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London Cruises & boat tours

Our most recommended London Cruises & boat tours

Little Venice: Regent’s Canal Waterbus Boat Trip to Camden

1. Little Venice: Regent’s Canal Waterbus Boat Trip to Camden

Travel from picturesque Little Venice to vibrant Camden Market along the Regent's Canal on a relaxing sightseeing cruise. This waterway is a leisurely corridor through London, navigated by leisure boats and lined with quirky houseboats. You'll pass by Regent’s Park, the grounds of London Zoo and through the echoey depths of the 248 meter Maida Hill tunnel. Each boat has slide opening windows throughout, so everyone gets a view. As you pass through London Zoo, keep an eye out for warthogs and African hunting dogs, which can often be seen as the boat passes their canal-side enclosure. Travel past the homes of well-known musicians, actors and celebrities. You will also be able to see the expansive and landscaped back gardens of grand houses used by ambassadors and visiting international diplomats. Arrive in the heart of Camden Market, home to a vast array of world class traders and international cuisines.

London: Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise

2. 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 live audio commentary 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

3. 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 River Thames Lunch Cruise

4. 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, 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.

London: Regent’s Canal Waterbus Trip to Little Venice

5. London: Regent’s Canal Waterbus Trip to Little Venice

Travel between vibrant Camden Market and picturesque Little Venice along the Regent's Canal on this scenic 1-way waterbus trip. Sit back and relax as you cruise on a calm waterway through London, navigated by leisure boats and lined with quirky houseboats. Departing from West Yard, Camden Market, pass by Regent’s Park, the grounds of London Zoo, and through the echoey depths of the 249-meter Maida Hill Tunnel. Take advantage of slide-opening windows throughout the boat, so everyone gets a picture-perfect view. As you pass through London Zoo, keep an eye out for warthogs and African hunting dogs, which can often be seen as the boat passes their canal-side enclosure. Cruise past the homes of well-known musicians, actors, and celebrities. See the expansive and landscaped back gardens of grand houses used by ambassadors and visiting international diplomats. End your boat trip in Little Venice, where you can get off and continue your adventure on your own.

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. Menu • Scottish Smoked Salmon Mousse with Mustard and Dill Center, King Prawns with Lemon and Mesclun Salad • Tomato, Roast Pepper, and Basil Soup • Roasted Supreme of Chicken Wrapped in Parma Ham, served with Dauphinoise Potatoes and Mushrooms with Thyme and Red Wine Sauce, along with Seasonal Vegetables • White, Dark, and Milk Chocolate Truffle Cake with Raspberry Sauce • Tea or Coffee, Mints Vegetarian Menu • Salad with Feta, Walnuts, Green Beans, Cherry Tomatoes, Roast Peppers, Pumpkin, and Olives with Honey Dressing • Tomato, Roast Pepper, and Basil Soup • Lasagne with Artichokes, Spinach, Sauté of Mixed Mushrooms, and Goat's Cheese, along with Seasonal Vegetables • White, Dark, and Milk Chocolate Truffle Cake with Raspberry Sauce • Tea or Coffee, Mints

London: Ghost Walk and River Thames Boat Ride

7. London: Ghost Walk and River Thames Boat Ride

Feel shivers down your spine on a ghost walk around the haunted and historic sights of London. Follow the shadows to some of the darkest corners of the city on a walking tour and boat ride. Cruise in luxury along the River Thames aboard a boat with an onboard bar. See London's legendary attractions illuminated for the evening against the black night sky. Continue on foot as you discover the site of the most haunted house and creep through parks rich with horrific history. End the night at the royal castle and former prison of the Tower of London.  

London: Thames River Cruise

8. London: Thames River Cruise

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.

Welcome to Paris Day Trip from London via Train

9. Welcome to Paris Day Trip from London via Train

Meet your guide at St Pancras Station, then it's all aboard the high-speed train to Paris. Relax and watch the scenery fly by out your window on your short 2-hour-and-15-minute trip. Arrive in Paris and set off with your guide to explore on a panoramic tour of the city that visits major sites including the Opera House, Champs-Elysees, and the Arc de Triomphe. This is followed by a 1-hour river cruise on the Seine that boasts wonderful sights of famous landmarks such as Notre Dame cathedral. Finish the guided part of your tour at the Eiffel Tower, then enjoy free time to visit your favorite sights on your own, or grab a delicious bite to eat at a local café. Your knowledgeable guide is more than happy to give you tips on what to see and do as you venture out solo. In the early evening you re-join with the group, and head back to Gard du Nord for your return journey to London.

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

What top attractions are a must-see in London?

What are the best day trips and excursions from London?

The best day trips and excursions from London are:

Warner Bros. Studio London

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

    A really enjoyable experience. our guide ( sorry didn't catch her name) was very knowledgeable and funny with her commentary. Well worth the money and I will be bringing hubby when in London in June

    Cool way to see London, nice slow pace, we enjoyed it, from inside, cause it is February, but it was very interesting!! I would recommend!!

    Tour guide was kind and funny, lots of knowledge of the rivers, knows his stuff! Lovely time all round

    Great impersonator and a fantastic time had. Thank you for a really good evening

    Lovely trip with lots of laughs and information along the way