There is a speed limit of 12 knots (13.8 mph) on the tidal Thames for all other than the emergency services on a *shout*. In such cases they displace a fair amount of water but so too do slower craft when running against the tide or waves whipped up by a wind. So here below, with a bit of a splash, are some of the boats I’ve photographed in action along Lambeth Reach over the past few years.
The Marine Policing Unit has a number of RIBs, able to reach speeds in excess of 50 knots. They are on permanent standby to attend emergencies and to intercept and board vessels along the tidal Thames.
Gabriel Franks was the first British police officer to die on duty when he was hit by a bullet during the Wapping Coal Riot in October 1798. His name lives on in a newer boat named GABRIEL FRANKS III. She is a TARGA 32 and part of the Metropolitan Marine Policing Unit fleet of Fast Patrol Vessels.
Fire Rescue boat ERRINGTON is named after Harry Errington, a London firefighter who was awarded the George Cross in World War II for his exceptional bravery during the Blitz. This fine, fast, and well-equipped boat joined London Fire Brigade’s Thames firefighting fleet on September 1st, 2022. With a top speed of 45 knots, she is the second fastest boat on the river after the Marine Policing RIBs.
FIRE FLASH and her sister FIRE DART, were in continuous use for over 20 years, and like new Fire Rescue boats TANNER and ERRINGTON, they were specially designed for operating on the Thames, carrying out rescue and firefighting operations.
The RNLI Lifeboats based at the four stations on the tidal Thames: Gravesend; Tower; Chiswick; and Teddington, also make a splash on their way to an emergency when speed is vital. These E-class lifeboats, specially designed for the strong tidal currents and navigational complexities of the RiverThames, are capable of a top speed of 40 knots.
Driftwood II an important element of the Port of London Authority fleet, is used to clear river debris and to maintain moorings. She is equipped with hydraulic cranes, burning gear, and salvage pumps.
IMPULSE is a versatile steel pusher tug. Equipped with a hydraulic crane and salvage pump, she is used for the recovery of a wide variety of driftwood as well as other tasks.
First serving as a transfer boat for crews working on wind farms, THAME was bought by the PLA in 2017, renamed, and converted for hydrographic use.
Based in central London, the GOLDEN STAR is a popular venue for all kinds of celebrations and sightseeing trips.
Moored at Lambeth Pier, ex-police boat GOVNOR has been acting as a workboat for a number of years.
Operated by the London Port Health Authority LONDINIUM III is often to be seen accompanying special boating events along the river.
Part of the Marine Support Thames fleet, PROWLER is kept busy out and about along the Thames.
End Notes
Some extra information from Ben about speed limits on the Thames:
From Wandsworth Bridge upstream the speed limit changes to 8 knots. However, under PLA byelaws “rowing coaching launches are permitted to exceed this speed limit when escorting a rowing vessel for training purposes or during a boat race or regatta”.
Thames Clippers “have an exemption from the PLA that allows brief speed increases in certain of the 12 knot areas, though they must be mindful of wash.”
RIBs such as Thames Rockets and others, are allowed to increase speed above 12 knots from Wapping downriver.
From Margaretness and below there is no speed limit.
Sources and further Information
Port of London Authority: speed limits
SCO-19 Marine Policing Unit also at end of article here.
Dock, Lock and River article: The Met Marine Policing Unit Fleet Upgrade.
London Fire Brigade Fire Boats
Lifeboats on the Thames and article on Tower RNLI
Port of London Authority boats
Capital Pleasure Boats Golden Star
Viscount Cruises
Marine Support Thames boat Prowler.
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