Can I book at the last minute?

While basic day tickets are often available, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular sunset and dining cruises or during the summer peak season, as these sell out quickly.

Can I use an Oyster or Travelcard for the cruise?

You can use an Oyster or contactless payment on some services, like the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, which operates a commuter route. Sightseeing and dining cruises require a specific ticket purchase.

Are the cruises suitable for kids?

Yes, most Thames River cruises are family-friendly and suitable for children. With diverse options, educational commentary, and discounts, they offer engaging experiences for all ages.

Which cruise is best for small groups or solo travelers?

Sightseeing or hop-on-hop-off cruises offer flexibility for solo travelers or small groups.

What’s the difference between sightseeing and dining cruises?

Sightseeing cruises are shorter and focus on views and commentary. Dining cruises are longer, include a multi-course meal (e.g., lunch, dinner, or afternoon tea), and often feature live entertainment.

Is there a specific boarding time?

Yes, boarding times vary by cruise. For instance, lunch cruises typically start at 11:45am, while sightseeing cruises run every 30 mins, allowing for more flexible boarding.

What happens if I miss my cruise?

If you miss your Thames River cruise, you can usually board a later departure on the same day with your ticket, as most operators offer this flexibility. Thames River Sightseeing, for instance, allows you to use your ticket for any departure on the same day. Always confirm with your provider for exact policies regarding fees and rescheduling.

What happens in bad weather?

In bad weather, Thames River cruises typically operate as usual, with indoor areas offering shelter. Some operators may adjust schedules or routes for safety, so it’s wise to check in advance or be prepared for possible changes.

How helpful is the commentary/audio guide on a cruise?

Commentary is very helpful. Whether live or via audio guide, it enhances your experience by pointing out the historic and cultural context of the famous landmarks as you pass them.

Is seating assigned or first-come, first-served?

Seating for premium dining cruises is typically reserved in advance. For standard sightseeing cruises, seating is usually first-come, first-served, especially for open-deck spots.

Are there any seasonal events or special cruises on the Thames?

Seasonal and special cruises are available on the Thames, including Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve events, plus themed party options. Consult your provider for more details.

Thames River Cruises | Sightseeing, Dinner & Afternoon Tea Options

From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Marcela

Mexico

Jan 2026

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+1 more

A fabulous place that transports you back in time, a site steeped in history with impressive galleries. Inside and outside the castle there are beautiful places to take photos, and the crown jewels are also fabulous to admire. My husband gave me a ring for our 25th anniversary. Afterwards, walk across London Bridge, enjoying the views and the great structure of the bridge. Leave your fear behind and walk on the glass of the bridge... enjoy it to the fullest!

Azhar

United States

Jan 2026

‌

+1 more

I enjoyed this experience a lot. The shards has a very beautiful view from the top, allowing us to see the beautiful city of London. The staff was welcoming and helpful. Overall, I think it was very worth it.

Reichert

Jan 2026

‌

+2 more

On January 2, at precisely 5 p.m., London decided to offer us a moment suspended in time. Samuel and I entered The Shard as if entering another dimension: one where time slows down and the city becomes a living model. As the elevator propelled us skyward, silence descended, almost solemn. Then the doors opened... and suddenly, no words seemed adequate. London stretched out before us, majestic, infinite, bathed in the golden light of late afternoon that felt like a promise. The Thames meandered calmly, the monuments revealed themselves one by one, and even the city, usually so noisy, seemed to whisper its secrets to us. Samuel was smiling, and so was I. There was no need to speak: we were experiencing exactly the same moment, one that we knew was rare, one that would stay with us for a long time. Between two photos (impossible to miss), we felt tiny... but strangely privileged. The Shard is not just a viewpoint, it's an experience. A moment when London is not visited, but contemplated. At 5 p.m., day and night meet, and you leave with the feeling of having touched the sky—and a memory engraved far above the clouds. If you're looking for a place to see London differently, take to the heights. Literally.

Marissa

United States

Jan 2026

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+1 more

This was my very first time in London, and I was amazed when I saw the Sky Garden on the website. And it truly is incredible!

Paola

Jan 2026

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The view is priceless, friendly staff, well-organized entrance. It's a shame it was really cold even though we were indoors, having breakfast in jackets, coats, and hats...

Xiang

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

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My feet were killing me from touring all day so we booked this cruise last minute just to rest. Best decision ever. Going from Westminster down to Tower Bridge as the sun set was absolutely gorgeous. The city looks totally different from the water. Our time on the cruise was really something else and definitely reccomend other considering this experience to book ASAP. Getting that close to Tower Bridge was amazing, you really feel how massive it is. It was so relaxing and a great way to end our day.

Azri

Malaysia

Jan 2026

‌

Booked a flexi ticket, arrived at Westminster just as the sun was setting, turned out to be a fortunate decision. Even though it was rather cold, the sights of the cruise was amazing. I've done a day cruise before but a night cruise was totally different. Highly recommended.

Campo

Colombia

Jan 2026

‌

+1 more

Everything usually the visits to another zoo's is long fast and so hot, at this time the windy conditions the cold and the atmosphere was perfect totally different from what we know Special room's to admire some animals was so great and joyful. We enjoy the giraffe enclose and the penguin beach and can admire a Komodo dragon absolutely stunning! My elder son 21 years old and my little one 3 was soo happy with my wife and a lots of fun here I love to back London Zoo as soon as I can

Find your best River Thames cruise match here

Experience	Boarding point	Frequency	Duration	Boat type & seating	Inclusions	Cancellation policy
With flexible boarding	Westminster, Tower, London Eye, or Greenwich Piers	Daily, every 40 mins	Variable	Standard cruise boat	Complimentary kids activity book & colouring sheets, live English guide & multilingual audio guide	Can be cancelled up to 24h prior
From Westminster to Greenwich	Westminster Pier	Daily, from 10am	1-2 hours long	Standard cruise boat	Food available for purchase onboard, multilingual audio guide & live English commentary	Can be cancelled up to 24h prior
From Westminster to Tower	Westminster Pier	Daily, from 10am	30-60 mins long	Standard cruise boat	Food available for purchase onboard, multilingual audio guide & live English commentary	Can be cancelled up to 24h prior
Uber Boat Tour	24 piers	Available daily, 24hr, every 15-20 mins	Flexible duration	High-speed, modern catamarans	-	Can be cancelled up to 48h prior
Evening and Dinner Cruise	Westminster Pier	Daily at 6:30pm or 7:45pm	2-3 hours long	Luxury river cruiser with large panoramic windows	Canapes and live music or a 4-course meal, welcome drink, and live entertainment	Cannot be cancelled or rescheduled
Lunch Cruise	Tower Pier	Daily at 11:45am	1 hour 45 minutes long	Luxury river cruiser with large panoramic windows	2-course lunch with live or recorded commentary	Cannot be cancelled or rescheduled
Afternoon Tea Cruise	Tower Pier	Daily at 3:30pm	1.5 hours long	Luxury river cruiser with large panoramic windows	Afternoon tea included: unlimited tea and coffee	Cannot be cancelled or rescheduled
Speedboat Tour	London Eye Pier	Daily at 10am or 3:45pm (depending on your ticket type)	50-80 mins	Speedboat with 35mph speed	Live professional actor or comedian tour guide onboard	Cannot be cancelled or rescheduled

What to expect on a Thames River cruise

1/7

Seamless boarding

Start your journey easily at central, well-known boarding points like Westminster. Flexible cruises also allow you to board from Greenwich, London Eye or Tower Pier. Clear signage and friendly staff ensure a quick check-in before you settle in for your sail.

Comfortable seating and ambience

Enjoy the journey from an open-air upper deck for unobstructed skyline views or a cosy, climate-controlled lower saloon. Both decks offer excellent perspectives for sightseeing across all seasons.

Iconic views from a unique angle

Glide past world-famous landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge. The river offers photo-perfect angles you can't get on land. Sunset cruises offer stunning light, while evening dinner sailings feature the illuminated city skyline with its bridges and buildings beautifully lit up.

Engaging live or audio commentary

A river cruise is a moving history lesson! Listen to live narration or multilingual audio guides sharing facts and stories about the city's architecture and four centuries of history along the Thames.

Onboard refreshments and dining

Most cruises feature a fully stocked bar offering drinks and snacks. Options range from simple daytime sailings with light refreshments like Afternoon Tea to elegant lunch or dinner cruises with three-course menus and fine wine.

A different way to cruise

Traditional sightseeing tours stick to fixed routes and commentary. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is more flexible, letting you board at any of 24 piers and travel the Thames at your own pace with great views. If you want more excitement, the speedboat option takes you past London’s landmarks at over 35 mph for a fast, adrenaline packed ride.

Maximise your day

To get the most out of your trip and visit London’s key attractions, look for combo cruise tickets. These integrated packages offer incredible value and efficiency by bundling your river journey with entry to major Bankside attractions like the Madame Tussauds or Sky Garden.

Things to know before booking your Thames cruise

Ticket types: You have three main ways to cruise:
- Single/return tickets: Great for getting from point A to point B, or completing a one-off scenic loop. (Note: A boat change is required at Butler's Wharf for round-trip cruises)
- Hop-on Hop-off cruises: Gives you the freedom to explore the sights at your own pace; just hop off at a pier, walk around, and reboard later. Commuter services (like Uber Boat) are ideal if you want a flexible, fast, and affordable way to travel between any of the 19-25 major central piers.
- Speedboat tours: Built for thrill seekers, these high speed rides race along the Thames at up to 35 mph, pairing iconic views with sharp turns and on board commentary by a professional actor or comedian tour guide for an adrenaline packed experience.
Routes & duration: Need a quick fix? The central 30–60 min cruise covers the major landmarks. Want the full journey to a historic site? Look for longer routes (up to 3 hours) that travel out to Greenwich, giving you a comprehensive view of London’s maritime history.
Day vs. night: A day cruise gives you crystal-clear views and the best light for photos of Big Ben and the Tower of London. An evening cruise offers pure magic—think the city glowing with thousands of lights and a romantic sunset over the water.
Sightseeing vs. dining experiences: Can’t decide between a quick tour and a leisurely feast? Sightseeing cruises are perfect for snapping photos and getting the highlights, usually lasting 40–90 mins with live commentary. Dining cruises (like Afternoon Tea, lunch, or a dinner cruise) turn the journey into an event, running for a few hours and making them ideal for a celebration or a relaxed, luxurious outing.
Food and drink onboard: Just a heads-up: not every cruise comes with a meal or snacks. But don’t worry, most standard sightseeing tours have a fully licensed bar where you can purchase hot drinks, beer, wine, and light refreshments. Food is generally not included in your basic ticket price.
Seating: Seating on Thames River cruises may differ. For sightseeing cruises, seats are usually first-come, first-served, so you pick your spot when you board. For dining or special events, seats might be pre-assigned in advance. Check with your cruise provider for details!
Best time to book: The peak season (March–October) is when tickets sell out fast, especially for weekend and evening cruises. Want that magical sunset view? Book your spot well in advance! For fewer crowds and a calmer experience, aim for a weekday morning cruise.
Accessibility check: While many modern vessels are adapted for wheelchairs, you must check with your operator before booking. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is usually a top option. Most piers are step-free and accessible, but note that Cadogan, London Bridge City, and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter piers are exceptions. Accessibility can depend on the tide (which makes pier ramps steep) and the specific boat's age and design. For example, some cruises (like the London Eye River Cruise) require you to pre-book a wheelchair slot, and not all piers are step-free.

Your Thames River cruise boarding points explained

While there are multiple boarding piers, these are some of the most easily accessible and scenic piers you'd want to hop on from:

Famous for its proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Pier offers stunning views of London's historical heart.

Getting there:

By Tube: Jubilee, Circle, or District lines to Westminster station (2 min walk).
By bus: Multiple routes stop near Westminster Square.
By car/taxi: Located beside Westminster Bridge; congestion is heavy.

Nearest attractions: Big Ben, London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament

Adjacent to the iconic London Eye, offering panoramic views of the city skyline.

Getting there:

By Tube: Jubilee, Bakerloo, Northern, or Waterloo lines to Waterloo station (5 min walk).
By train: Waterloo Station (5 min walk).
By bus: Numerous buses stop on Westminster Bridge Road.

Nearest attractions: SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Southbank Centre, Jubilee Gardens, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey

Tower Pier serves as a gateway to London's past, with the historic Tower of London nearby, along with the famous Tower Bridge.

Getting there:

By Tube: Circle or District lines to Tower Hill station (5 min walk).
By DLR: Tower Gateway station (10 min walk).
By car/taxi: Located right beside the Tower of London; drop-off is restricted.

Nearest attractions: Tower of London, Tower Bridge

Situated in the picturesque Greenwich area, it is known for its maritime history and the Royal Observatory.

Getting there:

By DLR: Cutty Sark station (5 min walk).
By train: Southeastern to Greenwich station (10 min walk).
By car/taxi: Accessible via the Blackwall Tunnel approach.

Nearest attractions: Cutty Sark, Greenwich Market, Royal Observatory Greenwich, and National Maritime Museum

Check-in and boarding guide

How early to arrive: Please aim to arrive at your designated pier 15–20 mins before the scheduled departure time to allow for a smooth check-in process.
Documents needed: Have your mobile or printed e-ticket/voucher ready, along with a valid photo ID for verification, especially for dining or themed cruises.
What to wear: For most sightseeing cruises, casual wear is fine. For dining or evening cruises, a smart-casual dress code is generally expected to match the atmosphere.
Seating: Seating on sightseeing cruises is usually unassigned and first-come, first-served. For dinner or special event cruises, seating is typically pre-assigned to your table.
Find your pier: Check your booking confirmation for the exact pier (Westminster, Tower, Greenwich, etc.), as this is crucial. Final boarding closes 5–10 mins before departure.
Security & luggage: Expect minimal, routine security checks. You can bring a small bag or personal item; however, luggage is generally restricted, and large suitcases are not permitted onboard.
Children and pets: Children are welcome on all standard cruises with a valid ticket. Dogs are often permitted on sightseeing cruises (usually on a lead), but confirm the specific policy for dining experiences.
Weather considerations:
- Clear/sunny day: Head straight for the open-air upper deck for the best panoramic views and photos. Remember to wear sunscreen and a hat, especially in summer, as the sun reflects off the water.
- Rainy/cold day: Don't worry, all vessels have spacious, enclosed lower decks with large panoramic windows. These areas are heated and fully sheltered, ensuring comfortable viewing regardless of the weather.
- Fog or extreme weather: Cruises run year-round, but dense fog or extremely high tides can occasionally lead to delays or cancellations for safety. Always check the operator's website on the day of travel for updates.

Know before you go on a Thames River cruise

Sightseeing cruises:
Duration: Typically 1 hour
Timings: Available throughout the day, with multiple departure times starting from early morning (10am) to late afternoon (4pm).
Hop-on-Hop-off cruises:
Duration: Flexible, usually valid for 24 hours
Timings: Offered from early morning (6am) to night (11pm), with boats departing every 30 minutes.
Meal cruises:
Duration: Ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours
Timings: Typically scheduled during lunch or dinner hours, with afternoon tea cruises also available.
Speedboat tour:
Duration: Ranges from 50-80 mins
Timings: The Ultimate London Adventure & Thames Lates start from 10am, while the Thames Barrier departs at around 3:45pm.

Sightseeing cruise on the Thames River near the Shard in London.

For sightseeing: If you want to get the best views of the London landmarks, then aim for a cruise during the daytime, ideally between 10am and 4pm. This will give you plenty of sunlight for capturing photos.
For a romantic experience: An evening cruise (around sunset) can be very romantic, especially if you choose a dinner cruise with drinks and a scenic view.

Dinner cruise on the Thames River with view of Millennium Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral.

Evening cruise: This cruise treats you to a tasty lineup of cold canapés, perfectly paired with a glass of sparkling wine or a refreshing soft drink if you prefer.
Lunch cruise with 2-course meals: Veggie fans, cassoulet's calling your name! This traditional French dish features a hearty mix of foraged oyster mushrooms and white beans, topped with a crispy herb and Parmesan crust. Meat-lovers, don’t miss out on the roasted chicken! And for dessert, indulge in a slice of zesty lemon gâteau for a perfect finish.
Afternoon cruise with tea: Relax with a tasty spread of sandwiches on board, including cheddar ploughman, egg and cress, smoked salmon, and more! Oh, and don't miss the scones with clotted cream and a pot of your favourite tea.

Some Thames cruises are wheelchair-friendly, offering step-free piers, accessible ramps, and dedicated spaces on board. However, accessibility options may vary, so you should inquire with the cruise provider beforehand.
Dining cruises cater to all tastes, from vegan and gluten-free options to classic meat plates of roasted chicken. Be sure to notify the operator of any dietary needs when booking, and savour everything from afternoon tea to gourmet lunches onboard!
There is no need to worry about restrooms as most boats are fully equipped, including accessible toilets and baby changing facilities on larger vessels, ensuring everyone stays comfortable throughout the journey.
Live or recorded commentary is your onboard guide to London's rich history and iconic landmarks.
Guide and assistance dogs are welcome aboard, free of charge! You and your furry companion can enjoy the cruise together, making it an accessible adventure for everyone.

Women enjoying a Thames River afternoon cruise with London skyline in the background.

London weather loves to keep you guessing, so layer up! Dressing in layers lets you quickly adapt to shifting temperatures, especially if you're on an open deck where it can get chilly. So, pack a light jacket or raincoat, especially for evening cruises or if there’s rain on the horizon.
You'll likely be walking to and from the pier and exploring nearby spots, so sneakers or casual flats will keep you comfy all day long.
A dinner cruise calls for smart casual wear. Whether it's a fashionable dress or stylish pants with a dressy top or collared shirt, you'll be perfectly suited.
If you're cruising during the day, remember to take sunglasses and a hat. They'll keep you shaded from the sun while you soak up those deck views!

Life jackets are provided and must be worn if instructed. Crew members will brief you on safety procedures before departure.
Most cruises have a no-smoking policy indoors, including cabins and enclosed areas. Smoking might be allowed on designated outdoor decks, so check signage.
Be cautious when moving around the boat, especially between decks or when disembarking.
Bins are provided for waste disposal. Help maintain the cleanliness of the boat by disposing of rubbish responsibly.
Outside food and drinks are also not allowed.
Pregnant individuals are not allowed to be on the speedboat experience.

Visitor tips and guidelines

Best seats: Sit on the starboard side (right) when heading east (downriver) from Westminster to see the London Eye, St. Paul’s, and the Tower of London. Switch to the port side (left) on the return journey.
Arrival buffer: Aim to arrive at your designated pier at least 15–20 mins before your scheduled departure, especially for fixed-time or dining cruises, to allow for check-in and securing your preferred seats.
Golden hour photography: For the best lighting, book a cruise one hour before sunset (which can be as early as 4pm in winter), known as the 'golden hour,' for photos of the city skyline.
Audio commentary: Most sightseeing cruises feature excellent live commentary or multilingual audio guides. Bring your own wired headphones for better sound quality and a more personal experience.
Wind and layers: The Thames can be breezy year-round, particularly on the open top deck. Always bring an extra layer (jacket or scarf), even on warm days, to stay comfortable throughout the journey.
Dining cruise dress code: For dinner cruises, the dress code is typically smart casual (e.g., no trainers or ripped jeans). Sightseeing cruises are strictly casual, but avoid flip-flops or high heels for safety on the gangways.
Motion comfort: The river is generally calm, but if you're sensitive to motion, stick to the lower, enclosed deck toward the middle of the boat (mid-ship) for the most stable ride.