Broom has maintained, repaired and restored boats of all types and makes for over a century.
We feel a bit nostalgic when looking through our archive of old photographs. They not only represent our history, but that of the iconic waterways that Broom Boats has been a part of for so many years. We hope you enjoy looking through this small selection of images. For more photos follow us on Instagram or Facebook.
Our story began over a century ago, in 1898 with Charles John Broom.
He built “beautifully crafted sailing cruisers for gentlemen” on the exact spot in Brundall where Broom is today.
Over the decades that followed, the Broom marque became known and respected throughout the boating world.
Whether crafted from wood or fibreglass, boats were made to last. We love seeing an historic Broom cruising by every now and then.
We’ve operated a hire fleet since 1912. But don’t worry our boats aren’t as old as that.
In fact, we’re proud to have one of the newest fleets on the Broads. All crafted by us here in Brundall.
In the old days you could hire someone to sail your boat and do the cooking for you.
Modern boats have special devices called bow thrusters to make driving easier, so sorry you’ll need to do your own cooking.
During the second world war Broom’s boat builders were in immediate demand for Admiralty contracts. When the war ended boating holidays resumed with increased demand for more luxurious hire boats.
Our cabinet makers got to work making beautiful wooden interiors and our upholsterers introduced new brightly coloured fabrics.
During the ‘20s and early ‘30s Broom led the way with its 30ft motorboat, powered by a Morris petrol engine.
The ‘40s saw Broom building new spacious cruisers for sale as well as hire. These set the standard for the next 20 years.
Over the decades many talented boat builders, marine engineers, cabinet makers, joiners, marine fabricators and boat upholsterers have worked at Broom.
