Cambridge has a fascinating history, beautiful buildings, punts on the river, cobbled streets, and enough museums and libraries to feel like you’re getting cleverer by osmosis. But the river running past the colleges adds an extra level of prettiness that had me applying as a Crew Guide at Granta. Three summers on and I guess I’m a River Seasonaire.
The Crew start the day early, preparing the traditional wooden boats for the influx of tourists eager to experience the tranquillity of the river. The adjacent Bean Theory Cafe provides the Crew with freshly ground coffee to energise themselves for the day ahead. It really is the perfect place to start a summer’s day. Early in the season, rookie crew members arrive for training. In the colder months, they’re eager to capture the feeling of the start of summer.
In a world that moves fast, this is an ideal job. However, it’s also important to note that punting is an art form, requiring balance, strength, and an intimate knowledge of the river’s moods and currents. The weather can also be unpredictable, and the physical demands of the job are significant. Notwithstanding the above, the rewards are just as great. There’s a sense of camaraderie among the young Granta Crew, and all share a pride and build lasting friendships. The smiles of satisfied tourists and the knowledge that each crew member is a guardian of a natural river make every effort worthwhile. The training is excellent – very practical, hands-on learning with lots of practice. You’ll learn all the basics, as well as a few safety bits to be fully prepared for the river. It’s a learning curve for everyone, regardless of existing experience. The company’s aim is to encourage and motivate each generation of crew, and after more than three decades it certainly has the experience.
We have two types of working crew at Granta, mostly University students. The River Guides, being the most experienced punters, navigate daily through an armada of novices dotting the river in every direction while providing an entertaining tour with stories, anecdotes, and historical facts about the colleges, buildings, and bridges you pass during the tour. Our stories and experiences are as rich and flowing as the river itself, making Cambridge truly special. We also take time out for anyone wishing to have a go at punting, of course with a little tuition.
The Moorings Crew work the decks, organising, greeting, and helping visitors. Health and safety take priority, followed closely by a smile. They’re the ones mostly behind the scenes keeping ripples at bay. The River Cam is more than a waterway. Behind the scenes, the Moorings Crew are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the River Cam. Along with the conservation workers, they’re the unsung heroes, maintaining the water quality, picking litter, and ensuring the wildlife thrives. These efforts keep the ecosystem balanced, allowing both nature and tourism to coexist harmoniously.
Granta is always on the lookout for very active, outdoorsy, and enthusiastic people. Around half of the crew have little or no experience at the point of applying, and next to fitness, people skills are perhaps more important than anything else. You will be working with about 20 other young crew members, so teamwork and good communication are also key.
With warm days ahead and the irresistible pull of the water, it’s the start of the most perfect summer. Seb
