Which Thames River Cruise Will You Choose?

There’s no better way to spend your free time than by exploring the River Thames in London on a cruise…but not the kind of cruise ship you see floating round the Mediterranean…a Thames River Cruise!

A river cruise in London is a boat tour that takes place on the River Thames running through the heart of London. These cruises offer a unique vantage point to see some of London’s most famous landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.

Cruises vary in length and include features such as guided commentary, dining options and stop-offs at key points of interest. They are popular with both tourists and locals looking to experience London from a different perspective as it's a leisurely way to sightsee in London, avoiding the hustle and bustle of traffic!

Let’s take a look at some of the awesome London Thames River Cruises we offer here at WonderDays.

If you fancy using the river cruise for a sightseeing opportunity, the London Sightseeing River Cruise is the perfect option.

This splendid river cruise along the Thames will be a standout experience during your stay in London. You can choose to unwind in the inside the boat or embrace the outdoors on the open top deck while witnessing renowned London landmarks. The Captain will keep you entertained with informative commentary about the city's illustrious history and current events.

The experience offers you a 24-hour pass, meaning you have the freedom to take unlimited trips within a 24-hour window with boats departing approximately every 40 minutes from four strategic pier locations:

Westminster Pier

Start here for a spectacular view of sites such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square, among others.

London Eye Pier

Launching from the South Bank is perfect for capturing sights like The London Eye, National Theatre and the Royal Festival Hall.

Tower Pier

Step into a world rich in history and catch glimpses of the iconic Tower Bridge, St Katherine's Dock, HMS Belfast, The Shard and the infamous St Paul's Cathedral.

Greenwich Pier

Situated at a World Heritage Site, this pier offers vistas of the historic Cutty Sark, National Maritime Museum, Queen's House, and the vibrant Greenwich Market, alongside other attractions.

Duration: Up to 2 hours

Another option for a tourist experience is a London Sightseeing Evening River Cruise which is similar to the cruise above, except this adventure includes a glass of bubbly and delicious canapés!

As you sail the Thames, iconic riverside sights such as the London Eye, Tower Bridge and the Tower of London come into view.

Accompanied by live music to set the tone, enjoy breathtaking views either from the comfort of the main saloon or the expansive open-air deck upstairs.

Duration: 2 hours

If you fancy some traditional English treats whilst you float, then an afternoon tea on the Thames is the best option for you!

Boarding at Tower Pier, you’ll set sail for a London river cruise that not only showcases a number of landmarks including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and the Shard, but also gives you a full afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones with cream and jam plus lots of pastries. Not forgetting tea and coffee to wash it down while enjoying the views! An afternoon tea river cruise you wont forget!

Duration: Approx. 1 hour 30 mins

The London Sightseeing River Cruise with Lunch is an alternative to the afternoon tea if you prefer to take lunch with a view!

Treat yourself to a 2 course lunch with dessert and drinks (extra charge applies) while you see similar iconic landmarks listed above.

Boarding from Tower Pier, you’ll head towards Westminster and Canary Wharf to indulge in your lunch, enjoy the surroundings and relax!

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

If you prefer to chill in the evening, then a cruise with dinner is more up your street! Ideal for commemorating a special event or planning a memorable date night, the London River Cruise Dinner promises a delightful experience for all.

With live performances, exquisite food and drink options and unmatched views of the city, it’s a great way to appreciate London.

Upon boarding, a welcoming glass of sparkling wine awaits you, followed by a four-course dinner of treats such as salmon mousse, soup, herby chicken and tarts. As darkness hits the city, you’ll see all the iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf, beautifully illuminated against the night sky.

Don't miss the Illuminated River Exhibition, a public art initiative that brightens nine bridges on the Thames stretching from London to Lambeth Bridge, offering a brilliant display of light artistry whilst on the London river cruise dinner.

Once your tummy is full, you can hit the dance floor to the latest hits performed live or if throwing some shapes isn’t you, then you can retreat to the serene setting of the open upper deck, immersing yourself in the enchanting views as London drifts by.

Duration: 3 hours.

If a London river cruise dinner is a bit more refined than you like on your experiences, then a Silent Boat Party on the Thames is made for you!

As darkness graces London, you’ll don your silent disco headphones ready for a fun experience. Three DJs will deliver their distinctive beats through different channels and all you need to do is find the vibe you like the most, and off you go grooving to the beats that resonate with you.

The on-board bars come loaded with a broad selection of drinks, including speciality cocktails and mocktails, catering to your refreshment needs all night long.

Duration: 2 hours

From one theme to another, this London Elvis Tribute River Cruise is a pure stroke of genius! Who wouldn’t love rocking out to Hound Dog whilst sailing down one of the most famous rivers in the UK!

Join like-minded enthusiasts of the King of Rock & Roll for an unforgettable evening where you can embark on a riverine journey and be welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine, followed by a scrumptious three-course dinner. As you dine, an acclaimed Elvis tribute artist will serenade you with all the iconic tunes.

Once the plates are cleared, slip into your blue suede shoes and let loose on the dance floor!

Duration: Approx 3 hours

If you’re looking for something a little bit more sophisticated and smooth, then the London Jazz Dinner River Cruise is the way to go.

Experience an exceptional evening where the delight of jazz music meets the magical backdrop of the River Thames. Board at Westminster Pier and let a glass of fizz set the tone for the wondrous night that lies ahead and look forward to an exquisite three-course dining experience including ham, duck, roasted butternut squash and desserts.

The highlight of your journey is the live jazz ensemble that accompanies you throughout the evening. Featuring a gifted jazz quintet and a mesmerising vocalist, you'll be whisked away to the core of London's buzzing jazz culture with a repertoire that spans from Swing to exotic Latin jazz. A London river cruise dinner with a jazz accompaniment is definitely a memory maker!

Duration: Approx 3 hours

If you’re more of a go getter and like to pack as much into a short trip to the capital as you can, then bundling a river cruise with another experience is ideal. The London Hotel Break For 2 With an Afternoon Tea on a Thames River Cruise gives you everything you could possibly want from a break with a hotel stay through to scones and jam with a cruise sandwiched in between!

Opt for either a 3 or 4 star hotel to kick off your London getaway in true style. Regardless of your choice, you'll be well-placed to explore the city's highlights and each room offers ample twin or double beds, en-suite facilities, Freeview flatscreen TVs, tea and coffee makers, Wi-Fi, and a generous breakfast to fuel your day.

Following your restful night, embark on an exhilarating Thames River Cruise to witness London's iconic landmarks. Marvel at Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London, all while enjoying panoramic views that include modern architectural marvels like The Shard and the Gherkin. It's a delightful alternative to navigating the bustling city streets.

Enhance the experience with a sumptuous afternoon tea with an array of pastries, cakes, sandwiches and the quintessentially British scones served with jam and clotted cream and unlimited tea or coffee.

All our London River Cruise packages might differ in what they offer, but they all have one thing in common; the chance to make memories with your loved one and see the much loved City of London!