Driver Jatt

The ‘Duckmaster’ at St Katherine Docks Marina, London

Situated right next to Tower Bridge those fortunate enough to park their boats (ships, yachts, etc) are really in for a surprise.

There’s a small handful of sailing boats with masts that go all the way up to the sky! Okay slight exaggeration there but there certainly aren’t small. These ships are certainly something to take in even if like me your knowledge of ships started and stopped at the Titanic.

I was fortunate enough to deliver here today.

Now the thing that nobody knows about this place is that it has a unique quirkiness to it that’s quite amusing. We have the tradition of the “Duckmaster.” Yes, you heard it right! At St. Katharine Docks, there used to be a Duckmaster whose job was to ensure the safety of the resident ducks and to guide them across the marina. It was a whimsical position created to add a touch of charm to the area. Imagine seeing a Duckmaster leading a procession of ducks through a marina filled with boats and yachts whilst wearing a black top hat and a long tailcoat —it’s a scene straight out of a quirky comedy but sadly this is not the case.

I just made this up HOWEVER before I get a load of abuse in my inbox, I should point out that there are some very rare birds that do visit the marina and tend to nest on the backs of some of the docked boats.

I can’t recall the names of these birds. Although there is a plaque just outside Zizzi giving them a mention.

Moving on today it’s obviously a place where most people reading this are unlikely to own a ship or anything that requires docking there.

Something interesting I found out about the place and most docks like it. The cost to dock is based on the size of the vessel measured in metres of length. I don’t know why this came as a surprise, i know that horses are measured in hands so I assumed rather haphazardly that boats must be measured in units of tuna or something else found in the sea. Then you need to add the cost of electricity, water and waste which all equals ££££ more than I can afford.

Back in the 19th century, it was a bustling hub for trade, especially for luxury goods like tea and spices. Picture a scene straight out of a pirate movie, with ships coming and going, loading and unloading all sorts of treasures. You can even see one of the rings where ships were anchored to. Pic below.

But like many things, time moved on, and by the mid-20th century, the docks fell into disrepair. They were bombed during World War II and just kinda lost their way.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and boom! The docks got a major glow-up. They were transformed into a swanky marina surrounded by modern apartments, restaurants, and shops. It went from faded glory to waterfront chic complete with fancy opening bridges.

Nowadays, St. Katharine Docks is more about leisure than commerce. People stroll along the promenade, sip lattes at outdoor cafes, and watch the yachts bobbing in the water. It’s a prime spot for soaking up some London vibes and it’s right next to Tower Bridge which is an amazing piece of British engineering and a must see for both nationals and tourists alike.

Frigate Express had the pleasure of delivering there 🙂

So, fancy being the ‘duckmaster’ 😘

Click on www.frigate-express.co.uk and use the calculator to quote you.

If you have any questions???? Get in touch.

If you have any questions???? Get in touch.