The Thames Traditional Boat Society exists to promote the use and enjoyment of traditional, unpowered, Thames boats. It does this by:
Encouraging the use of traditional boats by organising rallies, cruises and social events. Encouraging the restoration and maintenance of existing craft, and building new ones. Providing spokesmen to represent the interests of traditional boat owners to relevant authorities. Encouraging young people and newcomers to improve their standard of watermanship. Maintaining historical records for the benefit of members and future generations. The Society was founded in 1980 to promote the continued use and conservation of traditional, non-powered craft, mainly Skiffs, Dinghies, Punts and Canoes. During the summer months, weekend and longer cruises are organized and rallies, regattas and festivals on waterways in the UK and abroad are attended. During the winter months social events with a boating theme are arranged. Whilst the Society's interests centre around the traditional hand-built timber craft so popular in Victorian and Edwardian times, all unpowered boating is encouraged, members with other types of boat are most welcome and you do not have to own a boat to join the Society.
