Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about renting motorboats in London and surrounding areas. Our team is here to help make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

To rent a vessel from Foxomi, you need a valid photo ID (passport or driving licence), proof of address dated within the last three months, and a valid payment card. If you plan to operate the boat yourself, you must present a recognised boating licence or certificate of competence. For vessels over 10 metres, an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or RYA Day Skipper qualification is typically required. We also ask for a security deposit, which varies depending on the vessel size and rental duration.

Yes, you can rent a motorboat without a licence by choosing our skippered service. A qualified skipper will operate the vessel while you and your guests enjoy the journey. This option is popular for celebrations, corporate events, and those who want to relax without handling navigation. Our skippers have extensive knowledge of the Thames and surrounding waterways, ensuring both safety and an informative experience. The skippered service includes all operational aspects, allowing you to focus entirely on your event.

The rental price covers the vessel hire, standard safety equipment (life jackets, fire extinguishers, first aid kit), basic navigation tools, and mooring at our base. Insurance coverage for third-party liability is included. Fuel is typically charged separately based on actual consumption, though some packages include a fuel allowance. We provide a full safety briefing and operational instructions before departure. Additional services such as catering, skippered operation, or extended mooring at other locations can be arranged for an extra fee.

We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance, particularly during peak season from May to September. For weekends and bank holidays, booking four to six weeks ahead ensures better vessel availability and choice. Last-minute bookings may be possible during quieter periods, typically November through March. Corporate events and special occasions should be arranged even earlier, especially if you require specific vessel features or additional services. Contact us at +44 20 3487 9123 to check current availability for your preferred dates.

Safety is our priority. If weather conditions are deemed unsafe by our team or the Port of London Authority issues warnings, we will contact you to reschedule at no additional charge. You can also choose a full refund if rescheduling is not suitable. For light rain or overcast conditions that remain safe for boating, rentals proceed as planned since all our vessels have covered areas. We monitor weather forecasts closely and will inform you 24 hours before your booking if conditions look questionable. Our flexible policy ensures you are not financially penalised for circumstances beyond your control.

Well-behaved pets are welcome on most of our vessels, though we ask that you inform us during booking. Dogs must be kept on a lead and owners are responsible for any damage or cleaning required. We recommend bringing a blanket or mat for your pet to sit on. Life jackets for dogs are available upon request. Some vessels have restrictions due to interior materials or size limitations, so advance notice helps us assign an appropriate boat. A small additional cleaning fee may apply depending on the vessel and duration of your rental.

Our minimum rental period is three hours, which provides enough time for a pleasant cruise along the Thames. Maximum duration varies by vessel and season. Day rentals typically run up to eight hours, while multi-day charters can be arranged for extended trips. Weekend packages (Friday evening through Sunday afternoon) are popular for those wanting to explore further afield. For longer expeditions or corporate retreats, we offer weekly rates with discounted pricing. Specific timing can be tailored to your needs, with flexible start times available throughout our operating hours.

Our fleet accommodates groups from 4 to 12 passengers, depending on the vessel. Smaller boats (6-8 metres) comfortably seat 4-6 people, ideal for intimate gatherings or family outings. Mid-size vessels (8-10 metres) accommodate 6-8 guests with more deck space and amenities. Our largest motorboats (10-12 metres) can host up to 12 passengers, perfect for corporate events or celebrations. Each vessel has a certified maximum capacity that we strictly adhere to for safety. When booking, consider both the number of guests and the type of experience you want, as more space per person enhances comfort.

Absolutely. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages, including alcohol. Most vessels have refrigeration facilities, and some include basic galley equipment. We ask that you avoid red wine and strongly coloured foods that might stain upholstery. All rubbish must be properly disposed of, and we provide bins on board. If you prefer, we can arrange catering through our partner suppliers, offering everything from light refreshments to full meals. Glass containers are permitted but should be handled carefully. Please inform us of any special requirements when booking so we can ensure the vessel is properly equipped.

From our Kensington base, you can explore the Thames through central London, passing iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Upstream routes take you towards Richmond and Hampton Court, offering quieter waters and scenic riverside views. Downstream, you can venture towards Greenwich and the Thames Barrier. The specific range depends on your rental duration and vessel speed. We provide suggested routes and can recommend stops for dining or sightseeing. All navigation must comply with Port of London Authority regulations, and certain areas have speed restrictions or access limitations that we will brief you on.

Every vessel is equipped with life jackets for all passengers (including children's sizes), fire extinguishers, a first aid kit, navigation lights, sound signals, and emergency flares. We also provide a VHF radio for communication, GPS navigation systems, and emergency contact information. All safety equipment is regularly inspected and meets Maritime and Coastguard Agency standards. Before departure, we conduct a thorough safety briefing covering emergency procedures, equipment locations, and basic boat handling. A safety checklist is completed and signed by both parties. For skippered rentals, the skipper manages all safety aspects throughout your journey.

Yes, third-party liability insurance is included in all rentals, covering damage to other vessels or property. However, you are responsible for any damage to the rented vessel up to the excess amount specified in your agreement, typically between £500 and £1,500 depending on vessel size. We strongly recommend purchasing additional damage waiver insurance, which reduces your excess to £250. Personal belongings are not covered, so we advise bringing your own travel insurance. The security deposit held on your payment card covers potential damage and is released within 7 days after the vessel is returned and inspected.

Cancellations made more than 14 days before your booking receive a full refund minus a £50 administrative fee. Cancellations between 7-14 days incur a 50% charge of the total rental cost. Cancellations within 7 days of the booking date are non-refundable. However, you may transfer your booking to another date within the same season subject to availability, with one free transfer permitted. Weather-related cancellations initiated by Foxomi are fully refundable or can be rescheduled at no charge. We understand that plans change and will work with you to find a suitable solution whenever possible.

We specialise in corporate events and offer tailored packages for team building, client entertainment, and business meetings. Packages can include skippered service, catering, audio-visual equipment for presentations, and flexible itineraries. Our larger vessels feature comfortable seating arrangements suitable for discussions or presentations while cruising. We can accommodate specific dietary requirements and provide professional service throughout. Corporate accounts with preferential rates are available for regular clients. Many London businesses use our services for summer parties, product launches, and executive retreats. Contact [email protected] to discuss your requirements and receive a customised proposal.

Several vessels in our fleet have features that accommodate guests with limited mobility, including wide side decks, stable boarding platforms, and accessible toilet facilities. However, boarding any boat involves stepping from a pontoon, which may be challenging for some individuals. We recommend discussing specific needs when booking so we can assign the most suitable vessel and arrange assistance during boarding. Our staff can provide support, and we allow extra time for embarkation. While we strive to be inclusive, the nature of boating means some physical capability is necessary. We are happy to discuss individual circumstances to determine the best approach.

Fuel consumption varies significantly based on vessel size, engine type, and cruising speed. Smaller boats (6-8 metres) typically consume 15-25 litres per hour at cruising speed, while larger vessels (10-12 metres) may use 30-50 litres per hour. Current marine diesel prices in London average £1.40-£1.60 per litre. For a typical 4-hour rental on a mid-size boat, expect fuel costs between £80-£140. Slower cruising reduces consumption considerably. We provide vessels with full tanks and charge for fuel used based on meter readings. Some packages include a fuel allowance, with additional consumption charged at cost.

Swimming from the boat is not permitted on the Thames within London due to strong currents, commercial traffic, and water quality concerns. The Port of London Authority prohibits swimming in most areas for safety reasons. If you venture to coastal areas or approved inland waters during multi-day charters, swimming may be possible in designated locations with appropriate safety measures. We provide boarding ladders on some vessels for emergency use only. For water-based activities, we can recommend partner companies offering paddleboarding or kayaking experiences in safer locations. Your safety is paramount, and we strictly follow maritime regulations.

All our vessels undergo regular maintenance and pre-rental inspections to minimise mechanical issues. In the unlikely event of a breakdown, contact us immediately using the emergency number provided. We will arrange assistance, either through remote troubleshooting, dispatching a technician, or sending a rescue vessel. If the issue cannot be resolved quickly, we will arrange alternative transport back to base and provide a partial refund or credit towards a future rental. Our vessels carry comprehensive breakdown cover, and we maintain relationships with marine engineers throughout London. Most minor issues can be resolved within 30-60 minutes.

While we require a valid boating qualification to rent without a skipper, we offer comprehensive briefings covering vessel-specific controls, navigation basics, mooring procedures, and emergency protocols. This typically takes 30-45 minutes before departure. For those wanting to gain qualifications, we can recommend RYA training centres in London offering courses from beginner to advanced levels. The RYA Day Skipper course is the most common qualification for recreational boating. Alternatively, our skippered service allows you to observe and learn while a qualified operator handles the vessel, providing an educational experience without formal training requirements.

About Foxomi

Discover how we became London's trusted provider for motorboat rentals along the Thames and beyond

Foxomi motorboat fleet on Thames

Our Journey

Foxomi was established in 2015 when three maritime enthusiasts recognized a gap in London's recreational boating market. What started as a modest fleet of four motorboats operating from a single dock in Kensington has grown into a comprehensive rental service with 18 vessels ranging from compact day cruisers to spacious cabin cruisers.

Our founders brought together decades of combined experience in marine operations, hospitality, and customer service. This foundation allowed us to build a business that prioritizes safety protocols, vessel maintenance standards, and client satisfaction from day one.

Professional team maintaining motorboats

Experience & Expertise

Over nine years of operations, we have facilitated more than 12,000 successful rentals across the Thames waterways and connecting channels. Our team consists of eight certified marine technicians who conduct pre-rental inspections and perform scheduled maintenance according to Maritime and Coastguard Agency guidelines.

Each vessel in our fleet undergoes comprehensive safety checks every 30 days, with engines serviced by manufacturer-certified mechanics. We maintain detailed service logs and replace equipment based on usage hours rather than calendar dates, ensuring reliability for every rental.

Our captains hold RYA qualifications and have logged an average of 850 hours on Thames waters. This local knowledge allows us to provide accurate route planning, tide information, and navigation advice tailored to current conditions.

Our Mission

We provide access to well-maintained motorboats with transparent pricing and clear rental terms. Our focus is ensuring each client receives a vessel that meets safety standards, along with practical guidance for their time on the water. We aim to make boating accessible to both experienced operators and those new to Thames navigation.

Our Vision

To expand our service coverage to additional Thames locations while maintaining the operational standards that have defined our business. We plan to add six electric motorboats to our fleet by 2025, reducing emissions while offering quieter cruising options. Our goal is to remain a reliable choice for anyone seeking motorboat rental in the London area.

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Safety Standards

All vessels meet MCA commercial vessel regulations. We provide comprehensive safety briefings and equipment checks before departure, with 24/7 emergency support available.

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Maintenance Protocol

Our technicians follow manufacturer service schedules and conduct additional inspections after every rental. Engine hours are tracked digitally, triggering automatic maintenance alerts.

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Transparent Terms

Rental agreements specify fuel policy, damage liability, cancellation conditions, and insurance coverage. All costs are itemized with no hidden fees added at checkout.

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Client Education

We offer optional navigation tutorials covering Thames regulations, lock operations, and mooring procedures. First-time renters receive extended briefings at no additional charge.