History of Silver Fleet

In 1947, the Woods family began the operation of our first luxury cruise service onboard the Silver Marlin along the River Thames. Britain was still recovering from the effects of World War II; it was a time of limitation and rationing, so a boat offering such a special experience was a glimmer of hope and a reason for optimism.

Since then, times have changed dramatically, both the fleet and the company has grown from strength to strength. Now in its 60th year, celebrating its Diamond Anniversary, The Silver Fleet - Woods River Cruises, is well known for hosting private parties and events for royalty, world leaders, notable celebrities and leading international corporations.

Chairman and owner of the company Alan Woods was appointed Waterman to H M The Queen in 1981 and in 1997 on his retirement, made Extra Waterman.

Recent history

In 1997, Prince Charles and Princess Anne were onboard the Silver Sturgeon to witness the finale salute to the RY Britannia, as part of the Queen's wedding celebrations.

Tom Woods, Alan's eldest son and MD of Silver Fleet won the oldest annually contested event in the British sporting calendar, the Doggett's Coat and Badge Race in 1999.

November 2001 saw the Silver Fleet awarded with the British Standards Institute Registered Symbol for organisations with excellent systems in safety, customer service and quality, having been assessed to ISO 9002.

Later, in 2005, the Silver Sturgeon played a key part of the flotilla re-enacting Admiral Nelson's funeral to mark the 200th anniversary of his victory at Trafalgar.