UK Travel Planning

20 Best London Boat Trips and Cruises

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2023

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

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

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

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

Overview of the best London boat trips and cruises

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Best London boat tours and cruises

London boat trips on a clipper will take you past many sights such as St Pauls.

  • Duration – 24 hours

Wheelchair Accessible – YES

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

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

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

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

Leaves from – Westminster Pier

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

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

Click here to purchase your Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise

Boat trip along the Thames near Tower Bridge.

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

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

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

Duration – 3 hours

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

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

Click here to purchase

Best London Canal Waterbus Tours

Canal boats near Little Venice in London.

Duration – 45 minutes

Guided commentary

Wheelchair Accessible – NO

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

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

Canal boats in Little Venice London.

Duration – 45 mins

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

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

LONDON-ITINERARY

London boat cruises with food (& entertainment)

Boats on the River Thames with Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in the background.

Duration – 105 mins

Live commentary

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

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

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

Duration – 2.5 hours

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

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

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

Duration – 2 hours

Live music performance

Leaves from – Tower Pier

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

Boats on the Thames with the Gherkin in the background.

Duration – 1.5 hours

Sightseeing commentary

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

Boats on the River Thames in London with the London Eye behind them.

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

Leaves from – Tower Millennium Pier

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

Cruise boat on the Thames near Tower Bridge.

Duration – 2 hours 45 minutes

3 or 5-course meal

Leaves from – Embankment Pier

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

3-course meal with tea and coffee

Leaves from – Westminster pier

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

Best London speetboat tours

Skyline of London with a speedboat on the Thames.

Duration – 50 minutes

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

Leaves from – Embankment Pier 

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

Leaves from – London Eye Pier 

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

Leaves from – Tower Bridge Quay

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

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

Duration – 75 minutes

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

Duration – 40/45 minutes

Wheelchair Accessible – Contact for more information

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

London Landmarks

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

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

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Thames Clippers Tate to Tate service.jpg

The best boat trips in London

See the city from the Thames or one of London’s canals with these great London boat trips

London boat tours are a truly fabulous way to see the city’s top spots. The River Thames is a destination in itself, of course, and most London boat tours will take in famous landmarks such as the Tate Modern , St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, The O2 and Canary Wharf . You’ll be spoiled for choice with footage for your Instagram story.

If you fancy something a little bit different, there are some charming London boat tours along Regent’s Canal, many leading to the incredibly picturesque  Little Venice . Whether you’re a seasoned sea dog or a naval novice, there are definitely one or two London boat tours for you.

RECOMMENDED: The top 50 attractions in London

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City Cruises

City Cruises

  • Things to do
  • Walks and tours
  • Victoria Embankment

City Cruises operate on a hop-on, hop-off basis and run from Westminster, London Eye, Tower and Greenwich Piers with commentary along the way. The River Red Rover ticket allows unlimited one-day cruising; there's also the Rail and River Rover ticket allowing unlimited one-day travel by river and on the DLR. Single or return tickets are available for shorter journeys, too. The London Showboat is an evening dinner and dance cruise running from Westminster Pier. Afternoon tea and lunch cruises are another popular option during peak periods. 

Thames Rockets

Thames Rockets

  • Ships and boats

This slick RIB (ridged inflatable boat) operation offers a thrilling, high-speed ride on the Thames. You can book by phone or online, or just turn up and pay on the day at the London Eye Ticket Office. Arrive 20 minutes before the off to be kitted out with a waterproof jacket, a life jacket and goggle-style visors (fun in itself). The trip starts calmly enough and the guide will keep kids and adults entertained with fun facts and celebrity stories. But once the boat passes Wapping, it’s pedal to the floor all the way to Canary Wharf. 

Tate to Tate Boat

Tate to Tate Boat

Running every 20 to 30 minutes, the boat service connecting London’s two Tate galleries, Tate Modern and Tate Britain, takes you through the heart of London, with plenty to see on both banks (head to the outdoor deck at the back of the boat for the best views). The catamaran service boasts specially commissioned exterior and interior designs by artist Damien Hirst, but there’s no commentary, so take a map.

Thames Clippers

Thames Clippers

River bus services running daily between Royal Arsenal Woolwich in the east and Battersea Power Station in the west. A daily commuter service operates every 20 minutes calling at all major central London piers. On event nights at The O2, the River Bus Express operates a fast direct shuttle service from London Eye (Waterloo) and London Bridge with optional champagne upgrades. There’s no tour guide on board, but you can download a free app for an audio commentary. 

Thames RIB Experience

Thames RIB Experience

  • Sightseeing

Hurtling about the Thames at 30 knots (roughly 35mph) is the closest thing we’ve got to a white-knuckle ride in central London. It takes just under 40 minutes to travel from Westminster to Tower Bridge. Then the turbo engines kick in and you’re off, bumping about on the open water between Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf, turning in terrifyingly tight figures of eight. It’s the quickest, most thrilling way to travel the Thames.

Vintage Red Bus Tour and Thames Cruise

Vintage Red Bus Tour and Thames Cruise

Two tours in one. The first, departing from Victoria Coach Station on a restored double-decker bus, will take in views of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye, Westminster Abbey and Tower of London. The second is a cruise on the River Thames passing Shakespeare’s Globe, Cleopatra’s Needle and London Bridge before arriving at Embankment pier, where you hop back on the bus and head for Buckingham Palace. The tour will finish back at Victoria Coach Station.

Turks Launches

Turks Launches

Turks Launches have been operating boat tours along south-west London’s pretty stretch of Thames for 300 years. Running from Richmond Pier to Hampton Court, their routes pack in more historic sites than you might realise, including the seventeenth-century pile Ham House, Eel Pie Island (where Rod Stewart and The Rolling Stones used to party), and Teddington Lock’s Dunkirk Memorial. Turks tours run daily from March until September; look out for special disco and jazz cruises during peak months.

London Waterbus Company

London Waterbus Company

  • Camden Market

Navigate Regent’s Canal in a narrowboat with the London Waterbus Company. Trips run along the Regent’s Canal linking Little Venice, Regent’s Park, London Zoo and Camden Lock. Warwick Avenue is the closest tube if you’re catching the boat from Little Venice. There’s no advance-booking option – these tours are first come, first served – so if you arrive at peak time, just before lunch, you might have to queue. 

Canal Museum Tunnel Boat Trip

Canal Museum Tunnel Boat Trip

  • King’s Cross

These trips are best suited to the brave. Regent’s Canal’s tunnel – built in 1820 – is long, dark, dank and three quarters of a mile long. Once upon a time, boats normally pulled by horses on the towpath had to be inched through the tunnel by a process of ‘legging’ – with the men on board having to brace their legs against the tunnel walls to power the boat along. The tunnel tours take place during the summer, and tickets also includes admission to the London Canal Museum proper. There are only 12 places on each boat tour, so booking is definitely recommended.

Jason’s Trip

Jason’s Trip

  • Little Venice

Jason’s Trip navigates the picturesque route along Regent’s Canal from Little Venice, through Regent’s Park, on to Camden Lock and back again. The boat is more than 100 years old and the trip, which includes a live historical commentary and lasts for 45min each way, has been a feature on the canal since 1951. Tours run from the first week of April right through to the first week of November. 

Jenny Wren

  • Camden Town

Hop aboard for an hour and a half's cruise from Camden Lock, past London Zoo in Regent's Park, through the tunnel to Robert Browning’s Island at Little Venice and back to Walker’s Quay. A commentary is included on the cruise, and picnic lunches are available from the company’s waterside restaurant. If you prefer the idea of more formal onboard dining, try the My Fair Lady cruising restaurant boat, operated by the same company.

Bow Boat Company

Bow Boat Company offers a more bespoke kind of canal tour. Its cute narrowboat seats up to 12 people and can be hired (complete with skipper and tour guide) for special-occasion tours of east London’s waterways. You can decide exactly how long you want to tour for, and precisely where you’d like to stop. The comprehensive ‘east London loop’ takes in everything from the Olympic Park to Victoria Park and stretches out over a leisurely five hours; a shorter tour from Hackney’s buzzy Broadway Market to bustling King’s Cross takes just two hours. 

Looking for more things to do in London?

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River Thames Cruise Prices and Reviews

What is the best london river cruise.

london yacht tour

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

In this post I am going to detail all the different options you have for cruising through London, as well as sharing some of my experiences and top tips.

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

Here are the top cruise services in London:

City Cruises

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers

Thames river service.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOP-ON-HOP-OFF THAMES RIVER CRUISES

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

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

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

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

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

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

City Cruises offers both single tickets (which are fine) and a hop-on-hop-off service with 4 stops between Westminster and Greenwich (which is better). 

The hop-on-hop-off ticket is called the River Pass and I bought this one just recently, when the spring weather finally hit London!

I used it to get me from Greenwich and back primarily, but I did make an impromptu stop at London Bridge to grab lunch at Borough Market.

I bought the River Pass, which gave me 24-hour unlimited access to the River on City Cruises Boats.

Even though I'm a tour guide, I enjoy going on other people's tours so I really enjoyed the live commentary on the journeys I took.

I was happy for the 24 hour pass, but if you want more time on the boat, you can get a 72-hour River Pass giving you three days to use the service, rather than the 24-hour pass I bought.

Since the weather was good, I sat on the open-aired top of the boat - but there is inside seating downstairs if the London weather gets a bit wet or chilly.

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

Click on the map for a larger view .

Thames River Cruise Map

Single Tickets

Single-ride tickets vary depending on your starting and ending point. 

Prices start at £10.80/adult (16+), £7.05/child (5-15), and free for infants 4 and under.

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

If you are planning on taking at least two rides, I recommend that you buy a River Pass.

This pass gives you unlimited travel between their piers.

River Pass Tickets

24-Hour Pass

  • £24 Adults (16+)
  • £16.00 for Children (5-15)
  • Free for Infants (4 and under)

More information or to purchase tickets .

Cruises run every 30 minutes. (Frequency changes seasonally).

Exact departure times depend on which pier you wish to depart from.

But, as soon as I got to the piers I was able to check the display board to see exactly how long I would need to wait for the next service.

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

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

Reviews of City Cruises

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

london yacht tour

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

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

I haven't personally experienced any of that myself, however.

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

Thames Clippers is a commuter boat service which, in my opinion, are a vastly underrated way to travel through town.

They offer single-journey tickets, as well as an all-day ticket, that gives you unlimited hop-on, hop-off travel for one day (between 10 am and 11 pm).

This is what I always recommend to my friends and family when they come to visit me in London.

I think it's great value for money and makes travelling through town a little more fun and I take the Uber Boat at least once a month.

One of my favourite things about it is that I can pay using my contactless debit card so there's no need to faff around with tickets!

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

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

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

You can download their free audio tour (available in English, Spanish, French, and German) if you are taking the boat for sightseeing purposes, but I feel that the journey is enjoyable even without it.

Also, to the delight of myself and my friends, you can buy alcoholic (and non) refreshments on board.

I can personally recommend the rose' wine they sell, although the pre-mixed cans of Jack Daniels and Coke seemed to be the most popular option the last time I was at the bar.

And prepare yourselves...

The boat travels at a moderate speed through the city but once we passed Tower Bridge, it sped up and I was flying past the docklands toward Canary Wharf!

It's a thrill not everybody on board was expecting.

Uber Boat Ticket Prices

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

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

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

Also, guests said that the boat went just fast enough to get from point A to point B efficiently while still being slow enough to enjoy sightseeing with the downloadable app, which I think is an accurate way to describe the journey.

Read reviews here .

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

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

There are a total of six different tours offered out of Westminster, Greenwich, and St. Katharine's Docks (my favourite hidden gem and place to get a drink or bite to eat after finishing my All in One Tour ).

I would recommend the Westminster to Greenwich journey to soak up all the sights on the riverfront.

Guests have the option to pay for a one-way ticket or round-trip fare, a 2 days hopper pass, or a hop-on, hop-off ticket (through Circular Cruises).

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

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

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

I find that the leisurely ride with TRS is enjoyable, but it's not the best way to travel through town via the River - that definitely goes to the UberBoats.

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

Find out more about Thames River Service Tours .

Tate to Tate by Thames Clippers

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

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

I recently took this ride to see the latest exhibition at the Tate Britain.

Boats run every 30 minutes and when I arrived at the pier I just tapped with my contactless card to pay for my journey - like with the Uber boats.

I only needed to wait 10 minutes for the boat and the ride took me 20 minutes so I got across town in a half an hour which is great!

The boats have both outdoor seating but the weather was not great on the day I travelled so I sat indoors.

As this is not a sightseeing boat there is no live commentary, but that wasn't the purpose of my journey so I didn't mind.

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

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

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

Find out more or book tickets here.

Prices (single one-way ticket)

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

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

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

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

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

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

I found that this is no longer a problem as I just used my contactless card so there is no need to wait for tickets these days.

But, even that reviewer suggests that you persevere and use this ferry service to get from Tate to Tate as it was worth the hassle.

Most passengers love this form of transportation, and I find it pretty reliable!

CIRCULAR LOOP THAMES RIVER SIGHTSEEING CRUISES

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

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

Most circular loop cruises are about an hour long. 

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

Thames River Service Circular Cruise

london yacht tour

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

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

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

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

Find more information or purchase tickets here.

Ticket Prices 

Click here to purchase tickets .

Single Ticket

  • £12.90 for Adults
  • £8.90 for Children/Freedom Pass Holders

Return Ticket

  • £18.90 for Adults
  • £12.90 for Children/Freedom Pass Holders

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

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

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

Reviews say that the boat ride was relaxing and enjoyable, and well-organized. I haven't taken this one yet myself so we will take their word for it for now!

The London Eye River Cruise

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

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

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

You can also purchase this as a bundle with your London Eye Tickets which is great for visitors wanting to take a journey on the ferris wheel.

I've done this in the past and booked online which saved me over £11.00!

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

Find out more or purchase tickets here.

Ticket Prices :

  • £19.50 for Adults
  • £16.50 for Children
  • Children under 2 ride for free
  • Cruise and London Eye Adult Price £60.00 for Adults and £54.00 for Children

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

When I went, I timed my visit to coincide with the tour departure times.

A single rotation on the London Eye takes around 30 minutes, and I went off peak so didn't have to wait in a queue.

It is possible to get the timings right if you do a bit of planning!

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

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

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

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

There aren’t enough complaints to suggest that these are common problems and I certainly didn't experience any. 

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

The majority of people who take this cruise find it enjoyable - my family who I went with enjoyed it as they had limited time in the city so that made it a convenient choice for us.

It’s fair to assume that the few complaints may just be random outliers.

Sail on a 1920s Barge

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

Lady Daphne was the last wooden sailing barge still working on the Thames - and has recently be replaced by the Sailing Barge "Will."

london yacht tour

There are regularly run tours and the ship is also available for private hire.

A fellow tour guide, Jess, and I were lucky enough to take a journey on the Lady Daphne and hope to repeat it with Will in the future!

On our journey, we boarded at Tower Millennium Pier and rode all the way to Greenwich (where we got an awesome view of the Thames Barrier) and back.

But the best part was that we also got to sail under Tower Bridge - and they raised the Bridge just for our boat! We felt like real VIPs.

Check their website for prices and more information.

SPEEDBOAT RIDES

Speedboat rides on the Thames are not a budget option, but they are thrilling - and I find them to be very popular with families who take my walking tour.

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

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

Thames RIB Experience

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

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

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

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

Find more information or purchase tickets here .

Ticket Prices:

Thames Barrier Experience (75 minutes)

  • £69.00 for Guests 14+
  • £59.00 for 14 and Under

Canary Wharf Experience (50 minutes)

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

Tower RIB Blast (20 minutes) - This is the one I hear the most about on my tours!

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

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

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

Other positive comments mention that you will probably get wet while on this excursion, so it’s best experienced during hot days (I know that sounds like a joke but we DO get hot weather - I promise!).

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

Thames Jet by City Cruises

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

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

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Their Thames Rush speedboat tour is over 50 minutes.

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

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

Tour Hours:

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

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

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

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

CANAL BOAT RIDES

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

As I live in north London, a canal ride is a yearly tradition of mine!

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

Jason's Original Canal Boat Trip

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

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

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

London Waterbus Company

This is the company I usually book with as the price is great, the boats are comfortable, and the staff are fantastic.

The last time I went was a beautiful summer day and I boarded in Little Venice and travelled to Camden Lock (where Camden Market is).

On the ride, we passed through Regent's Park and the grounds of London Zoo for some charming views!

It took us just 45 minutes for the one way journey, and I enjoyed live commentary the entire way.

  • Adult (17-59 years) £16.00
  • Child (5-16 years) £12
  • Student 17+ with photo student ID £12
  • Senior 60+ years £12
  • Toddler (under 3 years) Free

Check their  website  for more details and to purchase tickets.

LUNCH AND DINNER CRUISES

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

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

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

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

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

The Jazz Cruise is my favourite! I did this one just a few weeks ago, in fact. I arrived with a friend about 15 minutes before departure.

When I boarded I was given a glass of sparkling wine to kick things off! I was shown to our pre-allocated table and then we were free to wander the boat and enjoy the live music.

After being on the water for a bit, we returned to our table for a fantastic 3-course dinner, followed by dancing as the band continued to play.

The whole experience lasted about 3 hours and was worth every penny!

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

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

More information or to purchase .

I am lucky because I live in London which means I can take advantage of these tours all year long.

The reason I'm saying this is because their prices fluctuate throughout the year and on different days of the week.

So it's worth taking a look at their fare calendars to see which is cheapest when you are in town.

Lunch Cruise on The Thames

  • £51 for Adults
  • £41 for Children (ages 3-12)

Afternoon Tea on The Thames

  • £55 for Adults
  • £45 for Children (ages 3-12)

Jazz Cruise on The Thames

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

London Dinner Cruise on The Thames

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

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

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

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

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

And, as I stated above, the Jazz Cruise gets 5 stars from me, too.

BUS & BOAT COMBOS

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

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

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

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

Big Bus Tours

Big Bus is one of the most popular tour companies in the world.

They offer services internationally and are well known for providing quality service.

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

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

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

Click here for more information or to book .

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

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

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

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

Tootbus Tour

This tour service is almost the same as Big Bus Tours.

Much like their competitor, they also offer a Thames River cruise pass through City Cruises.

In recent times, I have found that the Tootbus has become more popular with my visitors than Big Bus Tours and they seem to be getting ever more popular.

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

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

Ticket Prices  (online purchase)

  • 24 Hour Tickets: £46/Adults | £26/Children
  • 48 Hour Tickets: £53/Adults | £31/Children

Purchase tickets or learn more .

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

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

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

Most of the complaints focus on a lack of buses, but, in my opinion, this has changed as the brand has become more popular.

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

Many passengers noted that their tour guides are very good (and I know a couple of them personally so I van vouch for that, too!), so this should be a great choice if you want to learn a lot about the London area.

Things to Know When Going on a River Thames Cruise

Do you need to book Thames River Cruises in advance?

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

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

Note that it depends which boat journey you are going to take as to whether this is needed or not.

I found it worth it to book in advance for the London Eye and Boat bundle as that saved a bunch of money but for my trips on the Uber Boat, I wouldn't - and don't need to.

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Where can I catch a Thames River Cruise?

Piers of some popular cruises are listed below:

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

Our Westminster Walking Tour ends within walking distance of the Westminster Pier and our City of London and All in One Tours finish right next to Tower Millennium Pier!

How far do cruise boats go up the Thames?

It all depends upon which river cruise you are taking.

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

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

To see it all, I would strongly recommend riding from Battersea to Greenwich, where possible!

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

Are River Cruises safe?

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

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

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

Tips From Locals and Travelers

Assuming you've read all or even just some of this post, you've had the chance to see my personal recommendations when it comes to Thames River cruises.

However, it's important to get a variety of opinions when it comes to these types of services.

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

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

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

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

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A lot of locals recommend using the Uber Boat, because it's a very easy and consistent service and it offers stops all along the Thames, even in Greenwich. As you already know, this is my favourite!

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

london yacht tour

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

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

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

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

london yacht tour

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

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

RELATED POSTS

  • London to Hampton Court Palace by Boat
  • Windsor Castle Tours from London
  • Hop on Hop Off London Buses

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Evening Cruise on the River Thames | City Cruises™

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Lambeth Bridge Illuminated River © Paul Crawley

Illuminated River Official Boat Tours

See London at night from the river. 

See London in a new light from the comfort of our boats. Our Illuminated River Official Boat Tours will run every Saturday this winter from Tower Pier.

Illuminated River is a long-term art installation transforming the capital at night, bathing nine of the bridges that cross the Thames in environmentally-friendly LED light: London, Cannon Street, Southwark, Millennium bridges were the initial bridges to undergo vivid night-time transformations in 2019; followed by Blackfriars, Waterloo, Golden Jubilee, Westminster and Lambeth bridges in 2021.

The best way to enjoy the world’s longest piece of public art is to join an Illuminated River Official Boat Tour; showcasing the spectacle from the river itself!

You'll hear from City of London and Westminster Guides as you glide beneath the newly-reborn architectural, social and historical landmarks that have shaped the capital's history.

Join us at Tower Pier on Saturdays at 21:30.

Our Illuminated River Boat Tours are not running during the summer but we'll return in September.

In the meantime you can enjoy a journey underneath all nine Illuminated River bridges - from London Bridge to Lambeth Bridge by taking our regular services -as a bonus you can also sail under Tower Bridge! 

  • For the best experience travel after sundown
  • For the full journey travel between Canary Wharf and Battersea Power Station

Check our timetable 

Microphone 2 Fill

On board commentary

Official City of London Guides  and City of Westminster Guides will provide information about each bridge's history

Wine Fill

Refreshments available on board

The onboard café bar sells a selection of refreshments to make your journey even more pleasant

Clock Fill 24X24

Tours depart at 21:30

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. The tour lasts around 40 minutes, returning to Tower Pier at 22:10.

Pin

Tours start and end at Tower Pier

Departure from Boarding Point D Tower Pier is step-free and wheelchair accessible.

Find out more about Tower Pier

Westminster Bridge Illuminated River © James Newton

Westminster Bridge and the Palace of Westminster © James Newton

Lambeth Bridge Illuminated River © Paul Crawley

Lambeth Bridge © Paul Crawley

Blackfriars Bridge Illuminated River © James Newton

Blackfriars Bridge and the City of London © James Newton

Golden Jubilee Footbridges Illuminated River © Jason Hawkes

Golden Jubilee Bridges © Jason Hawkes

440 Illuminated River Millennium Bridge 03A

Millennium Bridge, Southwark Bridge and The Shard

440 Illuminated River One Blackfriars 05

Millennium, Southwark, Cannon Street and London bridges from One Blackfriars

440 Illuminated River Southwark Bridge 01A

Southwark Bridge and The Shard

440 Illuminated River London Bridge 07

London Bridge and the City of London

Child fare is applicable to children aged 5-15. Children aged 4 and under travel free but you will still need to book them a ticket. 

Concession fare is applicable to Freedom Pass, 60+ Oyster card and UK regional senior bus pass holders. If a complimentary carer’s ticket is required, please add a ticket selecting the carer fare.

440 Illuminated River Cannon Street Bridge 02

See London in a new light

About the project.

Internationally-acclaimed artist Leo Villareal and British architectural practice Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands have used the latest LED technology to ‘paint the bridges with light’. Patterns subtly unfold across the bridge structures, delicately drawing attention to their unique features whilst paying attention to each bridge's heritage, wildlife and surroundings. The project is sustainable and energy efficient, creating a lasting transformation that celebrates the bridges' roles in the enduring global identity of London, and encourages people to enjoy the river and riverside at night.

About our tours

Illuminated River Official Boat Tours are circular trips, starting and ending at Tower Pier, and sailing beneath all the bridges which have been lit as part of the project featuring commentary by Official City of London or City of Westminster Guides.

map showing the nine Illuminated Bridges

Listen to music inspired by the bridges

  • Tickets must be pre-purchased on Uber Boat by Thames Clippers website, they will not be available at piers.
  • Children 4 and under travel for free but a ticket still needs to be booked.
  • Passengers with a disability and Freedom Pass, 60+ Oyster card and UK regional senior bus pass holders benefit from the concession rate. If a complimentary carer’s ticket is required, please add a ticket selecting the carer fare.
  • Passengers with hidden disabilities or Freedom Pass, 60+ Oyster card and UK regional senior bus pass holders must present their pass when boarding if the concession rate was selected.
  • It is the passenger’s responsibility to be at the departure pier 15 minutes before departure as there will be no refund or exchange if the boat is missed.
  • Tickets are valid for the Illuminated River Official Boat Tour for the date selected when booking.
  • Tickets cannot be used to board a different Illuminated River Official Boat Tour on a different date.
  • Tickets are not valid on Uber Boat by Thames Clippers regular services.
  • All travel is subject to our Conditions of Carriage
  • Experiences

yacht charter london side view

Cruise the Thames aboard Illuminate - the Italian designed Azimut charter yacht. Up to ten guests can enjoy her spacious decks. As darkness falls, take to the flybridge for 360° panoramic views and experience London’s landmarks come alive with light.

best for weather

Best for weather

Soak up the sun or stay dry inside. Socialise under our covered rear deck and shelter from any unexpected turns in the weather.

best for style

Best for Style

Contemporary interior. Newly refurbished. A new era of Thames chartering.

dining deck

the experience

Cocktail Cruise

cocktail cruise

Sip sundowners and witness London’s landmarks come alive whilst leading mixologists shake your perfect cocktails. Illuminate’s covered outer deck makes it the best yacht in London for cocktail cruises, whatever the weather.

Tour the Thames

TOUR THE THAMES

The best sightseeing tour in town. Our open-top deck, charismatic tour guides and various pick up and drop off points allow you to discover the timeline of the Thames.

Just the two of you

JUST THE TWO OF YOU

A romantic gesture, a special occasion, perhaps an engagement. Enjoy privacy away from your captain and crew on Illuminate’s open upper deck or her secluded covered rear deck.

Michelin on the move

MICHELIN ON THE MOVE

If you’re a foodie you’ll be more than impressed by our selection of world class chefs. Fine dining for six or canapes and smaller eats for up to ten guests.

boozy business

BOOZY BUSINESS

Wine and dine whilst getting down to business. Brainstorm, negotiate or simply entertain. Illuminate’s three separate areas provide ample space to deal and deliberate.

Twickenham taxi

TWICKENHAM TAXI

Raise a glass ahead of the game and arrive in style. Illuminate will get the party started, beat the traffic and impress your guests. And after the whistle, cruise effortlessly back into Central London.

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This year, we are moving the luxury of London to the comradery of Cowes. Enjoy world class sailing, superb hospitality and all the buzz of Cowes Week aboard Illuminate.

ILLUMINATED RIVER PROJECT

The story behind the name.

Inspired by London’s spectacular Illuminated River Project – a long term light installation that will transform 15 of the cities bridges into unique works of art. And what better way to experience each bridge than from Illuminate’s covered rear deck and open air flybridge. “The Thames is London’s most ancient public space ... and the bridges that span our river are some of the most precious historic sites we have. The Illuminated River project is the next stage of the Thames evolution.”

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England

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Thames River Boats

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The East Front, Hampton Court Palace

About Thames River Boats

Thames River Boats operate cruises from Westminster Pier, Kew Pier, Richmond Landing Stage & Hampton Court Landing Stage with a fleet of traditional River Thames passenger boats. Our services make the perfect day out whether you are visiting the City of Westminster, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, the bustling town of Richmond or Hampton Court Palace. Our boats are perfect in any weather & have indoor & outdoor seating, fully licensed bars, toilet facilities & heating for colder days. Our boats are also available for private hire & are ideal for corporate events, birthdays, celebrations, wedding receptions, sightseeing cruises & river transfers.

Our Services

We are currently cruising on a regular basis from Westminster Pier, Kew Pier, Richmond Landing Stage & Hampton Court Landing Stage. Our sailing times can vary from day to day due to the tides. Click the link below to view our upcoming sailings. Tickets can be booked online through our booking system or at our ticket offices.

View Upcoming Sailings     Book Tickets  

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Westminster Pier

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Richmond Landing Stage

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Hampton Court Landing Stage

Testimonials.

My daughter has gone twice now and it is so worth it. For the price to I would definitely recommend. Peaceful atmosphere lovely staff also beverages are served downstairs.

Special Offers

  • Cockney Sparrow

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

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

  • Princess Freda

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

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Thames River Boats

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sailing dates & times

Monday to sunday.

LITTLE VENICE

CAMDEN LOCK

Arrives / Departs

Additional Sailings: June to August

Saturday & Sunday only

Boat trips from Little Venice to Camden Lock Market.

Enjoy the peace and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of modern day London while you are transported back to a bygone era in our origin 1906 canal boat.

This is London sightseeing as you have never experienced before.

Discover an enchanting world of beautiful Edwardian streets as you glide through Little Venice. You then make your way around the edge of Regent's Park past London Zoo and into buzzing Camden Town with its vibrant market right by the lock.

During the trip from Little Venice to Camden there is a live commentary from our trained guide who will tell you all about the canal's history from 1800 to the present day.

If you prefer the trip with no commentary, please join our canal boat tour from Camden as there is no commentary during the journey to Little Venice. (Unless specifically requested by Group Bookings).

This London attraction is Winner of TripAdvisor's coveted Traveller's Choice award for 6 years in a row.

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Adult - £18.00 / Concession £14.00 / Under 4s FREE

Return Adult - £23.00 / Concession £19.00 / Under 4s FREE

Concessions apply to under-14's and over-65's.

Group Bookings Groups of ten or more must book in advance by email and need at least 48 hours advance notice.

Tickets may be purchased on the boat by Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Amex or by using your London Pass.

welcome to jason's trip the original regent's canal tour

Jason's 2024 season is now open.   we look forward to welcoming you onboard. our timetable & prices are detailed below. pay at the boat as you board.   we accept credit cards, cash, & london pass. no booking fees.

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COMMENTS

  1. Best Thames River Cruises & Boat Trips in London

    14. Canal boat tour. Canal boat trips are a great way to explore the capital's waterways, so why not discover a different waterway route north of the Thames on a narrowboat trip along Regent's Canal. Begin at Jason's Wharf in Little Venice and find yourself in lively Camden's Lock Market by the end of the gentle 45-minute cruise each way. 15.

  2. Thames River Sightseeing

    Tower Bridge Quay, St Katharine Docks, 50 St Katharine's Way, London E1W 1LA. Greenwich Pier, King William Walk, London, SE10 9HT. Enjoy an unforgettable Thames River cruise in London and experience panoramic views of famous London landmarks from our boats. Book with Thames River Sightseeing for a unique adventure!

  3. River Cruise London

    Ticket includes: 30-minute London Eye rotation with iconic 360 degree views of the capital. 40-minute circular sightseeing boat cruise along the famous River Thames. The time selected will be for the River Cruise - you must book a visit time for the London Eye separately. Book Now.

  4. Thames River Cruises & London Boat Trips

    Our History. Starting in 1999 with just one boat in operation, our fleet has grown exponentially to 20 high-speed Thames river boats, offering services from all major London piers every 10-20 minutes. Our services cater for everyone from early morning commuters to night-time passengers. There are countless reasons to choose a London River Bus ...

  5. Take in London's Most Iconic Sights

    November 28, 2023. Are you ready to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new in style? Look no further than the dazzling city of London! With its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, Read More. Take in London's most iconic sights during a City Cruises London dining, sightseeing or Speedboat ride on the Thamesjet.

  6. THE 10 BEST London Boat Tours (with Prices)

    Boat Tours in London. We perform checks on reviews. 1. Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London. Swap the busy streets of London for a more peaceful form of sightseeing—a tour past London's top landmarks from the comfortable…. 2. High-Speed Thames River Speedboat in London.

  7. 20 Best London Boat Trips and Cruises

    River Thames Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise. Duration - 24 hours. Wheelchair Accessible - YES. Leaves from - Westminster, north Greenwich Pier, London Eye, and the Tower Pier. On this boat ride on the River Thames, you'll get a chance to see London's most famous attractions.

  8. London Thames River 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise 2024

    London boat ride up Thames. Valerie_R, Mar 2024. ... Golden Tours London Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Sightseeing Bus Tour. 1,340. 1 day. Free Cancellation. From. $50.56. IFS Cloud Cable Car and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers Hop On Hop Off Pass. 109. 1 to 16 hours. Free Cancellation. From.

  9. THE TOP 10 London Boat Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours (w/Prices)

    Feast on a 4-course dinner aboard your sightseeing boat as you sail past London attractions such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge, all illuminated at night. While you eat and admire the sights, listen to the on-board music and, if you wish, take to the dance floor. 3 hours. from. $112.78.

  10. London Eye River Cruise and Standard London Eye Ticket

    Many of London's top attractions lie along the Thames River. This boat tour cruises by most of them and includes a London Eye ride to see them from above. Get to know the city's beating heart and great contrasts as you pass historic sites such as Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Tower of London as well as contemporary landmarks like the Tate Modern and Millennium Bridge. Then, ride ...

  11. 12 Brilliant London Boat Trips

    London boat tours are a truly fabulous way to see the city's top spots. The River Thames is a destination in itself, of course, and most London boat tours will take in famous landmarks such as ...

  12. River Thames Sightseeing Cruises

    Child 5-15) £8.25*. £12.10*. Family Hop-on Hop-off Pass. The easy way to treat the whole family to a great day out. Pay for two adults and up to three kids go free! Possibly the best value sightseeing ticket in town. Find out more here.

  13. THE 10 BEST London Boat Rides & Cruises

    We perform checks on reviews. 1. Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London. Swap the busy streets of London for a more peaceful form of sightseeing—a tour past London's top landmarks from the comfortable…. 2. London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River.

  14. THE 10 BEST London Boat Rides & Cruises

    2023. 3. High-Speed Thames River Speedboat in London. 2,828. Jet Boat Rentals. 50 minutes. If you're looking for an exhilarating way to see London's riverside sights, then opt for a modern speedboat adventure on…. Recommended by 99% of travelers. 99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.

  15. Which Thames River Cruises Are Best?

    Tour Hours. Tickets can be used on any date within 6 months of purchase. Enjoy each tour or cruise at your own leisure. Follow the tour hours of City Cruises to schedule your boat trip. Reviews. Big Bus Tours of London has a 4-star rating on TripAdvisor. Most reviews are very positive, and comments about this specific combo package tend to be ...

  16. Thames Evening River Cruise

    Package Deal Available Likely to Sell Out 2X Reward Points Free Cancellation with Ticket Assurance Up to 2 hours in advance Learn More Group Rates Available Special rates for groups of 19 or more Start Planning Unforgettable Experiences Iconic and one-of-a-kind experiences Expert Tour Guides Local, friendly and experts on the city they love ...

  17. London Eye River Cruise 2024

    Iconic Sights of London: High-Speed Boat Trip. 680. from $63.40. London, England. London photoshoot with Pro photographer. Prewedding/Individual/Family. 7. ... Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise. 8,958. Free Cancellation; English; 3 hours 30 minutes; from $56.93. Explore Similar Things to Do.

  18. Thames Speed Boat & London RIB Experience

    Recommended things to do in London; with Thames Rockets sightseeing boat tours. Adult from £109.95. Child £90.45. Rocket Revolution (50 mins + London Eye) Reviews. Book now. Find out more. Adult from £109.95. Child ... With quick witted London tour guides and super skilled skippers guiding you every step of the way through the capital, you ...

  19. Illuminated River Official Boat Tours

    Our Illuminated River Official Boat Tours will run every Saturday this winter from Tower Pier. Illuminated River is a long-term art installation transforming the capital at night, bathing nine of the bridges that cross the Thames in environmentally-friendly LED light: London, Cannon Street, Southwark, Millennium bridges were the initial bridges ...

  20. Illuminate London

    covered rear deck and open air flybridge. that span our river are some of the most precious historic sites we have. The Illuminated River project is the next stage of the Thames evolution.". Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England. Luxury London yacht new to the Thames and ready to hire. Spacious flybridge deck for 360° panoramic ...

  21. London: Thames River Sunset Cruise with Wine and Canapés 2024

    Witness the enchantment of London at night on an evening cruise along the historic Thames River. Aboard the glass-encased boat, enjoy the city's main attractions at dusk, including the Shard, Big Ben, and the HMS Belfast. Savor a glass of sparkling wine (or soft drink) and canapés as you cruise the river and delight in the magic of London's urban shoreline as night falls.

  22. Thames River Boats

    She is a two level boat with a deceptively large enclosed saloon and an open top deck. ... Tour Info. Disabled Access; Route Map; Points of Interest; The Bridges; Gallery; Westminster Passenger Services Association (Upriver) Limited Westminster Pier Victoria Embankment London SW1A 2JH. Email: [email protected] Office: +44 (0)20 7930 2062 ...

  23. Canal Boat Tour

    Single. Adult - £18.00 / Concession £14.00 / Under 4s FREE. Return. Adult - £23.00 / Concession £19.00 / Under 4s FREE. Concessions apply to under-14's and over-65's. Group Bookings. Groups of ten or more must book in advance by email and need at least 48 hours advance notice. Tickets may be purchased on the boat by Cash, Visa, Mastercard ...