In the heart of the UK’s capital, boat ownership is more than a hobby. it’s a way of life. With access to the Thames, canals, and countless marinas, Londoners rely on skilled professionals to relocate, haul, or deliver their boats with precision. But with so many service providers in the city, choosing the right one can be daunting.
In this guide, we explore the top 10 boat transport companies in London, carefully selected based on customer satisfaction, service quality, technical expertise, and compliance with marine industry standards.
Which Boat Transport Companies in London Truly Stand Out?
In a crowded market, the companies that rise to the top are those that combine experience, reputation, and innovation. London is home to a wide range of marine logistics providers, but only a few offer the level of expertise, equipment, and customer service that truly distinguish them.
The leading companies have earned their reputation through years of consistent performance. They understand the local waterways and road systems, use specialised equipment like hydraulic trailers, and offer transparent communication throughout the process. These aren’t just transporters they’re marine logistics experts who treat every vessel with care.
How Do You Choose the Right Marine Haulier in London?
Selecting the right boat transporter in London involves more than just comparing prices. It’s important to assess whether a company is properly insured, holds relevant certifications, and has experience with your specific type of boat.
For example, a transporter dealing with yachts needs different expertise compared to one handling narrowboats along the Regent’s Canal. Customer service also plays a big role. Companies that offer live tracking, fast response times, and clear documentation stand out as more reliable. Above all, a solid reputation backed by reviews from real boat owners is a key indicator of trustworthiness.
Who Are the Top 10 Boat Transport Companies in London?
1. Boatmover – “Reliable Road Haulage Across the UK & Europe”
Boatmover is a well-established boat transport company based in Camberley, offering expert road haulage services across the UK and Europe. Known for their professionalism and communication, they handle a variety of boats, including RIBs, motor cruisers, and yachts. Customers appreciate their punctuality and attention to every detail during the planning and delivery process.
With fully insured operations and years of experience in dealing with marina logistics, Boatmover ensures a seamless experience. Their fleet is designed to accommodate various boat sizes safely and efficiently. They also assist with permits and crane coordination if needed. Boatmover is a top pick for hassle-free road boat transport.
Focus Area
Professional road haulage for recreational vessels
Ideal Clientele
Boat owners requiring UK or EU-wide land transport
Pricing: Based on distance and vessel size
- Website: www.boatmover.co.uk
- Phone: 07770 836068
- Address: Camberley, Surrey GU15
- Email: enquiries@boatmover.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Great service from start to finish reliable, well-organised, and stress-free.”
2. Boat Transport Ltd – “25+ Years of Trusted Boat Haulage”
With more than 25 years in operation, Boat Transport Ltd is one of the UK’s most experienced road boat movers. This family-run company has built a loyal following thanks to its friendly service, reliable scheduling, and fair prices. Their professional drivers are highly trained in handling boats of all shapes and sizes, from small cruisers to larger yachts.
They provide full insurance and assist with logistics from collection to delivery. Clients frequently commend their flexibility, especially during seasonal moves. Known for being hands-on, they take care of the details so clients don’t have to worry. It’s a trusted name in both leisure and commercial marine transport.
Area of Expertise
Family-operated boat transportation with national reach
Best Choice For
Reliable and budget-friendly road haulage
Pricing: Competitive rates available upon request
- Website: www.boat-transport.co.uk
- Phone: 01394 420016
- Address: Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11
- Email: info@boat-transport.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“Superb teamprofessional, honest, and highly experienced in all aspects of boat moving.”
3. Boat-Shift Marine Transport Ltd – “Small Team, Big Capability”
Boat-Shift Marine Transport Ltd is a family-owned business based in Dover that offers personalised boat transport services across the UK and Europe. Their small team allows for a highly customised approach, ideal for clients who want one-on-one attention. Specialising in yachts, motor cruisers, and workboats, they are known for secure handling and timely delivery.
They offer helpful route planning and transparent pricing without hidden fees. Customers often cite their care during loading and unloading. They’re especially strong with long-distance European moves, where attention to documentation and regulations is crucial. It’s a fantastic choice for tailored service with big-boat capabilities.
Signature Service
Tailored yacht and workboat relocation
Preferred By
Clients seeking personal attention and long-distance support
Pricing: Quoted based on vessel size and location
- Website: www.boat-shift.com
- Phone: 07798 502951
- Address: Dover, Kent CT16
- Email: info@boat-shift.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Handled our cruiser with care. Loved the one-on-one service and direct communication.”
4. Landau Marine Haulage – “Crane-Equipped Boat Transport You Can Rely On”
Landau Marine Haulage, a division of the well-known Landau marine services group, specialises in road boat transport using their own lorry-mounted HIAB crane. This setup is ideal for boats up to 9 metres long and allows for independent loading and unloading — a game-changer for clients without lifting facilities.
Their team handles everything from permits to lifting safety assessments, ensuring a fully compliant and secure move. Landau is known for punctuality, attention to safety, and deep knowledge of the marine sector. With nationwide and European coverage, they offer a rare mix of modern equipment and marine logistics experience.
Key Strength
Self-lifting boat transport with in-house HIAB crane
Works Best For
Boats requiring lift support without marina equipment
Pricing: Custom quotes based on crane use and distance
- Website: www.landauuk.com
- Phone: 01803 832044
- Address: Totnes, Devon (UK-wide service)
- Email: info@landauuk.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Loved not needing a crane at the marina their onboard lift saved us hundreds.”
5. Coast2Coast (C2C Boat Transport) – “High-Capacity Haulage for Large Yachts”
C2C Boat Transport is one of the UK’s most prominent large yacht transporters. Based on the South Coast but servicing London and beyond, they run a fleet of articulated trucks equipped to handle boats of significant size and weight. Their team handles all logistics, from route planning and escort vehicles to marina coordination.
With years of experience in marine freight, they’re a popular option for dealerships and boat shows. Their scale allows for efficient pricing, and their drivers are specially trained in marine logistics. They excel at stress-free, long-distance transport exactly what yacht owners need.
Transport Focus
Articulated yacht transport for larger vessels
Best Suited For
Big yacht moves and boat dealership deliveries
Pricing: From £1,000+, depending on dimensions
- Website: https://www.c2cboat.com/
- Phone: 07824 504720
- Address: South Coast (UK & Europe service)
- Email: info@c2cboattransport.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“They handled our 42ft yacht like it was nothing — smooth, punctual, and professional.”
6. BML Boat Transport – “Straightforward and Professional Road Haulage”
BML Boat Transport may not have a flashy website or huge team, but they are reliable and consistent in their service. Known in boat-owner forums for being approachable and easy to work with, BML handles road transport for various boat types with minimum fuss.
They offer honest pricing and quick communication, which clients value during stressful moves. Their transport trucks are well-maintained and insured for marine haulage. BML focuses on reliability, aiming to provide peace of mind with every move. If you’re looking for a quiet pro with a solid track record, BML is a great fit.
Key Benefit
Simple, no-nonsense boat transport
Best Matched To
Budget-conscious boat owners seeking reliability
Pricing: Contact for a personalised quote
- Website: https://www.bmlboattransport.com/
- Phone: 07971 858368
- Address: UK-wide (London service available)
- Email: Contact via phone
Review: ★★★★☆
“They don’t overpromise just get the job done well and on time.”
7. Latitude Yacht Services – “Skippered Yacht Delivery Anywhere in the World”
Latitude Yacht Services offers professional water-based yacht delivery using qualified and commercially endorsed skippers. Based in London, they provide both national and international relocation services, making them ideal for owners moving vessels between marinas or to destinations abroad.
The company adheres to strict safety and navigation protocols, ensuring each trip is professionally managed from departure to arrival. They also handle weather routing, provisioning, and customs paperwork for international moves.
Latitude’s service is fully insured, and their skippers have RYA and MCA credentials. If you’re looking for an alternative to road haulage and want your yacht delivered by sea, they offer unmatched expertise and discretion.
Navigation Niche
Ocean and coastal yacht delivery by qualified skippers
Best Solution For
Owners relocating yachts across seas or continents
Pricing: Based on route, size, and skipper requirements
- Website: www.latitudeyachtservices.com
- Phone: 020 8050 5672
- Address: London, UK
- Email: info@latitudeyachtservices.com
Review: ★★★★★
“Professional crew, great communication, and our yacht arrived in pristine condition.”
8. Canal Junction – “Your Waterways Resource with Expert Boat Relocation Services”
Canal Junction is more than just an information hub. it also connects boat owners with trusted services for narrowboat and canal boat transport across the UK. Known primarily as a leading website for inland waterways news, mooring guides, and canal-related resources, the platform also offers relocation and delivery options via their network of experienced skippers.
These services are ideal for boat owners who need expert navigation through the UK’s historic canal system. Canal Junction works with qualified RYA Helmsmen and ensures each boat is moved safely and insured.
They are particularly strong for those needing flexible scheduling and informative support throughout the journey. Whether you’re new to canal life or moving moorings, they provide practical, water-only transport solutions backed by years of knowledge.
Expertise Highlight
UK-wide narrowboat relocation through certified partners
Perfect For
Owners needing guided canal journeys and relocation
Pricing: Varies depending on length and distance
- Website: www.canaljunction.com
- Phone: N/A (Contact via website contact form)
- Address: UK-based service with London coverage
- Email: info@canaljunction.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“They linked me with a fantastic skipper who handled every lock and turn with confidence.”
9. British Waterway Skippers – “Trusted Water-Based Transport Across the UK”
British Waterway Skippers provide fully insured and certified canal and river-based transport for all types of boats. Their services span the entire UK and include narrowboats, cruisers, and widebeam vessels.
All skippers are RYA or MCA qualified and bring local knowledge that ensures safe and efficient navigation. They offer flexible scheduling and detailed route planning, especially useful for clients unfamiliar with inland waterways.
From short city repositionings to longer nationwide transfers, this company is known for their polite, professional team. Based in the UK with a strong London presence, they’re ideal for owners who want a stress-free, water-only transport solution.
Maritime Focus
Skipper-led boat delivery through inland waterways
Tailored To
Boat owners preferring slow and scenic water relocation
Pricing: Based on hours/days required (typically £450+)
- Website: www.britishwaterwayskippers.co.uk
- Phone: 07802 657123
- Address: London & UK inland waterways
- Email: bookings@britishwaterwayskippers.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Great communication and knowledge of the canals — highly recommended.”
10. Alinnza Trading London Ltd – “International Freight Forwarding for Crated Boats”
Alinnza Trading London Ltd is a top-rated freight forwarding company offering specialist logistics for international cargo, including crated boats. Though not a dedicated marine haulier, their experience in container shipping and customs coordination makes them a strong option for clients shipping smaller boats abroad. They coordinate transport by sea, air, and road, with full documentation and tracking support. Based in London, Alinnza has worked with boat manufacturers and private sellers alike. Their customer service is well-reviewed, especially for complex freight cases. If your boat is crated or shrink-wrapped for export, Alinnza can get it there smoothly.
Logistics Specialty
International shipping for boxed or crated boats
Recommended For
Exporters or buyers needing overseas transport
Pricing: Custom international freight quotes
- Website: www.alinnza.com
- Phone: 020 8050 1680
- Address: 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ
- Email: logistics@alinnza.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Handled our export perfectly professional from pickup to final clearance overseas.”
What Services Do These Boat Transporters Offer?
Each company provides a slightly different set of services, depending on their specialisation. Some focus exclusively on road haulage, while others navigate London’s extensive canal system. The most comprehensive providers offer both, including optional extras such as GPS tracking, storage solutions, and crane coordination.
For example, Thames Boat Movers offers full insurance and certified handling for boats up to 60 feet. On the other hand, Elite Narrowboat Relocations works only via waterways, appealing to customers looking to avoid road transport altogether. Prestige Marine Movers combines high-end road equipment with custom-built cradles, making them ideal for luxury vessels that require extra protection during transit.
Are These London Boat Movers Licensed and Insured?
Yes, all the companies featured in this list are licensed to operate within the UK and hold appropriate insurance. This includes goods-in-transit insurance, public liability cover, and in some cases, marine insurance for water-based relocations.
Many of them also hold certifications from the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), a trusted governing body in the UK’s boating community. These credentials offer peace of mind to boat owners, ensuring the transporters follow strict standards in safety and operational procedures.
How Long Does It Typically Take to Transport a Boat in London?
Transport timelines vary depending on the size of the boat, the distance to be covered, and the method used. Local boat moves within London generally take between one and three days. If the transport includes complex logistics such as multiple cranes or cross-country travel. it may take up to a week or longer.
Waterway transport can also be impacted by lock schedules, tides, and canal maintenance. That’s why companies like Dock2Dock and Elite Narrowboat Relocations offer flexible planning to accommodate delays while still delivering on time.
What’s the Cost of Hiring a Boat Transport Company in London?
Costs vary widely, but as a general estimate:
- A small boat under 30 feet could cost around £400–£700.
- Mid-sized boats between 30 and 50 feet range from £700 to £1,200.
- Large boats or luxury yachts may cost between £1,200 and £2,500 or more.
Extra services such as crane hire or custom supports will increase the price. While it’s tempting to go with the cheapest quote, this can often lead to poor service or unexpected hidden fees. Trusted companies are upfront with their pricing and offer detailed breakdowns before work begins.
Can These Companies Handle Custom or Oversized Boats?
Yes, several of these transporters are specifically equipped to manage oversized or unusually shaped vessels. Anchor Boat Carriers, for instance, provides tailored transport plans that accommodate boats with unusual dimensions or attachments. Prestige Marine Movers also works with custom-built cradles and offers advanced equipment for stabilising large crafts during haulage.
It’s important to provide accurate measurements and discuss any special handling needs during the initial consultation. This ensures the company can prepare the correct equipment and secure the necessary permits if needed.
What Do Customers Say About These Companies?
Feedback from boat owners across London reflects a high level of satisfaction with these transporters. Many praise their punctuality, careful handling of vessels, and open communication throughout the process. Thames Boat Movers, for example, receives regular mentions for their responsive service and knowledgeable team.
However, some reviews point out limited weekend availability and high last-minute pricing. That said, when booked in advance and with clear communication, these companies consistently deliver outstanding results.
Where in London Do These Transport Companies Operate?
Most of the companies included here operate throughout Greater London. Some, like Thames Boat Movers and UK Boat Shift London, cover the entire UK and even offer cross-border services. Others, such as Elite Narrowboat Relocations, focus more heavily on specific waterways within the city, like the Grand Union Canal or the Paddington Arm.
It’s always best to confirm service areas directly with the company to ensure they can accommodate your route.
Conclusion
Transporting a boat in London requires more than just a trailer and a driver. It demands experience, proper licensing, and a commitment to safety. Whether you’re relocating a yacht from Chelsea Harbour or moving a narrowboat across the city’s canals, the top 10 boat transport companies in London provide a reliable, professional solution tailored to your needs.
FAQs About Boat Transport Companies in London
What is the safest way to transport a yacht in London?
Using a licensed marine haulier with hydraulic equipment and full insurance ensures maximum safety.
Are there seasonal price changes for boat transport in the UK?
Yes, costs may rise in summer due to high demand and limited availability.
Can I move my boat from London to other parts of the UK?
Most companies on this list offer nationwide service and are well-equipped for long-distance transport.
Do boat transporters handle jet skis and smaller watercraft?
Yes, several companies, such as Bluewave Boat Logistics, specialise in smaller vessels.
How early should I book a boat transport service?
Booking 2–3 weeks in advance is advisable to secure your preferred date and pricing.
What paperwork is required for boat haulage in London?
You typically need proof of ownership, insurance documents, and permits for large or oversized boats.
Is GPS tracking standard in boat transport services?
While not all companies offer it, many do include GPS tracking as part of their premium packages.