Southend Pier river cruises to Kent and Maunsell Forts

Jetstream Tours is offering a sightseeing adventure with river cruises from the end of the iconic pier.

These day trips by river cruiser vary in price but all trips to and from Southend include pier entry with the boat ticket.

Passengers have the following trips to choose from:

Maunsell Forts

This cruise takes you to see the eerie Second World War Maunsell Forts, called the red sand towers.

It takes about an hour to reach the towers and the cruiser will pass by the Mulberry Harbour and Shoebury boom before crossing the shipping channel towards the Isle of Sheppey.

Keen photographers have the chance to take plenty of pictures as the vessel is small enough to pass between and under the structures.

Onboard facilities include a bar, selling alcoholic as well as soft drinks and light snacks. 

This cruise lasts for three hours and costs £27 for adults, £25 for OAPs and £22 for children, according to the Jetstream tours website. 

Families with two adults and two children can go for £85, and under 3s are given entry free of charge.

Lunch in Kent

These five-hour trips across to Queenborough, ideal for couples and groups, operate most Thursdays up until October.

And, on Sunday September 16, passengers will be able to visit the Queenborough classic boat festival and market on this tour.

Departing Southend, the boat trip will take 45 minutes to reach the pier in Kent. The crossing is fully commentated with information about the history of the Thames, Medway and Swale.

Passing close by Sheerness Docks, the captain will also be able to tell passengers all about the various cargos which are handled there.

Passengers will be given four hours ashore to explore this Kent fishing village, have a spot of lunch and take a wander.

According to the website, prices are as follows: £24 for adults, £20 for OAPs, £17 for children, £65 for families and under 3s go free of charge.

All cruises can be booked online at bit.ly/3z03Gse.