The Sovereign B&B / Flotel was created by Sue and Bob Forkner to complement the already successful professionally-run businesses at Medway Bridge Marina.
The Sovereign, a 1930's Rhine cruising ship is permanently berthed on the banks of the river Medway, near the historic town of Rochester. Weighing 170 tonnes, she is very stable and has been completely renovated to provide a comfortable environment for our guests and visitors to the Marina.
A high standard of food and accommodation is met at all times and the friendly atmosphere makes for a pleasant and memorable stay.
Many of the original features of the boat have been maintained, for example the wheelhouse and the engine room.
The ship was originally built in 1930 in Germany under the name of 'Deutsches Eck' and was used as a regular passenger ferry boat on the Rhine and the Mosel.
In 1953 she underwent a general rebuild which included the addition of a 7-metre length section with a solid ceiling.
She continued carrying passengers under various names (Drachenfels, Lohengrin, then back to Deutsches Eck) until 1984.
After her final trip, she was taken to Holland for a number of years.
In 1987 she arrived in London and by mid-May 1988 she was running from Festival Pier to Greenwich and Tower Pier to the Thames barrier, under the name of The Thames Sovereign.
She was retired in 1991 and arrived at Medway Bridge Marina shortly after.
Sue and Bob acquired her in 2004 and by offering the services of a cosy B&B / Guesthouse / Floatel they have ensured that she continues to welcome passengers aboard.
