Jaguar XF – High-Wire Thames Crossing

Project Summary

When: March 2015
Where: Royal Docks

The new Jaguar XF was unveiled to the public in dramatic fashion as it successfully pulled off the world’s longest high-wire water crossing.

Over six months Livett’s worked with PR event company Inc to meticulously plan and successfully carry out the project which took place at the Royal Docks.

How Livett's made it happen

Livett’s work began with sourcing a location for the stunt to take place. Original concepts looked at the car crossing the width of the Thames itself, however it was decided that the Royal Docks in east London provided the ideal setting. This is due to a variety of factors including the availability of open work space and quayside access at the Docks as well as the quintessential London backdrop which was a priority for the Jaguar team.

After confirming the location and further planning, Livett’s formulated the most efficient way to run the seven required dyneema cables from one side of the Royal Victoria Dock to the other. This involved using a bespoke mooring system and a combination of vessels (including Livett’s work boat Artemis) to run the cables safely and effectively.

During the event itself the Artemis was on standby as a safety boat, and Livett’s also provided diving services as an additional safety measure. Our tug Thames Vixen was also involved throughout the project to provide all towage services.

Once daring stunt driver Jim Dowdall had completed this impressive performance, Livett’s proceeded to run the cables back to the other side of the Dock and continued to unload heavy equipment (such as cranes) from the pontoon.

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