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Thames River Lunch Cruises

Gourmet dinner
Gourmet dinner
Onboard beverages
Onboard beverages
Sightseeing & Onboard Entertainment
Sightseeing & Onboard Entertainment
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TL;DR

  • Cruise options: 2–3 hour cruise; lunch or Afternoon Tea.
  • Menu & format: Relaxed 3-course meal or full menu format. Specify vegetarian or vegan requests at booking.
  • Boats & seating: Dine aboard a modern, comfortable boat, all with panoramic windows. 
  • Boarding hub: Tower Pier 
  • When to book: Cruises, especially weekend sailings, sell out quickly. Book well in advance and arrive 15–20 mins prior to departure.
  • Good to know: Soft drinks are often included with the meal; note that all alcohol is an add-on purchase. Cruises run reliably even in light rain.

Find your best Thames River lunch cruise match here

CruiseCruise typeMenu styleDurationOther inclusionsSeating/Boat typeBoarding pointPrice

2-course Thames River lunch cruise

Lunch cruise

Plated 2-course meal (main & dessert) + tea/coffee

1 hour 45 mins

Live or recorded commentary

Indoor saloon with panoramic windows, open-air upper deck

Tower Millennium Pier

From £49

Classic Afternoon Tea cruise

Afternoon Tea cruise

Finger sandwiches, scones, mini-pastries + unlimited tea/coffee

1 hour 30 mins

Indoor saloon with panoramic windows, open-air upper deck

Tower Millennium Pier

From £49

What to expect on a Thames River lunch cruise

Evening cruise on the Thames with view of the London Eye and riverside buildings.
Dining area with river view on a cruise ship in London.
Thames Lunch Cruise
Thames Lunch Cruise
Afternoon tea setup with tiered tray and drinks on Thames cruise.
1/5

Seamless boarding and welcoming ambience

Board your vessel, often from Tower Pier, and be guided to your reserved table. The friendly crew provides a warm welcome as you prepare for a scenic Thames River lunch cruise through the heart of London.

Comfortable dining with panoramic views

Enjoy the cosy, climate-controlled saloon featuring large windows, ensuring a clear view of the cityscape from any seat. An open-air top deck offers fresh air and the best vantage points on your Thames River lunch cruise.

Savour a delightful 2-course meal

Indulge in a hearty, freshly prepared seasonal set meal, which typically includes a main course and dessert. This midday treat is served directly to your table, complete with tea or coffee, enhancing the Thames River lunch cruise experience.

Unrivalled views and insightful commentary

Glide past London’s landmarks like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye. Live or recorded commentary enriches your journey, blending sightseeing with a relaxing Thames river lunch cruise.

A British Afternoon Tea alternative

For a lighter option, consider the 90-min Afternoon Tea cruise, swapping the hot lunch for classic finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, alongside unlimited tea/coffee as you sail the Thames.

Things to know before booking a Thames River lunch cruise

  • Menu format: The standard Thames River lunch cruise typically includes a two-course set meal, often featuring a main course and dessert, alongside tea or coffee. Afternoon Tea cruises offer a selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries with unlimited tea/coffee. Some operators also offer a three-course option.
  • Duration and timings: Most Thames River lunch cruises last approximately 1 hour 45 mins to 2 hours, usually departing around midday (11:45am). Afternoon Tea cruises generally last 90 mins, often with an afternoon departure time around 3:30pm.
  • Dietary options: Vegetarian options are standard on a Thames River lunch cruise, and many operators can also accommodate vegan and gluten-free diets. It is crucial to inform the cruise operator of any allergies or special dietary requirements, ideally at the time of booking or at least 24–72 hours in advance.
  • Seating types: Seating is typically at reserved tables in the dining saloon, which features panoramic windows for great views on your Thames River lunch cruise. Tables are often fixed and may be situated in close proximity to other guests. Window tables are a popular upgrade option, especially for couples, but often sell out quickly.
  • Onboard commentary: Your Thames River lunch cruise includes live or recorded commentary, pointing out London landmarks like the Tower of London, Big Ben, and the London Eye, enhancing your sightseeing experience while you dine.
  • Drinks and additional purchases: While the meal includes tea or coffee, all other beverages, including alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and speciality coffees, are usually purchased separately from the fully licensed onboard bar.
  • Weather consideration: River cruise boats are designed for all-weather enjoyment, featuring heated or air-conditioned indoor saloons for comfortable dining and open-air upper decks for viewing London's skyline.

Thames River lunch cruise menus and dining experience

Stuffed chicken breast with spinach, mushrooms, and gorgonzola sauce on a white plate.

Dining style: Plated two-course lunch

Signature dishes: Thyme, Rosemary, and Lemon Roasted Supreme of Chicken; Baked Field Mushroom Lattice Pastry (V); White, Dark, and Milk Chocolate Truffle Cake. (See sample menu)

Drinks: Tea and coffee are included. Additional alcoholic drinks (wine, beer, cocktails) and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase from the onboard bar.

Live entertainment: Live or recorded commentary is provided, detailing the landmarks you pass on this Thames River lunch cruise.

Ambience/special touches: Relaxed and comfortable setting. Seating is often at tables of four. Step out onto the open upper deck after lunch for unobstructed views.

Afternoon tea with sandwiches and pastries at the British Museum.

Dining style: Traditional British Afternoon Tea service, typically served at your table

Signature dishes: A selection of finger sandwiches (like Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese, Egg & Cress), freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of mini pastries and cakes. (See sample menu)

Drinks: Unlimited tea and coffee are included. Sparkling wine or champagne can be purchased from the onboard bar to elevate your experience.

Live entertainment: Live or recorded commentary highlights the sights during this cruise.

Ambience/special touches: Quintessentially British and relaxing. Perfect for a lighter daytime treat and enjoying the passing London landmarks, lasting around 90 mins.

Sights you’ll see on a Thames River lunch cruise

Thames Lunch Cruise

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)

As your Thames River lunch cruise glides past Westminster, the Palace of Westminster, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece, comes into view. You'll enjoy a unique, unobstructed daytime perspective of its façade and the Elizabeth Tower, home to the Great Bell, Big Ben.

Thames Lunch Cruise
St Paul's Cathedral exterior with iconic dome, London.
Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London with a thatched roof and blue sky.
HMS Belfast moored on the River Thames with Tower Bridge and the Tower of London in the background.

Plan your lunch cruise in London

Sightseeing cruise passengers view the Tower of London from the Thames River.

Thames River lunch cruise: Boarding is typically around 11:30am for departure at 11:45am daily, and Afternoon Tea cruises board around 3:15pm and depart at 3:30pm.

Duration: Lunch cruises are approximately 1 hour 45 mins while Afternoon Tea cruises are usually 1.5 hours.

Best time to cruise: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) have pleasant weather and fewer crowds than peak summer, making your Thames River lunch cruise more enjoyable.

Address: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames St, London EC3N 4DT | Find on Maps

  • Tube/DLR: Nearest station is Tower Hill (District & Circle lines) – 5-min walk. Tower Gateway DLR station is also close by (7-min walk)
  • Train: London Fenchurch Street Station is a short walk away.
  • Bus: Routes including 15 and N15 stop nearby at the Tower of London stops.
  • Car: Closest paid parking is found at the Tower Hill Car Park, but the pier is within the Congestion Charge zone; public transport is highly recommended for your Thames River lunch cruise.
Get directions
Two people enjoying tea on a Thames River cruise with cityscape view.
  • Dining area: Comfortable indoor salons for seated dining. Tables are fixed and may be in close proximity to other diners.
  • Viewing options: Large panoramic windows in the indoor saloon for excellent views, and an open upper deck for 360-degree views and photos.
  • Food & beverages: A 2-course lunch or a selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries for afternoon tea. Unlimited tea/coffee is included with the meal/tea. A fully licensed, fully stocked bar is available for purchasing drinks (additional charge).
  • Restrooms: Toilet facilities are available.
  • Climate control: Indoor saloons are heated/air-conditioned.
  • Commentary: Live or recorded commentary is provided, highlighting the landmarks and history.
Wheelchair user boarding bus via accessible ramp.

While many piers and large boats are accessible, wheelchair accessibility on a Thames River lunch cruise can vary.

  • Boarding: Ramps are used at most piers, and the crew is trained to assist. However, certain vessels used for a Thames River lunch cruise may have limitations.
  • Onboard: Larger boats have accessible restrooms and open spaces. Guests are advised to contact the operator directly when booking a Thames River lunch cruise to confirm specific vessel features for their date.
Sightseeing cruise on River Thames passing under Millennium Bridge, London.
  • Arrival time: Please arrive at the pier at least 15 mins before your scheduled Thames River lunch cruise departure time. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
  • Outside food/drink: No outside food, drinks, or alcohol may be brought onto the Thames River lunch cruise vessel.
  • Baggage: Large bags, suitcases, bicycles, and scooters are generally prohibited for safety reasons.
  • Attire: The dress code for the Thames River lunch cruise is typically smart casual; flip-flops and leisurewear are usually discouraged.
  • Accessibility: Guests must be able to walk onto the boat; electric wheelchairs are often not permitted on dining cruises. Guide dogs are welcome.
Lunch setting on Thames River Cruise with chicken dish, vegetables, and menu.
  • Best views: For the best photo opportunities on your Thames River lunch cruise, secure a seat near the window or head to the open upper deck. London's most iconic landmarks, like the Tower of London and the London Eye, are visible from both sides, but the open deck provides unobstructed, 360-degree views.
  • Dress code: The dress code for a daytime Thames River lunch cruise is typically casual, comfortable, and informal, though smart-casual attire will look better in your photos with the city skyline.
  • Seasickness: The Thames River is generally calm; motion sickness is rare, but if concerned, opt for a mid-boat seat on the main deck during your Thames River lunch cruise.
  • Dietary needs: For special meals (e.g., vegan, gluten-free), notify the operator at least 72 hours before your Thames River lunch cruise to ensure your custom meal is prepared.

Other types of Thames River cruises

Sightseeing cruise on River Thames passing under Millennium Bridge, London.

Sightseeing cruises

This is your narrated, historical introduction to London's landmarks. Unlike specialized cruises, this option is the most flexible and budget-friendly, focused purely on getting you up-close views of all the major sights in daylight with informative commentary.

Book Thames River sightseeing cruises
Guests dining on Odyssey Lake Michigan Dinner Cruise at sunset.

Dinner cruises

Elevate your evening with a four-course dining experience. This cruise replaces pure sightseeing with gourmet food, live entertainment, and dancing, transforming the illuminated skyline into a sophisticated backdrop for a special occasion.

Book Thames River dinner cruises
Tower Bridge and The Shard at sunset on the Thames River, London.

Evening cruises

Perfect for unwinding at dusk. Instead of a full meal, this cruise centers around drinks, canapés, and music as you chase the sunset. It offers a more social, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the illuminated views without the commitment of a dinner service.

Book Thames River evening cruises
Uber Boat on Thames River passing Westminster Palace, London.

Uber Boat

This functions as a high-speed river commuter service. It is the most practical and efficient ticket, allowing you to use the Thames as a transport link to hop between key piers while sightseeing, beating London traffic.

Book Thames River Uber Boat tickets

Frequently Asked Questions about Thames River lunch cruises

Where do Thames River lunch cruise tours go?

Thames River lunch cruise tours take you from Tower Bridge to Westminster and Canary Wharf. The exact route changes depending on the tides.

Is seating assigned or first-come, first-served on the Thames River lunch cruise?

Seating is pre-allocated before boarding your Thames River lunch cruise. You will be shown to your reserved table upon arrival.

Is the seating private or shared?

Seating is at individual tables, but they are often fixed and situated in close proximity to other diners as part of the relaxed atmosphere of the Thames River lunch cruise.

What should you wear on a lunch cruise on the Thames?

The dress code for a Thames River lunch cruise or Afternoon Tea is generally "casual" and comfortable, although many guests choose smart casual attire for a celebratory feel. However, avoid flip-flops and leisurewear.

Is live entertainment included on all lunch and Afternoon Tea cruises?

Live or recorded sightseeing commentary is always included on a Thames River lunch cruise and afternoon tea cruise. Full live musical entertainment is generally reserved for evening dinner cruises.

Can I access the open deck for sightseeing on a lunch or Afternoon Tea cruise?

Yes, all vessels used for the Thames River lunch cruise and Afternoon Tea experience feature an open upper deck, perfect for taking photos of the London skyline before or after your meal.

Are vegetarian/vegan options available?

Yes, vegetarian and sometimes vegan options are available for the Thames River lunch cruise and Afternoon Tea, but dietary requirements must be communicated when booking (usually 24–72 hours in advance).

Is alcohol included or available for purchase?

Alcohol is not typically included in the standard Thames River lunch cruise or Afternoon Tea ticket price. However, a fully licensed bar is available onboard for you to purchase drinks.