Diageo’s Global Malt Whisky and Scotch Whisky Heritage

1. At the beginning of September, Diageo’s Global Malt Whisky and Scotch Whisky Heritage department were looking for a unique venue to hold a whisky-tasting evening to showcase a few of their finest products and thank their valued marketing agencies for their continuing work. Topsail screened a number of vessel options but focussed on the beautiful wood-panelled saloon of our own sailing barge Will as the venue that best met the style and tone of the event with the right passenger capacity and client spend. We combined an exceptional 3-course Seated Dinner provided by our excellent caterers Riverside Food and Drink with an after dinner whisky-tasting session to create a unique and memorable evening on the Thames.

   A great cruise event was rounded off with the raising of a floodlit Tower Bridge which was posted here on youtube by some very happy guests- see opposite

Hartlepool Tall Ships Races 2010

1. This year’s Tall Ships Races 2010 port visit at Hartlepool was set to be the largest free event in the UK this year, and with an estimated 970,000 people visiting the festival over the four days in August it did not disappoint. Topsail Events exclusively organized and managed the hospitality onboard the Tall Ships during the festival which included bespoke events for a number of local businesses and event sponsors as well as ticketed day sails for the public. The events onboard ranged from formal Jazz Cruises to Deck Barbecues at the quayside.

   The event was hailed a “stunning success” and Topsail received glowing praise from organizers and clients alike. Click here for more information…

Buckingham Schenk at the London Wine Fair

Requirement

1. The London International Wine Fair at ExCeL is a key date in the calendar for the world’s wine businesses, be it wine maker or distributor. Buckingham Schenk do both and have come to hold a high profile position as one of the UK’s top wine importers, delivering with panache to some of this country’s largest retailers.
   
   Buckingham Schenk have brought their defining, individualistic style to the London International Wine Fair at ExCeL and don’t just use the exhibition hall but underline their innovative approach by entertaining customers and commentators on board an iconic vessel at the quayside. Until two years ago this used to be one of our own Thames sailing barges: comfortable, spacious, historic and stylish. There’s plenty of room for entertaining and catering functions – carried out in the beautiful wood-paneled saloon below, while invited guests are greeted on deck with the waterfront view. On board VIPs can take a break from the busy hall areas and enjoy the unique hospitality experience that is synonymous with Buckingham Schenk.

   True to form, in 2010, the company decided to go one better…

   Solution

2. …Well not just one better, but about five times better! They tasked Topsail with finding a vessel that did all of the above but with a much greater impact and higher capacity. We found them the Tall Ship ‘Atlantis’ an impressive three-masted, square-rigged sailing vessel (pictured). Not only were Buckingham Schenk able to entertain in spectacular surroundings on the decks of this beautiful ship, under its imposing rig, but all their staff were able to stay on board.

   The whole event was a huge success and a highly cost-effective use of their budget. They were able to entertain more people, with a greater range of hospitality activities and profile while looking after their own hard-working staff on site at this vital exhibition. Like a sponsor hospitality suite and hotel all rolled into one – but much more original!

   Topsail sourced, negotiated, contracted and managed the vessel making sure that Buckingham Schenk were fully supported and could undertake their marketing and PR agenda without distraction.

   For further information about charter ships and barges at ExCeL and other important events call at Topsail Events on 0207 022 2201.