Orwell Lady was built in Twickenham in 1979 and operated on the Thames from Westminster Pier.
She is 57 ft (17.13m) long and 14 ft (4.26m) in the beam and weighs 42 tonnes.
Before being purchased by Orwell River Cruises Limited in 2001 she was based in Poole, Dorset as part of the Brownsea Islands Ferries fleet of cruise vessels and was brought to Suffolk as her previous owner was retiring from his business.
This purpose built river cruising vessel is licensed by the MCA (Marine Coastguard Agency) to carry 118 passengers on board plus crew and carries all necessary safety equipment. Her engine was rebuilt in 1999 and is maintained to the highest standards. She can be seen at her berth in the Wet Dock at Ipswich Port, her operating base. An additional feature therefore of all trips will be the passage through the historic locks.
She has undergone an internal refurbishment prior to her commencing her new duties on the River Orwell. A picture of her new interior is shown below:
The view from her open deck is quite outstanding and from the fully enclosed internal cabin, customers can enjoy the same panoramic views in total comfort.
There is a fully stocked bar and refreshment service available on board and special catering arrangements are also available for the requirements of private party charters whether it is a ~cocktail evening~, picnic lunches (for that lazy day cruise) or whatever may be required to make your river cruise a memorable experience.
The Marine Operations Manager of Orwell River Cruises is Carl Webb. He is not only an experienced commercial boat operator but also his knowledge of the Rivers Orwell and Stour is second to none.
Throughout the season Orwell Lady will be running a regular scheduled service of trips starting and ending at Ipswich Port Wet Dock down the River Orwell, taking in Harwich Harbour and the UK's largest container port at Felixstowe, as well as the historic Port of Harwich. For full details of the cruises available please visit our Public Cruise pages.
Theme Night Cruises
Orwell River Cruises will be holding regular musical theme nights throughout the summer season. For full details check out the Theme Nights Page or contact the Tourist Information Office.
Group & Private Charter
Orwell Lady will be available for Group and Private charter.
Weddings – create a very memorable reception
Conferences & meetings – get away from the office
Anniversaries – make it one to remember
Parties – a great venue for the adventurous
For up-to-date details check out our charter pages or email us at
or call 01473 836680 for the latest leaflet.
we hope you will now enjoy a little
(click on the link above and enjoy!)
