Sailing With Santa! - Catherine Clark, Dame Alice Owens School

Out of all of the major holidays that take place every year, Christmas is definitely my favourite. Whether it be the dazzling lights adorning houses and buildings galore, the fantastic festive feasts or spending quality time with loved ones, there’s something about Christmas that makes it special.

There are many ways to embrace the Christmas spirit, such as decorating your house, listening to your favourite Christmas tunes and putting on a classic festive film. As Christmas draws nearer, I’ve found myself searching for new magical ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of year, and it’s safe to say I’ve found it. Courtesy of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, I was able to immerse myself in the holiday season in the perfect way- meeting Santa himself at the ‘Sailing with Santa’ experience! And the best part is, you can too- and here’s why you should. 

I started my adventure at North Greenwich Pier. The boat stopped at many different stations along the way, making the journey efficient as a mode of transport as well as fun for all of the family, but my final destination was an hour of festivities away. Boarding the boat was quick and easy- you simply scan your ticket, oyster card or method of payment, and embark on your journey.  The boat was luxurious and spacious- a cafe bar with confectionery, hot drinks, snacks and much more lay before my eyes, a selection so broad I was spoilt for choice!

After settling in my seat, I was free to enjoy the wondrous London views that surrounded me. On its journey, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers passed many major London landmarks, such as Big Ben, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge and countless Christmas lights embellishing London’s glorious architecture along the way. For Christmas-lovers such as me, this was the perfect experience. 

Alongside the gorgeous views the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers boat-ride had to offer, I was also given the fantastic opportunity to not only meet Santa Claus, but also interview him! I was able to ask him a number of jovial questions surrounding the ‘Sailing with Santa’ experience, and his favourite aspects of Christmas as a whole. I decided to begin my interview with asking Santa what his favourite part of the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers experience was. To this, the jolly fellow replied, ‘It’s got to be meeting all of the lovely boys and girls- seeing their happy, smiling faces!’ I then asked him how exactly he remembers what all of the children want for Christmas. Santa then informed me of his ‘very good filing system… and a number of very efficient elves.’

Santa and I also discussed our favourite sights along the journey (Santa loves St Pauls Cathedral!), our favourite Christmas songs (his favourite was the Shakin’ Stevens classic, ‘Merry Christmas Everyone’, but Mariah Carey held a close second), and also what the best component of a classic Christmas dinner was, to which we both agreed on the pigs in blankets. Santa was incredibly friendly and warm throughout, and when I bid farewell, I was met with a complimentary candy cane. 

Before my time on the boat was up, I was also able to meet none other than Santa’s elf! This elf had been working with Santa on Uber Boat by Thames Clippers for 5 and a half years, and discussed with me how his favourite part of the ‘Sailing with Santa’ experience was seeing the joy in children’s faces as they meet Santa Claus. I then asked this elf what the best way to get into the Christmas spirit was, to which I was met with, ‘Things like this- meeting Santa! You can’t get any more Christmassy than that.’ 

My adventure drew to a close when the boat reached Battersea Power Station Pier. After a fun-packed hour of festivities and joy, I was filled with Christmas spirit. If you’re looking for something new to put you in the festive spirit, this Uber Boat by Thames Clippers experience is perfect for you. Santa returns to the boat on the 17th of December 2022, so book your tickets online now to ensure you don’t miss out on the jovial experience! And as Santa’s favourite Christmas song says, ‘Merry Christmas Everyone!’

 

Article by Catherine Clark 

Dame Alice Owens School. 

Young Reporters Scheme 

‘Sail with Santa’ experience courtesy of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers