Evening River Tour with Dinner

An evening cruise on the River Stour with a three-course meal served while you float past floodlit cathedral and medieval buildings. You'll depart near sunset, dine as the light fades, and return under streetlights and stars. The boat is intimate (max 20 guests) and the menu changes seasonally. Expect conversation, candlelight, and river breezes - a date night or celebration without leaving the water. Best for special occasions and romantic evenings. This is a easy activity lasting 2.5 hours. Group size: max 20. You meet at River Stour boat house. Key highlights: Three-course meal (soup, protein, dessert) included and served during cruise, Cathedral floodlit at night - view is completely different from daytime visits, Tiny guest list (max 20) means conversation stays intimate; no crowded dinner atmosphere.

Price: £45

Duration: 2.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: max 20

Minimum age: 18+ (alcohol served)

Best for: special occasions and romantic evenings

Best time: May to September for longest daylight and warmest evenings. June offers latest sunset (around 9pm). Avoid March-April when sunset is earlier and weather unpredictable. Booking 3 weeks ahead recommended.

Meeting point: River Stour boat house

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

6:30pm (arrival) Check-in at River Stour boat house - Staff greet you, take coats, seat you at reserved tables. Complimentary welcome drink (glass of wine or soft alternative).

6:45-7:00pm Departure and first course - Boat departs as light softens. First course arrives - typically a seasonal appetizer like smoked fish or soup.

7:00-7:45pm Sunset cruise upstream - Cathedral exterior glows as sun sets. You'll pass under bridges and glide past medieval mill sites while conversation flows.

7:45-8:30pm Second course and turn around - Main course served as the boat turns and heads back downstream. Floodlights on the cathedral come on, creating a different perspective.

8:30-9:00pm Dessert and return to mooring - Sweet course served as you approach the boat house. Lights of town reflect on water; some guests step outside for fresh air.

9:00-9:15pm Disembark and departure - Staff hand you jackets. Most guests linger on deck for a few minutes before heading into the night.

The whole experience takes 2.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at River Stour boat house.

• Three-course meal (soup, protein, dessert) included and served during cruise
• Cathedral floodlit at night - view is completely different from daytime visits
• Tiny guest list (max 20) means conversation stays intimate; no crowded dinner atmosphere
• Sunset to starlight journey; timing varies by season
• Complimentary welcome drink and table wine available for purchase
• Accessibility: One step up to board; assist available. Narrow aisles between tables. Wheelchair access not possible due to boat design. Hearing loops not available; background water/engine noise during cruise.

What is included: 2.5-hour evening cruise, Three-course dinner, Complimentary welcome drink, Staff service.

Not included: Alcoholic beverages beyond welcome drink (pay at bar), Photography service, Travel to/from boat house. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Smart casual dress code enforced (no beach wear, trainers, or athletic gear), Light wrap or jacket (river is cool at night even in summer), Formal shoes (heels can be risky on a rocking boat deck), Sunglasses (optional, sunset glare can be bright), Medications or motion sickness remedies if prone to boat sickness. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May to September for longest daylight and warmest evenings. June offers latest sunset (around 9pm). Avoid March-April when sunset is earlier and weather unpredictable. Booking 3 weeks ahead recommended..

Tip: Friday-Saturday only

Tip: Booking essential

Accessibility: One step up to board; assist available. Narrow aisles between tables. Wheelchair access not possible due to boat design. Hearing loops not available; background water/engine noise during cruise..

Operator: Canterbury Dinner Cruises

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Canterbury Cathedral (10 min walk)
• St Augustine's Abbey (12 min walk)
• Beaney House of Art and Knowledge (12 min walk)

This activity is run by Canterbury Dinner Cruises.

Cancellation policy: Non-refundable once booked. Reschedule to another Friday/Saturday date available up to 7 days before..

Accessibility: One step up to board; assist available. Narrow aisles between tables. Wheelchair access not possible due to boat design. Hearing loops not available; background water/engine noise during cruise..

Best time to go: May to September for longest daylight and warmest evenings. June offers latest sunset (around 9pm). Avoid March-April when sunset is earlier and weather unpredictable. Booking 3 weeks ahead recommended..

What if someone is vegetarian or has allergies?

Vegetarian and vegan menus are available; request at booking. Inform staff of allergies (peanuts, shellfish, dairy) when confirming. The kitchen can accommodate most dietary needs but requires 48-hour notice.

Is the boat rocky? Will I get seasick?

The River Stour is calm and slow-moving. Motion is minimal compared to sea cruises. If you're motion-sensitive, sit on the boat's centerline and avoid reading during cruise. Ginger biscuits are available at the bar.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?

Tours run in light rain. High wind or thunderstorms may force cancellation. The operator will contact you by 4pm on the day if closure is necessary and offer a rescheduled date. No refunds, only reschedules.