FAMILIES are being offered the chance of watching Southend’s seafront fireworks with unrivalled views from a boat on the Thames Estuary. 

Browne’s Thames Estuary Boat Trips, run by Angus Browne, have confirmed they will be bringing back their firework cruises on two Saturdays in October. 

Setting sail on the Starfish, a small vessel with a ten-person capacity, guests will have the chance to escape the seafront crowds and enjoy the fireworks from a truly unique vantage point.
The fireworks will run up to the Christmas light switch-onThe fireworks will run up to the Christmas light switch-on (Image: VisitSouthend)

It comes after the Seaside Partnership - a group of Southend businesses - banded together alongside partners to fund eight consecutive Saturdays of fireworks on the seafront. 

The boat will be anchored close to the end of Southend Pier for the duration of the display.
Angus believes the experience is a unique way to enjoy the popular event. 

He said: “If you want to get away from all the busy crowds and enjoy exclusive service, if you want to see the fireworks right on top of you, this is the perfect opportunity.

“This is our fourth year of doing these trips, we do them every year and they’re always fully booked. It’s an exciting, limited-edition attraction.” he added.

Aboard the StarfishAboard the Starfish (Image: Browne’s Thames Estuary Boat Trips)

Guests are invited to bring their own food and drink to consume during the trip, however the company also offers boxed afternoon teas from the much-loved Sara’s Tea Garden. The boxes cost £18 per person and are a popular choice for the firework cruises.

“Most of our passengers take up the offer,” he said.

“They’re taking food out on sea that’s been freshly made that morning and then receiving a great service.”

Skipper, Angus BrowneSkipper, Angus Browne (Image: Angus Browne)

Following high demand for previous trips, the cruising company will operate two tours on October 12 and October 26. 

The trips will depart from Old Leigh Cockle Beach just after 6pm and return by 9.30pm.

Tickets cost £70 per person and include boat pick-up, the two-hour trip and drop-off.

Places on the Starfish can be booked individually or collectively for a more private experience.

Southend’s free seafront fireworks will be occuring every Saturday from September 28 until November 16. 

The final fireworks display will coincide with the switching on of the city’s 2024 Christmas lights.