Magna Carta
CruisingThe River Thames
in England

Passengers: 8
Size: 117 feet long
Last Visited: 2007
Rating: Deluxe, A/C
2009 Prices
Whole Boat Charter of 8
$28,200 - Value Season
$33,000 - Regular Season
Individuals:
$3,800 - Value Season
$4,500 - Regular Season
Value Season dates are April 5-May 2 and October 4-November 1


MAGNA CARTA has announced dynamic new programs for 2009. On Wednesday, guests will join Captain Read in going to a pub in Windsor with a wonderful Irish entertainer. Also, they will visit one of two manor houses, always with a tour by the owner. Prince William was a recent visitor to Dorney Court!

We boarded the Magna Carta at twilight. While Glen Miller tunes played over the fine sound system, we sipped an aperitif and watched the rowers race silently by as the sun set on the river. The peacefulness of the scene outside was enhanced by the voluptuous comforts found within. The spacious lounge is lined with picture windows; its sink-in couches arranged into intimate seating areas. The four 200 square-foot cabins are among the largest in barging; the king-sized beds heaped high with fine linens. Tiled baths are spacious and modern. Laze in the hot tub on deck and watch amazing scenes float by!

Presiding over Magna Carta is the young and charismatic Dominic Read, a local Captain well versed in the sights, scenery and historic river tales of the Thames. He is assisted by three in crew. The itinerary between Hampton Court Palace and Henley-on-Thames introduces rich historical sights from all periods: the Tudor-Style Hampton Court Palace of Henry the 8th; Windsor Castle, home to British royalty for nine hundred years; Runnymede, where the JFK memorial may be viewed. Contrasting these high points are visits to riverside pubs, an artist gallery and a boatyard to observe traditional craftsmen at work.

Magna Carta
Barge Cruise Itinerary

Hampton Court to Henley -on- Thames
On the River Thames
Sunday
London to Kinston on Thames
Meet for English tea at 3pm at the Stafford Hotel (at Piccadilly Circus), then meet the Captain at 4pm for transfer to the Magna Carta. Champagne reception and welcome by the Captain. Early evening cruise to Hampton Court Palace, former Tudor Palace of Henry VIII, where we moor for the night. Dinner aboard.

Monday
Hampton Court Palace to Shepperton
Morning excursion to visit the state apartments of Henry VIII, whose 5th wife Catherine Howard is said to haunt the Great Hall and Gallery of Hampton Court, the finest Tudor Palace in existence. Wander through the beautiful Royal gardens and maze. In the afternoon enjoy a meandering cruise upstream following the course of the Thames to Shepperton. Dinner aboard.

Tuesday
Shepperton to Runnymede
Morning cruise after breakfast to Runnymede. We moor at Bell Weir Lock adjacent to a luxury spa hotel, The Runnymede, where we have the opportunity to visit the spa and use the pool and elaborate leisure facilities. We then cruise past Runnymede, where King John faced the powerful barons and signed the 'Magna Carta" in 1215 as well as viewing the J F Kennedy Memorial. Dinner aboard.

Wednesday
Runnymede to Windsor
This morning we cruise to Windsor before enjoying lunch on board. After lunch we have an afternoon excursion to Windsor Castle. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and inhabited for over 900 years by the Royal Family. Moor on a private island with a unique view of the Castle. Dinner aboard.

Thursday
Windsor to Cookham
Leaving Royal Windsor behind us we cruise past fabulous waterside homes through the spectacular Clivedon reach and the open English countryside. We moor in Cookham, once described as 'Heaven on Earth' by artist Stanley Spencer, one of England's greatest and most eccentric painters, whose gallery we visit. Dinner aboard.

Friday
Cookham to Henley - River Thames
A morning cruise to the village of Hurley where we have time to wander Peter Freebody's boatyard where we can watch in wonder at the traditional craftsman at work. Return to the barge for lunch before cruising to Henley on Thames, along the famous Henley Regatta Course. Once we arrive in Henley there is plenty of time to explore the town for shopping opportunities and browsing in antique shops before returning to Magna Carta for the Captains Farewell Dinner aboard.

Saturday
Henley-On-Thames to London
Following breakfast, disembark at 10 am and return to London.

Please note: this is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions. The route will run in reverse on alternate weeks. Contact The Barge Lady for reservations and more information about Barging in England Or call us toll free at (800) 880-0071.

Magna Carta

Guest Book

"The experience was wonderful, the accommodations superb, the food great and the crew incredible."

'"Dominic, thank you for the most wonderful trip. The scenery lovely and the food and service superb. We had a great vacation on Magna Carta!"

Magna Carta Floor Plan

117 Feet long
-Four cabins at 200 square feet, larger tiled baths
-Salon and dining area with picture windows, leather couches
-2 Sundecks
-Spa Pool