St John Ambulance Waterwing
St John Waterwing exists to provide free of charge
riverboat trips for local disabled and disadvantaged
groups, ensuring that all people, regardless of disability, can
experience the pleasure of cruising on the river.
St John Ambulance Waterwing was established in Nottinghamshire
in 1992 with the launch of the first Crusader. Since then Waterwing
has carried over 4000 passengers each year. The
service costs around £60,000 a year to run. We
rely entirely on charitable donations to provide
this valuable service to the community.
We make no charge to the groups we carry, many of whom include
hospices, hospitals, care homes, special schools and other
charities.
It's so smooth and peaceful out on the water, close to nature and in the fresh air. Most of our passengers are confined in some way, either living in an institution or in wheelchairs, so calmly gliding along gives them a sense of freedom which is great for them.
Barry Gatford
Skipper of St John Ambulance vessel the Nottingham Crusader
The Nottingham and Newark Crusader were both specially
constructed to carry disabled, elderly and people with special
needs including those in wheelchairs. The pleasure of cruising on
the River Trent is therapeutic, helping people to
relax and enjoy being in contact with wildlife and the
outdoors.
Both boats have disabled access with room on
board to allow people to manoeuvre in their wheelchairs. There are
large fore-decks, a heated saloon with low level windows for
visibility. Both have a disabled toilet for privacy but to allow
for help if needed. The Galley areas allow people to make hot
drinks and prepare their picnics.
Our cruising season is from the beginning of May to the end of
September.
Newark Crusader
Newark Crusader was the first Waterwing boat, built in 1992 and
was originally based in Nottingham before being transferred to
Newark in 1999.
Newark Crusader
operates from Farndon near Newark and cruises in and around
Newark.
The boat cruises past historic buildings of Newark
including the Castle as well as the picturesque countryside.
The boat can carry up to 12 passengers plus crew. There are two
trips a day during the week lasting two hours each. For more
information call the Newark Crusader
on 07879420915.
Nottingham Crusader
Nottingham Crusader was launched in 1999 as the second Waterwing
boat to keep up with the increasing demand for our service.
Nottingham Crusader operates from Colwick Marina and cruises in and
N around Nottingham. Our stretch of the Trent is one of the most
beautiful, we cruise through open countryside and through the city
under the graceful Trent Bridge.
The boat is licensed to carry up to 22 passengers plus crew.
There are two trips a day during the week, lasting three and a half
hours each. We can arrange some trips at the weekend. To find out
more call the Nottingham Crusader on
07778002892.
St John Ambulance Waterwing is a division of St John Ambulance
Nottinghamshire.
Waterwing Bookings can be made by calling 0115 840
4231 or 07747567528 or emailing us at
crusader@notts.sja.org.uk.