A TOUR operator is urging residents and businesses to crowdfund a £500,000 catamaran to boost tourism in Southend and Leigh.

Angus Browne, who runs Brownes Thames Estuary Boat Trips from Old Leigh Port, plans to commission a 56-seater tour boat to expand his business and allow more visitors to see the “incredible sights” of the estuary.

He said: “Even residents don’t know what incredible sights they’ve got on their doorstep.

“I want to make Southend the best place around for boat trips. But the city needs to come together to support it.”

Echo: The money will fund a catamaran similar to the one pictured.The money will fund a catamaran similar to the one pictured. (Image: Angus Browne)

Mr Browne, 35, says “businesses is booming” with his current ten-seater tour boat, but hopes to invest in a bigger one to welcome more passengers.

He said: “The idea is it will be crowdfunded, so everyone gets to be a part of its success.”

The 12-metre twin-engine boat will be specially built by Blyth Catamarans on Canvey.

Mr Browne added: “The Thames Estuary tourism industry is getting bigger and bigger. More people want to get out onto the water.

“There are so many attractions to see, with the Red Sands and Shivering Sands sea forts, Mulberry Harbour, Whitstable, and the remains of the SS Richard Montgomery.

“I really want to make Southend and Leigh even more attractive for tourists. With the new boat, we can offer trips to London and even Sealand off the coast of Suffolk.

Echo: Plans for the purpose-built catamaran.Plans for the purpose-built catamaran. (Image: Angus Browne)

However, Mr Browne says the new boat will need a new pontoon at Old Leigh to make it viable.

He said: “The new boat is half the battle. I want to get my own pontoon for Leigh, like the lovely one they’ve got at Hullbridge. Passengers need to get onto boats safely and comfortably.

Mr Browne says he has the backing of the Prime Minister, after he spoke to Rishi Sunak during his visit to Old Leigh last month.

He added: “Mr Sunak backed my ideas and said he would like to take it forward. I’m confident having his support will persuade investors to contribute to the bigger boat and a new pontoon.”

Contact Angus Browne via his website: brownesthamesestuaryboattrips.com/contact/