The River Is Our Story: Hobbs of Henley Since 1870

If you’ve ever wandered along the banks of the Thames in Henley and spotted one of our elegant vessels gliding across the water, you’ve caught a glimpse of a story that’s been flowing for more than 155 years. 

Here at Hobbs of Henley, we’re proud to say we’ve been boating since before lightbulbs were a thing. And no, we’re not exaggerating. It all began in 1870, when Harry Hobbs decided to swap his landlord’s hat (he ran the Ship Hotel) for a boat builder’s cap, setting up shop at Wharf Lane. That humble beginning marked the start of what would become one of the most iconic family-run businesses on the Thames. 

Setting Sail in the 1800s

By 1898, the Hobbs family had built a new boathouse – still our home today – strategically close to Henley railway station, which was handy for Londoners looking to escape the city smog for a day on the water. The firm became Hobbs & Sons Ltd. in 1902, soon expanding to boatyards in Goring, Shiplake, Marlow, and Pangbourne. Ambitious? Just a bit. 

And in 1913, the regal Enchantress joined the fleet. Built for the Henley Royal Regatta, she later carried a young Queen Elizabeth II in 1946. (We like to think that’s a pretty good endorsement.)

Through War and Watersports

World War II saw fuel rationing bring a resurgence in good old-fashioned punts and skiffs. We kept our doors open and our boats on the water, because nothing stops a Henley weekend quite like no boating, and we wouldn’t let that happen. 

The 1950s brought more change. Dick Hobbs took the reins, allowing his son Tony Hobbs to steer the business into the world of motor cruiser hire. A man of the river and the realm, Tony went on to become a Royal Waterman in 1981, undertaking ceremonial duties for Her Majesty the Queen. Not too shabby for a local lad with river water in his veins. 

Making Waves with New Vessels

The 1980s and 90s were all about growth. We added the Maratana and Consuta riverbuses, then shifted focus to larger passenger vessels. Our flagship, New Orleans, was launched in 1990 and has since hosted more than 200,000 passengers for weddings, parties, corporate outings. 

By 2003, our fleet was crowned the most luxurious on the Upper Thames, and the accolades didn’t stop there. Tony Hobbs was appointed MBE in 2004 for his service to the community – one of only four to receive the Henley Town Medal at the time. 

We officially rebranded to Hobbs of Henley in 2005, the name we proudly sail under today. 

A New Chapter, Same Family Spirit

The next generation took the helm in 2012, as Jonathan Hobbs continued to build our story, becoming Managing Director. That same year, we proudly served as the official river transport for the GB Rowing Squad during the London Olympics. 

Under Jonathan’s leadership, we embraced innovation and expanded again. Introducing luxury holiday cruisers, launching the Henley Boat Club, and bringing back a long-lost family recipe with Mr Hobbs Gin in 2017 (cheers, Harry!). 

We celebrated 150 years in 2020 with a special gin, Mr Hobbs 150, which even picked up a few shiny awards. Our river journey continued with the addition of electric boats in 2022, and the arrival of Lilibet in 2023 – a hybrid cruiser named in memory of the Queen and built right here in Britain. 

Jonathan also followed in his father’s footsteps, being appointed a Waterman to King Charles III. A poignant reminder that while the times may change, our connection to the river and to royal tradition runs deep. 

Still Making a Splash

Today, Hobbs of Henley is the largest fleet on the Thames, and still proudly family owned and operated. From romantic private charters to unforgettable party cruises, and from a simple self-drive picnic boat to luxury motor yachts, we offer a slice of the river for everyone. 

Yes, we’ve modernised. Yes, we’ve grown. But at heart, we’re still the same river-loving, boat-building, gin-distilling family who just want to help people fall in love with the Thames – just as we did, all those years ago. 

So next time you see one of our vessels drifting downstream, give us a wave. Chances are, it’s another chapter being written in the Hobbs story. 

Ready to write your own chapter on the river?

Whether you’re planning a special celebration, a business event, a relaxing holiday cruiser escape, or simply want to try your hand at the helm for an afternoon, we’d love to welcome you aboard. 

Explore our fleet, book your next river adventure, or pop in for a G&T made with our very own Mr Hobbs Gin. 

To find out more or get in touch with our friendly team today.