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London Cruises & boat tours

Our most recommended London Cruises & boat tours

London: Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise

1. London: Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise

Admire the views of London's most iconic sights with a cruise on the River Thames. Cruise to Greenwich to see London's historical sights from the River Thames. Journey past iconic sights such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the Tate Modern. Choose between either a one-way or round-trip journey, with skip-the-line entry, and avoid the queues at the ticket office as you go straight to board the boat. Listen to the downloadable audio commentary on your smartphone as you enjoy the comfort of a modern but traditional vessel. Admire the pyramid structure of The Shard and see other monuments from London's historic waterway. Head to the open deck for panoramic views of London's landmarks. Stop at Embankment Pier, Festival Pier, and Tower Bridge Quay before arriving at Greenwich Pier. Feel free to explore the charms of Greenwich on your own terms, and see sights such as Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich Park, and the Royal Observatory which are all within easy walking distance from the pier.

London: Westminster to Tower Bridge River Thames Cruise

2. London: Westminster to Tower Bridge River Thames Cruise

Climb aboard a sightseeing boat at Westminster Pier and cruise through the heart of London, admiring the many sights along the River Thames along the way. Stop at Embankment Pier, Festival Pier, and Bankside Pier before arriving at Tower Bridge Quay. Catch sights of St. Paul's Cathedral, The Shard, Tate Modern, Globe Theatre, and much more en route. Choose a 1-way trip to Tower Bridge Quay or opt for a round-trip cruise and return to Westminster. Listen to the live audio commentary from your captain and make use of the state-of-the-art facilities onboard the boat.   Benefit from regular departures from Westminster Pier every hour along with 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 to purchase.

London: London Eye, Big Bus and Thames River Cruise

3. London: London Eye, Big Bus and Thames River Cruise

Discover the best of London with a hop-on, hop-off tour onboard an open-top, double-decker bus and enjoy a trip on the London Eye as part of your ticket. Enjoy a relaxing river cruise along the Thames as part of your ticket as well. A hop-on, hop-off tour is the ideal way to discover the best sights, landmarks, and attractions of London at your own pace. The tour gives you unlimited use, with stops strategically placed at all the places you would like to visit including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and St Paul's Cathedral. Hop off the bus at Westminster Bridge to take an unforgettable ride on the London Eye. From the top, you can take in the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the city's impressive skyline. See the city's most famous sights including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from an unrivaled bird's eye view. You can start your tour at any of the Big Bus stops. Popular starting points include the London Eye, Marble Arch, Victoria Station, and Trafalgar Square. With all ticket types, you can enjoy a boat cruise along the River Thames. A Classic ticket includes a single river cruise between the Tower of London to Westminster Pier (in either direction). Big Bus route highlights include: Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, 10 Downing Street, Whitehall, Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, Regent Street, Trafalgar Square, London Eye, London Dungeon, Sea Life London Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, Covent Garden, Bank of England, Monument, St Pauls Cathedral, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, The Shard, City Hall, Lambeth Palace, British Museum, Marble Arch, Mayfair, Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, Harrods, South Kensington Museums, Kensington Palace and Notting Hill.

From London: Luxury Paris Full-Day Trip

4. From London: Luxury Paris Full-Day Trip

Enjoy a full-day tour of Paris, with round trip transfers from London by Eurostar. Upon arrival at St. Pancras international in London, a representative will escort you to your reserved seat on board the 06:55 train to Paris. They will be available as your guide throughout the day. Relax on the train journey. Then, take a panoramic bus tour to see some of the most iconic landmarks of the "City of Lights," such as the Notre Dame cathedral, Napoleon’s triumphal Arc de Triomphe, and the luxury hotels and stores of the Champs-Elysees. Next, you’ll be treated to a special tour of the Eiffel Tower. Skip the lines and go straight to a reserved lunch at the newly opened Madame Brasserie on the first floor.  Reopened in June 2022, the 1st floor fully renovated brasserie is run by a two Michelin stars chef Thierry Marx, offering contemporary brasserie cuisine.  The restaurant opens 360 degrees onto the Iron Lady’s metal structure for you to enjoy its beauty, and offers a breathtaking view of the Trocadero and the Palais de Chaillot. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and feast on a delicious 3-course meal of French cuisine. Continue after lunch with a cruise down the River Seine, gliding through the heart of Paris for spectacular views of Place de la Concorde, the Musée D’Orsay, and much more.  Complete your experience by exploring the streets at leisure and with a photo stop at the Louvre Museum. Return to the Gare Du Nord for your 19:13 Eurostar departure back to London, with check-in closing 45 minutes before departure. Arrive in London at approximately 20:30 for the end of tour services.

London: Thames River Cruise with Optional London Eye Ticket

5. London: Thames River Cruise with Optional London Eye Ticket

Enjoy a cruise on the River Thames with live commentary that brings the city to life, presented by expert guides. Admire the views along the shorelines, passing some of London's most famous landmarks. The circular cruise offers both covered and sun deck seating and departs from the London Eye pier directly underneath the London Eye. It goes as far as Tower Bridge and returns 40 minutes later having cruised past the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe as well as Westminster, Millennium and Tower Bridges.

London: River Thames Dinner Cruise

6. London: River Thames Dinner Cruise

Take a leisurely evening cruise through the heart of London to see its famous sights illuminated at night. In the summer, there is the added delight of watching the sun set from the water before the lights come alive! The 3-hour cruise from Westminster to the Thames Barrier and back starts with a welcome drink when you board. Follow your cocktail with a delicious 4-course dinner, plus entertainment from a live singer. This dinner cruise from the heart of London combines a great meal with cabaret and dancing. Sail past the modern landmarks of the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, and City Hall, and continue as far as the monumental Thames Barrier flood defense before turning back to the Houses of Parliament. By the time darkness falls, dinner gives way to a cabaret singer performing tunes from West End Shows both past and present, along with other popular music. Although dancing is encouraged during and after the cabaret performance, if you prefer you can sit back and simply enjoy the music and floodlit sights. The cruise ends at the original starting point. A celebration fit for a King From Monday 17th April - Monday 8th May, City Cruises will be celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III. Expect decorated boats, special Royal-themed deserts, activities for children and more. Join us to mark this significant moment in UK history!

London: Canal Boat Ride on Camden Lock

7. London: Canal Boat Ride on Camden Lock

Experience the famous Hampstead Road Lock on a canal cruise through London. See some of London's famous attractions like the London Zoo, Camden Market, and more while listening to a guide's commentary. Travel from Camden Town, through the world-famous Hampstead Road Lock at Camden, and enjoy a live demonstration of a working lock as you take in the lush surroundings of one of London's oldest canal routes. Listen to interesting commentary from the knowledgeable crew, whilst enjoying the comfort of the classic Jenny Wren canal boat. Relax in the boat, equipped with a full-length canopy as you sail calmly through the waters and enjoy the ride Cruise up through the famous Camden lock, before sailing through London Zoo & Regent’s Park, and a short canal tunnel to Robert Browning’s Island at Little Venice, returning to Camden where you can depart and continue your day.

London River Thames Lunch Cruise

8. London River Thames Lunch Cruise

Enjoy a London lunch venue with a difference on this 105-minute cruise down the River Thames from Tower Pier. Delight in a delicious 2-course lunch, including tea or coffee, set against a backdrop of the most famous sights of London. Depart from Tower Pier, next to the historic Tower of London fortress and fairytale Tower Bridge. Sail past sights, such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and the towering Shard pyramid at London Bridge. Feast on thyme, rosemary, and lemon roasted Chicken Supreme with creamy leek, tarragon, and mushroom sauce, served with Potato au Gratin, and seasonal vegetables; with cherry tomato and red onion confit; and a dessert of warm, dark chocolate fondant with berry compote and vanilla sauce.  Enjoy the bar services throughout, offering a wide choice of soft and alcoholic drinks, while an audio commentary will allow you to learn fascinating new facts about London as you cruise. The cruise ends at the original departure point. From Monday, April 17 - Monday, May 8, all cruises will celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III with specially-decorated boats, Royal-themed deserts, activities for children, and more.

London: River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapés

9. London: River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapés

As the sun goes down and the lights come on, see London's riverside landmarks at in the evening light as you cruise down the Thames River. Savor a glass of bubbly in one hand and canapés in the other, and experience the magic of the city from the river. During the cruise from Tower Millenium Pier, take in all the major sites of the city on the river, from the London Eye and Tower of London to the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and the majesty of the fairytale Tower Bridge. Choose to absorb the scenery from the comfort of the main saloon or upstairs on the open-air panoramic deck. Enjoy listening to chill-out pop from live performers, too. The cruise ends at the original starting point.

London: Tootbus Must-See Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Cruise

10. London: Tootbus Must-See Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Cruise

Discover all of London's top attractions and landmarks on the Must See London tour. With the flexibility to hop on and off at any of the stops, you can explore each destination in more depth. The open-top deck offers some of the best views of the city, allowing you to plan your itinerary with ease. See iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul's Cathedral, among others. Complete your London experience with a Thames River cruise that takes you from Westminster to Tower Pier. Whether you choose a 1, 2, or 3-day pass, you'll have the time to explore the famous sights, take a relaxing walk in one of London's parks, and visit charming neighborhoods like Notting Hill, Shoreditch, and Brick Lane. Your pass is valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours from the first validation, allowing you to hop on and off the bus as many times as you want during that period.

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Frequently asked questions about London Cruises & boat tours

What are other things to do than Cruises & boat tours that are worth visiting in London?

The other unmissable things to do in London are:

Booking river cruises and boat tours in London: What you need to know

Traveling to London? Nothing beats a cruise on the River Thames. Boat tours let you see the city’s top attractions from the water, like the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and more. Whether you’re returning to the British capital or visiting for the first time, consider booking a London river cruise to make the most of your trip

    What kind of river cruises can I book in London?

    Most London river cruises and boat tours let passengers book a one-way or return trip, usually between Westminster and Greenwich. Travelers can book a wide variety of city cruises in London, however, and we’re not just talking about routes. 

    Is zipping by Canary Wharf your idea of fun? Adventure seekers can embark on thrilling speedboat tours on the River Thames. Prefer to take it slow? Embark on a leisurely sightseeing river cruise on an open deck boat to take in the views. 

    Dinner cruises on the River Thames

    Take your experience of dining out in London up a notch. Meal courses may vary, but if you choose to book a river cruise with dinner included, you definitely won’t pay more for the view. Raise your glass to Big Ben as you embark on this unique experience. These cruises often include a 3 or 4-course meal, complimentary drinks, and onboard entertainment. You can opt for a cruise with live music while you taste British dishes like roasted lamb rump. Or one where you can dance and get the party started before returning to land.

    If you’re going on one of these river cruises in the summer, chances are you’ll be able to catch the sunset from aboard. 

    Afternoon tea cruises on the River Thames

    Most travelers who visit London are familiar with the tradition of afternoon tea, but why not add a twist? Consider taking an afternoon tea river cruise. This type of tour usually follows a shorter route between Westminster and the Tower of London. Still, it includes plenty of sightseeing while taking part in a must-do British activity at the same time. you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy the view. Some of the top attractions you can spot from your table by the window include Tate Modern, the Shard, and Shakespeare’s Globe.

    Hop-on hop-off river cruises in London

    Hop-on hop-off tours in London are perfect for first time visitors and travelers on a tight schedule. Choose one of the hop-on-hop-off cruises on the River Thames to explore all the riverside sites on your list. Most tickets are valid for 24 hours so you can see London at your own pace. 

    With onboard explanations of each site, you can choose to get off the boat and take a closer look or continue their journey. These cruises typically stop near top attractions like Westminster Abbey and the London Eye.

    London boat tour and river cruise tips and information

    Some tours in London include a river cruise as part of a bigger package. You can find and book Harry Potter tours in London that include river cruises. Fans of the wizard will be able to spot known sites like the Millennium Bridge. Don’t worry, unlike its fate in the movie Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, the bridge is still standing and stable.

    Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Especially if you're planning on hopping on and off the riverboat frequently. Keep in mind that river cruises with dinner included typically require passengers to follow a dress code.

    You can use river cruises as an alternative to buses and the subway. Companies operate the river bus services in London and offers different routes. Common stops include Battersea Power Station Pier, Canary Wharf Pier, Woolwich Arsenal Pier, North Greenwich Pier, Tower Pier, Putney Pier, and Doubletree Docklands Nelson Dock Pier. If you purchase a London city card with free access to public transportation, check if it includes a river bus.


    Other Sightseeing Options in London

    Want to discover all there is to do in London? Click here for a full list.

    What people are saying about London

    Overall rating

    4.2 / 5

    based on 6,658 reviews

    Incredible! It was completely worth it, a very good and quite impressive experience. The cruise staff were quite friendly and they give you a guided tour. It was good to know from previous reviews that the cruise only covers one leg so we took the cruise to the London Eye and waited for our reservation time right there. Once the London Eye loop was over (amazing btw) we got on the bus around 3pm and used the bus until 5pm when the routes ran out, and still got up early and continued to use the bus the next day. (The bus lasts 24 hours, so we visited several places using the time we had left.) I highly recommend downloading the Big bus app to be able to see the routes and buses in real time. Incredible experience, we were 4 people

    HI, I never got a chance to use the boat cruise tickets. When we went on the day of the tour the ramp person to the boats said 30 minutes and would not let us wait for the boat. After that it rained and there were transit strikes after that ans we could not get in. The tickets expired Dec 31, 2022, will I be receiving a refund. Kindest regards, Nancy Norton

    The tour guide was so informative and funny - making it fascinating to be told all the facts as we passed the many landmarks. I honestly think his cockney commentary made the trip!! In one tour - we got to see and learn so much about London. Thankfully we had lovely weather and we all thoroughly enjoyed our excursion to Greenwich.

    Great trip and good value - terrific commentary from the crew

    Very smart boats friendly and helpful crew frequent service