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A 3 minute Read by Suzy Hobbs
A Corporate away day is meant to inspire, but all too often they involve lukewarm coffee, beige buffets, and a boardroom with one tiny window – if you’re lucky. It’s time to raise the anchor on that tired format and set sail for something far more refreshing. We can also offer static hire for more flexibility for people to arrive and disembark at different times.
Imagine this instead: you’re gliding along a beautiful river, the water sparkling in the sun, a glass of fizz in hand, and your team actually enjoying a strategy session. Welcome to the new wave of corporate away days, where boat decks replace boardrooms, and creativity flows as freely as the champagne.
Why the River Works
There’s something magical about water. It has this natural ability to reset the mind, encourage reflection, and spark ideas. Being out on the river takes you out of the usual office dynamic, softens hierarchies, and opens up space for real, honest conversation. It’s the ideal setting for a fresh perspective, whether you’re planning next quarter’s strategy, working through a challenge, or celebrating a team win.
Charting a New Course: Ideas for Your Corporate Away Day
- Float & Focus Strategy Sessions – Start your away day anchored in a quiet spot. Set up a relaxed, open-air discussion area on deck (shade and notepads provided, naturally). A few prompts, some open discussion, maybe even a bit of future-gazing. You’d be amazed what comes out when the view is constantly changing and no one’s checking their inbox.
- Riverbank Walk & Talk – Moor up and split into small groups for a walking discussion along the towpath. These “walkshops” are brilliant for team building and candid conversations – a change from flipcharts and sticky notes.
- Champagne & Celebrations – Whether you’re toasting a successful quarter, welcoming a new team member, or simply celebrating being out of the office, the deck is your stage. Add in some canapés, a local musician, or even a pop-up cocktail bar. Now that’s a staff party they won’t forget.
- Sightseeing with a Purpose – Cruise past landmarks or through beautiful countryside while weaving in storytelling. What’s the story of your business so far? Where are you heading next? Let the journey on the river mirror the journey of your team.
- Mindful Moments on the Water – Add in a guided meditation, a yoga session on deck, or some time for quiet reflection as the boat drifts. Not every minute needs to be packed, space to think is often where the magic happens.
The Ripple Effect
What we’ve seen time and time again is this: people come back from these days energised, aligned, and more connected. Relationships strengthen, creativity soars, and the momentum continues long after you’ve stepped back on dry land.
Because here’s the truth, no one ever came back from a beige hotel conference room raving about the chicken goujons and bullet points. But they will talk about that brilliant session on the back deck, the unexpected laughter over lunch, and the clarity they found while floating under a stone bridge in the afternoon sun.
Ready to Trade the Boardroom for the Boat Deck?
If this sounds like just what your team needs, let’s talk. Whether you’re planning a focused strategy day, a team-building escape, or a well-earned celebration, we’ll help you design a river experience that flows perfectly.
Get in touch to start planning your corporate away day on the water, and let’s set your next team session afloat in style.
