‘Great excitement’ as Spalding Water Taxi set for return… with a few operational changes

The ever-popular Spalding Water Taxi will make a welcome return this year - re-launching with a day of free travel.

The taxi has been a much-loved sight on the Welland for years, showing daytrippers the sights from the river and linking the town with Springfields Outlet Centre for shoppers.

However, due to low water levels, it wasn’t able to run in 2024.

But the water taxi will return this spring when it launches once again, with a few operational changes.

“It is with great excitement that we are able to announce that the Spalding Water Taxi will be open again this year,” said operations manager Anthony Grunwell.

“This not-for-profit award-winning organisation will once again delight local residents and visitors to our town.”

The water taxi will open on Saturday, April 5, with boats leaving at 11am from both the town and Springfields jetty, running until 5pm.

In an effort to make the Water Taxi more efficient, it will now operate four days per week as opposed to seven - setting off on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays - as well as going cashless.

However, for those who prefer to use notes and coins, tickets can be purchased from the South Holland Centre.

“Please do come and support us on April 5 and take advantage of free sailings throughout the day departing at 11am from both jetties, and hourly until the last boat on-that day,” Mr Grunwell added.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank our current sponsors who will be there on day to meet you: Springfields, Lights Speed and River Side Training Agency.

“Also, to make special thanks to our partner companies, South Holland District Council and The Broadgate Group, who together set up the Water Taxi 18 year ago and have continued to support us throughout those years.”

Nick Bossley, of The Broadgate Group, said: “The Water Taxi has become an important part of the town's leisure services and culture and we are proud and pleased to partner with SHDC to provide this experience.

“We are looking forward to its reintroduction this year and would encourage everyone to both enjoy and support what is a wonderful activity and experience.”

Coun Gary Taylor, portfolio holder for community development, added: “Spalding is very fortunate to have a wonderful river running through its centre.

“I very much welcome the return of the Water taxi. This is a great opportunity for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy this unique experience.

Single tickets cost £4, with family tickets priced at £12.

A two-hour self-drive booking costs £85 while four hours would be charged at £120. A private charter is set at £85 per hour.

Business are also being invited to become water taxi sponsors with a number of different packages available.

For all details concerning water taxi sailings you can contact Mr Grunwell on 07740 664017 or email: discoverspalding@btconnect.com.