Santa Special Cruise on the River Dee
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Artistic rendering – Event may differ

Santa Special Cruise on the River Dee

Festive River Dee cruise with Santa and a book gift.

About

Embark on a magical one-hour journey down the River Dee aboard the festively adorned Lady Diana. Children will have the enchanting opportunity to meet Santa Claus, receive a special book, and enjoy festive activities with the ChesterBoat elves. Adults can savor a warm drink and a mince pie, while children enjoy a gingerbread treat and a drink, creating cherished holiday memories.

Our Take

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Magical and festive

Energy Level

Low

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Special Events & Promotions

  • Tickets are cheaper when booked online
  • Child under 18 without a gift from Santa - £9.50
  • Baby with no gift or refreshments included - FREE

Tags

Santa visitsfamily friendlychildrens activitiesholiday entertainmentseasonal activitiesholiday traditionfestive foodholiday cheerwinter activities

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Location

Souter's Ln
Chester
CH1 1SZ

Event Details

Pricing

$$

Duration

1 hour

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

The Groves

Timed Entry

Yes

Organizer

ChesterBoat

Practical Information

Parking

The closest car parks to their moorings are Little Roodee Car Park and NCP Car Park.

Accessibility

There are 2 toilets onboard but no baby change facilities. The closest baby change facilities are located in the public toilets by the Bandstand, 100m from our moorings. There is limited space onboard for pushchairs, so they will need to be fully collapsed and stowed. You’re welcome to take a carrycot/bassinet to your table if it can be separated from the rest of the pushchair and placed on a seat.

Pet Policy

Service animals welcome

Food & Drink

Tea or coffee and a mince pie for adults; gingerbread man and drink for children.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Book tickets online in advance for the best prices and to secure your preferred sailing date and time.
  • If the boat cannot sail due to weather, the event will proceed on a stationary boat, and you will receive a voucher for a future cruise.
  • Provide your child's approximate reading age during booking to ensure they receive an appropriate book from Santa.
  • Consider the limited onboard space for pushchairs; they must be fully collapsed and stowed.
  • Arrive early to locate parking and reach the moorings, especially during peak times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if the boat cannot sail due to weather conditions?

In the rare event that weather or river conditions prevent sailing, the event will take place on a stationary boat. You will receive a voucher to come for a half-hour cruise at a later date.

Can I get a refund if I can't make my booked cruise?

Tickets are not refundable once booked. If you are unable to make your cruise, Santa will deliver your gift via Royal Mail along with a voucher for a future half-hour cruise.

Are there facilities for babies onboard?

There are 2 toilets onboard but no baby change facilities. The closest baby change facilities are located in the public toilets by the Bandstand, approximately 100m from the moorings.

What refreshments are included with the ticket?

Adults receive tea or coffee and a mince pie. Children receive a gingerbread man and a drink. All children also receive an age-appropriate book as a gift from Santa.

Is the event suitable for young children and babies?

Yes, it's a family-friendly experience. Babies can attend for free without a gift or refreshments, but please note there are no baby change facilities and pushchairs need to be folded.

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Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 23, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The ChristmasLocal.com editorial team

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