Enjoy a sophisticated sunset experience focused on the illuminated skyline. This cruise features canapés and drinks (wine/champagne) rather than a full dinner, making it ideal for a relaxed, social atmosphere with night views.
| Cruise type | Menu style | Duration | Inclusions | Seating and boat type | Boarding point | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dinner cruise | Plated 4-course meal & welcome drink | 3 hours | Reserved table, live music, dancing, welcome drink | Shared tables, heated saloon, open-air upper deck | Westminster Pier | From £99 |
Evening cruise | Selection of cold canapés & a welcome glass of Prosecco or soft drink | 2 hours | Live music/performer, sightseeing after sunset | Smart-casual, heated lower saloon with panoramic windows, open-air deck | Tower Millennium Pier | From £39 |
Afternoon Tea cruise | Sandwiches, scones, mini pastries, unlimited tea/coffee | 1.5 hours | Reserved table, traditional British Tea service, great photo opportunities | Shared tables, comfortable saloon, great views from all angles | Tower Millennium Pier | From £49 |
Lunch cruise | Plated 2-course meal (main & dessert) & tea/coffee | 1.45 hours | Reserved table, live or recorded commentary | Fixed seating, panoramic windows. Window seats available for two | Tower Millennium Pier | From £49 |
Step aboard your vessel from central London piers like Tower (Millennium Pier) or Westminster Pier. A friendly crew will guide you to your reserved table in the comfortable, climate-controlled dining saloon, ready for your Thames River dining cruise to begin.
Relax in a refined setting with comfortable seating and large panoramic windows, ensuring every table has a view. For a breath of fresh air and photos, head to the open upper deck as the London skyline glides by.
Savour a delightful meal tailored to your cruise type. From classic British afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones, and pastries, to a multi-course à la carte dinner, or a buffet-style lunch, all prepared freshly onboard.
Enjoy live entertainment as you sail — Evening and Dinner cruises feature live music, creating a sophisticated backdrop, while Lunch and Afternoon Tea cruises include commentary about the landmarks you pass.
Witness London's most famous landmarks like the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye from a unique river perspective. Evening and dinner cruises are particularly magical as the city lights shimmer on the water.
The journey culminates with a gentle return to your departure pier. Enjoy a final drink or dessert as the skyline offers one last spectacular show, leaving you with cherished memories of your Thames River dining cruise.
When booking your Thames River dining cruise, choose the pier that is most convenient for your accommodation or other sightseeing plans. Westminster Pier is best for the West End/Southbank, while Tower Pier suits visitors near the City of London.
The Neo-Gothic Palace of Westminster looks grand from the water on any Thames River dining cruise. By day, admire its intricate stonework and scale; by night, the clock face of Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower) shines as an unmistakable icon of the London skyline.
Unfortunately, outside food and drinks aren't allowed on board. Rest assured, you'll enjoy a delicious meal during your trip, but taking leftovers or meals to-go isn't permitted either.
You bet! The crew loves meeting guests, so feel free to ask for a fun photo op—let's capture those memorable moments together!
No problem at all! The boats have sheltered seating to keep you cozy and dry, ensuring you can enjoy your lunch no matter the weather.
Yes, indeed! The beautiful river views and the stunning London skyline provide a dreamy atmosphere for your proposal. Just inform the crew in advance so they can help make it an extra special moment!
While most cruises feature live music and entertainment, bringing your own isn't usually permitted to ensure everyone enjoys a relaxing atmosphere.
Typically, pets aren't permitted on dining cruises, except for service animals. If you have unique circumstances, contacting the cruise company in advance is best for clarification!
Absolutely! Most cruises welcome pregnant guests, but it's wise to consult your doctor before booking. Be sure to inform the cruise company about your pregnancy when you make your reservation!
Yes, toilet facilities are available on the Thames River dining cruise, so you can relax and enjoy your meal without worry.
If you require help boarding or disembarking, bringing someone who can assist you is a good idea. Also, be sure to notify the cruise operator ahead of time so they can make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.
Seating is assigned for all meal services, including the lunch and dinner cruise. Guests should check in with the host upon boarding to be shown to their reserved table.
Tables are typically shared for the Thames River dining cruise unless your party is large enough to fill a table. Private tables can often be requested.
Yes, all Thames River dining cruises provide full access to the outdoor upper deck for the best sightseeing and photography opportunities on the River Thames.
Yes, specific dietary requirements, including vegetarian and vegan dishes for your Thames River dining cruise, are fully catered for but must be requested at least 72 hours prior to sailing.
Alcohol is readily available for purchase from the onboard bar on all cruises. Some Thames River dining cruises include a welcome drink or beverage package in the price.
Dress is smart casual for the lunch and Afternoon Tea cruises. Guests booking the dinner or evening cruise are requested to dress smartly (no ripped jeans or trainers).
Enjoy a sophisticated sunset experience focused on the illuminated skyline. This cruise features canapés and drinks (wine/champagne) rather than a full dinner, making it ideal for a relaxed, social atmosphere with night views.
Travel the river like a Londoner with this practical ticket. These high-speed commuter boats offer an efficient, cost-effective way to hop between key piers. Use it as your personal highway to sightsee while beating city traffic.
The essential first tour for London. These cruises offer continuous, narrated journeys past all the major landmarks in full daylight. They are the most flexible and budget-friendly option for comprehensive viewing.
Dining style: Elegant four-course à la carte meal focusing on modern British cuisine, freshly prepared onboard.
Signature dishes: Expect seasonal starters like smoked salmon, a choice of main courses (roast chicken with seasonal vegetables, vegetarian risottos), and indulgent desserts (chocolate torte). [View dinner menu here]
Drinks: A welcome glass of sparkling wine is included. Additional wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks are available for purchase from the onboard bar.
Live entertainment: Enjoy classic jazz and popular music performed by a live band, creating a sophisticated and lively atmosphere as you cruise the Thames River dinner cruise.
Ambience/special touches: Candlelit tables, elegant settings, and panoramic windows offer night views of London's illuminated landmarks. Guests are encouraged to visit the open deck for unparalleled photo opportunities.
Dining style: A selection of delicious hot and cold canapés and substantial bowl food, served buffet-style.
Signature dishes: A rotating selection that may include mini quiches, spring rolls, bruschetta, and hearty small bowls like curry or risotto, catering to various tastes.
Drinks: Includes unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks for the duration of the cruise. Sparkling wine and spirits are available for purchase.
Live entertainment: Features a live band or singer playing a mix of popular and contemporary tracks, creating a vibrant and relaxed party atmosphere for your Thames River evening cruise.
Ambience/special touches: A lively and informal evening cruise, perfect for socializing while enjoying the illuminated skyline. Access to the open deck is encouraged for night views of London.
Dining style: Traditional English Afternoon Tea featuring freshly made sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
Signature dishes: Finger sandwiches with classic fillings, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and a tempting array of mini cakes and pastries. [View Afternoon Tea menu here]
Drinks: Unlimited freshly brewed tea and coffee are included. Sparkling wine, Prosecco, and other beverages are available for purchase from the bar.
Live entertainment: Usually features recorded commentary highlighting the landmarks along the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise route, providing an informative and relaxing backdrop.
Ambience/special touches: An elegant daytime experience with comfortable seating and large windows offering views of London's sights. The open deck is always accessible for fresh air and photos.
Dining style: A two-course set menu featuring classic British dishes, freshly prepared and served to your table.
Signature dishes: Includes a hearty main course (roasted chicken or fish with potatoes and vegetables) followed by a delicious dessert (cheesecake or fruit crumble). [View lunch menu here]
Drinks: Water is provided. Additional soft drinks, juices, beers, wines, and spirits are available for purchase from the onboard bar.
Live entertainment: Features informative recorded commentary pointing out the famous landmarks and sharing interesting facts about London along your Thames River lunch cruise.
Ambience/special touches: A relaxed and comfortable daytime cruise, perfect for families and sightseeing. Large windows ensure excellent views from every seat, and the open deck provides panoramic photo opportunities.
Departure times for a Thames River dining cruise vary by product and pier:
Best time of day: The ideal time depends on the atmosphere you seek for your Thames River dining cruise. Lunch and Afternoon Tea cruises offer a peaceful experience and the clearest views for photography. For a magical atmosphere, book an evening or dinner cruise to witness the ‘Golden Hour’ transition or the sight of London's landmarks.
Best season/months: The shoulder seasons, late spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October), offer pleasant weather for enjoying the open deck, and key attractions are less crowded than during the summer peak. Summer (June–August) provides the longest evenings for dinner cruises. Even in winter, boats are heated, offering cosy views of festive lights.
Address: Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London SW1A 2JH | Find on Maps
Famous for: This is situated directly across from the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. It offers excellent access to Westminster Abbey, St. James’s Park, and Trafalgar Square. The dinner cruise departs from here.
Address: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames St, London EC3N 4DT | Find on Maps
Famous for: Positioned right next to the historic Tower of London and just a short stroll from the Tower Bridge, this pier is ideal for those combining their Thames River dining cruise with a landmark visit. The lunch, evening, and Afternoon Tea cruise departs from Tower Pier.
