Thames River Boats, which has been offering scenic cruises along the River Thames for over 40 years, will be marking two historic occasions this May with special commemorative trips from Richmond Pier.

The riverboat operator invites residents and visitors to step aboard the Princess Freda, a historic "Little Ship" that took part in the Dunkirk evacuations during World War II.

Wartime bunting and music set the scene on Richmond's most patriotic boat ride (credit: Thames River Boats).

VE Day Cruises – Wednesday, 8 May

In celebration of Victory in Europe Day, the Princess Freda will be hosting 45-minute round trips from 12pm to 5pm, departing on the hour.

Guests can enjoy:

• Tea, coffee and light snacks
• A fully licensed bar
• Wartime songs playing throughout the day
• A festive atmosphere with bunting on board

This is a chance to celebrate VE Day in unique style aboard a piece of wartime history.

Thames River Boats' 80th Anniversary VE-Day 8 May 2025 event poster (credit: Thames River Boats).

Operation Dynamo Dunkirk Cruises – Thursday, 22 May

To commemorate the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo, the famous Dunkirk evacuation of 1940, Thames River Boats will once again be offering two 75-minute cruises: from Richmond to Hampton at 11:15am and 2pm, and from Hampton to Richmond at 12:45pm and 4pm.

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The Princess Freda, a genuine Dunkirk veteran, will offer the same on-board refreshments and wartime ambience, giving passengers a chance to honour the bravery and sacrifice of that historic mission – and even take a photo beside the vessel's official Dunkirk plaque.

The historic Princess Freda ready for VE Day celebrations on the Thames (credit: Thames River Boats).

No booking is required — but, guests are welcome to book online, phone 0207 930 2062, or simply turn up on the day.

Thames River Boats will also be operating river cruises throughout the summer, running through to October.

For more information or to book in advance, visit: www.thamesriverboats.co.uk

This is a sponsored article by Thames River Boats. Without sponsors our online newspaper would not be possible. Thank you.