The Lady Florence boat is an ex-Admiralty motor fishing vessel (MFV), one of over 1000 built during World War II as supply boats. Today, the Lady Florence boat in Orford is recognised as a unique and historic river cruise vessel, combining maritime heritage with a memorable Suffolk dining experience.
She is 50 ft long, 16 ft 6″ in beam, draws 6 ft of water and weighs 35 tons net, 54 gross. The Lady Florence boat is a registered British Ship, Official Number 361575, and holds an Ensign Permit to wear the Red Ensign of Her Majesty, defaced with the badge of National Historic Ships UK, highlighting her importance as a preserved historic vessel.
The Lady Florence boat has the character and charm of a traditional wooden ship. With only 12 passengers on board, there is plenty of space on deck, as well as in the wheelhouse and the comfortable saloon. During the winter months, guests can enjoy the warmth of a cosy coal fire, making the experience aboard the Lady Florence boat in Orford both intimate and atmospheric.
Today, Lady Florence also offers a range of experiences, from lunch and supper cruises to exclusive private charter bookings, allowing guests to enjoy this historic vessel in a more personal setting.
The history of the Lady Florence boat is both rich and varied. Built in Poole in 1944, she was originally launched as “MFV 766”, the name Lady Florence came much later. She first served at Glasson Dock in Lancashire, before moving in 1947 to Plymouth and later Portsmouth from 1955. In 1963, she was transferred to the Sea Cadets at Midhurst in Sussex, followed by Hove in 1969.
In 1971, the Lady Florence boat passed into private ownership. Although there is a gap in her recorded history between 1971 and 1977, she was later registered as a British Ship under the name Margaret Jane and returned to Glasson Dock. In 1983, she was purchased by Geoffrey Ingram Smith of Woodbridge, who renamed her the Lady Florence boat and established the river cruise business in Orford in 1984.
Since then, the Lady Florence boat in Orford has become a much-loved part of the local area. The business was sold in 1992 to Susan and John Haresnape, and today, alongside Craig and Kris, the family continue to operate the Lady Florence boat, offering guests dinner cruises with freshly prepared meals using the finest local ingredients. This unique combination of history, hospitality and setting ensures every journey remains a truly memorable Suffolk experience.
Lady Florence – Orford
Lady Florence – Orford
With just 12 guests per cruise, availability is limited.
