A calmer location for Aviva's celebrations

Media Release from Livett's Launches

The first woman to sail solo non-stop both ways around the World celebrated in style on the River Thames on the 2nd March. With the high seas behind her Dee Caffari sailed her yacht Aviva into London to celebrate her new World Record.

Livett's Launches worked with Aviva Ocean Racing to organise the home-coming, employing some of the UK's most World famous locations.

"We were delighted to be able to assist the team at Aviva organise a spectacular home-coming celebration for Dee. We are fortunate to be surrounded by some of the World's most famous landmarks," commented Chris Livett, Managing Director of Livett's Launches.

The coverage of Aviva commenced at the Thames Barrier with Livett's camera boats and hospitality boats escorting the yacht up the River Thames into London. The main locations for the celebrations were centred around the spectacular Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, New City Hall and the Tower of London.

A champagne and canapé reception followed on the motor vessel Erasmus, which remained moored at Butler's Wharf Pier throughout - a mere 100m from Tower Bridge! The boat and pier were alive with media whilst the yacht Aviva sat illuminated majestically just across the river.  

For 2009 Livett’s Launches are supporting The Ellen MacArthur Trust, helping children with cancer, leukaemia and other serious illnesses through sailing. Please see the website  for more information (opens in a new window).