boat trips on river thames london

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You are here: Things to Do > Boating on the River Thames > Boat trips

Boat trips on the River Thames

The River Thames offers so much history along its banks. To truly enjoy sightseeing on the River Thames then sit back and let someone else take the helm! Sit and relax as beautiful scenery glides by on a River Thames boat trip or cruise and enjoy the commentary on the sights along the river!

Passenger Boat Trips

Passenger boat operators offer a variety including day trips, round trips, stopping or one-way services. As well as the scheduled services, you might enjoy a themed river cruise. Choose from a spot of sightseeing with wildlife watching or party nights and seasonal day trips, to name but a few!

The main cruising season for the non-tidal Thames (outside of London) is April-September but each operator may have sailings and cruises outside of this time including special events so please check availability with the business.

Here's some of the key boat operators along the Thames:

Oxford: Salters Steamers

Reading: Thames Rivercruise

Henley: Hobbs of Henley

Windsor, Maidenhead and Runnymede: French Brothers

London to Greenwich: City Cruises

Themed Public Cruises

There are so many choices for boat trips on the Thames. Choose from jazz cruises, wildlife cruises, children's cruises and more. See the list below to see what's available.

A selection of Boat Trips on the Thames currently available at various locations including: 

Salters Steamers , boat trips from Oxford , Alice in Wonderland Cruise and Lunchtime Picnic Cruise.

Thames Rivercruise , Reading    is offering 45/60/90 minute cruises and Wednesday and Saturday Evening Sundowner Fizz Cruises.

• Thames Experience 45 Minute Round Trip Cruise  - Take a look at the riverside homes, countryside and the Thames as it passes through Reading with refreshments on board as you watch the wildlife pass as the boat glides along the Thames.
• Thames Experience 60 Minute Round Trip Cruise – Ideal for families, it leaves Caversham behind and heads to the countryside reaching two islands – Apletree Eyot and Poplar Island.
• Thames Explorer 90 Minute Round Trip Cruise -  Cruise from Caversham Pier through twists and turns to Mapledurham Lock and Weir. This is the river as it should be, tranquil and stunning in Wind in the Willows Country.

All above: weekends from 1 April to 29 October, daily Easter Holiday, May Half Term and School Summer Holiday 24 Jul-1 Sep (no cruises 21-29 Aug). 

• Other cruises: Shiplake or Goring Cream Tea Cruise, Goring Circular Cruise, Afternoon Tea, Sunday Lunch or Saturday Sundowner Cruises.

Hobbs of Henley   operates 1 and 2 hour cruises from Henley and themed ticketed cruises.

• Jazz & Afternoon Tea Cruise  (4 Aug 24) – Enjoy the sounds of a traditional jazz band on a three hour cruise whilst enjoying a delicious English Afternoon Tea.
• Vintage Themed Afternoon Tea Cruise  (12 May, 21 Jul, 25 Aug, 15 Sep) - Cruise the Thames on one of the most spectacular vessels, The New Orleans and sample the most incredible afternoon tea whilst doing so!
• Midsomer Murders Cruise with Afternoon Tea  (1 May and 5 Jun 2-4pm) - Aboard The Waterman, these are hosted by a specialist guide who’s knowledge on the TV sensation is superb and enjoy a delicious afternnon tea. Discover many murderous locations along the Thames and which episodes they featured in, the perfect cruise for any fans of this show!
• Henley Regatta River Cruise  (4 July, 11am - 5pm) - Sail the regatta course on-board Hibernia from 11am – 5pm, enjoying a welcome glass of Pimms, canapés, a buffet lunch and afternoon tea. 
• Atul Kochhar’s Henley Festival Cruise  (14 Jul, 7 - 10.45pm) - Aboard ‘The New Orleans’ enjoy the finest Indian cuisine provided by Atul Kochhar’s team. One of the first British-based Indian chefs to receive a Michelin star. Cruising up and down the Henley stretch of the Thames, enjoy the atmosphere of the Henley Festival from the river. The fireworks can be viewed from the open upper deck which will give you the most perfect view point for them!
• Eighties Silent Disco during the Rewind Festival (16 Aug 7-11pm) - Aboard The New Orleans for this fun Eighties night! Put your headphones on and hit our dance floor as you listen to some fab Eighties tunes! This event takes place during Henley’s Rewind Festival so you will be able to take in the sounds and atmosphere from our upper deck during this cruise. The price also includes a cocktail (or mocktail) on arrival and a buffet meal.
• Purdy's Gin and Jazz Cruise  (23 Aug, 7.30 - 10.30pm) – Aboard The New Orleans, is the incredible singer/songwriter Purdy and her band who will be providing sultry Jazz under the stars. Ticket includes a Mr Hobbs G&T on arrival and a fabulous buffet. 
• A Ghoulish Halloween Murder Mystery Cruise (31 Oct, 7-10.30pm) - Step aboard The New Orleans for a scary night to remember, our special Halloween murder mystery cruise for everyone who likes dinner with a fright! Partnering with Little Chico Productions.
• Christmas cruises - Christmas Lunch and Christmas Party Night cruises.
• Santa Cruises - The brilliant Bertie Slippers will have everyone roaring with laughter and he will be adding some magic, balloons and puppets to the children’s entertainment and Santa will be in his grotto bearing gifts for all the children!  

French Brothers   is operating 40 mins and 2 hour cruises from Windsor, Runnymede to Windsor and Runnymed hop-on-hop-off service. 

• Windsor 2-hour round trip – Leaving Windsor Promenade, passengers can enjoy excellent views of Windsor Castle and Eton College. After passing Windsor Racecourse, the boat passes through Boveney Lock and passes Sutherland Grange, The Willows and Bray Film Studios.
• Victorian Paddle Steamer Runnymede hop-on hop-off trip – Daily 29 Mar -18 Apr, 25 May-28 Sep.  Weekends only 15 Apr - 24 May, 9-29 Sep. Board the 'Lucy Fisher', a replica of a Victorian paddle steamer at the Runnymede Boathouse and cruise upstream to the Bells of Ouzeley, which is featured in Jerome K. Jerome's "Three Men in a Boat". Pass the Memorials, and onto the Runnymede Pleasure Grounds.
• Windsor 40 min Round Trip – Daily to 27 Oct, Weekends 28 Oct - 22 Dec. This short cruise goes upstream to Boveney Lock & returns with fantastic views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House, Windsor Racecourse & the Brocas Meadows.
• Runnymede to Windsor Service – Daily 29 Mar - 29 Sep. Leaving from the Runnymede Boathouse, the boat will cruise upstream through Old Windsor Lock and continues through the pretty villages of Old Windsor and Datchet. Travelling through the grounds of Windsor Castle, the boat then passes through Romney Lock and arrives in Windsor.
• Royal Steamboat Voyage - 19 May, 16 Jun, 22 SeptA nostalgic cruise of discovery through the Queen's back garden on a  beautiful  and  genuine  Victorian steam launch. Departing from Runnymede in the morning you will pass through Old Windsor Lock and the pretty village of Datchet. Salute our Monarch's flag as we steam along past the grounds of Windsor Castle. In the afternoon the boat returns to Runnymede. Enjoy either a hearty lunch or afternoon tea.

City Cruises  in London offers sightseeing cruises, dining cruises and Showboat evening cruises. 

• Sightseeing cruises - depart daily every 30 to 40 minutes from piers at Westminster, London Eye, Tower and to Greenwich.
• 24h Hop-On Hop-Off River Pass
• Thames Lunch Cruise – Tues-Sun. Enjoy a delicious two course lunch on a relaxed mini voyage through the heart of London: 2-course meal, 1 hour 45 minutes river Cruise, Commentary, Glass of Moët & Chandon (Champagne Package)
• Afternoon Tea Cruise – Thu-Sun.  See the best views in London while you tuck into tea, scones and all the trimmings of a traditional afternoon tea on the Thames.
• London Dinner Cruise – Wine, dine and dance on this great dinner cruise on the Thames. See spectacular views of London’s iconic sights including the magnificent London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge and the recently lit bridges as part of the Illuminated River project, whilst enjoying show songs and top hits. Includes: A three-hour cruise, Four-course meal, Welcome drink, Dancing till late, Half bottle of wine per guest.
• London’s Evening Cruise – See great views of London's riverside landmarks and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a trip through the heart of central London – on a boat. You can choose between being on the open-air upstairs deck or in the saloon, which has big windows. Includes: Sparkling wine or soft drink, Selection of cold canapés served throughout the evening, Background music, 2 hour river Cruise
• London’s Jazz Cruise on the Thames – Fridays. Enjoy jazz and dinner on the Thames on a journey up and down the river, with great views of landmarks including Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf and more. Includes: 3 hour cruise with our quintet ChiJazz playing jazz, Glass of sparkling wine, 3-course meal with choice of dishes, Cash bar offering Champagne, Pimm's, wines and beers.
• Halloween Murder Mystery Cruise  
• Fireworks Night Cruises  
• Christmas - Thames Christmas Dinner Party , Thames Christmas Lunch Party , Christmas Day Sightseeing ,  Christmas Day Lunch Cruise
• New Year - New Year's Eve Gala Dinner , New Year's Eve Stargazer Cruise , 

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A whole range of refreshments are available from the onboard café bar.

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Bring your bike on board at no extra charge. We can currently carry up to 14 bikes on our largest vessels. Pets are also welcome.

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Save time and money, download the Thames Clippers Tickets app. Buy season tickets and flexible ticket carnets.

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Go on an adventure with the kids. Travelling by river is a great way for families to explore London differently. They will love being on the back deck! With a Family River Roamer kids go free. 

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Sip, snack and sail! Refreshments are available at our onboard café bar from hot drinks to alcoholic beverages and snacks.

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Boat accessibility information.

All our boats are wheelchair, mobility scooter and pram accessible by ramp. All boats, except Star, Storm and Sky Clipper, have accessible toilets and larger boats have baby changing tables.

All our piers are step-free and wheelchair accessible except for Cadogan, London Bridge City and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter piers.

Mobility scooter owners are welcome on board but need first to apply for our Mobility Scooter Recognition Scheme .

You can bring your guide or assistance dog on board for free.

Any person with a valid Disabled I.D. badge/card, will get 50% off ticket fares and a complimentary ticket for their carer.

Latest service updates

For the most up to date information on our services please follow   @thamesclippers on X (formerly known as Twitter). You can also find live departure information at the piers or on the Thames Clippers Tickets app.

"I would just like to say, you do an amazing job, always helpful, friendly. Provide an amazing service."

Thames River Cruises 

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is the fastest, most frequent and reliable fleet on the River Thames - carrying over 4 million passengers last year. Unlike most other forms of public transport, we are always reliable - the only days our river boats don’t run are Christmas and Boxing Day.

Thames River Boats 

Our Thames river boats are fully equipped with comfortable seating and plenty of space. Our larger river boats all have licenced on-board bars, with a range of coffees, snacks and alcoholic drinks. They all have toilet facilities, and some even have baby changing facilities. Our Thames river buses have Metro and City AM newspapers available on board and Free Wi-Fi is available at our main piers. The experience of travelling through London on a Thames river bus is unlike any other form of travel, providing an epic experience for its users. Far more enjoyable than struggling for space on a packed London Underground tube, quicker than driving or getting the bus, and less exhausting than walking or riding your bike!

Our History 

Starting in 1999 with just one boat in operation, our fleet has grown exponentially to 20 high-speed Thames river boats, offering services from all major London piers every 10-20 minutes. Our services cater for everyone from early morning commuters to night-time passengers. There are countless reasons to choose a London River Bus over any other form of transport – choose a Thames river cruise next time you need to travel through London.

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London’s best Thames river cruises

Get a whole new perspective of the city with these top Thames river cruises

Think you’ve ticked off everything London has to offer? Think again. Try a Thames river cruise – and no, we’re not talking about the Clippers (well we are, but only a little bit). There are few better ways to take in the capital than by its famously choppy, murky central waterway. Plus the views, from Hampton Court down to the City and Greenwich, are some of the absolute finest our city has to offer.

It's time to ditch dry land and hop aboard a Thames river boat tour. And plenty of London’s top attractions are best seen from the water – so get your camera ready.

RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in London

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Best Thames river cruises in London

Thames Rockets

• Ships and boats

Bring your waterproofs, because the slick RIB (rigid inflatable boat) operation offers a high-speed ride on the Thames. It's a great way to discover how exhilarating it can be to swoop along the Thames at almost 30 knots – that’s nearly 35 mph, nautical novices! We're not sure how much you'll actually be able to see, but there are plenty more leisurely-paced tours for that sorta thing.

Bateaux London Cruises

• Victoria Embankment

A good river cruise for those who want a spot of grub while taking in the sights along the Thames – Bateaux offer a full range of different dining cruises. There’s the lunch, afternoon tea and dinner cruise – or you could really pull the stops out and enjoy their three-course lunch with a live jazz band playing assorted swingin’ classics. All river cruises depart from Victoria Embankment.

City Cruises

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

Want to see the city in style? City cruises operate on a hop-on, hop-off basis and run from Westminster, Waterloo, Tower and Greenwich Piers with commentary along the way. All the departure points are convenient for the city’s various sights, with Greenwich Pier ideal for the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory.

London Duck Tours

Praise whichever brilliant mind decided to paint the scant remaining WW2 landing vehicles in bright, rubber-duck yellow! These duck city tours take in all the typical land-based sights – then has two ‘splashdowns’ into the Thames as it goes into nautical mode and takes passengers around Docklands, Canary Wharf and Greenwich.

Thames RIB Experience

• Sightseeing

Instead of a usual tour’s drab history lessons and endless stream of tedious facts, why not try something a little more thrilling? The Thames RIB Experience is more like a rollercoaster than a classic sightseeing tour, and sees passengers jetted across the water at an impressive 45mph. Lifejackets and waterproofs are provided (fortunately), leaving you free to enjoy whizzing around in figure-eights in open water between Tower Bridge and the Isle of Dogs. Try and take in some sights as the high winds reshape your face.

Thames River Boats

Thames River Boats take you all the way from the Palace of Westminster upriver to Hampton Court Palace. It’s a pretty leisurely 22-mile journey: in 90 minutes you’ll be at Kew; in another 90, you’ll be at Hampton Court. But this westward route is a lovely way to appreciate the Thames, as the banks get greener, less cluttered with high-rise buildings and the river buses are replaced by rowers.

Thames Clippers

These days the Thames Clippers are better known as ‘Uber Boats’, not because they’re the most incredible boats but because, you guessed it, they’re sponsored by a taxi company. Sure, they don’t go very fast (trundling along at a very leisurely 30mph), but they’re a pretty underrated, cost-effective way to traverse the Thames.

Vintage Red Bus Tour and Thames Cruise

Why choose between the road and the river when you can have both? First up on this guided tour you'll be driven round the capital in a routemaster (that's the old red double decker bus), before boarding a Thames Cruiser to view the sites from the water. Sail past landmarks like Shakespeare's Globe and Tower Bridge, before getting back on the bus and heading to her Maj's residence: Buckingham Palace. There's also the option to add a ticket for the London Eye on this package.

Tate to Tate Boat

A connecting service between either art institution, the Tate to Tate Boat runs every 40 minutes. Aside from getting you from one gallery to another, it’s also great for taking in lots of central London scenery. As you might expect, the boat itself is an arty affair: YBA Damien Hirst covered both the exterior and interior with his trademark spots. It’s also genuinely the quickest way to travel from Tate to Tate – this way, you avoid an irritatingly convoluted tube or bus journey.

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River Thames Cruise Prices and Reviews

What is the best london river cruise.

While our free London walking tours are a great way to see and learn a lot about the city, Thames River cruises offer a completely different perspective that you might also enjoy.

The most popular type of river cruise is a hop-on hop-off tour , allowing you to stop and get off the boat at various docks on the Thames.

Here are the top cruise services in London:

City Cruises

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers

Thames river service.

There are also special cruise services such as Tate to Tate by Thames Clippers , connecting both historic museums by boat.

Alternatively, you might also want to consider a circular loop without any stops, or perhaps a speedboat ride during the summer.

Like many cities, there are also lunch and dinner cruises available on the Thames River.

If you're in North London, you might want to consider a canal cruise around Little Venice and Camden Lock instead.

Concerned about the price? Check our list of combo packages that include a Thames River cruise for free!

Although we do our best to provide a balanced look at these services, it's important to get other perspectives, so we've also included a selection of recommendations from members of our London Travel Tips Facebook group.

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

TIP: When planning your boat tour or cruise, make sure to check out the  weather in London beforehand.

HOP-ON-HOP-OFF THAMES RIVER CRUISES

If you’re looking for a boat tour or cruise that will allow you the freedom to explore at your own pace, consider one of the following companies.

Although there aren’t many London boat services that specialize specifically in hop-on-hop-off Thames cruises, there are a few that provide the opportunity to explore London however you wish.

You can choose to purchase one single ride, a discounted return ticket, or a 24-hour travel pass with unlimited rides.

TIP: Many of these cruises are included for free or at a lower cost with any of the many London tourist attraction passes available to you.

City Cruises is probably the most well-known company offering a basic Thames River cruise. They are also the best value for the money.

City Cruises also offers speedboat tours and lunch and dinner cruises .

City Cruises offers both single tickets and a hop-on-hop-off service with 4 stops between Westminster and Greenwich. The hop-on-hop-off ticket is called the River Pass.

The River Pass is a 24-hour pass that gives you unlimited access to the river for 24 hours. There is live commentary on every journey.

For just a few pounds more, you can get a 72-hour River Pass giving you three days to use the service.

Guests can sit on the open-aired top of the boat, or inside downstairs if the London weather gets a bit wet or chilly.

TIP:  City Cruises' hop-on-hop-off service is  included for free for holders of a London Pass , a tourist attraction discount card. It is also  included for free  with the purchase of a 24 or 48-hour hop-on, hop-off open-top bus ticket with Tootbus Tours.

Click on the map for a larger view .

Single Tickets

Single-ride tickets vary depending on your starting and ending point. Prices start at £10.80/adult (16+), £7.05/child (5-15), and free for infants 4 and under.

See their full list of single and return ticket prices here .

If you are planning on taking at least two rides, we recommend that you buy a River Pass. This pass gives you unlimited travel between their piers.

River Pass Tickets

24-Hour Pass

• £23 Adults (16+)
• £15.45 for Children (5-15)
• Free for Infants (4 and under)

More information or to purchase tickets .

Cruises run every 30 minutes. Exact departure times depend on which pier you wish to depart from. (Frequency changes seasonally).

Highlights along the cruise include the London Eye, OXO Tower, London Bridge, The Shard, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and Greenwich.

TIP:  City Cruises hop-on-hop-off service is usually  included for free for holders of a London Sightseeing Pass , a tourist attraction discount card. It is also  included for free  with the purchase of a 24 or 48-hour hop-on, hop-off open-top bus ticket with Tootbus Tours.

Reviews of City Cruises

City Cruises sports a 4 out of 5 stars  rating on TripAdvisor along with mostly positive reviews.

Thousands of reviewers have given them a 5-star rating, which is a good sign.

The negative comments that have been left often mention unforeseen technical issues with the boats or scheduling software.

To avoid any issues, make sure to arrive early for your cruise and call them the day before your excursion to make sure there are no problems.

Thames Clippers is a commuter boat service that sells single-ride tickets.

But, they also offer a day ticket, called Uber Boat, that gives you unlimited hop-on, hop-off travel for one day (between 10 am and 11 pm).

The Uber Boat is valid in their Central and East Zone lines which include 18 piers including Greenwich, Tower, Westminster, and more. Boats depart every 20 minutes.

Some of the central London landmarks you can get to easily from the Uber Boat piers:

• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Tower of London
• Tower Bridge
• Tate Modern
• Covent Garden
• Trafalgar Square
• Borough Market 
• National Gallery of Art
• British Museum
• Houses of Parliament
• Churchill War Rooms
• HMS Belfast
• Shakespeare's Globe
• Palace of Westminster

You can download their free audio tour (available in English, Spanish, French, and German) if you are taking the boat for sightseeing purposes.

Also, you can buy refreshments on board.

Uber Boat Ticket Prices

• £22.10 Adults (16+)
• £11.05 for Children (5-15)
• This cruise is included with the London Pass .

Thames Clippers has received a 4 out of 5 stars  rating on both TripAdvisor and Viator.

Most reviews are very positive, stating that it is great value for the money. The staff is said to be courteous and helpful.

Also, guests said that the boat went just fast enough to get from point A to point B efficiently while still being slow enough to enjoy sightseeing with the downloadable app. 

Read reviews here .

Thames River Services (TRS) offers a variety of guided sightseeing tours that cover several different highlights along the river.

Prices and the length of the trip vary depending on what route you select.

There are a total of ten different tours offered out of Westminster, Greenwich, and St. Katharine's.

Additionally, this boat tour company provides transportation to popular sightseeing locations such as the Thames Barrier and the Tower of London.

Guests have the option to pay for a one-way ticket or round-trip fare as well as a hop-on, hop-off ticket (through Circular Cruises).

With a 4 ½ out of 5 stars  rating on both Yelp and TripAdvisor, TRS is one of the highest-rated cruise companies in London. 

A majority of reviews are very positive, but there are a few negative comments. 

Complaints tend to focus on the fact that this is a sightseeing cruise, which means it might not be as speedy as other services.

If you’re looking for a quicker boat tour, you might want to consider one of the hop-on, hop-off options.

Other than these issues, most passengers love Thames River Services!

Find out more about Thames River Service Tours .

Tate to Tate by Thames Clippers

This route on the Thames Clippers service is the "RB2 Tate to Tate".

It takes visitors between the two Tate Museums: the free  Tate Modern  at Bankside Pier and Tate Britain at Millbank Pier.

Boats run every 30 minutes. It is a 20-minute ride and is within the Central Zone so this is a one-zone ticket.

The boats have both outdoor and indoor seating. As this is not a sightseeing boat there is no live commentary.

It is, however, a great way to get out onto the water and move quickly between museums and their surrounding neighborhoods.

You can purchase tickets in advance online from the Tate Shop website , or before you board a boat from a self-serve kiosk on the pier.

You can also use your  Oyster card , if you have one, upon boarding the boat.

When you purchase, look for the RB2 service, a central zone ticket price.

Find out more or book tickets here.

Prices (single one-way ticket)

• Adult:  One Way - £10.90
• Child 5 to 15:  One Way - £5.45
• Children under 5 travel for free
• Adult TfL Travelcard: One Way - £7.30
• Child 5-15 TfL Travelcard: One Way - £3.65

For a complete timetable of the RB2 route that stops at both Tates, click  here for schedules.

Look for times for Bankside (the Tate Modern) and Millbank (the Tate Britain).

The Tate Boat service has been given a 4 ½ star rating on TripAdvisor.

Although it is not a full five stars, the reality is that they haven’t received any negative ratings.

There is only one complaint thus far, and it focuses on the length of time it may take to get tickets onto the boat.

Even so, the reviewer suggests that you persevere and use this ferry service to get from Tate to Tate.

Most passengers love this form of transportation, so chances are that it’s very reliable.

CIRCULAR LOOP THAMES RIVER SIGHTSEEING CRUISES

A circular loop cruise is specifically a river tour of the Thames.

From the boat, you will see many amazing sights such as  St. Paul’s Cathedral , the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament , and  Big Ben .

Most circular loop cruises are about an hour long. 

Note that some circular loop cruises are hop-on-hop-off while others allow you to leave the cruise at any pier, but you may not board again.

Thames River Service Circular Cruise

This circular loop cruise allows you to hop on and off whenever you wish so that you can get a better look at the sites located all along the Thames.

The full cruise takes about an hour, but you can embark and disembark at your discretion throughout the day.

This circular cruise will take you past more than a dozen historic locations that are visible from the water.

There is commentary provided along the way to point out significant sights such as Old Scotland Yard or the Houses of Parliament.

Find more information or purchase tickets here.

Ticket Prices 

Click here to purchase tickets .

Single Ticket

• £12.40 for Adults
• £8.40 for Children/Freedom Pass Holders

Return Ticket

• £18.15 for Adults
• £12.25 for Children/Freedom Pass Holders

This cruise service has been in operation for several years, but they don’t have a lot of reviews.

The few negative reviews say that the tour feels short and that you do not see so many sights.

Mostly though the reviews are positive, saying that the live commentary is very informative and humorous.

Reviews say that the boat ride was relaxing and enjoyable, and well-organized.

The London Eye River Cruise

Whether you’re planning to visit the London Eye or you just want a tour around the Thames which focuses on the giant Ferris wheel, this river cruise is a great alternative to other services.

Although the London Eye River Cruise is not as long as other boat tours in the area, it can be a lot more affordable.

This circular loop will take you past locations such as Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, The Tower of London, and the Houses of Parliament.

If you purchase your tickets online, you can save 10% on your fare.

TIP: This cruise is also part of the London Explorer Pass , which could save you between 20-50% off of the retail price.

Find out more or purchase tickets here.

Ticket Prices :

• £19.50 for Adults
• Children under 2 ride for free

Before purchasing tickets, note that this cruise is included in the  London Explorer Pass , which could save you between 20-50% off of the retail price.

• Daily Cruises from 10:45 to 19:45
• Cruise departs *10.45, 11.45, 12.45, 13.45, 14.45, 15.45, 16.45, *17.45, *18.45, *19.45

Note: *Opening times may vary depending on seasonality. Be sure to check their schedule .

This river cruise company has earned a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor.

Although there is a small contingent of passengers who had negative experiences, most reviews are very positive.

There aren’t enough complaints to suggest that these are common problems. 

Positive reviews for the service indicate that other guests found their tour guides to be quite helpful and informative.

The majority of people who take this cruise find it enjoyable. It’s fair to assume that the few complaints may just be random outliers.

Thames River Tours

In addition to their speedboat tours and lunch and dinner cruises , Thames River Tours provides a circular loop with commentary and sightseeing.

This circular cruise operates out of Westminster Pier and lasts approximately one hour.

Although it isn’t a hop-on-hop-off tour, you are allowed to leave the cruise at any pier. 

If you’re looking for a boat tour that will provide information about the Thames as you glide down the river, this is an excellent option. 

Ticket Prices

• £14.90 Per Person

This boat tour company has a 4 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor, indicating that they provide quite a good service.

Most of the reviews are 5-star ratings, but a few negative comments are bringing the score down.

Positive comments suggest that the guides on Thames River Tours provide a lot of information and point out relevant sites along the river.

Unhappy customers report that they had a variety of scheduling issues, so it might be in your best interest to arrive early and call ahead to make sure that your cruise is still on schedule.

Sail on a 1920s Barge

Hop aboard a historic wooden Thames Sailing Barge, Lady Daphne, and enjoy a voyage through history along the Thames.

Spend a day or an evening on a wooden sailing vessel built in 1923 and have Tower Bridge raised especially for you during the trip!

Lady Daphne is the last wooden sailing barge still working on the Thames regularly and in addition to their private tours, you can take a public tour when offered.

Most trips begin at Tower Millennium Pier, and you pass through Tower Bridge en route downstream toward Greenwich Pier.

Depending on the time and length of your trip, you can get to see the O2, Canary Wharf, and maybe a glimpse of the Thames Barrier!

Check their website for prices and more information.

SPEEDBOAT RIDES

Speedboat rides on the Thames are not a budget option, but they are thrilling.

Throughout the experience, passengers will alternate between enjoying a leisurely ride along the Thames for sightseeing and a fast-paced thrill ride.

Guests are well protected with waterproof jackets, a life jacket, and goggle-style visors to withstand the thrilling wind speeds they will experience.

Thames RIB Experience

This RIB (Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat) is one of the fastest boats on the Thames, jetting visitors along the river at approximately 30 knots.

Each boat (which only holds up to 12 people) is manned by a guide who provides commentary throughout the journey.

In addition to their longer tour of the Thames, this company also manages three shorter tours of Canary Wharf, and the Tower Millennium Pier.

Ticket prices typically depend upon the length of the boat ride.

Ticket Prices:

Thames Barrier Experience (75 minutes)

• £62.10 for Guests 14+
• £53.10 for Children 2 - 13 years

Canary Wharf Experience (50 minutes)

• £54 for Guests 14+
• £49 for Children 2 - 13 years

Tower RIB Blast (20 minutes)

• £35.50 for Guests 14+
• £31.50 for Children 2 - 13 years

The Thames RIB Experience has earned a full 5-star rating on TripAdvisor – and that includes over 2,500 positive reviews.

Many comments report that this is an excellent trip for families on holiday.

Other positive comments mention that you will probably get wet while on this excursion, so it’s best experienced during hot days.

This is intended as more of an entertaining thrill ride. If you’re looking for excitement on the river, consider the Thames RIB Experience.

Thames Jet by City Cruises

This speedboat service is managed by City Cruises and offers a similar excursion to the RIB Experience.

They don’t offer as many tours as their competitors, but the Thames Jet is an excellent alternative.

Their Thames Rush speedboat tour is over 50 minutes.

Ticket prices are comparable to similar services, but they also offer family tickets at a discount.

• £49 for Adults
• £39 for Children (15 and under)

Tour Hours:

• 9 tours between 11 am and 7 pm (there may be fewer tours in the winter months)

TripAdvisor has given the Thames Jet service 4 ½ out of 5 stars . Most of the reviews are very positive, but there are a few negative comments.

Luckily, the few negative reviews don't appear to be the norm.

Most people enjoy this speedboat tour, with a majority of reviews stating that the tour guides are very entertaining and informative.

CANAL BOAT RIDES

Operating entirely along the canals that flow through the north of London, a canal ride is a charming way to see parts of London that most tourists miss.

For a true experience off the beaten path, these relaxing and beautiful rides are a definite must.

Jason's Original Canal Boat Trip

From March to November, you can take a canal boat ride with Jason's Original with live commentary from trained guides. 

• One Way: Adult - £18 / Concession £14
• Return: Adult - £23 / Concession £19

Jason’s London Canal Boat Trip is offered as part of the London Pass , which means more savings for you! 

London Waterbus Company

Their Regents Canal Waterbus Tour travels between Little Venice and Camden Lock (where the vibrant Camden Market is located).

Along the ride, the boat passes through Regent’s Park and the grounds of London Zoo. 

• Adult (17-59 years) £15.00
• Child (5-16 years) £11
• Student 17+ with photo student ID £11
• Senior 60+ years £11
• Toddler (under 3 years) Free

The  London Zoo Express ticket , which includes zoo admission, is not currently available as of May 2021.

Check their  website  for more details and to purchase tickets.

LUNCH AND DINNER CRUISES

Sightseeing cruises are nice, but they might not be the best option for business events or dating.

If you’re looking for a more sociable trip along the Thames, consider one of the following Dining Cruises.

In addition to the typical dinner cruise, many companies offer a variety of dining and party cruises, such as tea and showboat cruises, that allow you to enjoy more than just the sights and sounds of London.

To browse a full list of lunch and dinner cruise options by type rather than by company, click here .

Whether you want to go on a cruise with wonderful music and fabulous food, or you just want to have your afternoon tea out on the Thames, City Cruises offers a wide variety of options.

If you order online during the summer, you can save 20% on each dining cruise offered through this company.

Tickets are already quite affordable, so this is an excellent opportunity to save money while having fun out on the water.

More information or to purchase .

Lunch Cruise on The Thames

• £47 for Adults
• £37 for Children (ages 3-12)

Afternoon Tea on The Thames

• £45 for Adults
• £35 for Children (ages 3-12)

Jazz Cruise on The Thames

• £107+ (depending on date/time) per Adult (18+ only)

London Dinner Cruise on The Thames

• £89+ (depending on date/time) per Adult (18+ only)

When it comes to its dining cruises, this company has received fairly high ratings on TripAdvisor.

Although this isn’t their primary service, City Cruises regularly receives positive remarks for their dining boat trips.

Most reviewers have given them a 5-star rating, reporting that the food is quite excellent and the cruise itself is very relaxing.

Some have said that their Sundowner cruise is a great way to unwind after a long day, while others have reported that the Afternoon Tea cruise is a good value for the money.

BUS & BOAT COMBOS

There are a lot of boat tours and cruises offered on the Thames, but none of them will show you everything worth seeing in London.

To experience more than just the river that runs through this beautiful city, you’ll want to consider combining a cruise with either walking tours or bus tours.

Thankfully, there are a lot of companies in the area that provide combo packages that include many different types of excursions.

These combination packages can be a great way to save money on all kinds of activities!

Big Bus Tours

Big Bus is one of the most popular tour companies in the world. They offer services internationally and are well known for providing quality service.

Their combo package for London includes a cruise with City Cruises, their hop-on, hop-off bus tour, a selection of guided walking tours, and a coupon booklet.

Tickets for this combo package can be purchased either for 24 or 48 hours, allowing you to take as much time as you wish to enjoy everything included.

If you’re looking for a combination package that will allow you to discover as much of the city as possible without paying a lot of money, this is a great choice.

Click here for more information or to book .

• £44.00 for Adults
• £35.00 for Children (ages 5-15)
• £140.50 for Families (2 Adults + 2 Children)
• £64.00 for Adults
• £54.00 for Children  (ages 5-15)
• £209.00 for Family (2 Adults + 2 Children)
• Tickets can be used on any date within 6 months of purchase.
• Enjoy each tour or cruise at your own leisure.
• Follow the tour hours of City Cruises to schedule your boat trip.

Big Bus Tours of London has a 4-star rating on TripAdvisor. Most reviews are very positive, and comments about this specific combo package tend to be favorable.

Even customers who did not enjoy their experience reported that the cruise was excellent. Many passengers have said that this is a great value for the money.

Others report that the buses run frequently, allowing you to get off and experience various sites such as the Tower of London.

Tootbus Tour

This tour service is almost the same as Big Bus Tours. Much like their competitor, they also offer a Thames River cruise pass through City Cruises.

You’ll also have access to 80+ stops at attractions all over London on their hop-on, hop-off bus tour.

Ticket prices are very similar, so this might be a great alternative if other combo packages are all sold out.

Ticket Prices  (online purchase)

• 24 Hour Tickets: £42/Adults | £24/Children
• 48 Hour Tickets: £49/Adults | £29/Children

Purchase tickets or learn more .

• Tickets can be used on any date within 6 months of purchase
• Enjoy each tour or cruise at your own leisure
• Follow the tour hours of City Cruises to schedule your boat trip

Tootbus, once known as the Original London Sightseeing Tour, has received a 4-star rating on TripAdvisor.

A majority of the reviews are positive, but experiences with this tour company are a bit more mixed than other services in the same range.

Most of the complaints focus on a lack of buses, but this doesn’t appear to be the norm.

Most customers have not reported a problem with their offerings, and there are thousands of reviews suggesting that this company provides excellent service.

Many passengers noted that their tour guides are very good, so this should be a great choice if you want to learn a lot about the London area.

Things to Know When Going on a River Thames Cruise

Do you need to book Thames River Cruises in advance?

You don't necessarily need to, but if you do not book your tickets in advance, then you can get ticket from ticket counters on piers.

Due to limited availability, you may not always get tickets for a particular date or time slot. As such, it is always advisable to book your cruise tickets in advance.

Where can I catch a Thames River Cruise?

Piers of some popular cruises are listed below:

• City Cruises - Westminster Pier, London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, and Greenwich Pier
• Uber Boat by Thames Clippers - Embankment Pier, Westminster Pier, Tower Millennium Pier, London Bridge City Pier, Canary Wharf, Greenwich Pier, North Greenwich Pier
• Thames River Service - Westminster Pier
• Tate to Tate by Thames Clippers - Bankside Pier, Millbank Pier
• Thames River Services' Circular Cruise - Westminster Pier
• London Eye River Cruise - The London Eye pier
• Lady Daphne - Tower Millennium Pier
• Thames RIB Experience - Embankment Pier
• Thames Jet by City Cruises - Westminster Pier

How far do cruise boats go up the Thames?

It all depends upon which river cruise you are taking.

Most of the cruises start from Westminster Pier and goes up to Tower Millennium Pier.

Some long run cruises also start from Millbank Pier and reach Greenwich Pier.

There are also some special river cruises during the warmer months which run from Westminster to Hampton Court Palace .

Are River Cruises safe?

The cruise river boats are inspected by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and they carry modern safety equipment onboard.

Also, trained skippers and crews run the safety briefing as they leave their respective boarding points.

In other words, there is no reason to worry about safety while enjoying a cruise ride.

Tips From Locals and Travelers

Assuming you've read all or even just some of this post, you've had the chance to see our recommendations when it comes to Thames River cruises. However, it's important to get a variety of opinions when it comes to these types of services.

Thankfully, many members of our London Travel Tips group on Facebook will offer their own thoughts on these cruise companies, and we've included some of their most helpful suggestions here.

It can get pretty cold in London during the winter, so travelers might be surprised to learn that they actually do keep most of the Thames River cruises open all year.

While it can get cold, pretty much every company uses boats with an indoor area where you can stay warm as you enjoy the ride.

Even so, it is recommended to bundle up during the winter anyways, so you shouldn't be too cold on a river cruise boat as long as you wear warm clothing.

A lot of locals recommend using the Uber Boat, because it's a very easy and consistent service and it offers stops all along the Thames, even in Greenwich.

The reason this river cruise boat is so popular is because it's often used as transportation by people who live in London, and in fact they rely upon these boats to get to and from work.

Locals also note that you can pay for the Uber Boat by using an Oyster Card, and they offer discounts for card holders.

Even better, once you get past the Tower Bridge, the boat will speed up and allow you to get around the city much quicker!

If you're wondering whether to take a hop-on hop-off tour on the river or a dinner cruise, it's worth noting that the dinner cruise does not include any commentary.

Travelers who want to learn more about the city while cruising down the Thames might not enjoy the dinner cruise as much, but it's still a great service for anyone who wants to enjoy the view of London as the sun is setting!

Other travelers suggest skipping the dinner cruise and hopping on the speed boat. As Trish notes, these boats will wait until they are in clear waters and take off at thrilling speeds!

For even more helpful advice, you can always visit our London Travel Tips group on Facebook and ask whatever questions you might have.

RELATED POSTS

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Take in the best of London’s waterside viewpoints with our Thames River sightseeing cruise, from Bankside to Westminster via Tower Bridge. We pride ourselves on being a family-run business, ensuring every guest feels welcome the minute they step aboard our boats. Our friendly crew will make sure you have an enjoyable experience throughout your time with us, and we look forward to welcoming you onto the Thames. Select a one-way or round-trip cruise from Bankside to Westminster, with regular departures and spectacular city views over famous landmarks including the Tower of London, The Shard, HMS Belfast, Shakespeare's Globe, the Tate Modern, the National Theatre, the London Eye, and Westminster Palace.

Yes. Always confirm with ticket office or crew as to the time of the last boat.

The journey time from Bankside Pier via Tower Bridge to Westminster Pier is 40 minutes.

With the round-trip ticket, you’ll need to change boats at Westminster Pier for the return trip.

Yes, we have fully-licensed bars selling a wide range of tasty snacks and drinks, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic.

Westminster lies in the heart of London and the list of attractions here is seemingly endless. Highlights include the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Southbank, and The Sea Life London Aquarium. You can find more details on our Attractions page.

+44 20 3778 0700 [email protected]

Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment. London, SW1A 2JH

Copyright © Thames River Sightseeing 2024

20 Best London Boat Trips and Cruises

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2023

Are you considering booking a cruise down the River Thames? Not sure what is available or which one is best for you? We have you covered in our complete guide to the best London boat trips.

One of the most popular ways to experience London is to take a boat trip along the River Thames. With so many different Thames river cruises and boat trips to choose from it can be overwhelming picking the right fit for your needs. In this article, we compare the best London boat trips and provide a detailed breakdown to help you choose the right one for you.

We have divided the city cruises by theme including 8 different cruises (dinner cruises, lunch cruises and more) which offer food, drink and entertainment. There are also a number of speedboat tours available if you want the thrill of experiencing the Thames a la James Bond.

If you are planning to travel along the Thames to some of London’s popular landmarks and sights such as Greenwich, the Tower of London and the London Eye we recommend considering the hop-on hop-off sightseeing cruise which includes unlimited travel on the river for 24 hours.

Overview of the best London boat trips and cruises

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Best London boat tours and cruises

• Duration – 24 hours

Wheelchair Accessible – YES

• Leaves from – Westminster, north Greenwich Pier, London Eye, and the Tower Pier.

On this boat ride on the River Thames, you’ll get a chance to see London’s most famous attractions . The 24-hour river ticket allows you to hop on and hop off at any of London’s major piers for 24 hours, including Westminster, Greenwich, London Eye, and Tower Pier.

Click here to purchase your ticket on the River Thames Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise

• Duration – 30 minutes to 1 hour (choose one way or round trip)
• Includes on-board commentary
• Wheelchair accessible – Yes

Leaves from – Westminster Pier

• Not included – Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

See the sights of London along the banks of the River Thames on a sightseeing river cruise from Westminster Pier to Embankment Pier, Festival Pier, Bankside Pier, and Tower Bridge Quay.

Click here to purchase your Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise

You have the option of purchasing a 1-way trip to Tower Bridge Quay or you can opt for a round-trip city cruise and return to Westminster. Listen to the live audio commentary from your captain and make use of the state-of-the-art facilities on board the boat.  

Regular departures from Westminster Pier every hour. The boats offer ideal viewing opportunities from the open top deck of the modern “Sapele” and “Mercuria” vessels or the open deck of the traditional “Sarah Kathleen.” Each vessel features a bar serving light refreshments available to purchase.

Click here to purchase your Westminster to Tower Bridge River Thames Cruise

Duration – 3 hours

• Includes tour guide
• Leave from – Meet your guide by the London Eye Waterloo Pier.

With a 3-hour cruise down the River Thames, enjoy seeing landmarks like the Tower of London and historic Greenwich while being guided by your private guide.

Click here to purchase

Best London Canal Waterbus Tours

Duration – 45 minutes

Guided commentary

Wheelchair Accessible – NO

Leaves from – The cruise will depart from Little Venice and end at Camden Lock

Travel the Regent’s Canal to Little Venice and enjoy a picturesque journey through London. This leisurely waterway is lined with quirky houseboats, while boats pass by on their way to Camden Town – an area bustling with culture!

Duration – 45 mins

Leaves from – West Yard, Camden Lock Place, Camden Market, NW1 8AF

Take a journey through London’s Regent’s Canal and experience the city like never before on this 1-way waterbus trip. Sit back as you cruise along with your window seat facing out into beautiful natural scenery, enjoying views that are impossible to find anywhere else!

London boat cruises with food (& entertainment)

Duration – 105 mins

Live commentary

Leaves from – Tower Pier, Lower Thames Street. London EC3N 4DT.

Discover a new way to enjoy London on this fantastic 105-minute cruise along the River Thames! You’ll be treated to 2 courses from an expert chef, including tea or coffee.

Get spectacular views of some of England’s most famous landmarks while sipping your beverage and listening out for fun facts about each site’s history during our journey down the river

Duration – 2.5 hours

Leaves from – Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London WC2N 6NU

Included – A three-course set menu (starter, main course, and dessert) Live band

Relax on board of a luxury pleasure boat and enjoy live music as you cruise down river. Including a 3 course dinner and live entertainment performed by a jazz band this is the perfect cruise to celebrate that special occasion.

Duration – 2 hours

Live music performance

Leaves from – Tower Pier

Start your evening with a Taste of Britain Cruise that will take you on a relaxing journey along the River Thames. As you take in the sights, enjoy traditional British-themed bowl food, and musical hits created by British artists.

Duration – 1.5 hours

Sightseeing commentary

Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea of finger sandwiches, savouries and cakes as you cruise down the Thames past some of London’s most iconic sights and landmarks.

Step aboard for a wonderful 3-hour dinner cruise on the River Thames and a 4-course meal. Enjoy a live cabaret performance and dance into the night as you cruise past London’s illuminated monuments as far as the Thames Barrier and back.

Leaves from – Tower Millennium Pier

Set sail after sunset and enjoy London on a river tour down the Thames. Start your evening with a glass of bubbly and delicious canapés. Enjoy a selection of jazz and chill-out pop songs from live performers.

Duration – 2 hours 45 minutes

3 or 5-course meal

Leaves from – Embankment Pier

See the sights of London illuminated for the night on a dinner cruise down the River Thames. Enjoy a 3 or 5-course menu of delicious food, with live music and professional service, as you pass iconic views of the city.

3-course meal with tea and coffee

Leaves from – Westminster pier

If you’re looking for a sophisticated night out in London with fine food, great live music, a friendly atmosphere, and some of the most stunning sights in London, this 3-hour Thames jazz dinner cruise is the ideal solution for you!

Best London speetboat tours

Duration – 50 minutes

Not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, people with heart problems or children under 33 lbs

Leaves from – Embankment Pier 

Get the ultimate adrenaline rush aboard a high-speed RIB boat and see the sights of London as you speed along the River Thames on a 50-minute round-trip from Embankment Pier to Tower Bridge.

Leaves from – London Eye Pier 

Experience a wild and fantastic River Thames boat cruise that is fun for all ages. Informative banter is provided by an award-winning comedian guide, whose cheery anecdotes include narration about the history of London.

Leaves from – Tower Bridge Quay

See the sights of London aboard a high-speed powerboat and ride past the Tower of London, HMS Belfast and other sights on the River Thames. Blast through Wapping and Canary Wharf to the O2 Arena at Greenwich and back.

Enjoy a fun-filled, adrenaline-packed experience as you cruise down the River Thames on the fastest boats in London. You’ll enjoy sightseeing, speed and awesome aquabatics.

Duration – 75 minutes

Board a speedboat from Embankment Pier and enjoy a round trip experience right up to the Thames Barrier, including guided commentary and high-speed action.

Duration – 40/45 minutes

Wheelchair Accessible – Contact for more information

Prepare to experience a Horrible Histories tour of the Thames. Terrible Thames is the new hit Thames river cruise for those interested in the history of the city and the river that runs through it.

I am sure this post will have helped you choose the right boat tour from the many London river cruises the city has to offer! You can find out more to help plan your trip to London in these articles:

• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Visiting Greenwich? Best things to see and do in Greenwich & one day itinerary
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
• First time visitors? Read our top tips for visiting London for the first time
• Best bus tours? Read our guide to th e best sightseeing London bus tours
• How to get around London? Read our guide to using public transport in London and our guide to London’s main trains stations.
• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with guide to all the top sights and attractions
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the lost popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• London Eye – Top tips plus ticket options
• Visiting on a budget? Read out budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London
• Visiting in winter? 21 Festive things to do in London in December

• United Kingdom

Best London Thames River Cruises – Which One is the Best?

• 5 Pinterest

Embark on a journey along the beautifully scenic and meandering river Thames, with one of the best London Thames River cruises !

A trip to London isn’t fully complete without learning more about the historic Thames, a crucial route for trade and transportation dotted with iconic landmarks and numerous bridges!

Experience the charm of London from the Thames with our top 3 river cruises. Enjoy sightseeing, indulge in afternoon tea, or savor a delightful dinner as you glide along the iconic river. Dive deeper into our diverse selection of Thames River cruises below – one of the most memorable things to do in London !

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• river cruises in London

List of Thames River sightseeing cruises

1 – westminster to greenwich cruise by thames river sightseeing.

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 10752 reviews )

“Very entertaining and pleasant ride and the explanations (in English) were very entertaining and interesting. There is also an app to get information about the sights in other languages.” Brigitte, Getyourguide

Explore the delights along the river Thames with the  Thames River Sightseeing which includes cruising past some of London’s top cultural highlights such as the Tate Modern art gallery, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the impressive 310-meter Shard skyscraper!

Sit up on the outer deck and take in the refreshing breeze coming straight off the river. The journey will take you to the fascinating area of  Greenwich , celebrated for its Royal Observatory , large green park and a historic bustling market dating back to the 1700s.

Don’t forget to take a look at the Cutty Sark, a clipper ship from the 19th century that was formerly used for transporting tea!

• book this cruise

The boat deck offered some great panoramic views for soaking up the sights of London! The live guide kept us entertained, providing plenty of historic facts and background knowledge along the route. Thanks to the skip-the-line ticket everything was super smooth and we didn’t have to queue for boarding!

2 – Westminster to Tower of London cruise by Thames River Sightseeing

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 113 reviews )

“The narrator was so informative and the view from the boat was beautiful!!!” Patricia, Tiqets

For those looking for a slightly shorter river cruise, but still jam-packed with a high density of major sights, hop on board the Thames River Sightseeing tour to the legendary  Tower of London ! The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Sight featuring a white tower built by William the Conqueror dating to the 11th century! The tower is also world famous for being home to the Crown Jewels!

During this fascinating river journey, guests can hop on or off at Embankment Pier, Festival Pier, Bankside Pier, or St Katharine’s Dock. Cruise past the London Eye , the London Dungeon , the National Theatre and the HMS Belfast and learn more about the rich history of the capital!

The live guide was engaging and we enjoyed learning more facts about iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Awesome views and photographs of Tower Bridge. All the crew staff were super friendly and made the experience a relaxing part of our day out in London.

3 – River sightseeing cruise by The London Eye

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 802 reviews )

“The boat ride was good fun, very full but still the lovely staff made it a great experience. Must be done at least once.” Sarah, Viator

After embarking on a trip in the extraordinary London Eye, get a river’s eye view of the big wheel during The London Eye river cruise which will take you down the Thames to the Tower of London.

Highlights include watching the lively atmosphere along the Southbank with views of the Tate Modern Art Gallery, the open-air Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the iconic Oxo Tower.

Snap some photos of the grandiose dome of St Paul’s Cathedral with its famously unique double-shell design before arriving at the Tower of London, home to ravens, beefeater guards and royal treasures!

Highly recommended for all ages. The guided commentary consisted of a good balance between historical background facts, compelling storytelling and humor. It was beautiful passing under the London bridges and gazing up at the London Eye from the water. Great views of the stunning St Paul’s Cathedral.

4 – Hop-on hop-off sightseeing cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 15 reviews )

“It very good experience. The commentator was very good man and very updated with latest news too. He was very funny man making Very good jokes.” Rousa, Tiqets

With boats departing every 30 minutes, this 24 hour ticket hop-on hop-off cruise is ideal for those looking for a flexible schedule!

If you want to avoid messing around on the tube, this City Experiences river cruise is an ideal way to transport yourself to some of the best major landmarks whilst soaking up the incredible views of the river.

Hop on the boat as many times as you please in 24 hours so you can really get to know the animated atmosphere along the banks of central London! Enjoy a live guide on board who can fill you in with lots of interesting facts along the way.

It was great to have the option of a hop-on hop-off boat as we could get off at the London Eye and explore the beautiful Jubilee Gardens and the Sea Life London Aquarium. I loved watching how the light along the river really changes throughout the day.

5 – River cruises from Westminster Pier by Thames River Boats

The  Thames River Tours cruise from Westminster to Kew is undoubtedly one of the best London Thames River cruises for those wanting to see a large stretch of the river! From the Houses of Parliament , meander past Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury that dates back to the 13th century!

Pass by the towering Art Deco chimneys of Battersea power station and the green park areas of Wandsworth and Bishops Park as you meander along the Thames.

Sit back and relax as you pass under impressive bridges such as Chelsea or Albert Bridge and admire the mix of charming riverside houses, boat clubs and small river islands.

It was lovely to get a contrast from the hustle and bustle of busy Westminster and travel down the river to pass by some more tranquil areas such as the edge of the London Wetland Center. We loved seeing the iconic glass greenhouses such as the Victorian Palm House at Kew!

6 – River cruises from Kew Pier by Thames River Boats

With a collection of over 50,000 living plants, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Kew are a great starting point for a  Thames River Tours cruise.

Before embarking on your riverboat look around and discover the Temperate House (the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world), the Treetop walkway or the historical Queen Charlotte’s Cottage!

From the Kew Pier, travel along the river to see the major sights of Westminster such as the London Eye and Houses of Parliament. Or instead opt for a trip towards Hampton Court in Richmond, a superb example of 16th-century Tudor architecture with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the world!

We selected the cruise from Kew to Hampton Court. It was great to stop off and explore the Henry VIII apartments and Tudor style Great Hall at the Palace. Passing through Richmond was very pleasant with lots of riverside pubs and restaurants and elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings.

7 – Hop-on hop-off Uber boat cruise by Thames Clippers

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1081 reviews )

“I am new to the city but honestly, I got to see all the key monuments while beating the excessive crowds by boarding the Thames Clippers.” Brantley, Headout

Roam around plenty of London river sights thanks to the efficient Thames Clippers boats! The boats run across a wide circuit divided into three zones (the West Zone, the Central Zone and the East Zone). Choose your itinerary stops and explore areas such as Vauxhall where you can check out the Battersea Power Station, the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens or glimpse the MI6 headquarters!

Alternatively, why not get off at London Bridge city, where you can gaze up at the famous Shard (the tallest building in the United Kingdom), delve into the gourmet treats of Borough Market or discover contemporary artists at Tate Modern?

Good news is that the boats run from early morning until late at night!

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The coffee from the onboard bar was very tasty. The boats are frequent and the speed powerful. A scenic and fast way of traveling around the city especially with the River Roamer Hop On Hop Off Pass. Amazing views and helpful staff on board.

8 – Thames River sightseeing cruise by Viscount Cruises

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 (62 reviews)

“a great way to see some of the iconic buildings and bridges of London – highly recommend” Everly, Tripadvisor

On a river trip with Viscount Cruises travelers can pass by more than 44 London landmarks starting off at Westminster and continuing along to Greenwich.

During cold weather, there is interior seating available in the heated saloons with panoramic windows for optimal river views. Pass by Embankment Pier and look out for Westminster Bridge, the South Bank cultural center and Shakespeare’s Globe. Capture some extraordinary photos as you go under Tower Bridge with its intricate Gothic and Victorian-style design!

Finish off your cruise in Greenwich, an area dotted with historical buildings such as the Old Royal Navy College and the Royal Observatory founded in 1675!

We could download an interesting audio guide on our phones to listen to during the cruise to help us learn more about the key landmarks on route. The option of a 2 day river pass was useful since we were visiting London for multiple days allowing unlimited access to the boats!

9 – Thames River sightseeing cruise by Terrible Thames

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 (23 reviews)

“Fabulous experience…so much fun and energy from the guys…. loads to laugh at and learn about London, tremendous for kids and bigger kids (aka adults) thank you!!” Lain, Tripadvisor

The  Terrible Thames boat rides are the best London Thames River cruises for those in search of some engrossing storytelling regarding the darker and more gruesome historic tales of the Thames! Learn more about important historical figures who have left their mark on London’s history from Henry VIII and Queen Boudicca, to the notorious Jack the Ripper!

Expect plenty of entertainment and wit along with lots of unusual facts and gory anecdotes that you wouldn’t experience on a typical London tourist sightseeing trip!

This river cruise certainly makes a memorable day out for all the family!

The actors were brilliant and really brought the stories and facts to life! A fantastic way to get the kids engaged in sightseeing and curious about the past of London. The dialogue is fast paced and also includes a bit of audience participation which was hilarious! Classic family fun!

List of Thames River brunch and lunch cruises

1 – thames river lunch cruise by city experiences.

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1019 reviews )

“Great value for money, food was very good, staff were friendly and the commentary was great. Very relaxing and enjoyable experience.” Stephen, Headout

Soak up the breathtaking views of London from the river as you tuck into a delicious two course lunch! The City Experiences lunchtime cruise is the perfect romantic experience for couples or a memorable way to celebrate with friends and family during your trip to London.

All diners have access to the views as you meander along the river but book in advance to reserve a window seat.

When you have finished dining, head up onto the panoramic deck for 360-degree views of the river and take some excellent snapshots of top sights like the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the Tower of London! Get a a close up shot of Big Ben and some interesting angles as you go under London Bridge.

A relaxing dining experience with an informative commentary detailing the sights as we passed along the riverbanks. The service was excellent and the food was very good. The crew was professional and attentive, assuring an enjoyable day out!

2 – London lunch cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Enjoy the sights of the Thames during the daylight with the lunchtime  Thames Dinner Cruise experience.

Guests will be served a scrumptious 2-course meal while watching the activity on the riverbanks and the historic mix of river architecture pass by!

The cruise can cater to several special dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free and Halal alternatives which must be pre-booked in advance!

Starting at the Tower of London, head along until London Bridge and pass the famous Millennium Bridge, taking in the sights of the Southbank and Westminster!

A unique dining experience that is a lot more special than any static restaurant. The roasted supreme of chicken was very moist with delicious dauphinois potatoes and vegetables. We also enjoyed the lemon meringue tart. The commentary was interesting and we learned some new facts!

3 – London bottomless brunch cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

This fun-loving brunch cruise organized by  Thames Dinner Cruise promises an unforgettable experience with plenty of glasses of Prosecco and tasty snacks!

Relax as your glass is refilled and tucked into your individual brunch box (both vegetarian and vegan options are available upon pre-booking)! During the cruise guests can boogie along to the DJ party playlist, watching out for major landmarks along the Thames such as Big Ben, the London Eye and London Bridge!

This lively brunch cruise is perfect for birthday celebrations or sophisticated bachelor/ette groups for both Londoners or visitors alike!

What a treat to sail down the Thames with a glass of fizz! The atmosphere was super enjoyable with friendly vibes and great tunes playing! We spotted lots of London sights that we recognized up on the top deck. We particularly liked the salmon and cream cheese bagel and Italian pasta salad.

4 – Halal Lunch Cruise by Halal Tourism Britain

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a 2 course lunch menu on the Halal Tourism Britain river cruise for some tasty food accompanied by great central London panoramas!

Enjoy waiter’s service to your table as you gaze out of the large panoramic boat windows!

After you have your finished tea or coffee, guests can stroll around on the open air deck and spot some classic British landmarks such as the glorious dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, the 21 meter tall Cleopatra’s Needle obelisk, The Golden Hinde (a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s galleon ship) or the gigantic Shard!

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An excellent way to spend midday in London! We savored the delicious leek and mushroom creamy chicken dish and it was fun to cruise past Southbank and the City of London. We got some excellent photo opportunities of the Houses of Parliament and the tour duration was the perfect length for dining and appreciating the views.

List of Thames River afternoon tea cruises

1 – afternoon tea cruise by city experiences.

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 1722 reviews )

“Great activity for people who want to explore London by boat. Got amazing glimpses of the city from the Thames whilst enjoying a traditional afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones and petit four” Dana, Getyourguide

The  City Experiences Afternoon tea river trip is one of the best London Thames River cruises for those who love a good selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked cakes, scones laden with sweet fruit jam and clotted cream and a refreshing cup of classic British tea!

Listen along to the onboard commentary whilst sipping on your tea and learn more facts about the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Shard and much more!

Put your feet up after a long morning of sightseeing and allow yourself to be mesmerized by the calm waters of the Thames and the interesting array of different architecture along the banks!

A delicious selection of egg and cucumber sandwiches and plenty of sweet treats. The panoramas were amazing and we appreciated the unlimited refills of tea and coffee during the trip. Couldn’t feel more British than savoring a scone whilst cruising past Big Ben!

2 – Afternoon tea cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1303 reviews )

“First off, this cruise is very enjoyable, but add in finger foods and unlimited tea and we have ourselves a mighty winner.” Omar, Headout

Packed with tea time treats that will delight those with both a savory and a sweet tooth, the Thames Dinner Cruise afternoon tea experience is a wonderful way to enjoy the Thames highlights.

From Tower Pier, journey along through the Millennium Bridge and Blackfriars arriving at the heart of Westminster. Highlights include spotting the London Eye, Big Ben, St Paul’s and the HMS Belfast!

Feast on mini sandwiches, pastries and scones whilst listening along to the educational and entertaining commentary provided on board.

There are also options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free and Halal requirements!

The tables were well presented with generously laid out portions. Booking was very quick and hassle free. During the cruise, the staff were very friendly and accommodating. The commentary helped give us a broad overview of the different London neighborhoods as we passed by!

3 – Afternoon tea cruise by River Thames Cruises

Spend a relaxing afternoon in the spacious and comfortable boat of River Thames Cruises and treat yourself to a traditionally British afternoon tea served onboard. Expect all the classic afternoon tea trimmings such as finger sandwiches, sultana scones and lots of pastries!

When you have had your fill of cups of tea, head up on deck to experience the fresh breeze running straight off the river and observe the bustling riverbanks of central London.

Make sure to keep an eye out for impressive London landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the Golden Hinde, Tate Modern, Southwark Cathedral, St Paul’s, Big Ben and more!

A very satisfying afternoon tea occasion. For those who already have a feel for central London, it was nice having a river cruise without an overhead commentary so we could have a good chat over the scones and soak up the breathtaking cityscape views.

4 – Afternoon tea cruise by Halal Tourism Britain

Gather a group of friends or family and join  Halal Tourism Britain  for an afternoon tea experience along the river. Snack on traditional scones with clotted cream, cakes and expertly prepared Halal sandwiches during your ride.

As the boat cruises from Tower Pier up to the Houses of Parliament, keep a look out for the London Eye, The Globe Theatre, St Paul’s, Big Ben, Cleopatra’s Needle and the Tate Modern Gallery.

Guests can enjoy unlimited cups of tea and coffee to wash down the tasty afternoon tea treats. Sit back and enjoy the iconic sights of London flying past before your very eyes!

The boat crew was very helpful and made us feel right at home from the start of the cruise. Lovely warm scones and a good selection of freshly prepared sandwiches. Even though we weren’t at a direct window seat, the views were great and we enjoyed sitting up on deck after our tea.

List of Thames River evening cruises

1 – thames river evening cruise by city experiences.

Rating: ⭐️ 4.0/5 ( 388 reviews )

“Really was impressed with this little cruise. A nice way to end our trip to London. Nice drinks, nibbles and atmosphere. The music by Patrick Phelps was brilliant. Would highly recommend.” Mandy, Viator

Fancy seeing the twinkling lights along the riverbanks of the Thames and illuminated major landmarks? Embark upon the Evening river cruise with  City Experiences for a unique journey combining live jazz music and the magical London sunset!

Sip on sparkling wine to celebrate the occasion and dig into some delicious canapé snacks. Get some fresh air out on the upper floor deck as the boat passes by Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.

Watch the lights dance off Tower Bridge and watch that dreamy sunset glow encapsulate the city!

The bubbly upon arrival was fantastic and then there was an open bar to purchase further drinks. We loved the live singer on board who created a really warm and special atmosphere. A highlight of any trip to London!

List of Thames River dinner cruises

1 – dinner dance cruise by city experiences.

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1187 reviews )

“It was a wonderful way to spend an evening in London. The service was excellent. The music was great along with the female singer. The dancing was so much fun.” Linda, Getyourguide

Spice up your evening in London with an abundant 4 course meal and a live cabaret performance with popular musical songs from the West End.

This City Experiences evening dinner cruise is one of the best London Thames River cruises for those looking to get into the swing and have a bit of a boogie on deck. Kick the evening off with a welcome glass of sparkling wine upon arrival and watch the sun go down over the capital.

During the trip, guests can take some excellent photos of London’s illuminated modern landmarks such as the massive O2 arena, the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and the City Hall, as well as post card classics such as the Houses of Parliament and St Pauls!

The music and singer were fantastic! The food was delicious and it was lovely to sit and watch the lights of the city go by whilst sipping on our after dinner tea and coffee. The tables were well presented and the ambiance felt cosy and intimate. A lovely way to spend a special evening!

2 – Dinner cruise with live jazz by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 ( 153 reviews )

“It was a fantastic experience! The food was good, the service was good, the sprits were good, the jazz band was good, the weather was good, the selection was fantastic and one you will never forget!” Tiziana, Getyourguide

Combine the stunning sights of London’s riverbanks with an appetizing 3 course meal whilst relaxing to the chilled-out melodies of the ChiJazz quintet with a repertoire ranging from classic jazz to more contemporary pop songs.

The cruise takes place on the newest addition of the City Experiences  fleet, the Millennium Diamond. This boat is a state-of-the-art vessel with a huge open deck and a modern dining salon.

Enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz upon arrival and allow yourself to be mesmerized by the illuminated glow of London at night!

A great cruise for jazz and food enthusiasts! The open deck area was very spacious and provided an excellent vantage point for observing the city. The staff were friendly and we managed to take some excellent photos before the dinner.

3 – London dinner cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (391 reviews)

“This dinner boat cruise was amazing! My husband and I have a lovely time aboard this beautifully decorated boat. The food was very tasty and the staff were incredible. The sites to see were breathtaking.” Melinda, Google

For those looking for a fun filled evening combining live entertainment and the sightseeing panoramas of London by night, the Thames Dinner Cruise offers a four course set meal with a live professional performer and after-dinner dancing opportunities!

Enjoy popular songs from West End musicals and feel good party tunes as you sail along the Thames! Thames Dinner Cruises caters to vegetarians, vegans, gluten or dairy-free or Halal alternatives.

The boat has floor-to-ceiling windows around the dining area ensuring you can glimpse the sights passing by as you savor your dinner!

This dinner cruise is a very special way to spend a birthday or anniversary occasion. The sparkling wine upon arrival was lovely and we thoroughly enjoyed the burrata salad and warming tomato soup. We would definitely repeat the experience.

4 – Murder mystery dinner cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 11 reviews )

“I had a blast! Good food and fun experience!” Thomas, Getyourguide

Get involved in an interactive murder mystery on the Thames Dinner Cruise involving plenty of clue solving and detective work! Put your brains to the test and prepare for the unexpected during this fun ‘who done it’ game experience!

Enjoy a 3 course meal on board and then head up to the upper deck to take in the views of London at night! From the banks of Westminster, the soaring Houses of Parliament and Big Ben to the modern skyscrapers and docklands of Canary Wharf, this dinner cruise offers plenty of spectacular views and entertainment.

A hilarious theatrical evening spent in good company. The murder mystery entertainment was fun and kept us on our feet and we loved taking some fresh air on deck for photo opportunities when going under London and Tower Bridge.

5 – Dinner cruise by River Thames Cruises

During the River Thames Cruises evening experience, guests can enjoy a delicious four course dinner full of British inspired dishes. Sip on a complimentary glass of sparkling wine upon boarding the boat and unwind from a busy day!

A live band on board provides fun dinner entertainment and there is a dance floor for those ready to party! Travel all the way to the Thames Barrier passing by the legendary sights of Greenwich, the City Hall and the modern O2 Arena.

What a sophisticated evening full of freshly prepared fine food and great wine. The live band were full of energy and they really lit up the experience. The boat crew were very helpful and ensured everything about the trip ran smoothly!

6 – Dinner cruise with Elvis Tribute by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 23 reviews )

“Awesome. Elvis was good, food was good, cruise the best we have done (and there are quite a few), service pleasant, good atmosphere.” Corina, Getyourguide

Transport yourself back to the golden age of rock and roll with the  City Experiences Thames river cruise including a spectacular three course dinner and a live Elvis impersonator tribute band!

Kick your evening off to a celebratory start with a complimentary drink of sparkling wine on the upper deck before tucking into a freshly prepared dinner menu in the salon below. Get grooving and get your hips swaying to the timeless hits full of nostalgia and electrifying charisma!

In addition to the Elvis entertainment, feast your eyes on the views of London at night as the boat passes the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the South Bank.

The Elvis tribute had a fantastic stage presence and really managed to captivate the whole audience during the meal! It certainly felt quite immersive and the diners felt truly part of the action. An evening of pure enjoyment for all!

7 – Dinner cruise by Golden Tours

For fabulous views of London by night and an outstanding four course meal, hop on board the  Golden Tours dinner cruise!

Guests will be serenaded by a two-set live singer performance with the option to hit the dance floor after the meal or head upstairs on the open deck to breathe in the fresh nighttime breeze coming straight off the river.

As the boat sails down the river towards the Thames Barrier, keep your camera ready to capture the twinkling lights of the riverbanks and impressive landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye and Big Ben!

The atmosphere on board was fantastic with everyone joining in on the dance floor during the return journey back to Westminster. The cruise was extensive and we got to see a lot of main sights such as the Tower of London, St Paul’s, Canary Wharf and Greenwich.

List of Thames River speedboat tours

1 – speedboat tour by thames rockets.

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 527 reviews )

“Fantastic experience! Something to do absolutely if you visit London! The staff on board was really nice and good at their job! Recommended to everyone!!!” Valentina, Getyourguide

Zoom from the London Eye to Canary Wharf with the ultra dynamic  Thames Rockets  experience.

Speed under the bridges of London such as the magnificent Tower Bridge and look up at the city monuments as you propel across the waters to the docklands.

Enjoy the commentary provided by a comedian guide who will have you smiling with endless jokes and storytelling about the history of London. Traveling at 30 knots per hour, this speedy vessel will make you feel invincible! Soak up the refreshing and exhilarating breeze of the Thames first hand.

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Make sure you wrap up warm with weather appropriate clothing! It was extremely fun when the boat started going super fast. The captain and guide made the journey very enjoyable and we loved the feel-good music playing on the onboard sound system.

2 – Speedboat tour by Thames Tigers

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 663 reviews )

“We had such a fun trip. The tour guide was knowledgeable and very enthusiastic. Would highly recommend it!” Julie, Viator

Travel all the way from the Tower of London to Greenwich on the speedy  Thames Tigers rib boat experience! Stop off at Greenwich to take a peak and learn a few facts about the famous Cutty Sark tea clipper ship and the impressive Royal Observatory before swerving past the magnificent O2 arena and heading back into central London!

With a maximum of 12 passengers on board, this tour is an intimate and exhilarating way to discover the heart of the Thames River! Listen along to your enthusiastic guide who will share snip bits of history and anecdotes through the journey.

What a blast of a ride! We had a real adventure along the Thames and it was great to pass through some of the different London neighborhoods. The boat was clean and comfortable and all the kids on board were absolutely loving it. A fabulous way to see London from another perspective.

3 – Speedboat tour by Thames Rib Experience

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 340 reviews )

For fans of high speed rollercoasters and sensational adrenaline kicks, there’s no better option than the dynamic Thames Rib Experience which allows you to blast through the river Thames on an exciting speedboat rib!

Get into the mood for adventure with some James Bond theme tunes playing on the loudspeakers as you zoom past iconic London sights and listen along to the entertaining commentary that will help orientate you along the way!

With a maximum of 12 passengers on board, this rib experience can guarantee some fast-paced exhilarating river action! See London as you have never seen it before and soak up the unparalleled city views!

We would definitely recommend wearing warm and comfortable clothing! The rib experience was a great team bonding experience, everybody on board was having a ball! We enjoyed every minute from start to finish, from the interesting facts and explanations of the cheerful guide to the super speedy accelerations!

4 – ThamesJet speedboat ride by City Experiences

Get ready for a thrilling rush of excitement with the  City Experiences speedboat ride through central London. Feel like you are on a top secret MI5 secret mission as you wizz past major city monuments such as the Shard, St Pauls and the London Eye.

This fast paced river cruise operates during the summer months and don’t worry if you get slightly splashed because passengers are provided with protective waterproof jackets!

Feel your heart pumping with some epic river turns and twists as you propel across the Thames!

The crew made us feel really safe and there was a good safety briefing before we set off. We loved the bumpy parts of the boat ride and the guests were shrieking in excitement. A great way to see a lot of London landmarks in just 50 minutes. What a ride!

List of Thames River private small boat tours & boat rental companies

Escape the crowds with our curated selection of private cruises in London. Indulge in luxurious yacht experiences for tranquility or rev up the excitement with high-speed power boats among friends.

For an exclusive touch, charter a houseboat or yacht for a day on the Thames, offering a unique and sophisticated way to enjoy London’s iconic waters. The perfect way to relax and create some long lasting memories!

• boat rentals in London

1 – Tate Boat

For those who want to explore both the modern art collections in the Tate Modern (located inside the former Bankside Power Station on the South Bank) and the huge collection of British masterpieces at Tate Britain (situated at Millbank on the North Bank), opt for the  Tate Boat that connects the two galleries!

On average a typical journey between the two galleries takes around 25 minutes!

2 – Cruise London

For large birthday events, weddings and celebrations,  Cruise London offers a private party boat charter with two spacious indoor decks and an outer garden deck. The boat can cater for up to 245 guests should you be looking for a large venue capacity!

Cruise London can personalize and tailor your river cruise to suit your preferences with special drinks, food menu and in-house entertainment options.

3 – Thames Luxury Charters

Thames Luxury Charters offers a large and elegant fleet of private charter vessels with a capacity of up to 620 guests if you are planning a huge celebration!

Their famous boats include the Dixie Queen, a replica 19th-century paddle steamer that frequently docks at Tower Pier or the smaller Edwardian built in 1985 by Sir Richard Branson.

4 – Thames Limo

For an intimate romantic dinner, private sightseeing tours or small and select birthday parties, Thames Limo offers private sunset Thames cruises or daytime private river cruises to Hampton Court Palace in a luxurious Venetian water limousine!

The Venetian water limousine adorned with a Union Jack on its hull mixes British character with Italian style finesse!

5 – Out on the Thames

With Out on the Thames guests can customize their river itinerary when hiring a choice of three large party boat vessels. The MV Hurlingham has a capacity for 150 guests with a DJ booth and dance floor!

For sightseeing tours, groups can hire out the 200-guest capacity M.V. Chay Blyth, a traditional British passenger boat! Alternatively, experience the historic MV Viscount Boat built in 1907 with a large open front deck.

6 – Diplomat Cruises

If planning a romantic proposal whilst in London, consider the luxury VIP yachts available at Diplomat Cruises ! They also offer sightseeing cruises with personal guides or dinner cruises with private chefs or buffet catering.

For those who like a bit of fast paced action, their high speed cruises on a private Sunseeker Superhawk promise excellent London panoramas and Bollinger.

7 – Capital Pleasure Boats

Capital Pleasure Boats tick all the boxes for large scale private club nights, birthday discos to graduation parties. With the choice of 4 party boats based at Temple Pier in Central London, the Capital Pleasure Boats can hold from 40 to up to 240 passengers.

Relax on the sundeck, show off your moves on the dance floor, or dine in the central heated saloon areas!

8 – Westminster Party Boats

Westminster Party Boats provide private chartered events boats that can travel between Gravesend and Kew. They accommodate a wide range of group sizes from just 2 guests up to 220.

With over 30 years of experience organizing and hosting events on the River Thames, the Westminster Party Boats can find the right boat for your occasion.

How to book Thames River cruises in London?

Many companies are offering Thames River cruises and there are also many travel websites selling the same tours online. Certain websites may offer discounts, so prices may vary from one website to another.

To ensure that you find the best deal for your river cruise, use the Tourscanner search engine to thoroughly compare offers, reviews, and prices!

• compare Thames River cruises in London

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London Accessible Boat Cruise on the Thames River

Wheelchair users can use ramps to get down to the boat dock where there is flat access onto the boat.  London accessible boat cruises are possible within London or can easily be extended to visit the sights at Greenwich .

The London Accessible Boat Cruise on the Thames River includes:

– Wheelchair accessible ramped access to get on the boat – Accessible restrooms onboard – Hop on – Hop off anytime you want for the day on any of the 4 docks – Upper deck un-obstructed accessible viewing – Live commentary about the sights

Other accessible tours including transportation that you may want to consider are the London accessible bus tour, the 3 hour London private accessible driving tour , and the Highlights of Greenwich Accessible Boat Tour .

Tour Highlights

– Westminster Bridge – Millennium Bridge – London Bridge – Tower Bridge – Big Ben – Parliament – London Eye – St. Paul’s – Shakespeare’s Globe – HMS Belfast – St. Paul’s Cathedral – Tower of London – Royal National Theatre – Tate Modern – Much more!

Accessibility Description

I gave the London Accessible Boat Cruise on the Thames River a 4 Star Sage Accessibility Rating because it has step-free access and an accessible bathroom.  It did not get a higher accessibility rating because of the sloped ramp to get down to the dock (no flat access) and the semi-steep ramp at the boat doorway (no flat access, described below).

Tour Details

Tour duration: All day access to Hop on and Hop off Cost: £40 per person – All Day Access to Hop on and Hop off * £10  off if booked as part of an  accessible London travel package     (Note: if your package includes more than 3 tours total, discounts will be applied to maximum 3 of the tours).    Days of the week the tour is offered: 7 days a week Meeting time: We suggest sunset if you are touring within London, and we suggest the morning if you are going all the way to Greenwich Meeting place: Westminster Bridge or Tower of London Number of people on tour: Up to 12 people To review our cancellation policy, please click: HERE . Not included: Snacks/meals and gratuities.

London Accessible Travel – main page Pros and Cons of London Disabled Access 13 Wheelchair Accessible Travel Tips for London England 9 Keys to Success for London Handicapped Travel Tower of London Wheelchair Access London Eye Wheelchair Accessibility Stonehenge Disabled Access Travel Insurance for Disabled Travelers London Accessible Travel Packages Accessible Walking and Driving Tours in London Highlights of London Accessible Driving Tour Classic London Wheelchair Accessible Tour Royal London Accessible Guided Tour London Accessible Boat Cruise on the Thames River Stonehenge & Hampton Court Accessible Driving Tour Stonehenge & Windsor Castle Accessible Guided Tour Oxford Accessible Tour from London Highlights of Greenwich Accessible Tour London Accessibility Guide by John Sage London Trip Planning by Sage Traveling – Travel with Ease!

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Evening Cruise on the River Thames | City Cruises™

Do you need to book in advance for a thames evening cruise, how long is a thames evening cruise, what do you wear on a dinner cruise on the thames, how much does an evening cruise cost, is there a toilet on board a thames evening cruise, is there a bar on board a thames evening cruise, be the first to get offers and news, shopping cart, find your experience.

• Windsor 40 min
• Windsor 2 hour
• Runnymede 45 min
• Runnymede - Windsor
• Maidenhead - Windsor
• Runnymede - Hampton Court
• Windsor Bus & Boat Trip
• Maidenhead 40 min
• Windsor Wildlife Explorer Trip

WINDSOR RACES

• Public shuttle
• Racegoers river package
• Staines-upon-Thames Day
• Fireworks shuttle
• Online Gift Vouchers

WINDSOR TRIPS

• 40 minute trip
• 2 hour cruise
• 2 hour lunch cruise
• Luxury tea cruise
• Steamboat tea cruise

RUNNYMEDE TRIPS

• 45 minute round trip
• Small group lunch cruise
• Small group luxury tea cruise
• Magna Carta Vintage Cruises

MAIDENHEAD TRIPS

• 40 minute round trip
• Cream tea cruise
• Heritage Centre & Tea Cruise
• Autumn colours cruise

SERVICE TRIPS

• Steamboat serivce
• Maidenhead - Runnymede
• Runnymede - Maidenhead
• Staines - Walled Garden
• Staines - Hampton Court
• Chertsey - Hampton Court

COMBINED TRIPS

• Royal garden & river cruise
• Bekonscot model village
• Windsor & Eton brewery tour
• Staines & walled garden
• Santa special lunch cruise
• Festive tea cruise

CHILDRENS TRIPS

• Runnymede 45 minute trip
• Windsor 40 minute trip
• Jungle book cruise
• 45 minute trip
• 2½ hour lunch cruise

PARTY PACKAGES

• Riverboat shuffle
• Riverboat shuffle plus
• Riverboat shuffle deluxe
• Summer sensation
• In steam, in style
• Night fever
• Hawaiian night
• Shaken not stirred
• Murder on the Thames
• Caribbean sounds
• New Orleans jazz cruise
• Live while you're young
• Monte Carlo
• Winter warmer
• Christmas afloat

BESPOKE EVENTS

• Boat hire charges
• Steam boats
• Entertainment
• Decorations

SPECIAL CHARTERS

• Windsor races
• Henley regatta
• Henley festival
• Swan upping
• Hampton Court flower show
• Ashes scattering
• Celebration of life cruise
• Private hire for small groups
• TV & Film
• Sunday lunch cruise
• Steamboat lunch cruise
• Royal Steamboat Voyage
• Steamboat 1 Hour Cruise
• Steamboat Express
• Autumn colours
• Bird & wildlife cruise
• Booking Forms
• Supporting Documents
• Help For Organisers
• New Queen of the Thames
• Lady Margaret Anne
• Windsor Sceptre
• Windsor Sovereign
• Windsor Majesty
• Windsor Monarch
• Windsor Royal
• Windsor Regent
• SL Streatley
• Bray Royale
• Windsor Promenade
• Runnymede Boathouse
• Maidenhead Promenade
• Hampton Court bridge
• Sunbury lock
• Walton Anglers
• Shepperton lock
• Chertsey lock
• Penton Hook lock
• Bell Weir lock
• Staines town hall
• Cookham - The Ferry
• Boulters lock
• Marlow - Higginson park
• Henley-on-Thames
• Clewer Boathouse
• French Brothers
• T & C's
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French Brothers Ltd. The Clewer Boathouse Clewer Court Road Windsor Berkshire SL4 5JH. Tel. 01753 851900

The definitive guide to Royal Windsor UK.

French Brothers Boat Trips

French Brothers have been operating riverboats on the Thames since 1978. They have grown to become one of the largest passenger boat operators in the UK & now have a fleet of 13 large boats with capacities of up to 180 passengers.

French Brothers offer a huge range of public boat trips & special events along the Upper Thames. These include round trips as well as trips between riverside towns.

Trips are available from:

Windsor – Runnymede – Maidenhead – Staines – Chertsey – Hampton Court

Windsor Castle

Where to Stay

Where to Eat

The Windsor 40 minute trip is one of our most popular. Departing regularly from Windsor Promenade.

This is our most wheelchair friendly trip and really popular with young kids.

A great way to travel to Windsor by avoiding the traffic, returning back to Maidenhead in the afternoon.

This includes an option for a Cream Tea Hamper for advanced online bookings, which is very popular.

Arrive in Windsor by river in time for lunch with a peaceful cruise back in the afternoon.

Runnymede to Hampton Court Service, calling at Staines upon Thames, Chertsey Lock and Sunbury Lock.

www.frenchbrothers.co.uk

Tel:  01753 851900, email:   [email protected].

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• Thames River Boats Home
• Richmond Landing Stage River Cruises & Boat Trips with Thames River Boats

Richmond Landing Stage

Richmond Riverside is a relaxed and tranquil environment over looking the River Thames. With riverside walks, boating, and exceptional mix of shops, bars and restaurants, fashionable boutiques and antiques shops, traditional pubs, bars and cafes.

If you’re looking for a place to eat or drink, there is an exceptional variety to suit every budget from a quick snack to fine dining. Richmond has something for everyone.

River Cruises from Richmond Landing Stage

Our sailings operate on selected days & are subject to change without prior notice, we advise regularly checking this page for the most up to date sailing information.

Transportation

National Rail

Richmond Station (Zone 4):  Southwestern Rail Services (20 Minutes to London Waterloo)

London Underground

Richmond Station (Zone 4):  20 Minutes to London Waterloo

London Overground

Richmond Station (Zone 4)

Bus Services

Hill Rise:  65, N65

Cresswell Road:  33, 490, 969, H22, N22, R68, R70

Coach Parking

Old Deer Park, Richmond

Richmond Landing Stage Location

Richmond Landing Stage Address:   Richmond Landing Stage, 7 Northumberland Place, Richmond, TW10 6TS What Three Words Address:   ///desks.violin.weds

• Cockney Sparrow

The Cockney Sparrow was built in 1976 at Eel Pie Island. She is a two level boat with a deceptively large enclosed saloon and an open top deck. 

M.V Connaught was built by Salter Brothers of Oxford in 1911 & has been cruising between Westminster, Kew, Richmond & Hampton Court for over 100 years. Connaught regularly operates on our services & is also available for private charters.

• Princess Freda

Princess Freda was built in 1926 by T.C. Letcher on the Isle of Wight, and has been restored to a particularly high standard.

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#1 FASTEST LONDON SPEEDBOATS

We have the fastest river thames speedboats guaranteed, special products & offers, discounts, wizard blast & gift vouchers.

Find great deals on tickets on the fastest London speedboats. Our newest product the Wizard Blast suits those parties seeking something a little more magical!

Price Starting From

ADULT (14+) : £35.50 £26.27

CHILD (13 & under) : £31.50 £23.31

CHARTER (12 pax.) : £355.00 £262.70

NO BOOKING FEES CHARGED

26% OFF! London Marathon 20.04 - 27.04

Adult: £35.50 £26.27

Child: £31.50 £23.31

Private boat: £355.00 £262.70

ADULT (14+) : £54.00 £39.96

CHILD (13 & under) : £49.00 £36.26

CHARTER (12 pax.) : £590.00 £436.60

26% OFF! BEAST SALE

Adult: £54.00 £39.96

Child: £49.00 £36.26

Private boat: £590.00 £436.60

Harry Potter Facts • Onboard Quiz

Enchanting Music • Film Locations

PRIVATE BOAT (12 pax.) : £590.00

45 minute trip

From/to Embankment Pier

Private boat: £590.00

EXPERIENCES

Extreme high speed & full guided commentary.

Our most extensive trips, bringing you a full 25-minute guided commentary through Central London, including up to 45-minutes of high speed, learning about key landmarks along the way.

ADULT (14+) : £54.00

CHILD (13 & under) : £49.00

CHARTER (12 pax.) : £590.00

Adult: £54.00

Child: £49.00

ADULT (14+) : £69.00

CHILD (13 & under) : £59.00

CHARTER (12 pax.) : £750.00

70 minute trip

Adult: £69.00

Child: £59.00

Private boat: £750.00

PRIVATE BOAT

(12 pax.) : £675.00

Embankment Pier available on selected dates

60 minute trip

From/to Tower or Embankment Pier

Private boat: £675.00

Extreme High Speed & Minimal Guided Commentary

These voyages prioritise adrenaline, including up to 35-minutes of high speed and a short commentary about sights seen along the way.

ADULT (14+) : £35.50

CHILD (13 & under) : £31.50

CHARTER (12 pax.) : £355.00

20 minute trip

From/to Tower Millennium Pier

Adult: £35.50

Child: £31.50

Private boat: £355.00

40 minute trip

Quote: TREFEB15

Extreme High Speed & Full Guided Commentary Between Locations

An offbeat method of getting from A to B, sure to keep things interesting; our transfers bring you 20 minutes of guided commentary through Central London and 15 minutes of high speed, to leave you bursting with energy on other side of town.

ONLY CHARTER (12 passengers) : £495.00

Please call 0203 245 1177 for availability

35 minute trip

From Tower Millennium to Embankment Pier

Private Boat (12 pax.): £495.00

From Embankment to Tower Millennium Pier

WELCOME TO THAMES RIB EXPERIENCE

When it comes to London sightseeing – go beyond your bucket list; add it to your trove of unforgettable family moments with a speedboat experience through the heart of London town. Adding a dose of adrenaline into your tour of the UK’s capital city is a great way to mix the educational with the exciting ; the awe-inspiring with the awesome ! 

Thames RIB Experience operate the largest and fastest speedboats on the Thames in order to bring you a one-of-a-kind exceptional tour along one of the world’s most incredible historic waterways . Our supersonic Thames RIB Speedboats have the largest and most powerful engines on the River ( 740 horsepower for maximum “V8” twin-turbo thrust ) – in short, other boats can “eat our spray”!  

This is the ultimate rollercoaster on water experience – operating from two central London docking points, with each trip boasting it’s own specialities. That means there is an option to match every schedule, taste and budget. Some of our trips go faster , for longer and others bring in the brains to educate you about the landmarks along way, in between holding on tight for a white-knuckle ride that will have you screaming and shouting the whole way home (and maybe just coming back for more )! 

Thames RIB Experience have worked alongside some huge names in showbiz to bring the production teams the shots they required. We have inside knowledge of the behind-the-scenes of some of Cinema’s highest-budget stunts-on-water. James Bond music accompanies all our trips to give you the true 007 feeling, and with our subwoofers you’ll feel the adrenaline pumping from head to toe!  

Our life jackets ensure you can travel in complete safety and comfort . Disposable plastic ponchos will be issued complimentarily if the weather dictates. We have a perfect Thames RIB Experience for every age *, budget and occasion , so what are you waiting for? 

*Minimum weight 15kg /3 stone  

TRE LATEST NEWS

Top Thames Easter Family Activities in Central London

The final week of Easter is here! The Thames RIB Experience Easter sale is running right the way through until the 14th of April, so there’s still time to jump…

Eid al-Fitr has arrived, with confirmed sightings of the New Moon!

When is the Eid al-Fitr 2024?  Ramadan has officially come to an end, with sightings of the New Moon marking the start of 10th Islamic calendar month of Shawwal on 10th…

"Absolutely brilliant!!!"

This was a Christmas gift for my family and it didnt disappoint! Superb service from start to finish from all the staff, from booking to being on the rib itself. Cannot praise enough. Humorous informative commentary during the slow bits, then with Chris at the helm, full throttle forward for an exciting, exhilarating blast up and down Father Thames. Twists and turns, at high speed, expertly maneuvered by the skipper, resulting in a fantastic experience THANKS GUYS

"The best boat ride ever!!!"

This was an outstanding experience with many thrills and laughs, especially the fast part it was amazing. All the people I went with thought it was AMAZING! Special regards to John our driver he made our trip 10x as fun and enjoyable, and I learnt much more about London as well. Overall an amazing experience, thank you so so much, for this outstanding experience!!!

Booked this for my birthday and was not disappointed. Ed and Ollie were great and the tour was really interesting and informative and the boat ride was brilliant, so enjoyable and fast but my group of 4 all loved it and would highly recommend. They even played me Happy Birthday which was much appreciated. Book it, you won't be disappointed

"It was a great way to celebrate a birthday!"

The whole family absolutely loved our rib boat experience on 1/6/22 - lovely lady at Millennium Pier and staff on the boat - especially since we were delayed a bit - they couldn't have been nicer and it was a great way to celebrate a birthday.

Elaine Stark

"all in all a great experience".

We were a mixed group of six aging from 13 to 70 years old. There was some nervousness on the older person part however no need to worry. Firstly great crew Ollie and John before the boat opened up really interesting commentary having work and lived in London all my life even I found things I never knew. Once they open the throttle up its brilliant. All in all a great experience

Joanna Wright

"absolutely amazing".

What a great experience, all four of us loved it. George (the guide) was very funny and gave just the right amount of commentary for the London sights you see in the "slow" bit of the trip. Then you have to hold on tight as the boat speeds its way all the way to the Thames barrier and back. Absolutely amazing!

Alexander Cast

"fast, fun and furious ♥️".

Great and awesome fun.My 13 year old son was trilled and so was his dad. Great people and stabile and fast/fun boat ride.

Roskilde, Denmark

"Funny, informative thrill ride down the Thames"

What a rush!

Great informative and funny commentary from George. The ride takes you through the great London on the River Thames. Superb locations, great staff at the event, thrilling ride and a fantastic way to experience London!

SOUVENIRS AVAILABLE

We have limited edition merchandise available at our kiosk, as well as hard-copy and digital photos which capture the moment you & your crew embark on the invigorating, full-throttle speed section of your trip. Have a look what we have on offer!

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE NOW!

Please Call: 020 3245 1177 or Book Online

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Canary Wharf Experience

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Ultimate RIB Blast at the O2

Ultimate Tower RIB Blast

Tower to Embankment Transfer

Embankment to Tower Transfer

Ultimate Spy Experience

Tower Beast Ride

Wizard Blast

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