Bristol Packet Boat Trips

Educational Boat Trips

Download a copy of the Bristol Packet City Docks Quiz PDF


These trips are suitable for students of any age for school projects, GCSE, 'A' levels and degree courses. The commentary is adapted to suit the requirements of the group. The City Docks and River Avon provide a rich source of geographic, historical, industrial and maritime study material. Subject areas include urban regeneration, maritime history, urban wildlife and leisure and tourism studies.

All our boats are maintained and operated to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency standards, with licenced crew.


City Docks Tour

A one hour, five mile trip around Bristol's floating harbour in the heart of the city, fascinating for its history, industrial archaeology, Brunel association and modern redevelopment. The trip can easily be combined with a visit to the SS Great Britain or the M Shed.

Boat Max Passengers Charter Fee
Tower Belle 95 £210
Bagheera 55 £160
Redshank 54 £135

Clifton Suspension Bridge

This 2 hour non stop trip includes a passage through the Floating Harbour, with bridge swings, locking onto the tidal River Avon at the Cumberland Basin. Passengers will experience dramatic views of Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge. A longer trip to Avonmouth is available but is only recommended for older groups. Times subject to tide.

Boat Max Passengers Charter Fee
Tower Belle 80 £350
Bagheera 50 £225

Eastwood Farm Park

A three hour return trip towards Bath, through the City Docks to Netham Lock and onto rural stretches of the Avon, where the city meets the countryside. See herons, kingfishers and other wildlife. One hour stop for games or picnic on the riverbank at Eastwood Farm Park.

Boat Max Passengers Charter Fee
Tower Belle 95 £360
Bagheera 55 £285
Redshank 54 £235

River Trips To Hanham

This four hour return trip takes you beyond Eastwood Farm Park and through Hanham lock. With a one hour stop at Chequers Inn for a picnic or to walk the towpath.

Boat Max Passengers Charter Fee
Tower Belle 95 £385
Bagheera 55 £310
Redshank 54 £285

Latest News

  • 21/12/11 Tower Belle goes back in the water after 5 weeks in the shipyard.
  • Check out this photo of a Peregrine Falcon taken from our sightseeing boat Bagheera in Bristol's floating harbour.
  • After hearing various stories about otters living in the harbour we can now pronounce this official. And here is the evidence. Photo taken in St Augustines Reach.
  • Read a history of Bristol Packet Boat Trips here.
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