Swingbridge Santa Cruises

Step aboard Swingbridge Tranquility, our beautiful accessible broadbeam boat, this festive season and glide gently along the picturesque River Wey. Our Santa Cruises offer a warm and inviting atmosphere where families can come together to share in the festive spirit.

Departing from Millmead Island, central Guildford, the approximately 45-minute cruise gently travels upstream and back again. Partway through the journey, Santa will join us onboard with his sack of gifts, giving each child the special opportunity to meet him and receive an age-appropriate gift.

While relaxing on board, adults can enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie, and children will be treated to festive refreshments, including delicious biscuits. Although these cruises are especially suited for families with younger children, everyone is warmly welcome to join us.

Running on weekends from 29 November through to 22 December, as well as selected weekdays during the school holidays, tickets are £13.50 each or £50 for a family of four. Please note a booking fee applies to all tickets. The ticket price includes the cruise, children’s gifts from Santa, and festive refreshments.

All profits raised will support our work empowering local people and families across Surrey to overcome disadvantage caused by low skills, poor educational achievement, limited opportunities, and financial hardship. Through practical support, learning opportunities, and community connection, we help transform lives and build stronger communities.

Important Information:

1. Please note that all children over the age of one must have a booked ticket and will be charged at the full rate, as they legally require their own allocated space. Children under the age of one travel free but must always be held by a parent or carer and will still need to have a place booked.
2. If you require a seat for someone in a wheelchair, please call the box office on 07956 736173.
3. Swingbridge Tranquility is fitted with an all-weather canopy, allowing us to operate in most conditions. However, cruises are subject to river conditions, and in the event of river closure or if the skipper deems it unfit to cruise, then ticket holders will be offered the opportunity to meet Santa on board from a static position at Dapdune Wharf. Any changes or cancellations will be communicated to ticket holders as early as possible.
4. Please note there is a very limited storage space for buggies and prams.
5. Parents and carers are responsible for supervising their children at all times.
6. Only guide dogs and officially registered assistance dogs are allowed on board. If you plan to bring a guide dog or assistance dog, please inform us at the time of booking so that suitable arrangements can be made. No other pets or animals are permitted.
7. All ticket sales are final and non-refundable. 
8. No refunds will be issued if you arrive late and the boat has already departed.