The Woods family’s legacy as Thames Watermen dates back to 1866, beginning the 20th century with Lillian and Alfred Woods leading sightseeing tours from the Tower of London. In the 1960s, Lillian championed her son Alan’s vision to establish the 'Silver Fleet', with each vessel meticulously crafted for the Thames in Kent and Suffolk shipyards.
In the decades since, Woods' Silver Fleet have become highly sought after London 'hideaways' with yacht interiors, detailed finishes and hospitality. The Silver Sturgeon, Silver Barracuda and Silver Darling have been privately chartered for film stars, politicians and British royalty for decades.
The Woods family have been Thames Watermen since 1866. They launched into the 20th century with sightseeing tours by Lillian and Alfred Woods from the Tower of London. Lillian encouraged her son Alan's inspired idea to gradually build the 'Silver Fleet' in the 1960s, each vessel handcrafted for the River Thames, in Kent and Suffolk shipyards.
After nearly twenty years in their roles, siblings Thomas, Kate & William Woods navigate the Silver Fleet into the 21st century, pushing the boundaries of events & shipbuilding on the Thames, all from their new central London home, Woods Quay.
Chair, Alan Woods was awarded an MBE for services to river travel in 2020. He is also a past master of the Company of Watermen & Lightermen and is an 'extra waterman to HM the Queen'
