French Brothers Boats Windsor
Family-run Thames sightseeing cruises past Windsor Castle and Eton — river trips since 1978
Family-run Thames sightseeing cruises past Windsor Castle and Eton — river trips since 1978
French Brothers has been running passenger boats on the Thames since 1978, growing from a small family operation into one of the largest riverboat companies in the country. The fleet now numbers thirteen vessels, some carrying up to 180 passengers, and departs from Windsor Promenade on Barry Avenue — a short walk from Windsor Castle.
Two public trips run daily from the Windsor boarding point. The 40-minute round trip heads upstream past Eton College, Brocas Meadows and Windsor Racecourse to Boveney Lock and back. The longer two-hour cruise continues downstream through Boveney Lock, past Sutherland Grange and the willows of Monkey Island, reaching Bray Lock before returning.
French Brothers began running passenger boats on the Thames in 1978, when the family started offering short sightseeing trips from Windsor. Over nearly five decades the company has grown steadily, building a fleet of thirteen large vessels and expanding its routes to cover Windsor, Runnymede and Maidenhead. It remains a family-run business, and the skippers who deliver the live commentary are experienced Thames watermen who know every bend, lock and landmark on this stretch of the river.
The boarding point is Windsor Promenade on Barry Avenue, directly below the castle walls and a short walk from both railway stations. Boats depart every thirty minutes during peak season (February to October) and hourly at weekends during the quieter winter months. There is no need to book in advance for the public trips, though online tickets are cheaper than walk-up fares.
This is the most popular sailing and runs throughout the day. The boat heads upstream from Windsor Promenade, passing under Windsor Bridge with Eton College on the left bank. The wide green expanse of Brocas Meadows stretches out beyond Eton, and Windsor Racecourse appears on the right. The route continues to Boveney Lock, where the boat turns and retraces its path back to Windsor.
The commentary covers the history of Windsor Castle, Eton College, the Thames itself and several notable riverside properties. Mill House, once a working mill, has been restored and was home to both Michael Caine and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin at different times.
The longer cruise passes through Boveney Lock — passengers watch the lock gates open and close around them — and continues downstream past Sutherland Grange, Monkey Island and the Bray Film Studios area. The turning point is Bray Lock, near the village of Bray, before the boat heads back upstream to Windsor.
This route offers more open countryside than the shorter trip, with long views across meadows and farmland. The return journey is particularly rewarding, as Windsor Castle gradually reappears on the skyline ahead, growing larger as you approach the town.
All boats have a licensed bar serving hot and cold drinks, beer, wine and light snacks. Toilet facilities are on board. The vessels are fitted with a wheelchair lift at Windsor Promenade, and accessible toilets are available — French Brothers runs dedicated "Access for All" group cruises as well. Dogs are welcome on most sailings.
Special event cruises run throughout the year, including Sunday lunch sailings, afternoon tea cruises and seasonal events. A Victorian steam launch is also available for certain trips and private hire. Group bookings of twenty or more receive additional discounts.
Book online for discounted fares — walk-up prices at the pier are approximately 15% higher, and under-3s travel free on all sailings
Walk-up tickets at the pier cost around 15 per cent more than online prices. Book through the French Brothers website at least a day ahead to secure the lowest fare.
The open upper deck gives the best views and photo opportunities. Bring a light layer even in summer — the breeze off the river can feel cool once the boat picks up speed.
The longer cruise passes through Boveney Lock and reaches open countryside beyond Windsor. The return views of the castle from downstream are worth the extra time.
Walk up to Windsor Castle before or after your cruise — the Promenade boarding point is barely ten minutes on foot from the castle entrance on Castle Hill.
Boarding begins ten minutes before departure. Arriving early means you can choose your seat — the front of the upper deck fills up fastest on warm days.
London Travel Writer · 12+ years covering UK attractions and tourism
Last reviewed: March 10, 2026
