Essex Waterways - Visitor Information

Operating Arrangement during the current Covid-19 Coronavirus situation

Our priority is to strictly follow Government advice to support the national effort to keep people safe and help fight the pandemic and we are asking leisure boaters to stop all non-essential travel and not to visit their boats unless absolutely essential for urgent maintenance purposes. 

All visitors and boat owners are reminded that they must (a) follow Government instructions to stay at home other than for the exceptions set out by Government, (b) avoid unnecessary journeys and (c) keep at least two metres away from others whilst exercising.  

Our Paper Mill and Heybridge Basin offices are closed and the staff are working from home. You will still be able to contact us by phone or email using the usual contact details.

Our lengthsmen continue to work on your behalf to keep the Navigation and towpath open as long as government restrictions allow and our residential caretakers will continue to keep a check on boats.  Please be considerate to our staff if you visit the Navigation during the present situation.

Our trip boat and Daisy Meadow Kiosk operations are currently closed and will re-open when we consider it safe to do so, and in line with Government and NHS advice.  Likewise, our campsite at Hoe Mill is also closed.

Information for Visitors

The Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation runs through a largely unspoilt part of rural Essex and connects the county town of Chelmsford with the tidal estuary of the river Blackwater at Heybridge Basin.

Find out more specific information about boating, canoeing, angling and walking along the Navigation.

Chelmer Cruises

Step on board Victoria and enjoy a cruise along the glorious Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation. Victoria is perfect for weddings, parties and group outings.  The boat can accommodate up to 48 guests and includes a qualified skipper and crew. Find out more about Chelmer Cruises.