The Company of Watermen and Lightermen, 16 - 18 St-Mary-at-Hill, London, EC3R 8EF
     Telephone: (+44) 020 7283 2373 Fax: (+44) 020 7283 0477 E-mail: admin@watermenshall.org

Training to be a Waterman and Lighterman on the River Thames

Here at Waterman’s Hall we facilitate the development of competent and highly skilled river craft Masters. We pride ourselves on our ability in close quarter situations on the UK’s, if not Europe’s, busiest stretch of Inland Waterway. Last year there were nearly 10 million passenger journeys on the Thames and over 5 million tonnes of cargo transported on the tideway. Nowhere else in Inland waterway navigation does there exist such a mix of freight and passenger vessel activity. Add to the challenge the fact that leisure vessels, cruise liners and Shipping from around the world share our river, 30 bridges cross the Thames obstructing the river traffic and that the tidal characteristics can restrict our ability to move from place to place, navigation is quite a challenge.

Those bound to our training schemes obtain a Tier 1 Level 2 UK Boatmaster’s Licence, specialist endorsements and a comprehensive knowledge of the tidal river Thames from Teddington to the Estuary. Once completed the apprentices and trainees gain a Waterman’s Certificate and ‘Freedom’ to operate on the Thames as a Journeyman having met the very highest standard. Those that have worked in the towing and pushing industry can also obtain a Lighterman’s Certificate.

All those that pass out of our scheme will have at least 5 years experience afloat, of which at least 2 years is on the Thames. This has been our standard for decades and continues to date. Most of those bound to the Company start between the ages of 16 and 18 and complete a 5 year apprenticeship. Passing out in your early 20’s entitles young Watermen to race in the prestigious Doggett’s Coat and Badge wager.

We continue to develop and offer training in traditional skills such as barge driving and through the activities of our Lighterage Committee we are able to offer regular  local knowledge voyages covering the whole area and Sail Training opportunities in the waters around the UK.

If you are interested in signing up to one of our schemes then please get in touch by calling 0207 283 2373. You could also Email the Training Officer Alex Hickman on alexhickman52@aol..com