london river cruises with dinner

London River Dinner Cruise

London river dinner cruise overview.

Take your London exploration beyond the cliché, and come aboard the famous London River Dinner Cruise. The Thames, which runs through the heart of the UK capital, is the centre of many luxurious river cruises that promise stunning views of London and its iconic attractions. From London Eye to Big Ben, View from the Shard to St. Paul Cathedral , witness all the landmarks on your itinerary as you sail through the winding river on a relaxing cruise boat. One of the top Thames river cruises are the dinner cruises that offer unmatched views of the city at night-time with sumptuous dinner courses for you and your loved ones.

Celebrate special occasions or spend valuable time with your loved ones or even conduct corporate events on the Gold and Platinum Thames Dinner Cruises, where you get fine dining and drinks as you explore London’s charm. Indulge in live singing and dancing on the London Dinner Cruise with Live Performance, or enjoy foot-tapping melodies as a jazz quintet performs on the London Friday Night Jazz Cruise. And if London’s mysterious lanes bring out the detective in you, then you are in for a memorable experience as you hop on board the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise.

London River Dinner Cruise Deals

Dinner cruise experience on thames river, highlights of london river dinner cruise.

• Sail across the heart of London and witness the breathtaking views of the city’s major attractions as the sun sets on the London River Dinner Cruise.
• The three-hour cruise welcomes you with the finest wine and offers fascinating night-time views of the London skyline from the open-roof decks.
• Unwind in the lounge area of the cruise as you witness live entertainment by talented cabaret singers and graceful dancers.
• Relish mouth-watering three-course and five-course meals with your loved ones in the stunning backdrop of a London evening as you sail across the Shard, the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, HMS Belfast, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and several other prominent London tourist hotspots.

Top London River Dinner Cruises

Exploring London on foot is common, try something special by hopping on a Thames River cruise for witnessing all of London’s major landmarks. These London River Dinner Cruises promise heavenly meals for you to relish with your loved ones or even business partners as you indulge in mesmerising evening views of the UK capital.

One of the best experiences you can enjoy in London, the Gold Thames Dinner Cruise takes you on an evening tour of London. Indulge in stunning views of London’s prominent landmarks with your loved ones or corporate clients as you relish a freshly-prepared delicious three-course meal. The Gold London Dinner Cruise includes a three-hour river cruise, an aperitif, a three-course set meal prepared by a talented head chef from locally sourced seasonal produce, a half bottle of fine wine per guest, and soothing live music. The boarding point of this exciting experience is at Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London.

If you wish to explore the iconic landmarks of London in their evening glory, then the Platinum Thames Dinner Cruise is the ideal option for you. An elegantly luxurious experience, this London Dinner Cruise offers unforgettable views of the city and its highlights as you unwind and enjoy sumptuous meals with your loved ones or business partners. The Platinum Thames Dinner Cruise includes a memorable three-hour river cruise, an aperitif upon arrival, a delicious seasonal a la carte five-course meal with delicacies from international cuisines, free-flowing selected fine wines, and gentle live music. The boarding point of the cruise is at Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening as you indulge in the stunning night-time views of London and its landmarks on the London Dinner Cruise with Live Performance. Unwind with your loved ones in settings reminiscent of a posh restaurant as you relish an amazing four-course meal and enjoy a musical live performance of top hits and show songs. The non-window package includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, sparkling wine on arrival, a four-course set meal, and a live singing and dance performance. The window package, on the other hand, includes all of the above and offers a window table that seats two people. The boarding point for this experience is Westminster Pier.

If jazz music is your jam, dress up in your finest smart casual wear as you head for an unforgettable night out on the London Friday Night Jazz Cruise. Sail through London as you savour unmatched evening views of the city and its attractions, all while enjoying live jazz music and a delicious and elegant three-course meal. This cruise experience includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, a three-course set meal, and live jazz performance. You can also book a window seat for two to enjoy this enthralling experience. The boarding point of this London Dinner Cruise is Westminster Pier.

If London’s reputation as the hub of detectives is what draws you to the city, then you need to book the Murder Mysteries Dinner Cruise. Sail across London on a cruise that promises bewitching night-time views of the city and its attractions and a delicious three-course meal. But that’s not all, as you also need to find out a murderer who hides among the passengers of the cruise. This London River Dinner Cruise includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, a welcome drink on arrival, a sumptuous three-course meal, and fun and interactive Murder Mystery entertainment. You can also get a window table for two to enjoy this memorable experience. The boarding point of the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise is Tower Pier.

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Other London River Cruise Deals

Thames hop on hop off river cruise, lunch cruise on the river thames - 2 course meal, river thames evening cruise, london eye river cruise afternoon tea, what are the top attractions to spot while on the london river dinner cruise.

• London Eye : Witness London’s most iconic attraction, the London Eye, which is the world’s tallest cantilever wheel. Visitors get a bird’s eye view of the entire city as they board this wheel.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral : One of the most stunning architectural marvels of the city, the St. Paul’s Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London.
• The Shard : London’s modernity is reflected in its ever-changing skyline, a prominent attraction of which is the ultra-modern architectural marvel, the skyscraper Shard.
• Tower Bridge : Tower Bridge is one of the most renowned landmarks of London, and has for a century stood as the defining attraction of the city and even the UK.

What is the best time to take the London Dinner River Cruise?

The best time to take the London River Dinner Cruise is in the evenings. As the city and its attractions light up at night, the views on offer are unmatched. Witness the enthralling evening views of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, the Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Thames, and so on.

How long does the London River Cruise last?

The London River Dinner Cruises last for three hours. The timings for the different cruises vary, but they sail for three hours in the evenings from different piers on the Thames River.

What is the minimum age to buy tickets for the London River Dinner Cruise?

London River Dinner Cruises are open to visitors of all ages. Children less than four years of age do not require tickets when they are accompanied by a paying adult. Children above the age of four years need tickets and are supposed to pay the same as adults.

Also Read: Stonehenge History

Are pets allowed to take the London River Dinner Cruise?

Pet dogs are allowed on the London River Dinner Cruises as long as they are kept on a leash and sit with the owners. Pets are not allowed to sit on separate seats on board the cruise.

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Thames River Evening Cruise

Select Your Experience

Westminster To Tower Bridge Quay Thames Cruise

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Enjoy a cruise from Westminster Pier to Tower Bridge Quay, with a choice between one-way and round-trip.
• Let the live English commentary wash over you as you enjoy the city views, or tune in to WiFi audio guides available in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin.
• Revel in a serene route that takes you through Embankment, Festival, and Bankside piers before reaching Tower Bridge Quay.
• Catch stunning views of famous monuments, including the London Eye, National Theatre, HMS Belfast, Tower of London, and many more.
• Sightseeing Cruise (One-way or round trip)
• Live English commentary
• WiFi audio guides in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin

This ticket has the following options that you can choose from:

• One-Way Cruise
• Round Trip Cruise

Evening Cruise on River Thames

• Enjoy a 2-hour cruise on the Thames during the sunset which offers the best views of the city at the best times of the day.
• Check out the prominent landmarks of the city from the water including the London Eye, Big Ben, London Bridge and more.
• Relish a selection of delicious canapes and sparkling wine as you relax on the Thames evening cruise.
• Head indoors and witness the breathtaking cityscape while enjoying a live pop, rock, swing, or funk performance.
• Please note: Children aged 13 and under are not allowed on the cruise.
• 2-hour evening cruise on the Thames
• Sparkling wine or soft drink on arrival
• A selection of cold canapés served throughout the evening
• Live music performances on board
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Westminster To Greenwich River Thames Sightseeing Cruise

• Take the scenic route from Westminster to Greenwich by hopping onboard this River Thames cruise.
• Tune in to an engaging WiFi audio guide (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin) as you enjoy the cruise.
• See the iconic monuments of London such as the London Eye, Tower of London, The Shard, and many more.
• Choose between a one-way trip or a round trip to enjoy more time onboard.
• River Thames sightseeing cruise tickets (one way or round trip from Westminster to Greenwich)
• WiFi audio guide (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin)
• One Way - Westminster to Greenwich
• Round Trip - Westminster to Greenwich and Back
• You will need a smartphone to access the live audio commentary.
• Please note that the exact cruise times might vary.
• At Westminster Pier go directly to the boarding point B.
• At Greenwich Pier board from the right-hand side of the pier.

Combo (Save 5%): Westminster Abbey with Audio Guide + River Thames Sightseeing Cruise + Optional London Eye Tickets

• Make the most of this unbeatable combo that lets you visit Westminster Abbey, and go on a Thames River cruise, with an optional London Eye visit.
• Explore the historical treasures of Westminster Abbey, like the Royal Tombs where 30 monarchs are buried, and the College Garden, the oldest in England.
• Step aboard a relaxing River Thames sightseeing Cruise, and soak in panoramic views of famous London landmarks including the Tower Bridge.
• Upgrade to take a 30-min spin on the London Eye, Europe's tallest observation wheel, and take in stunning 360-degree views of the London skyline.
• Westminster Abbey entry tickets
• Audio guide in Russian, Portuguese, Polish, Dutch, Japanese, Italian, Hungarian, Arabic, French, German, Spanish, and English

Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Sightseeing Cruise

• 1-hour Westminster to Greenwich River Thames sightseeing cruise
• WiFi audio guide in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin
• 30-min ride on London Eye (optional)
• London Eye guide (optional)
• Tip: Look for the Pyx Chamber, where coins were tested for their purity in medieval times.
• Photography, large suitcases, and bulky items are not allowed inside the Abbey.
• Entry is permitted free of charge for wheelchair users but some areas of the Abbey are inaccessible to wheelchair users.
• Pets or animals are not allowed except for guide, assistance, and/or hearing dogs.
• Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over.
• While there is no strictly enforced dress code, please note that the Abbey is a place of worship, and it is better to be dressed modestly.
• Tip: If you want the best photos, aim to sit on the right side of the boat going from Westminster to Greenwich, or on the left side on the way back.
• This experience is wheelchair-accessible.
• Tip: Make a time-lapse video of your rotation to capture the changing views.
• Note that children under 2 can go for free but require a ticket to enter.
• Items that can be taken aboard include briefcases, laptops, baby bags, foldable buggies, and drinking water.
• Children under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by adults.
• Large bags, sharp objects, and items that can cause security hazards are strictly prohibited.

Thames River Evening Cruise | "Greasing the Thames with gold"

The River Thames, a ribbon of history snaking through the heart of London, has long been a source of inspiration for poets and artists. While Alfred Noyes, in his poem "On the Embankment," captured the stark contrast between the merriment within warm interiors and the harsh realities on the cold streets, his words also held a truth about the Thames itself:

“Within, it was colour and laughter, warmth and wine. Without, it was darkness, hunger and bitter cold…”

Noyes might have highlighted societal disparity, but the magic he hinted at within – the warmth, the laughter, the vibrant life –  perfectly embodies the experience of a Thames River Evening Cruise. As the city lights shimmer on the water and the gentle current carries you along, you’ll encounter the evening of a lifetime, coupled with sparkling wine, canapes, and live music.

Why go on a Thames River Evening Cruise?

Illuminated river project.

Unlike daytime cruises, the evening bares the artistic marvel of the Illuminated River Project. Imagine cruising under 9 bridges adorned with stunning LED light installations. Illuminated River is a massive public art project that will illuminate nine bridges along the Thames River, from London Bridge all the way to Lambeth Bridge. The Thames transforms into a canvas of ever-changing colors and patterns, when on a Thames River Evening cruise.

Perfect for any occasion

Get on an evening cruise, ideal for pre-dinner drinks, date nights, or hanging out with friends. It's like going to a bar, but better! Enjoy live music, tasty snacks, and amazing views.

Live entertainment

Sip bubbly, nibble on delicious snacks, and take in the stunning sights of London's landmarks. There's no tour guide talking—just relaxing music from a live performer. Choose between the cozy main saloon or the open-air deck, both offering prime views of London's riverside marvels.

Love in the air (and the views!)

The city takes on a whole new character at night. The daytime hustle and bustle melt away, replaced by a romantic, almost ethereal glow. Spot the vibrant nightlife districts like South Bank come alive, their energy pulsing from the river's edge.

Know your pier

How to get there.

Boarding Point: The Tower Pier (EC3N 4DT)

Address: Lower Thames St, London EC3N 4DT, UK | Find on Maps

Getting there:

• By Bus: If you're taking the bus, hop off at the Tower of London (Stop TB). It's just a quick 2-minute walk to the boarding point. Look for buses 15 & N15.
• By Metro: For subway travelers, head to Tower Hill station. It's only a 4-minute walk to the boarding point. Catch the Circle or District line to get here.

Your other cruise options

Views of london at night from your evening cruise, riverside restaurants in london to try out after your thames river evening cruise, emilia’s crafted pasta.

• Location: C3, Ivory House St Katharine Docks
• Enjoy a harbourside lunch at this fresh pasta joint in St Katharine Dock. Watch yachts and pleasure cruises while you dine.

High Timber

• Location : 8 High Timber Street, London EC4V 3PA
• Located off the north elevation of the Millennium Bridge, this Thameside restaurant offers a South African-inspired menu. Sip on Jordan Chardonnay while enjoying stunning sunset views.
• Location : 172 Shepherdess Walk, London N1 7JL
• Set on a former Dutch barge in Islington, this restaurant offers seasonal drinks and small dishes. Don't miss Bruno's, the adjacent cocktail bar.

Hawley Wharf

• Location: 1 Dockray Place, London NW1 8QH
• Explore Camden Market's new canalside area with an array of street food traders. Enjoy your meal while gazing across the canal.

The Lighterman

• Location: 3 Granary Square, London, N1C 4BH
• Named after Victorian Lightermen, this King's Cross restaurant boasts multiple terraces overlooking the Regent's Canal. Enjoy a modern British/European menu.
• Location: 90 York Way, Kings Cross, London N1 9AG
• This King's Cross gem offers farm-to-table dining with beef and lamb sourced directly from their farm in Northumbria. Enjoy their massive wraparound terrace with canal views.

Frequently asked questions about Thames River Evening Cruise

Yes, booking your tickets online beforehand is essential for a Thames evening cruise. This ensures you have a spot on the boat and avoids any disappointment on arrival.

Thames evening cruises typically last for two hours. This allows you ample time to relax, enjoy the sights, and take in the beautiful scenery along the river.

Smart casual attire is ideal for a Thames dinner cruise. It's a chance to dress up a bit, whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a date night, or starting your evening before heading out for dinner elsewhere. Avoid wearing flip-flops, ripped jeans, or overly casual leisurewear.

Prices for Thames evening cruises start from £35.10 per person. The exact cost can vary depending on the company you choose, the cruise duration, and any special inclusions like meals or entertainment.

Absolutely! Your comfort is important, so all Thames evening cruise boats have fully equipped toilets onboard.

Yes, you'll find a fully stocked bar onboard most Thames evening cruises. This allows you to purchase drinks and snacks throughout your journey.

Dinner and Jazz Cruise on the River Thames

• Cruise past top attractions, like Big Ben, the London Eye, and more
• Feel the romance as you glide through London's lights by night
• Savor a gourmet 3-course dinner and listen to live jazz
• Start the night with a chilled glass of sparkling wine
• Thames River cruise
• 3-course dinner
• Live entertainment
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Drinks, unless specified
• Westminster Pier, London SW1A 2JH, UK
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
• Dress code is smart casual
• Minimum drinking age is 18 years
• Your seat on board is guaranteed and will be allocated to you before the cruise takes place. When you board you will be shown to your table. Please note tables are fixed and within close proximity. Our panoramic windows provide great views from all angles of the passing sky-line, regardless of your table location.
• Most travellers can participate
• We do not guarantee that products are free from nuts or traces of nuts. For gluten-free tea give at least 24 hours’ notice. For any special dietary requirements please call Reservations on 020 77 400 400 or e-mail to [email protected].
• Please note that as part of the relaxed atmosphere of this cruise experience, your table may be situated in close proximity to other guests.
• Please ensure you arrive 20-minutes prior to departure time
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 60 travellers
• If you cancel at least 4 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
• If you cancel within 3 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
• Tower of London
• HMS Belfast
• Tower Bridge
• Houses of Parliament

Similar experiences

• johncM9175SN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth the View It really was a lovely cruise. The ambience and the sights of London. The singer was very talented and she did a great job of MC ing the event. Our only complaint was with the service and the food choice. Read more Written 28 April 2024
• Adventure645152 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Miserable afternoon tea In order of disappointment, the cruise was late leaving. The teapot had a huge visible crack and was leaking tea. When the new one arrived the waiter didn't wipe up the spilled tea. The afternoon tea was miserable. Coronation chicken sandwich, some other spicy sandwich, in thick bread. The small cakes were all stale and the cream for the scones tasted synthetic. No more tea offered. My friend hadn't eaten anything as she was unwell and when I asked for a box to take away, I was told " we don't do that. Looking around, the food waste was incredible. The 2 stars were for the cruise, which was enjoyable. Read more Written 27 April 2024
• Jacqui A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Comfortable and relaxed A very comfortable and well managed cruise. The service was excellent and the food was tasty and filling. The cruise had good views of many London icons and was a lovely way to end a holiday. Highly recommended! Read more Written 26 April 2024
• jimsE838OE 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles View of London from the river with a lovely meal too An excellent trip with lovely food and attentive staff. Best view in the house. Thoroughly recommend this for a relaxed view of a side to London not normally seen. Read more Written 26 April 2024
• eac66 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A wonderful experience What a wonderful way to experience The River Thames and all the best sites London has to offer. The crew were charming making my mums 80th Birthday very special. A very big thankyou to Gary and Cynthia, lovely people and so kind. Read more Written 25 April 2024
• cornali79 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great cruise and value Cruise was great and zahra made it even better!! Boat left on time and wasn’t overly booked. Staff was all very kind and helpful and even told a couple jokes. Must say Zahra who worked the refreshment counter was great , funny and even suggested other things to do during our stay here in London. Definitely recommend this tour. Read more Written 24 April 2024
• Pamela051 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Please keep the live commentary My partner had not done this trip before, but had heard from his friend (a Londoner) and me how good it would be. In the event our return journey was far better than the outward one. This purely because there was no live commentary on the outward journey. Whilst I downloaded the app for my partner to listen to that commentary it didn't work well and spoiled the entire outward journey. Spending far too much time on the phone and missing many of the places of interest. We felt cheated, of what should have been and enjoyable and informative journey. Had we known before that there'd be no live commentary, as expected, we would have gone on the quicker Uber boat. HOWEVER our return journey was, as expected, with live commentary. Therefore we could look, listen, learn and enjoy that experience completely. Many thanks for that, it very much saved the day. Read more Written 24 April 2024
• LoveTravel691596 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Not bad On booking the trip it says one way and then return where you started , a bit confusing. Well it was only one way and you’d have to pay again to get back, so wrong info given when booking. Read more Written 22 April 2024
• Trek34116359585 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day out -entertaining and educational way to see London A great way to see London, brilliant live commentary - very entertaining and educational. I highly recommend this trip Read more Written 22 April 2024
• John C 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Can you bring us some water Beautiful visuals lovely music but subpar service. We didn’t receive water for about 45 minutes despite several requests Read more Written 22 April 2024
• sassyandmike 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A well oiled machine We were so impressed with the organisation and slickness of the crew. A delicious and generous high tea was served with precision and efficiency, as we were entertained an excellent commentary. So impressed with the whole experience. Read more Written 21 April 2024
• Z3261FXjasonh 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Disappointing Paid extra for a window seat and was shown to a non window seat. When we said we paid extra for the window seat we were rudely told we would have to wait till everyone boarded and then see what was left available. Staff were surly and food wasn't very nice. The tea was luke warm and stewed and had been been made well before we boarded. The scones were hard and we didn't even get clotted cream for them. Very ,very disappointed, the views from the boat were great but that is London , nothing to do with London cruises. Would not book again Read more Written 18 April 2024
• adamb156 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles River Thames Day Cruise We had a great time sightseeing on the cruise and the staff was amazing!!! Simon and Gary made our trip spectacular and helped keep the kids entertained while we enjoyed the scenery. I’d highly recommend taking the cruise all the way to Greenwich Read more Written 16 April 2024
• VenkannaB_13 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Good cruise . But expensive on Viator The cruise is excellent. But information is minimum. You can start from Westminster Pier and stay on the boat and return. We did not know this till we reached London pier But even after purchase with discount it was expensive. You can purchase local ticket at just $46 per family Read more Written 14 April 2024
• O4366KCmissm 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles 24 hour hop on/off is a good choice! Very good commentary. Wasn't a recorded audio or usual tour guide, but English crew. Being a london girl, I appreciated his humour. He was very funny and actually very knowledgable about the landmarks which I thought I already knew about. But I learnt some new facts! It took me a while to decide whether or not to choose city cruises as I'd read some dodgy reviews. But they were great. We didn't use the toilets and it did run a but behind schedule but nothing major. We bought the 24 hour hop on/off. It was better than getting the train and good way to explore. Read more Written 13 April 2024

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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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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Food & Drink

London dinner river cruise: fine dining on the river thames.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in London, you should definitely consider doing a London dinner river cruise!

Enjoy a lovely three or four course meal from the comfort of a boat, as it cruises up and down the Thames past some of the main landmarks in London .

I recently did a Dinner Showboat Experience with City Cruises , and had an amazing time. If you’re planning your own dinner cruise on the River Thames, but not sure what to expect or which one to book, this is the guide for you!

In this guide I will go over all the logistical information, menu, cruise route, what to expect, prices and more to help you choose your London cruise dinner. So let’s dive straight in!

In this guide:

• 1.1 Where do you board?
• 1.3 Timings
• 1.4 Cruise route
• 1.5 Dinner Showboat Menu
• 2 Our experience with City Cruises
• 3 How to book your London dining cruise

Key information about a River Thames dinner cruise

Before we dive into our experience, I wanted to go over some logistical information.

Where do you board?

The pier from which your cruise will start ultimately depends from the company you do it with. We did our cruise with City Cruises and start our cruise from Westminster Pier.

This is a pretty good one to start as it’s so central and just next to the London Eye and Big Ben; two of the main landmarks in London. You can you get there early and relax, admire the view, maybe snap some fun Instagram shots .

We did the Dinner Showboat, which is priced at £81 per person. This includes half a bottle of wine per person and a four-course meal. If you want a window table it’s a £10 extra charge.

Boarding commences at 19:30 and the boat departs from the pier at 19:45. Be on time since the boat won’t wait! The cruise lasts three hours and you will be back at Westminster Pier around 22:45.

Cruise route

We departed from Westminster Pier and cruised east. We went past all the main landmarks in London, such as the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard and Tower Bridge.

We then cruised past the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, the O2 Arena and all the way to Greenwich. At Greenwich we turned around and cruised back to central London, seeing all the main sights also on the way back.

Dinner Showboat Menu

We were served an incredible four-course menu. I was a bit wary that the focus of the experience would be on the cruise and the food would suffer because of it, but I was pleasantly surprised. The food was delicious.

We were served the following dishes:

• Smoked salmon mousse with king prawns and a salad for starters
• Tomato, roast pepper and basil soup
• Roasted chicken wrapped in Parma ham, served with Dauphinoise potatoes, thyme and red wine sauce and seasonal vegetables as main
• White, dark and milk chocolate truffle cake with raspberry sauce

If you have allergies or dietary requirements they can alter the menu, you just have to make sure to request it beforehand.

Our experience with City Cruises

We did the Dinner Showboat with City Cruises . As a university student in London I had attended loads of boat parties on the Thames, so I was looking for something a bit different.

I was already familiar with the experience of enjoying the London sights from the river, but the fine dining was a new and very welcome experience.

We loved the food and found it was delivered in a timely and organised fashion. We never had to wait much for our plates, which is very impressive given that you’re on a boat after all!

Throughout most of the dinner there is live music going on. There was a band playing and a singer that would wander around and involve the audience.

Once the dinner was over quite a few people stood up and joined her for a bit of a boogie on the dance floor.

If you’re afraid of having issues with seasickness, you don’t have to worry. The river is always pretty calm, there are never any waves that rock the boat. You can comfortably eat without getting sea sick.

Overall it was a very enjoyable experience. The food was lovely, the skyline of London at night is always incredible, and the showboat element was a fun addition to the evening. I can highly recommend it, it’s a must on any London bucket list !

Especially if you’re visiting London in winter or on a rainy day , it’s still a great activity. The dining area is indoors and it allows you to tour around and see London while being cosy and dry indoors.

How to book your London dining cruise

You can book the same Dinner Showboat we did here . Online you can choose your preferred date, seat and dietary requirements.

Click here to book your London Dinner Showboat!

More London Thames dining experiences

The river dinner cruise we did was the “Dining Showboat” by City Cruises, however both City Cruises and other companies offer a lot of different types of cruise dining experiences in London.

Some examples include Sunday brunch , afternoon tea or jazz cruises . Ultimately what type of cruise dining experience you choose is up to your personal preference.

Personally I would recommend doing a fancy dinner or afternoon tea, for a bit of a special occasion. For something like Sunday brunch you could explore one of the many boozy bottomless brunches in London and have more fun!

As far as timings go I would also recommend doing a dinner experience in summer. That way it will still be light when you set off and you can enjoy the beautiful views from the river.

As you cruise the sun will go down and you can then admire the beauty of the London night skyline. I’ve listed below some River Thames cruise dining experiences that you can check out:

• Jazz Dinner Cruise on the River Thames
• London Afternoon Tea Cruise
• London Sunday Brunch Cruise
• River Thames Lunch Cruise

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Final thoughts on doing a River Thames dinner cruise

If you’re looking for a bit of a different dining experience, doing a London dinner river cruise is a great choice.

Even if you’re a Londoner, it gives you the opportunity to see your city from a completely different angle, while enjoying a lovely four-course dinner.

I hope this guide answers all your questions about doing a dinner cruise in London! If you have any questions just let me know in the comments below.

Looking for more London travel advice? Check out these resourecs:

• How to get around London
• London 1-day itinerary
• London 2-day itinerary
• London 5-day itinerary
• Where to stay in London for first time visitors
• 10 best places to stay in London
• The 25 most beautiful places in London
• 33 awesome free things to do in London

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Greta Omoboni is a full time blogger based in London. After 3.5 years of blogging about destinations all over the world on her main site, Greta's Travels, she decided to start a new site, dedicated to her second home and favourite city; London!

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• Dining Cruises

Dining Cruises on The Thames

1hr 30min River Cruise with Afternoon Tea and Commentary. From £52 per person.

Enjoy a 3-hour Thames River Cruise with a glass of Sparkling Wine on arrival and three-course dinner, accompanied by a live Jazz band. From £99 per person

Dine in a relaxed and informal environment with a live vocalist. from £87 per person.

2-hour River Cruise with Sparkling Wine & Canapes. From £37 per person.

1hr 45min River Cruise with a two course lunch and commentary. From £49 per person.

London: River Thames Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz

About the activity

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!

• Free cancellation Cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
• Instant confirmation & Mobile tickets Receive your ticket right away. Use your phone or print your voucher.
• Non-guided activity Live and audio guiding is not available.
• Start time - Available from May 3, 2024 8:00 PM
• Duration 3 hours
• Cruise with a regular seat
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• 3-course meal with tea and coffee
• Licensed bar offering champagne, Pimm's, wines, and beers
• Listen to a great live jazz band while enjoying a delicious 3-course meal and stunning sights of London
• Enjoy entertainment provided by ChiJazz quintet, who will perform a range of cool, ambient jazz tunes, as well as more lively numbers
• Admire the world-famous London sights such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Canary wharf, and many more
• Enjoy a cruise on the newest addition to the fleet, the stunning Millennium Diamond
• Compliment the sweet sounds of jazz with Pimms from the bar, along with Champagne, and a selection of wine and beer

Description

Your evening will start with a warm welcome and a complimentary glass of bubbly to get you in the mood. Then as you set sail, the first course of your 3-course dinner is served. As you enjoy your starter, the ChiJazz band will launch into the first part of their set for the evening. ChiJazz has an extensive repertoire of tunes, ranging from jazz classics to contemporary pop tunes. Popular tunes performed include songs like At Last, Cry Me a River, Girl from Ipanema, Have You Met Miss Jones, Makin’ Whoopee, Mercy Mercy Mercy, Night and Day, and Summertime. As you sail on the newest addition to the fleet, the stunning Millennium Diamond, towards the glittering skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, you will enjoy your main course and perhaps another glass of wine from the bar. As you make room for dessert and tea or coffee, the band will be preparing to return for the second half of their set. Enjoy more great jazz and if the mood takes you, it will be time to take to the floor for a little cheek to cheek action. The dancing continues until you dock at around 23:00, when you will depart.

• Please note the menu options needs to be pre-ordered before the day of sailing
• Dress code is smart casual
• Your seat on board is guaranteed and will be allocated to you before the cruise takes place. When you board you will be shown to your table. Please note tables are fixed, with each table (or pair of tables) seating 4 people. Our panoramic windows provide great views from all angles of the passing skyline, regardless of your table location
• Please note that some tables are situated in close proximity to other diners
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your starting time for boarding
• Carry cash if you wish to buy drinks from the bar

Reviews & Ratings

Top 5 similar night cruises & boat tours in london.

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• 4 hours • Available from November 28, 2024

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The 5 Best Thames River Dinner Cruises [2024 Reviews]

While you are in london enjoy a sightseeing and dinner cruise on the thames river.

London is certainly a hot spot for tourists and locals alike, as it has just about everything you could want or need. The Thames river and surrounding areas are particularly popular, with beautiful views of the water, bridges, and more.

Dinner cruise tours have quickly grown in popularity, offering a relaxing way to enjoy a delicious meal with an elegant twist. If you’re looking for a great restaurant, may as well take it up a notch and enjoy one of these selections!

We’ve taken it upon ourselves to do the “hard” part for you, bringing you the top Thames River dinner cruises in London!

Best Dinner Cruises on the Thames River

Quick answer: the 5 best rated thames river dinner cruises for 2024.

• Best Evening Cruise: River Thames Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music
• Best Dinner Cruise: London Thames River Dinner Cruise
• Best Budget Cruise: London: River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapés
• Best Value Cruise: London: River Thames Dinner Cruise
• Best Lunch Cruise: Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea

Thames River Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise Reviews

1. best evening cruise: london: river thames dinner cruise with live jazz.

• Duration: 3 hours
• Departure:  Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London
• Departure Time: 8:00 PM
• Includes:   River cruise on Thames,  3-course dinner, welcome drink , l ive band on board, bar offering champagne, Pimm’s, bear & wines

Who doesn’t love dining or drinking in the midst of some good live music? You’ll get all that and more with the River Thames Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz ! You get to choose from a variety of menu options of a 3-course dinner of mouth-watering dishes, with some of the best views of the city!

Lasting around 3 hours, it’s one of the longer tours on our guide. This makes it a great date night activity, or for going out with friends as well! We don’t really recommend it for younger children, however, as the overall theme really is a bit more designed for adults.

Start by boarding the Pleasure Boat at Embankment Pier, which is aptly named considering you’re about to have a ton of fun onboard! Start off by cruising along the famous river, taking in incredible sights from some of the most legendary landmarks!

The Houses of Parliament, the massive London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and more! This also is a great way to check out places to further explore later on, once you’re not on the cruise!

As you listen to amazing live music, you’ll enjoy plates such as: Courgette, green olive, and basil tart, roast chicken, pea a la Francaise, tortellini, potato Devonshire crab tortellini, cherry tomato compote, and an array of mouth-watering desserts!

We really appreciated that the staff welcomes guests to take their time, even after docked, to stay and have some drinks.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best dinner cruise: london thames river sunset dinner cruise.

• Departure: Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London SW1A 2JH
• Departure Time: 7:45 PM
• Includes: Four-course à la carte menu, live entertainment, wine throughout dinner, prosecco, beer and soft drinks

This next cruise is very similar to the one we just covered, and is perfect for small groups or couples. The London Thames River Dinner Cruise is also around 3 hours long, consisting of a couple different dinner options that you’re sure to love.

If you’re looking for a way to see some of the top sights of the city without walking around, this is a great option.

Make sure before anything else, you select the dinner option you want. The Premier Dinner option includes wine and mineral water (however, beer and other alcoholic beverages are extra, regardless of the option you select).

Meet at the Embankment Pier and walk down the ramp to check in and board your elegant Scandinavian cruiser boat for the evening. The staff will welcome you and bring you to your table, where you’ll be able to take in amazing views of the river and the surrounding sights.

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The furniture is beautiful, complete with a dining area, large outer deck for prime viewing, and a glass room which offers great views with protection from the climate even if the weather isn’t ideal. Keep in mind that the menu does change frequently.

With live entertainment, you’ll love watching as you cruise along the river while the sun sets. The relaxed atmosphere combined with the great service and tasty food really makes for a fantastic time.

You’ll see the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Tate Modern, London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and even head under the notorious Tower Bridge.

Search For London Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best budget cruise: river thames evening cruise with bubbly and canapés.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames St
• Departure Time: 6:30 PM
• Includes:   Canapes, r iver cruise,  1 glass of sparkling wine or 1 soft drink on arrival

Are you looking for a slightly shorter cruise or maybe one that offers a vibe that’s perfect for socializing with others? If so, check out the London: River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapes .

This is a sunset cruise where you’ll enjoy the beautiful river in both the daytime and nighttime while you listen to smooth jazz and pop while enjoying some sparkling wine and canapes.

From the title alone, you can probably guess that this cruise isn’t ideal for younger children. However, if you have teenagers they’ll probably enjoy the canapes and live music while hanging out on board!

London really is a beautiful city with a fascinating history and architecture to match, so you’re in for a real treat! We found the boat to be very clean, with friendly, well-organized staff who did a great job.

They’ll get you all sorted as the sun starts going down and the lights turn on. Enjoy a refreshing glass of sparkling wine and an array of different canapes as you enjoy the view. They really do offer a nice amount and options of canapes for the price.

You’ll see the usual suspects, like the London Eye, Tower of London, Canary Wharf skyscrapers, Tower Bridge, and much more. The background music consists of a calm jazz and chill-out pop from live performers, which really suits the environment perfectly.

If you’re looking to spend a couple of hours at night before dinner or just want to see some of the most popular attractions from a different perspective, this is a wonderful option.

4. Best Value Cruise: London River Thames Dinner Cruise

• Departure:  Westminster Pier
• Includes:   Dinner and dance boat cruise,  1 glass of sparkling wine per person on arrival,  4-course dinner with tea and coffee

This one is yet another 3-hour dinner cruise that is one of the crowd favorites. The London: River Thames Dinner Cruise is a bit different than most others in that you’ll have live performances and music, but this one includes live cabaret performances!

One thing is for sure – you won’t be short on entertainment! Meet at Westminster Pier to board the boat. We found that the staff and service were incredible right from the beginning.

There’s someone waiting to greet you as you board and will help direct you to make sure everyone knows where they’re going and is taken care of.

As you arrive, you’ll be served a glass of sparkling wine to enjoy before eating dinner. Once you settle at your table, you’ll be served a 4-course meal.

We found each course to be well-timed so you never feel overwhelmed nor waiting around for the next to arrive. The food itself was delicious and looked pretty, too!

After eating dinner, you’ll be offered either a tea or coffee to sip while you enjoy the live singer who sings tunes from West End shows! Dancing is also encouraged, and is definitely likely as the performers really are great at what they do!

It’s definitely a very light-hearted experience, and is even more enjoyable watching some of the most iconic London attractions lit up from the river!

If you’re more into just gazing out at the sights, we suggest heading up to the top deck of the boat! Here, it’s a bit more secluded, quiet, and ideal for taking photos or simply staring in awe at these beautiful landmarks.

5. Best Lunch Cruise: Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Departure: Tower Pier, London
• Departure Time:  3:30 PM
• Includes:  Cruise, afternoon tea – selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones

Are you on the hunt for a cruise that’s shorter and easier to fit into a busy schedule? Perhaps you’re looking for a cruise that’s just scheduled in the daytime? If that sounds like you, then we highly recommend booking the Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea .

Lasting 1.5 hours, it’s a fabulous way to incorporate extra sightseeing and relaxation in-between other adventures throughout the day! What is more British than enjoying a luxurious time sipping on tea, delicious cakes, while viewing some of the most important London landmarks?

Meet up at the Tower Pier located in central London to board your elegant boat and get ready for your cruise! We all know that London’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, so head into the cozy indoor saloon where you’ll get full panoramas of the shoreline!

The walls are all made of a sturdy glass so you get stunning views without the wind or rain!

You’ll first head by the (supposedly haunted) Tower of London, which has a pretty interesting history of its own. Next, you’ll see the fantastic Shard building which is hard to miss, as it’s almost 100 stories and made of glass!

Shakespeare’s legendary Globe Theatre comes next, followed by the London Eye, South Bank entertainers, Houses of Parliament, and more.

While you check out the sights, enjoy some tea, an array of freshly-baked cakes, scones, and sandwiches.

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat a tasty lunch, we highly recommend just boarding this cruise instead! You’ll spend the same amount of time you would at a restaurant, with a lot more to offer!

London Travel Guide

Planning guide for your london trip, airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions.

If you’re planning a trip to London anytime soon, be sure to add one of the best Stonehenge tours from London to your itinerary. But which ones are the best? We’ve reviewed the top 5 Stonehenge tours and provided you with a guide for visiting both Stonehenge and London.

Most likely, your day trip to Stonehenge from London will be a small part of your vacation to this historic English city. Here, we offer a guide to visiting London, from the airport you will be arriving at to other attractions you may want to visit and even the weather.

Let’s help you make the most of your vacation to London!

There are five airports that service London, England. If you are traveling abroad, you will most likely be arriving at London Heathrow . For shorter flights departing European airports, should you be heading to London from a previous vacation spot, you may fly into one of these smaller London airports:

• London City
• London Gatwick
• London Luton
• London Stansted

To enter the United Kingdom, UK, you will need a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for your entire stay and can’t expire before your expected departure.

Visiting London is unlike visiting any other city on earth. Because of this, you will want to keep some things in mind when planning and packing. We list our top 5 tips for visiting London below. Do you have additional tips to suggest? We’d love for you to comment them below!

Tip #1: Bring Your Walking Shoes

Much of your travel around the city will be walking. Even when you head out of town for a day tour, such as those to Stonehenge, most of the tours require quite a bit of walking. It’s best to be relaxed wearing athletic shoes instead of wearing more fashionable shoes that can make the necessary walking uncomfortable.

Tip #2: Bring a Converter or Transformer

Your electric and electronic devices made for use in the US will not work in the UK without a converter or transformer. A converter is made to use with electronics such as your phone or tablet and a transformer with electric devices such as a hairdryer. The US runs on 120 V and the UK on 240. This means that using your US devices without a voltage converter or transformer in the UK may damage them.

Tip #3: Start Planning Your Trip Early

London receives millions of tourists each year. This means that you will most likely have to book tours well in advance. You should also book your accommodations and reservations in restaurants as soon as possible. This is especially true for tickets to theater events and shows.

Tip #4: Always Bring an Umbrella

It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting London, quick showers and rainstorms are always a possibility. It’s best to bring an umbrella with you as purchasing one at a convenient location in the city will most likely cost much more. A collapsible umbrella that is easy to carry with you is ideal.

Tip #5: Start Budgeting in Advance

London is quite an expensive city to visit but it’s worth it. Be sure you have budgeted for your flight and accommodations as well as your daily meals. You should have plenty of British pounds, the local currency, on hand as taxis and some stores may not take debit or credit cards. Also, keep in mind that the farther out your trip is planned, the better deals you will get, especially on accommodations.

There are several Dishoom restaurants located around the city. These restaurants serve high quality and delicious Indian food within a modern atmosphere. London is one of the best places to enjoy Indian food outside of India. These restaurants often have a wait but the wait is well worth it.

Not only will you want to experience the delicious Indian food, it also wouldn’t be a trip to London without an afternoon tea. There are plenty of places around town to enjoy your tea, but afternoon tea at The Savoy Hotel, London is something not to be missed. Sketch is another afternoon tea hotspot offering a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a meal with a great view, you’ll want to make reservations at the Duck & Waffle. However, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the most popular meal in London, fish and chips, at many local hotspots.

Nightlife in London can be anything you’d like it to be. There are nighttime tours of the city and surrounding areas for something a little more low-key, or you can head to a nightclub or one of the many music venues to turn up the entertainment dial.

From standup comedy and dramatic theater to the trendy clubs of the West End and even the casinos that can be found around town, nightlife in London is perfect for everyone.

As mentioned, visiting London requires a lot of walking. However, you can also choose to ride the subway, board a boat, or even hop on a bus or take a taxi. You may find the subway also referred to as “the underground” or “the tube.”

The cost of transportation by any of these methods will be determined by your destination’s distance from central London. The city and surrounding areas are divided into zones that determine distance and cost. If you’re going to be visiting for at least a few days, you may want to invest in a daily or weekly Travelcard pass .

There are many choices in accommodations when visiting London. You may find a great Airbnb location, and you can also find everything from a small hostel to a five-star, luxury hotel. The accommodations you choose should be determined by your budget, but also by the type of experience you’re looking for. An Airbnb can instantly make you feel like a local.

A hostel can provide plenty of opportunities to meet other tourists and learn more about attractions and eateries. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, the Camden Enterprise Hotel or even the Dorset City London can provide it.

The average low temperatures during the winter months are in the mid-40s Fahrenheit or around 7°C. These mild winter temperatures make London an ideal vacation spot for the holidays. July, London’s hottest month of the year, usually doesn’t reach the 70s Fahrenheit, or above 18⁰ Celsius.

Even with mild temperatures during the summer, it can feel quite humid and you may run into a short shower or two. Once again, always have an umbrella handy.

A vacation to London necessitates a visit to Buckingham Palace . Other attractions include the Coca-Cola London Eye , the Ferris wheel easily seen in every London skyline, as well as historical landmarks such as Kensington Palace, the London Tower, or the Churchill War Rooms.

While in London, be sure to visit one of the many museums and art galleries that can be found in nearly every area of the city. Parks, waterfronts, and bridges provide great photo ops and can provide a beautiful place to rest and take in the local sights.

If you want to see a castle, the Windsor Castle is a don’t miss! This 1000 year old castle has been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there. To fully appreciate the splendor, be sure to take a guided tour of Windsor Castle .

The History, Beauty, in the Cotswolds and Oxford

When planning your vacation to London, be sure to plan for a day trip to the Cortswods  while there. The best guided tour from London to Oxford and the Cotswords will allow you to experience the English countryside.

However, that doesn’t mean you can skip on visiting the many museums and art galleries, enjoying some of the best food available, and taking time to appreciate the beautiful mix of modern style and historical sites that London provides.

Enjoy your trip to London!

Food Quality

The Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music is our Editors Choice for the best Thames River dinner cruise

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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Explore london with thames river sightseeing.

Make the most of your adventure! Join our local skippers and friendly team for an unforgettable Thames River cruise.

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Westminster to Greenwich | Thames River Sightseeing

Travel from Westminster to Greenwich and enjoy beautiful views over London’s famous landmarks with our River Thames Sightseeing cruise.

Circular Cruise: Westminster to Bankside and Tower Bridge

See the best of beautiful London from the waters on this  Thames River Sightseeing cruise, from Westiminster to Bankside and Tower Bridge.

2 Day River Pass | Hop On Hop Off

Our 2-day hop-on and hop-off Thames River Sightseeing ticket is the best way to explore London from the water – with unlimited river travel over two consecutive days to enjoy at your own pace.

Bankside to Westminster via Tower Bridge | Sightseeing River Cruise

Climb aboard our sightseeing tour at Bankside and head to Tower Bridge and Westminster.

THAMES RIVER SIGHTSEEING

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There’s so much to see when you’re on your Thames River Sightseeing cruise that you’re bound to find at least one place you’ll want to visit. Explore iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Shard, & more!

• Closest Pier: Bankside Pier

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• Closest Pier: Greenwich Pier

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The Thames is a chock-a-block full of London landmarks, including the iconic Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and Cutty Sark, as well as modern attractions like the London Eye and the Shard. Rest assured your skipper will point out all the points of interest in an entertaining and informative commentary.

• Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2JH
• Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London, WC2N 6NU
• Festival Pier, Riverside Walk, London, SE1 9PX
• Bankside Pier, Bankside, London, SE1 9PD
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Best London Thames River Cruises – Which One is the Best?

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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 !

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• 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!

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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