The Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS) is marking a significant milestone in Britain’s inland waterway history with a special anniversary cruise celebrating 75 years since the reopening of the Kennet & Avon Canal.
On Sunday 5 July, NAS members and their guests will take to the water aboard Hannah, an accessible wide-beam vessel, for a day-long journey along one of the canal’s most picturesque stretches. Setting off from Aldermaston Wharf and concluding at Newbury, the cruise promises a blend of heritage, storytelling and relaxed exploration – characteristic of the society’s hands-on approach to maritime history.
More than just a scenic outing, the cruise is designed as an immersive learning experience. At the helm will be skipper Martin Jeffery, whose deep knowledge of the waterways will bring the canal’s past vividly to life. From its industrial heyday to its restoration and revival, passengers will gain insight into the canal’s enduring significance within Britain’s transport and heritage landscape.
“This is a rare opportunity to experience a historic waterway in a truly meaningful way,” says Peta Knott, Education Manager at the Nautical Archaeology Society. “We’re proud to celebrate this 75th anniversary in partnership with the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust through an experience that connects people so directly with the past.”
The Kennet & Avon Canal itself stands as one of the UK’s great restoration success stories. Once derelict and largely unnavigable, its revival – driven by the Trust and volunteers – has transformed it into a thriving corridor for leisure, wildlife and heritage appreciation. This anniversary offers an opportunity not only to celebrate that achievement, but to reflect on the continued importance of preserving and understanding the nation’s waterways.
Onboard Hannah, the experience will be as fun as it is informative. Guests can expect unlimited tea and coffee, with lunch provided by the Aldermaston Wharf Tea Rooms, and homemade cakes available throughout the day – adding a distinctly traditional charm to proceedings.
For NAS, the cruise is representative of its broader mission: to make maritime heritage accessible, engaging and participatory. As a registered charity, the society champions the idea that understanding heritage fosters a deeper commitment to its protection – and that involvement is key to that process.
With membership starting from £22, NAS offers a wide programme of courses, fieldwork opportunities and experience days designed to bring people closer to the UK’s rich maritime past – whether on the coast, underwater, or along inland waterways such as the Kennet & Avon.
As anniversary celebrations go, this is one that invites participants not just to observe history, but to travel through it – at a gentle canal pace.
For more information or to join the Nautical Archaeology Society, visit: https://www.nauticalarchaeologysociety.org/
Event details:
Date: Sunday 5 July
Time: 9.30am – 6pm
Price: £70 for adults and £40 for university students and children
