London Boat & Cruises - Thames River Sightseeing

London City Boat Tours

Famous Big Ben with bridge over Thames and tourboat on the river in London, England, UK

London, the bustling capital of England, is not only renowned for its iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye but also for its scenic waterways. Among the best ways to experience the city's charm is through Thames River Cruises. These boat tours offer a unique perspective of London's most famous sights, making them a must-try for both locals and tourists alike.

One of the most popular operators for Thames River Cruises is City Cruises London. They offer some of the best London boat tours, providing visitors with unforgettable experiences on the water. With options ranging from leisurely sightseeing cruises to thrilling high-speed rides, there's something for everyone.

For those looking to combine sightseeing with a delicious meal, London boat trips with lunch are a fantastic choice. Imagine cruising along the Thames River while enjoying a delicious meal with panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

City Cruises London also offers themed boat rides, including afternoon tea cruises and dinner cruises. Indulge in traditional British afternoon tea while gliding past the London Eye or savour a gourmet dinner as the sun sets over the city skyline.

These boat tours provide informative audio guides or live commentary. This ensures that passengers learn about the history and significance of each landmark they pass. From the majestic Tower Bridge to the historic Greenwich Pier, every stop along the route has a story to tell.

For those short on time, there are shorter cruises available, such as the 40 minute Thames River Sightseeing Cruise. In just 40 - 45 minutes, passengers can take in the sights of London Bridge, the South Bank, and more.

For a truly exhilarating experience, consider opting for a high-speed Thames River ride with London speed boat tours. Feel the wind in your hair as you zoom past famous landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye.

No visit to London is complete without a ride on the London Eye. Now you can enhance your experience with a London Eye River Cruise which includes London eye tickets. This combination ticket allows you to enjoy both the iconic Ferris wheel and a scenic boat tour along the Thames.

With convenient access from various locations along the London Underground, including Greenwich Pier, embarking on a Thames River Cruise is easy and hassle-free.

London boat tours offer an exciting way to explore the city's most famous sights from a unique perspective. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, there's a boat tour for you in London. So, hop aboard and discover the magic of the Thames River.

Tour Highlights

HMS Belfast warship and Tower Bridge in London in a beautiful summer day, England, United Kingdom

Enjoy panoramic views of the City of London skyline from the river.
Purchase tickets conveniently online or at the ticket office before boarding.
Explore water sports opportunities along the Thames River during the tour.
Pass iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.
Experience leisurely sightseeing along the riverbanks.
Learn about London's history and architecture from onboard local guides.
Participate in 45-minute sightseeing cruises for quick exploration.
Combine a London Eye ride with a scenic river cruise.
Dine with stunning views of London's landmarks on a dinner cruise.
Capture memorable moments with photo opportunities at every turn.

Visitor Highlights

Houses Of Parliament, with boats in foreground, London, UK.

Admire the majestic architecture of St. Paul's Cathedral from the river.
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Borough Market during a stopover.
Discover hidden gems along the South Bank, such as the Shakespeare's Globe.
Marvel at the modern skyscrapers of Canary Wharf from the water.
Learn about maritime history at the Museum of London Docklands.
Experience the tranquillity of Regent's Canal on a canal boat tour.
Take a detour to explore the picturesque Little Venice neighbourhood.
Spot wildlife and nature reserves along the Thames Estuary.

Travel Tips

Book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred tour and avoid long queues.
Arrive early to the ticket office to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Dress appropriately for the weather and consider bringing sunscreen and a hat for sunny days.
Opt for a guided tour to learn about the landmarks and history along the route.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture memorable moments during the tour.
Choose a tour that offers onboard amenities such as restrooms and refreshments.
Check the departure schedule and plan your day accordingly to avoid missing your tour.
Be mindful of your belongings and keep valuables secure while on board.
Follow safety instructions provided by the crew and remain seated during the journey.
Relax and enjoy the scenic views of London's landmarks and waterfronts during the tour.

Know Before You Go

What to bring

Tickets or booking confirmation.
Camera or smartphone for capturing photos.
Sunscreen and hat for sunny days.
Weather-appropriate clothing (jacket, umbrella).
Comfortable shoes for walking on board.
Snacks and water if not provided on the tour.
Personal belongings (wallet, phone, keys) in a secure bag or pocket.

What not to bring

Large bags or luggage (unless allowed by the tour operator).
Alcohol or glass containers (unless provided by the tour).
Pets (unless the tour is pet-friendly).
Valuables that you do not wish to carry with you.

Getting There

Getting to the departure point for any London boat tours is typically easy. Many docks are located in central areas with good transport links. Here are some tips:

Public Transport:

Utilize London's extensive public transport network, including the Underground, buses, and trains, to reach the nearest station or bus stop to the departure point.

Walking:

If you're staying nearby, consider walking to the dock. This is a great way to soak up the atmosphere of the city and ensure you arrive on time.

Taxi or Ride-sharing:

Grab a taxi or use a ride-sharing service like Uber to get to the departure point quickly and comfortably.

Cycling

If you're feeling adventurous, you can cycle to the dock. Many London boat tour operators provide bike racks for cyclists to secure their bikes during the tour.

Driving

While driving in central London can be challenging and parking expensive, some docks offer nearby parking facilities. Be sure to check parking availability and costs in advance.