Bookings

Zadara sponsored cruise

Looking for a fun, different way to get active, and enjoy the outdoors? Join our sponsored 90-minute boat trip off Mersea Island, designed especially for those who may not have been on the water due to mobility or other limiting factors

Our journeys are fun, informative, and relaxing, giving you the chance to explore local history, spot wildlife, and learn about the environment. As an added bonus, you'll even get the chance to take the helm and try your hand at driving the boat!

These trips are subsidised to make them affordable, and every adventure includes a cold drink on board. Come aboard Freedom Boat Adventures and enjoy an amazing journey that's good for your health, wellbeing, and spirit

THIS TRIP IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO FAMILIES WITH DISABLED CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18

More details on booking page...

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Chrissie Westgate

Fun and History

A trip through the moorings taking in all the wonderful boats and wildlife that thrives in this wonderful part of Essex. The River Blackwater opens up as we leave the creeks behind allowing for a little more power as we head up towards Maldon. The colossus building of the former Bradwell Power Station now laying as a monument to British nuclear power. Next, we find ourselves heading towards the Radio Ship Caroline with its rich history of sending music to the masses. Finally, we head to the intriguing island that lays off the Essex Coast called Osea with its rich history.

Then back to the calm of the creeks around Mersea Island and its harbour but not before a chance to drive the Catamaran giving all the passengers a thrill and a set of new skills.

Tea coffee and soft drinks available.

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Chrissie Westgate

Wildlife and Landscapes

A trip through the moorings taking in all the wonderful boats and wildlife that thrives in this wonderful part of Essex. The River Blackwater opens up as we leave the creeks behind allowing for a little more power as we head up towards Brightlingsea. The landscapes to our left are the beaches of Mersea and its famous colourful beach huts and the impact of the sea with major cliffs and erosion. Turning out to sea we make our way to the Pots where we can pull them up to see what lays beneath the waves. Onwards to the eastern edge of the Island with Brightlingsea in our sights and the wildlife haven of Cudmore Grove country park.

Then back to the calm of the creeks around Mersea Island and its harbour but not before a chance to drive the Catamaran giving all the passengers a thrill and a set of new skills.

Tea coffee and soft drinks available.

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Chrissie Westgate

Seafood Sunset Cruise

Departing the Jetty, we head out through the moorings passing Packing Shed Marsh with its rich history of Oysters and local fishermen. Taking in the sights and sounds of the creeks and hopefully Ron the seal may make an appearance. Once out onto the river Blackwater we turn on the music and hand out the drinks and your fresh seafood platter and bread basket and let you just take in the ambience of being on the water. Once finished we head back to the creeks and harbour to say a fond farewell.

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Private charter

Please contact the reservations team for more info.

Max 12 passengers
Up to 3 hours
Up to 6 hours

Accessible Adult Only Escape

Want to get away from the hustle and bustle and just relax whilst cruising up the River Blackwater with a glass of your favourite tipple taking in the sights and sounds around you.

Take time with friends or new acquaintances to just enjoy the time spent with Freedom Boat Adventures on one of our evening experiences aimed at adults only.

The adult offer can accommodate individuals, couples or larger friendship groups where access for some of the group might be a barrier to participation .

Chrissie Westgate

Accessible Committal of Ashes

We offer a committal (or scattering ashes) service on The River Blackwater for those who want to bid a final farewell on the water. This is a memorable tribute to someone who has an affinity with the water and family members with mobility limitations who want to be present.

Our boat is capable of holding 12 passengers ( reduces by two for every wheelchair user) and also have connections near the Harbour for Food and drink after the event.

There are no set regulations when it comes to scattering ashes at sea or river, but you will be responsible for providing a biodegradable water urn for the service.

Please note that items that are non-biodegradable cannot be placed into the water.

Each farewell shaped with care and guided by your wishes.

We are happy to tailor a service to your individual needs, so please contact us to discuss details.

Contact the reservations team for more info.

Chrissie Westgate

Accessible fishing

Accessible fishing for everyone. Our amazing boat is fully equipped with specialised gear so anyone can cast a line and enjoy the thrill of the catch. At Freedom Boat Adventures, we combine inclusive experiences with a strong responsible fishing policy - because great days on the water should be for everyone.

Lifted by the Tide

Funded through the Essex Community Fund by the Minter Family Fund and the John Laing Charitable Fund

Lifted by the Tide is a weekly, gentle boat trip along the River Blackwater, offering older members of our community the chance to enjoy a leisurely journey on the water, share a cuppa, and connect with others.

Designed for those who may be feeling lonely or less active, the trips provide a calm, welcoming space to relax, chat, and take in the sights of the river at an easy pace. There's no pressure—just fresh air, friendly faces, and time well spent together.

Whether you're looking for companionship, a reason to get out and about, or simply a peaceful moment on the water, Lifted by the Tide offers connection, comfort, and community—one gentle journey at a time.

Cost to cover refreshments and cake £6 plus booking fee.

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Blue Clean Access to the Blackwater Estuary

Funded through the National Lottery Community Fund

An inclusive environmental project based on Mersea Island, giving people of all ages and abilities the chance to protect and learn about the local marine environment.

Using our fully accessible 11.4-metre catamaran, we'll run weekly boat trips and shoreline sessions over five months from May 2026 . Participants will take part in hands-on activities including marine litter collection, wildlife recording, and simple water-quality testing, while learning more about the Blackwater Estuary.

Working with partners such as Surfers Against Sewage, Essex Wildlife Trust, local schools, and community groups, the project supports existing conservation efforts and trains local volunteers to help deliver future accessible sessions.

The project will conclude with a community showcase on Mersea Island, celebrating participants' achievements and the positive impact made on the estuary.

This project will be by invitation only so if you are interested for your group or school please get in touch