Stormy weather ahead as Leigh-on-sea Boat Trip Operator Speaks Out After Losing Leigh Marina Base

July 23, 2026

After many years operating Brownes Thames Estuary Boat Trips from Leigh Marina, Angus Browne has been forced to leave the marina, leaving his long-established local business without a permanent operating base.

Angus says; Over the years we have welcomed thousands of passengers on sightseeing cruises, sea fishing charters, wildlife excursions, educational visits and ashes scattering ceremonies. Our business has helped promote Leigh-on-Sea as a visitor destination, bringing customers into the town who also support local shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants.

From my perspective, this is about far more than one business. It raises wider questions about the future of Leigh Marina, the support available for established marine businesses and the preservation of Leigh's maritime heritage. Many local residents, berth holders and customers have already expressed their concern about what has happened.

The most frustrating aspect is that, despite my berthing licence being terminated, I have never been given a clear operational reason for the decision. As previously reported, I was told it was for "personal reasons", something I still do not understand.

Throughout my time at the marina I regularly raised concerns about navigation, dredging, safety, access and other operational issues that affect both berth holders and commercial operators. My intention was always to improve the marina for everyone who uses it. In a business that carries members of the public, health and safety must always come first, and I believed it was important to highlight issues that could affect passengers and the wider boating community.

In my view, those concerns were not adequately addressed, while significant investment appeared to be focused on the business park rather than the marina itself. I believe my willingness to speak openly about those issues was not well received.

The loss of my berth has left a long-established local marine business without a permanent base, putting jobs, tourism and valued community services at risk. Brownes Thames Estuary Boat Trips provides sightseeing cruises, sea fishing charters, educational visits, ashes scattering services and support for local events, attracting visitors who contribute to the local economy.

It is deeply disappointing that a long-standing marine business has effectively been forced to leave a marina that should be supporting boating and maritime activity. My priority now is to secure a new permanent base so the business can continue serving the community, welcoming visitors to Leigh-on-Sea and preserving the area's proud maritime tradition.