An American tourist has become a lifelong Southend United supporter after a hilarious travel mix-up turned into a heartwarming encounter with the club’s fans in London.
Evan Johnston, 21, from Arizona, was visiting the UK and intended to board a Hop-On Hop-Off river cruise to tour central London. Instead, he accidentally found himself on a party boat filled with Southend United fans en route to their National League clash against Sutton United.
“I had originally planned to board the river cruise for the sightseeing tour, which I assumed departed from the same dock,” Evan said. “The plan was to cruise for an hour and then explore central London on the tour bus.”
But as chants and football songs echoed from the crowd boarding at Tower Millennium Pier, Evan realized this wasn’t the peaceful river cruise he expected. By the time he noticed, it was too late — he was sailing down the Thames alongside diehard Shrimpers supporters.
Southend Fans Welcome Evan with Open Arms
Evan, initially confused and nervous, was quickly embraced by the Southend faithful. Among the first to check in on him was fan Andy Ward, who had heard about a “young man on the wrong boat.”
“When I found him, he was already drinking and dancing with other Southend fans,” Andy recalled. “Even though he looked a little unsure, everyone was just trying to make him feel welcome.”
After docking at Blackfriars, Evan decided to fully embrace the day — and joined the fans at the stadium to watch Southend United’s 1-1 draw with Sutton United.
From Tourist to Fan for Life
The unexpected experience left a lasting impression on Evan, who now proudly declares himself a Southend fan for life.
“I had so much fun, I’m planning to attend another game next weekend. Hopefully, they get the win,” he said.
“I’m a Southend fan till I die now.”
This wholesome story of football camaraderie and unexpected friendships is a reminder of the unifying power of the beautiful game — even if it starts with a wrong turn on the River Thames.
