The Docks’ annual celebration of historic and traditional boats to be bigger and better than ever
Central London’s only marina, St Katharine Docks by Camper & Nicholsons Marinas, is hosting its 9th annual celebration of colourful classic boats this September, set to be bigger and better than ever before with a display of over 40 vintage sailing and motor boats, in addition to a range of waterside activities and attractions.
Providing a fun day for the entire family, the Classic Boat Festival will take place from 8th – 10th September and is one of the highlights of Totally Thames Festival, a month-long season of river-related events taking place along the 42-mile London stretch of the Thames.
The Classic Boat Festival will invite Londoners to feel as if they have stepped back in time with the display of beautiful vintage boats, as well as providing opportunities for visitors to talk to the boat owners and even climb on board. Key vessels include 14 of the Little Dunkirk Ships, former London Fire Brigade fireboat the Massey Shaw, the Queen’s Royal Rowbarge Gloriana in celebration of her Diamond Jubilee, and Portwey, the only twin screw, coal fired steam tug that remains active in the United Kingdom.
There will also be an exciting programme of events and nautical stalls including delicious street food and drink, waterside activities including free Stand-up Paddle Boarding and Canoe taster sessions in the marina and children’s activities from the team at Sharky & George including an Explorer Treasure Quest, Pirate Sword Decorating and Flag Decorating. There will also be a variety of live music with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and Barnet Hill Life Boat Crew sea shanty singers providing entertainment throughout the weekend. http://en.cnmarinas.com/news/st-katharine-docks-classic-boats-festival-2017
This year the Docks will also host ‘Future Dust’, a large-scale art work made from plastic debris cleaned from the over 40 beaches along the tidal River Thames by Maria Arceo as part of the @Thamesplastic project commissioned by Totally Thames 2017 which aims to raise awareness about plastic pollution in the river Thames.