GoBoat team to launch second site in Kingston upon Thames with self-driving electric launches

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Lizzie Thomson7 May 2019

Self-drive boats are coming to Kingston upon Thames – and you needn't know your port from your starboard to have a go.

Four new GoBoats will launch on May 11 in Kingston, offering budding sailors the chance to drive the vessels for themselves – with no license required.

The electric boats can reach a speed of 3½ knots – about 4mph to landlubbers – and captains will be able to plan a route between Molesey Lock at Hampton Court Palace to Teddington Lock.

Each boat will have a central table for passengers to set up their own picnics on, with space for eight people. Alcohol is also permitted, though drivers will need to stay sober. Children and dogs will also be welcome on board, and full sailing regalia is encouraged for both.

This is the second location from the GoBoat team, who launched their first site at Merchant Square back in May 2017. Currently the original Paddington location has 16 boats running.

Both sites will be open seven days a week from 9am until dusk, and an hour long journey will cost £59 Monday to Friday or £79 at weekends and on bank holidays.

The new GoBoats will be moored at Kingston Bridge, along the non-tidal stretch of the Thames.

Julian Wootton, co-founder of GoBoat UK said: "I grew up in the area, and it’s brilliant to be able to bring GoBoat to Kingston. It’s the perfect second location for GoBoat.

"People love the freedom of going on their own boating adventure and now we can offer access to the iconic River Thames."

For more information on both locations, visit goboat.co.uk

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