MEG acquires Silver Barracuda
08 Mar 2011
The EDF Energy London Eye, owned and operated by the Merlin Entertainments Group, has purchased the Silver Barracuda vessel from Woods’ Silver Fleet. The stunning river cruiser is moored on the South Bank, adjacent to the iconic London Eye, and will be used to host events independently or alongside nearby attractions the SEA LIFE London Aquarium and the EDF Energy London Eye.
Michael Aldridge, General Manager of Merlin Events London said “The purchase of the Silver Barracuda adds to Merlin’s unrivalled portfolio of iconic venues in London. The team and I are very excited about the purchase and the opportunities for clients to have cost effective, fully integrated events via the EDF Energy London Eye and the SEA LIFE London Aquarium. We will continue the high standard that previous owners Woods’ Silver Fleet have delivered, whilst incorporating the Merlin touch.”
Tom Woods, MD of Woods' Silver Fleet echoed Aldridge’s sentiment adding: “The expansion of the EDF London Eye Thames fleet will enhance our existing partnership and will perfectly position the landmark within the exclusive London events market for the 2012 Olympics and beyond. We have the utmost confidence that the venue we lovingly built up over 40 years will enjoy an even wider market under the expert direction of the EDF Energy London Eye and Merlin.”
Available for private and corporate events the Silver Barracuda can accommodate up to 230 guests reception style or 140 seated for dinner. The cruiser’s art deco design exudes luxury and comfort; the lower dining deck highlights original woodwork features with curved windows framing the river view beautifully. The boat features intimate booth seat dining and a mirrored 1930’s bar with a decorative iron grille facade, tan leather sofas, chaise longues, a dance floor and retractable roof.
David Sharpe, Divisional Director of Merlin’s London attractions said “Following on from recent investment into the business with our three year capsule upgrade programme and launch of a new 4D experience, the EDF Energy London Eye continued its investment programme by purchasing the Silver Barracuda boat in February this year. We have already been running an award winning circular sightseeing cruise on the Silver Bonito since 2002, and this investment will allow us to increase our current offering, especially to corporate guests, in the run up to and during 2012.”
To view or book the Silver Barracuda, organisers should call the Merlin Events team on +44 (0)207 487 0224 or find out more online