The O2Royal Victoria DockThe reaches. Blackwall Reach runs up the west side of the peninsula and Bugsby’s Reach down the east, so you can film the O2 from two different directions within minutes.
Space. The river is wide here, and boats with a PLA Certificate of Compliance can go above 12 knots, so there is room for fast tracking and bigger set pieces with the right plan.
The light. With the river wrapping round three sides of the peninsula, you can usually find front light on the O2 by moving the boat rather than waiting for the sun.
The traffic. Working wharves on the peninsula keep tugs and barges moving, and ships pass in the fairway. Our skippers keep a listening watch and stay clear of them.
On the water. Commercial filming on the tidal Thames needs permission from the Port of London Authority, and we apply for it as part of the job.
In the air. Inside London City Airport’s flight restriction zone, drones fly only with the airport’s agreement, and the timing has to suit its operations. We handle the application.
On land. The O2 and the peninsula’s riverside have private owners, so filming or taking off from their land needs their permission, separate from the river.
Yes. The river wraps round the peninsula, so we can film the O2 from several sides and pick the one with the best light.
Only with London City Airport’s agreement, as the O2 is inside its flight restriction zone. We apply as soon as you book.
Often, yes. The river is wide here. We plan it with the Port of London Authority so it fits around the traffic.
At a point that suits the tide and the shoot, which we confirm with the call sheet.
