enjoy the return journey.
Boarding at 10.15 -
Sat 14 Nov
Winter Warmer Cruise
Maldon 1.5 HoursEnjoy a relaxing cruise from Maldon Quay, taking in the beautiful scenery of the River Blackwater. Sail past Northey Island heading towards the colourful beach huts of Mill Beach then sit back and enjoy the return journey.
Why not add a little treat to your trip with a slice of our delicious homemade spicy ginger cake, served with a hot drink of your choice? Boarding at 13.15


About Us
Discover the Topsail experience
Topsail Charters is an award-winning company offering a unique range of traditional barge cruises, private charter experiences and sailing adventures.
With our beautifully preserved historic vessels, we offer something a little different from the usual day out, combining the charm and character of traditional barges with wonderful hospitality and memorable experiences on the water.
Operating from a variety of locations across Essex, Suffolk and London, our cruises offer the opportunity to explore some of the region's most beautiful waterways, historic landmarks and stunning coastal scenery.
Whether you're joining us for a relaxing public cruise, celebrating a special occasion with private hire or enjoying one of our sailing experiences, our friendly team is dedicated to making every trip special.
Come aboard and discover why a day with Topsail is a day to remember!
Get in touch
We’d love to hear from you