TLC's passage plan to reopening in 2021

After what has been an extremely challenging year for us all, we hope this update finds you safe and well.

Following the release of the government’s plan to reopen the country, we are hopeful that there is now significant light at the end of the tunnel. With that in mind, we are delighted to share with you TLC’s very own passage plan to reopening.

We have covered as much of the relevant key information as possible, which was correct as of 15 March. But as always, please contact our Events Management Team if you would like more information or have any questions about an upcoming event.

29 March – Fleet Viewings

From Monday 29 March, we will once again be able to welcome you back to Butler’s Wharf Pier for viewings of our fleet. We cannot wait to showcase our vessels once again, particularly the fully refurbished Elizabethan, as well as the refreshed Edwardian and majestic Dixie Queen.

We are busy readying the pier and fleet in preparation for this date, including the implementation of safety measures such as hand sanitisation stations.

In the meantime, please remember that guided virtual fleet viewings are still available.

12 April – Outdoor Events

From Monday 12 April, up to 15 people are allowed to attend wedding receptions and commemorative life events. We are also allowed to serve seated guests outdoors, but social bubble guidelines must still be followed. Crucially, there is no longer any restriction on the type or amount of food that can be served from this date onwards and alcohol can also be served.

With these requirements, the Edwardian and her open upper deck space provide a beautiful setting for permitted events.

17 May – Indoor Events

Monday 17 May sees indoor hospitality allowed to return, although the Rule of 6 (or two households) and social distancing will still apply to groups attending events. Furthermore, up to 30 people will be able to attend significant life events, such as weddings, receptions and wakes.

From this date, the entire TLC fleet will be able to comfortably host events.

21 June – Unlocking delayed

Following the government’s announcement that the final Step 4 of unlocking has been postponed by four weeks from Monday 21 June to Monday 19 July, please see our dedicated article to find out what this means for upcoming events and beyond.

19 July – Restrictions lifted

The government is now hoping that all social restrictions will be lifted on Monday 19 July. This means events and celebrations on board can return to normal and dancing will finally be allowed once again!

Make the most of the substantial savings on VAT

The government has also announced that VAT benefits for the hospitality industry have been extended.

This means a VAT rate of just 5% applies to catering and soft drinks on events that are invoiced and paid for by 30 September 2021. This rate rises to 12.5% for events taking place between 1 October 2021 and 31 March 2022, before returning to the full 20% rate as of 1 April 2022.

This represents a significant potential cost saving for clients who are able to confirm and pay for their event during the relevant VAT window. Please speak with our Events Management Team for more information about making the most of this opportunity.

We are acutely aware that none of these dates are cast in stone, which is why it remains vitally important that the guidelines are strictly followed at each stage. We are continuing to work with clients to reorganise their events to new dates where necessary, and we are hugely grateful to those who have chosen to do so.

We will continue responding to all relevant government guidelines as and when they change, so please check our website regularly for all the latest information on our operating procedures.

We are so excited to welcome you back safely to the River Thames for some much needed TLC in the heart of London. Until then, please continue to take care and follow government guidelines.

Thank you.