Bournemouth Boating Services - Image 1

Bournemouth Boating Services

Bournemouth, United Kingdom•4.5(116)•City Park

Enjoy scenic ferry cruises along the River Stour combined with riverside dining at Tuckton Tea Gardens, perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Bournemouth Boating Services and Tuckton Tea Gardens offer a unique family-friendly experience on the banks of the River Stour. This long-established business, operating since 1998, combines leisurely ferry cruises with quality riverside dining in a beautiful garden setting. Visitors can enjoy scenic ferry journeys traveling from Tuckton to Mudeford Beach, with stops at the historic Wick Ferry and Christchurch Quay. For those seeking independence, self-drive motor boats are available for hire, requiring no advance booking. The ferry services operate seven days a week from April to October, making it an ideal seasonal attraction. Tuckton Tea Gardens provides an elegant dining experience featuring hearty full English breakfasts, lunches, and vintage afternoon teas prepared with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. The gardens themselves create a peaceful riverside atmosphere perfect for families and special occasions. The venue caters well to families with pushchairs and welcomes dogs, while also offering event hosting and private hire options for birthdays, anniversaries, and sunset cruises. Its combination of outdoor water-based activities and quality food makes it suitable for families with children of various ages seeking both adventure and comfort.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 09:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 17:00
Friday: 09:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Tuckton Tea Gardens

Riverside dining venue offering full English breakfasts, lunch, and vintage afternoon tea with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients in gardens beside the River Stour.

Google Reviews

4.5(116 reviews)
K
Kirsty Gallagher

Kirsty Gallagher

2 months ago

I contacted Orin at Tuckton Tea Gardens as I wanted to do an activity for some guests I had staying at the hotel i work in, in Bournemouth. From start to finish it was a fantastic experience. From the initial contact I expressed how important it was to give my guests a great experience of Bournemouth... and he went the extra mile by coming to meet us and accompany us on the boat trip - even though it was his day off! He even provided a boat just for us - so my guests (who were influencers) could get the best content. Needless to say, my guest had the most fabulous time and I will absolutely use Bournemouth Boating Services in the future - both professionally and also in my free time.

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Jane Richards

Jane Richards

a year ago

Lovely experience. We did the trip from Mudeford to Tuckton and came back via Christchurch which was a great day out. The boats are beautiful and obviously well maintained. And the all the staff super helpful and friendly. Highly recommended.

J
Jonathan Watson

Jonathan Watson

a year ago

Had a fantastic day on the river thanks to Bournemouth boating services! This activity is excellent value for money in a prime location, allowing you to visit some of the most picturesque parts of Christchurch and Bournemouth. The staff were really kind and helpful, explaining the boat and providing support and places of interest. We had an an amazing day out, this was definitely the highlight of the trip! Thank you to the team for looking after us!

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Sophie Newman

Sophie Newman

a year ago

Wonderful old ferry boats up and down the river and harbour, beautiful views. Staff consistently not welcoming, unhelpful, especially with getting on the boat and baggage, never offer and always on their phones. Feels like a “ not interested” tone. Hospitality people!

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Jacqueline Starr

Jacqueline Starr

4 years ago

Oh do take a trip on the river its so relaxing and so much fun with my grandchildren ..the hire staff are really helpful looked after our little ones buggies whilst we were on the water and gave little ones life jackets ..highly recommended you go and enjoy the river ifs wildlife veiws and friendly people everyone waves as you motor past xx

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Bournemouth Boating Services

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Bournemouth Boating Services

Is Bournemouth Boating Services free to visit?

Bournemouth Boating Services is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Bournemouth Boating Services dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Bournemouth Boating Services.

Is there parking at Bournemouth Boating Services?

Bournemouth Boating Services doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Bournemouth Boating Services?

Yes — Tuckton Tea Gardens is on site at Bournemouth Boating Services. Riverside dining venue offering full English breakfasts, lunch, and vintage afternoon tea with locally-sourced,…

Is Bournemouth Boating Services pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Bournemouth Boating Services is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Bournemouth Boating Services?

Bournemouth Boating Services is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Bournemouth Boating Services by public transport?

Bournemouth Boating Services isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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