Stranded on the River Medway? Introducing Your New Marine Breakdown Lifeline
- Sophia Brading
- May 7
- 3 min read

From Yalding to Sheerness – and even the River Swale – UK Marine Services Ltd is now your go-to marine breakdown response team.
Boating on the River Medway is one of life’s great pleasures. But when something goes wrong – an engine won’t start, a fuel line clogs, or a rope tangles your propeller – things can go from peaceful to stressful fast. And if you’ve ever been stuck mid-river, you’ll know how isolating and frustrating it can feel.
That’s exactly why we’ve launched the UK Marine Breakdown Service – a fast, friendly and reliable response service, covering the River Medway and the River Swale.
We’re here to keep you moving — so the RNLI can stay focused on life-saving emergencies at sea.
What We Do – And Why It Matters
We operate two fully equipped support vessels, crewed by experienced marine professionals who know the River Medway like the back of their hand. Whether you’re a leisure boater or a local operator, we’re ready to assist with:
• Mechanical failures
• Electrical issues or flat batteries
• Fuel problems or misfuelling
• Prop fouling or anchor snags
• Overheating or cooling system faults
• Steering or throttle failure
If you’ve got a problem, chances are we’ve seen (and solved) it before.
A Smarter, Safer Way to Boat the Medway
Until now, many boaters felt they only had one option when something went wrong: call the RNLI.
But while the RNLI is an incredible life-saving service, their time is best spent saving lives, not fixing a clogged fuel filter or jump-starting a flat battery on a sunny Saturday afternoon.
That’s where we come in.
UK Marine Services Ltd provides the missing link between boat ownership and safe, supported boating. Our breakdown response gives you:
✅ Quick Response Times across the Medway and Swale
✅ Experienced, Qualified Crew ready to assist
✅ Licensed and Fully Insured Support
✅ Peace of Mind so you can boat with confidence
Top 5 Causes of River Breakdowns (and How to Avoid Them)
Breakdowns happen — but many can be prevented with simple checks. Here’s what to look out for before setting off:
1. Flat Battery: Always test your battery and connections. Carry a spare if possible.
2. Fuel Issues: Use the right grade, check filters, and never let levels drop too low.
3. Overheating: Keep cooling systems clean and regularly serviced.
4. Prop Snags: Stay alert in weedy or shallow areas – rope cutters can help.
5. Neglected Maintenance: Routine checks = fewer surprises on the water.

Being prepared is the best defence — but if something still goes wrong, we’re just a phone call away.
We’re Local. We’re Professional. We’re Ready.
Our crew members are seasoned marine engineers and river navigators. We know these waters — and the challenges that come with them. Every call-out is handled with care, urgency and respect. No judgement. No drama. Just help when you need it most.
Save This Number Before You Set Sail
For Breakdown Assistance:
📞 0800 772 3996
For Marine Surveys:
📱 Elliott Berry – 07707 150 050
📱 Barry Burnell – 07707 150 049
UK Marine Services Ltd – Here When You Need Us, So the RNLI Doesn’t Have to Be
Boating on the River Medway should feel relaxing — not risky. Let us be your backup plan, so your next river trip is memorable for all the right reasons.
Save our number, tell your boating mates, and enjoy the water with confidence.
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