UK Winter Lunch 2026 - Aboard the Medway Queen

This years Nelson Boat Owners Club Winter Lunch was held in a setting that could hardly have been more fitting. Over two days, members gathered in Chatham for a weekend of good company, shared stories and a reminder of the rich maritime heritage that underpins so much of what we enjoy about our own boats.

The weekend began with lunch aboard the historic paddle steamer Medway Queen, moored in Chatham Docks. Around fifty NBOC members attended, joined by ten Dutch members who had travelled over from Holland especially for the occasion. Their effort to be with us was very much appreciated. It is always a pleasure to welcome our friends from across the water and their presence added an extra dimension to the event. We hope those who were unable to make it this year will feel encouraged to join us next time.

The entire programme was arranged and organised by NBOC Flag Officer Jonathan Napier, and considerable thanks must go to him for his hard work behind the scenes. Events such as this do not happen by accident. They require planning, coordination and a fair bit of determination. Jonathan and our dedicated Commodore, Paul Gamsa, delivered a weekend that ran smoothly and gave everyone the chance to relax and enjoy themselves.

The Medway Queen herself provided an evocative backdrop. Built in 1924, she began life as a pleasure steamer operating on the River Medway and the Thames Estuary. Her most famous chapter came during the Second World War when she was requisitioned by the Admiralty and converted for minesweeping duties. In May and June 1940 she played a remarkable role in Operation Dynamo, making seven crossings to the French coast during the evacuation of Dunkirk. In those desperate days she brought home more than 7000 Allied servicemen from the beaches of northern France. It is hard to stand on her decks without reflecting on the courage and urgency of that moment in history.

After the war she returned to excursion work before eventually falling into decline. For many years her future was uncertain. That she now sits proudly in Chatham is down to the dedication of the Medway Queen Preservation Society. Volunteers and supporters have worked tirelessly to restore her hull, superstructure and internal spaces. The scale of what has been achieved is impressive. What was once a near derelict vessel is now a partially restored paddle steamer and a powerful reminder of Britain’s maritime past. Hosting our Winter Lunch aboard her felt entirely appropriate.

The catering team also deserve special mention. Serving a three course meal to fifty guests without the benefit of a kitchen or any catering facilities is no small undertaking. Courses appeared promptly, plates were cleared efficiently and the food was warming. It is easy to underestimate the logistics involved in delivering that standard of service in such a unique setting, but it did not go unnoticed.

Many of us stayed at the Ship and Trades overlooking Chatham Marina. It proved to be an excellent choice. Comfortable rooms, welcoming staff and really good food made it a popular base for the weekend.

On Saturday evening a number of members gathered there for drinks and dinner. Conversation flowed easily, covering everything from winter maintenance projects to cruising plans for the coming season. It was, as ever, a great opportunity to talk about all things Nelson. For those who could not attend, you were certainly missed.

Sunday morning brought less cooperative weather. Grey skies, misty drizzle and a stiff breeze greeted those who had signed up for a tour of the Chatham Historic Dockyard. Undeterred, around twelve hardy sailors pulled on coats and set off regardless. The Dockyard is a remarkable site, once a major Royal Navy yard and now home to an extraordinary collection of historic ships and exhibitions. Members were able to explore the Victorian Ropery, where rope is still made using traditional methods, and to step aboard preserved warships that illustrate different eras of naval history. The scale of the old mast houses and workshops gives a real sense of the industry and skill that once thrived there.

Particularly noteworthy was the RNLI Historic Lifeboat Collection, which charts the development of lifeboats and lifesaving equipment over the years. For anyone who spends time on the water, it provides a sobering and inspiring insight into the work of those who go out in all conditions to bring others home safely. Despite the wind and rain, the tour was thoroughly enjoyed and well worth the effort.

All in all, the Winter Lunch weekend struck exactly the right note. It combined history, camaraderie and a shared appreciation of our maritime heritage. For those who attended -new friendships were forged and old aquiantances were renewed. Members left with plenty to think about with a re-envigored enthusiasm for the coming season. For those who could not make it, we hope this account conveys something of what you missed. Events like this are about more than just a meal. They are about friendship, shared passion and the pleasure of gathering together.

We very much hope to see even more of you, including our Dutch friends, at the next NBOC event. Members are reminded that all UK NBOC events can be viewed and booked on the website: www.nelsonboatownersclub.co.uk