The Boat
The Thames Cutter is an extended streamlined version of the traditional Thames wherry which long served as a ferry and the design of which dates back around five hundred years.
The 34-foot long boats in use now have six fixed seats and the modern design has been taken from 18th century engravings and paintings depicting life on the Thames. They can be rowed either in stripped-down racing order or in full regalia when the stern pair of oarsmen is replaced by a tent and extra seating allowing for three passengers to sit comfortably. Additional regalia in the form of painted wooden boards attached to the sides of the boats and flags ensure the boats become an eye-catching site. However, for the purposes of the London 2 Paris challenge, the boats will be stripped down allowing up to six oarsmen to row at any one time.
Following the design and building of the first modern Thames Cutter in the late 1980s, there are now just 25 of the craft on the Thames. Owned by clubs and the City’s livery companies, they have become a regular feature on the Thames, rowing in up to 10 events, races, regattas and formal processions a year.
Events
The biggest event the cutters have ever taken part in was the Emirates Thames Nelson Flotilla in September 2006 which was a 200 year commemoration of the Nelson’s funeral procession on the river from Greenwich to Whitehall.
The 70-boat-strong procession was watched by more than 100,000 spectators and attracted both national and international media attention.
While each Thames Cutter is privately owned, they are represented by the Thames Traditional Rowing Association, a recently formed group which oversees and organises many of the events. The craft’s growing popularity with both rowers and spectators has ensured they are making a permanent come back to the Thames and London.
By taking part in many ceremonial events, the cutters are in driving the vanguard of renewed appreciation of the Thames’ heritage. Events they take part in are widely publicised and will only become more so as their popularity increases.
Another popular event in London and a great annual spectacle is the Great River Race. Do look at the gallery photos – super different craft to see – Vikings, corals etc.