All aboard the Boat Show Comedy Club - a floating comedy hot spot in the heart of London, that hosts an impressive roster of both seasoned performers and those fresh off the Fringe circuit.
The Venue
Located opposite Embankment tube station and within a stone’s throw of Southbank is the Tattershall Castle ship. On board are a pop up burger shack, a restaurant and several bars but below deck is where you’ll find the Boat Show Comedy Club. Thanks to a recent refurb, the club no longer resembles the slightly dingy social club that it's outdated website would have you believe. Now more modern, the room is comfortable without losing the charm of what feels like a well kept secret of the comedy circuit. Although the club has it’s own bar, you can explore the others on board - whether you fancy fresh air on deck looking out at the London Eye, or prefer the plush indoor lounge. Like a budget airline, legroom is lacking during the comedy show as the room is packed with foldable chairs, which will later be cleared away for a club night. The more gangly show-goer might want to request a booth, unless they want their comedy with a side of pins and needles.
London's moored comedy club boasts stunning views of Westminster and the London Eye.
The Performance
Featuring four acts every Friday and Saturday night, the Boat Show Comedy Club promises variety to tickle every funny bone. This visit welcomed funny Frenchman Marcel Lucont and musical joke-teller Rob Deering - polar opposite performers but as equally entertaining as each other. With regular intervals and a rousing warm up act, you’re guaranteed never to be left with a straight face or an empty glass. Rumoured to welcome undercover big names as they work on their acts, you’re sure to see something special especially in the run up to the festival season.
Don't be surprised if you spot headline performers fine-tuning their acts for an upcoming TV appearance.
The Ambience and Clientele
The location of the Boat Show Comedy Club alone adds an extra layer of novelty. Boarding ship and heading below deck means you’ll be entertained before the evening’s even begun, and the added pitches and rolls of the water beneath makes for giggling or green faces, depending on how strong your stomach is. Although mostly young professionals, the crowd is a melting pot of ages and preferences that’s thankfully missing the rowdy hecklers that sometimes dominate comedy nights. After comedians have cracked their last one liner, the room is transformed into an evening venue that’s more “school disco” than “sophisticated night club”. Relocate to the lounge area instead, if you’d rather swap flashing lights and Top 40 hits for panoramic views of the Thames.
Young professionals made up the bulk of the audience, and thankfully there wasn't a heckler in sight.
Summary
If you’re looking for laughs in an iconic London location, then the Boat Show Comedy Club is sure to deliver. An impressive collection of comedians and a view to Westminster at a reasonable rate will make you want to don your boat shoes and board ship. Swap the after-hours night club for a stroll along to Southbank for late night cocktails instead, and you’re sure to keep the smile on your face.
