Sail for a Fiver on the Kentish Lady

About

The Kentish Lady riverboat launches its 2026 season on Saturday 28 March.

 

To celebrate both the first day of sailing and the 25th anniversary year of Maidstone River Park, passengers can enjoy the one‑hour round trip for just a fiver on the opening day.

 

Board at the mooring next to Archbishops Palace and take in the sights and sounds of the beautiful River Medway between the town centre and Allington. The Kentish Lady passes scenic highlights such as Whatman Park, Gibraltar House, Allington Marina and Allington Castle. A fascinating commentary brings the riverside’s history and stories to life during the outward journey.

 

The first boat departs Maidstone at 11am, then hourly up to and including 3pm. Return journeys from Allington Lock, outside The Malta Inn, begin at 11.30am and then run hourly up to and including 3.30pm.

 

Passengers can enjoy the full hour‑long trip in one go or stop off at Allington Lock to visit Kent Life, The Little Old Toll House or The Malta Inn.

 

Kentish Lady owner Nick Kennedy said: “After a busy winter completing routine maintenance, we’re really looking forward to getting back out on the river for the spring and summer months.

 

“To welcome you all back – and to celebrate the start of Maidstone River Park’s 25th anniversary year – we are delighted to offer a sail‑for‑a‑fiver deal on Saturday 28 March.

 

“Whether you’re a regular passenger or sailing with us for the first time, you’ll discover so much about the town and its river.”

 

The hour‑long trips operate on a first‑come, first‑served basis and cannot be booked in advance. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Well‑behaved dogs are welcome on board.

 

After the opening day on 28 March, one‑hour sailings will run at weekends and on selected school holidays.

 

In addition to the popular trips between Maidstone and Allington, the Kentish Lady also hosts three‑hour lunch cruises between the town centre and Teston Lock; exclusive excursions to Allington Castle’s gardens, courtyards and Great Hall; and themed evenings ranging from disco divas to 80s classics.

 

If that wasn’t enough, Kentish Lady's owners also offer self‑drive boat hire, allowing you to explore Maidstone River Park at your own pace. A two‑hour hire covers the stretch between East Farleigh and Allington, while the four‑hour hire gives you the opportunity to pass through the lock at East Farleigh and continue upstream along a rural stretch of river to Teston Bridge Country Park.

 

Find out more at www.kentishlady.co.uk, and follow Kentish Lady on Facebook and Instagram for service updates and behind‑the‑scenes clips with Captain Nick and Captain Mick.