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Buy Thames River Cruise Tickets

The River Thames has been London's lifeblood for centuries, and what better way to explore it than on a cruise? Imagine gliding past the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge, all while sipping your favorite drink from the onboard café. Thames cruises are like a sightseeing buffet—whether you choose a quick 1-hour jaunt from Westminster or a longer hop-on, hop-off adventure. It's easy, fun, and gives you London's best landmarks from a whole new angle!

Which cruise should I choose?

Sightseeing cruises

Best for: Solo travelers, first-time cruisers, and tourists who are short of time

Duration: 1 hour

Meals included: No

A Thames River sightseeing cruise is perfect to see many of London’s sights, such as the London Eye and Tower Bridge—ideal for photos and unique perspectives that you wouldn’t see from the land!
The cruise features a Wi-Fi audio guide in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin, which you can access through your smartphone.
Opt for a one-way or round-trip ticket to enjoy a scenic tour or a convenient way to travel between hot spots like Westminster, Tower Bridge, and Greenwich.

Recommended tickets:

Thames River Sightseeing Cruise™: From Westminster

London eye from hop off hop on London tour bus

Hop-On Hop-Off

Best for: Budget travelers

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

Meals included: No

The Hop-on-Hop-off cruise lets you explore at your own pace, with 19 or 24 piers to hop off and back on as you please.
Your all-day pass is valid from 6am to around 11pm, giving you ample time to enjoy fantastic views on a 3.5-hour cruise without transport hassles.
Stay comfy with air-conditioned boats and choose between indoor or outdoor seating. The multilingual audio guide adds rich insights into London’s history and culture!

Recommended tickets:

Thames River Hop-On Hop-Off Uber Boat Tour

Meal cruises

Best for: Culinary enthusiasts, couples, and group of friends

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Meals included: Yes

A meal cruise is ideal for anniversaries, birthdays, or romantic dates, offering delicious food, stunning London views, and live entertainment for a memorable celebration.
Enjoy lunch, dinner, or afternoon tea with a diverse menu including sandwiches, scones, canapes, or full 2-course meals, with options for vegetarians and gluten-free diets.
On many meal cruises, live music sets the mood with either upbeat or soothing melodies, elevating your dining experience.

Recommended tickets:

Combo trips

Best for: Budget travelers

Duration: Flexible

Meals included: No

Save money with a combo ticket for the London Eye and Thames River cruise—enjoy both iconic attractions at a great price without the hassle of separate bookings!
The London Explorer Pass offers up to 50% off top attractions like the Tower of London and Up at the O2. Choose 2-7 spots and enjoy flexible, hassle-free sightseeing via the Go City app!
On a Thames River cruise, you'll get live commentary or audio guides in multiple languages, sharing cool facts and stories about the landmarks.

Recommended tickets:

Cancellation Policy

Only sightseeing cruises are refundable up to 24 hours before the cruise starts.

Navigate this River Thames cruise guide

Why go on a Thames river cruise?
Things to know before booking your cruise
Find your best Thames cruise match here
Sights covered on your cruise
River Thames cruise route map
Hop-on hop-off River Thames cruises
Your guide to boarding your cruise
5 steps to a smooth & stress-free boarding
Going on a Thames cruise? Here's all you need to know

Why go on a Thames river cruise?

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Fantastic photo opportunities

With constantly shifting views of London's skyline, ideal lighting, and iconic landmarks like the House of Parliament, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge, you'll capture amazing shots from an angle you can't get on land.

Things to know before booking your Thames River cruise

Thames Cruises has something for everyone! Take an hour-long sightseeing cruise to see the landmarks or enjoy the flexibility of a 3.5 hour long hop-on-hop-off Uber Boat. If romance is your vibe, an evening cruise with live music and sparkling wine is the way to go! Choose the cruise type that suits your needs!
A sightseeing or a meal cruise - wondering which suits you the best? The former is ideal for a brief overview of London’s highlights, with frequent 30-minutes departures. On the other hand, meal cruises offer a more extended, leisurely experience, combining sightseeing with dining, perfect for celebrations or a relaxing outing.
Craving a unique dining experience? Picture lemon-roasted chicken, baked field mushrooms, and indulgent chocolate truffle cake—all while sailing along the Thames. For something lighter, the Afternoon Tea Cruise serves up scones, pastries, and tea for a more relaxed vibe.
Just a heads-up: not every cruise comes with a meal or snacks. But don’t worry—most have a bar where you can grab some tasty drinks and quick bites to keep you satisfied!
Looking for an affordable way to enjoy the Thames cruise? With Uber Boats' Hop-on-Hop-off cruise, you can stop at any of the 19-24 piers, visit the nearby attractions on foot, and reboard at your convenience - all at the cost of £10.25. If you’re in the mood for a more pampered experience, the afternoon tea cruise, with scones and hot drinks, is perfect!
The time you pick for your cruise really impacts the vibe! Mornings are calm and peaceful, while afternoons have all the action and better sightseeing views. Evenings promise mesmerizing sunset views and a dazzling skyline as the city lights come to life.
Seating on Thames River cruises may differ. For sightseeing cruises, seats are usually first-come, first-serve, so you pick your spot when you board. For dining or special events, seats might be pre-assigned in advance. Check with your cruise provider for details!
If you need wheelchair access, the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is a top option. Most piers are step-free and accessible, but note that Cadogan, London Bridge City, and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter piers are exceptions. Check accessibility details before you book.

Find your best Thames cruise match here

Experience

Boarding point

Timings & duration

Famous Attractions

Inclusions

Book Tickets

River Thames Sightseeing Cruise: From Westminster

Westminster Pier, Boarding point B

Daily departures, starting from 10am; 2 hours long

London Eye, National Theatre, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf

Food available for purchase onboard, multilingual audio guide

From £15.80

Uber Boat By Thames Clippers Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Single River Journey on the Thames: 19 piers, River Roamer: Hop On Hop Off Pass: 24 piers

Available daily, 24hr; flexible duration

London Eye, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, London Bridge, Canary Wharf, Greenwich

No meals included, but available for purchase onboard

From £10.25

Evening Cruise on River Thames

Tower Pier (EC3N 4DT)

Daily departures at 7pm, 2 hours long

Tower of London, London Eye, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf

Sparkling wine, canapes, and live music included

From £35.10

Thames River Lunch Cruise

Tower Pier (EC3N 4DT)

Daily departures at 11:45am; 1 hour 45 minutes long

Tower of London, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral

Two-course lunch included with tea and coffee alongwith a live or recorded commentary

From £45.90

Thames Afternoon Tea Cruise

Tower Pier (EC3N 4DT)

Daily departures at 3:30, boarding at 3:15; 1 hour 30 minutes long

Tower of London, London Eye, Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral

Afternoon tea included with unlimited tea and coffee

From £52

Sights covered on your cruise

Tower Bridge

This iconic landmark isn't just beautiful, it's also functional! Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge famous for its raising center section to allow tall ships on the Thames.

See all photos

Thames River cruise route map

Take a look at our comprehensive map, which will help you quickly understand all the sights you will see on your Thames River cruise!

About Hop-on hop-off Thames River cruises

Uber Boat Hop-on-Hop-off

Hop on Uber Boat by Thames Clippers: Teaming up with Uber, it’s a super cool way to cruise the Thames!
Choose your adventure: Choose between a Single River Journey or the River Roamer Hop-On Hop-Off for unlimited stops at 18 or 24 piers.
See the sights: Hit up iconic spots like the London Eye, Bankside, and Greenwich with ease.
Comfort on the water: Enjoy high-speed catamarans with climate-controlled cabins, outdoor decks, and onboard cafés.
Accessibility first: Wheelchair and pram-friendly ramps, step-free access at most piers, and guide dogs are welcome.

Your guide to boarding your River Thames cruise

While there are multiple boarding piers, these are some of the most easily accessible and scenic piers you'd want to hop on from:

Westminster Pier (Boarding Point B)

Famous for its proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Pier offers stunning views of London historical heart.
Nearest attractions: Big Ben, London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament

Tower Pier (EC3N 4DT)

Tower Pier serves as a gateway to London's past, with the historic Tower of London nearby, along with the famous Tower Bridge.
Nearest attractions: Tower of London, Tower Bridge

Embankment Pier

It is located near the vibrant Embankment Gardens and within walking distance of Trafalgar Square and the West End theatres.
Nearest attractions: Victoria Embankment Gardens, Cleopatra's Needle, Somerset House, Southbank Centre, London's Eye

Greenwich Pier

Situated in the picturesque Greenwich area, it is known for its maritime history and the Royal Observatory.
Nearest attractions: Cutty Sark, Greenwich Market, Royal Observatory Greenwich, and National Maritime Museum.

London Eye Pier

Adjacent to the iconic London Eye, offering panoramic views of the city skyline.
Nearest attractions: SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Southbank Centre, Jubilee Gardens, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey

Bankside Pier

It is close to cultural hotspots such as Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, offering a glimpse into London's artistic scene.
Nearest attractions: Explore the vibrant South Bank district.

Four easy steps to a smooth & stress-free boarding

Choose your cruise: Select the Thames River cruise that best suits your preferences and schedule. Whether you're seeking a sightseeing adventure, a romantic evening, or a dining experience, there's a cruise option tailored to your needs.
Receive your voucher: After booking, you'll receive an instant confirmation email with your voucher. Check your email inbox, including the spam or promotions folder, for this important document.
Prepare for onboarding: Familiarize yourself with the boarding point, which is typically Tower Pier (EC3N 4DT) for most Thames River cruises. Plan your journey to London using public transportation options like buses or the metro. Arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled boarding time to avoid any delays.
Board the cruise: Upon arrival at the boarding point, display your mobile voucher on your phone and present a valid photo ID for verification. Follow the instructions provided to locate your designated boarding area. Once onboard, enjoy the scenic views and amenities offered during your Thames River cruise.

Going on a Thames cruise? Here's all you need to know

Timings

Best time to go on a cruise

Getting there

Dining

Facilities & Accessibility

What to wear

Rules

Sightseeing cruises:

Duration: Typically 1-hour
Timings: Available throughout the day, with multiple departure times starting from early morning (10am) to late afternoon (4pm).

Hop-On-Hop-Off cruises:

Duration: Flexible, usually valid for 24 hours
Timings: Offered from early morning (6am) to night (11pm), with boats departing every 30 minutes.

Meal Cruises:

Duration: Ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours
Timings: Typically scheduled during lunch or dinner hours, with afternoon tea cruises also available.

For sightseeing: If you want to get the best views of the London landmarks, then aim for a cruise during the daytime, ideally between 10am and 4pm. This will give you plenty of sunlight for capturing photos.
For a romantic experience: An evening cruise (around sunset) can be very romantic, especially if you choose a dinner cruise with drinks and a scenic view.
Which months are the best: It all depends on your mood! Spring (March to May) brings mild weather and fewer crowds, especially in April and May. Summer (June to August) is lively but tourist-heavy. Early autumn (September) offers vibrant fall colors with fewer visitors. Winter (December to February) is quieter and budget-friendly, though chilly with shorter days.
What time of the day is best: A 10-11am morning cruise is the best option for early birds. It gives you a calm, fresh start before the crowds hit, ideal for quiet sightseeing. On the other hand, late afternoon cruises offer the best of both worlds—daylight fading into a magical evening skyline.

Westminster Pier: Accessible by metro. Take the Circle, District, or Jubilee line to Westminster Station. It's a short two-minute walk from the station to the pier.
Tower Pier: The closest subway station is Tower Hill, a four-minute walk to the boarding point. Metro lines - Circle and District - will bring you here.
Canary Wharf Pier: The nearby metro station is Canary Wharf, accessible by the Jubilee line.
Greenwich Pier: Accessible by the Docklands Light Railway (DLR). Alight at Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich Station, a short walk to the pier.

Evening cruise: This cruise treats you to a tasty lineup of cold canapés, perfectly paired with a glass of sparkling wine—or a refreshing soft drink if you prefer.
Lunch cruise with 2-course meals: Veggie fans, cassoulet's calling your name! This traditional French dish features a hearty mix of foraged oyster mushrooms and white beans, topped with a crispy herb and Parmesan crust. Meat lovers, don’t miss out on the roasted chicken—it’s delicious! And for dessert, indulge in a slice of zesty lemon gâteau for a perfect finish.
Afternoon cruise with tea: Relax with a tasty spread on board—cheddar ploughman, egg and cress, smoked salmon, and more! Oh, and don't miss the scones with clotted cream and a pot of your favorite tea!

Some Thames cruises are wheelchair-friendly, offering step-free piers, accessible ramps, and dedicated spaces on board. However, accessibility options may vary, so you should inquire with the cruise provider beforehand.
Dining cruises cater to all tastes, from vegan and gluten-free to classic options. Be sure to notify the operator of any dietary needs when booking, and savor everything from afternoon tea to gourmet lunches onboard!
There is no need to worry about restrooms—most boats are fully equipped, including accessible toilets and baby changing facilities on larger vessels, ensuring everyone stays comfortable throughout the journey.
Live or recorded commentary is your onboard guide to London's rich history and iconic landmarks.
Guide and assistance dogs are welcome aboard, free of charge! You and your furry companion can enjoy the cruise together, making it an accessible adventure for everyone.

London weather loves to keep you guessing, so layer up! Dressing in layers lets you quickly adapt to shifting temperatures, especially if you're on an open deck where it can get chilly. So, pack a light jacket or raincoat, especially for evening cruises or if rain's on the horizon.
You'll likely be walking to and from the pier and exploring nearby spots, so sneakers or casual flats will keep you comfy all day long.
For a dinner cruise, wear smart casual attire. For women, wear stylish pants or a chic dress, and for men, wear collared shirts with trousers.
If you're cruising during the day, remember to take sunglasses and a hat. They'll keep you shaded from the sun while you soak up those stunning deck views!

Life jackets are provided and must be worn if instructed. Crew members will brief you on safety procedures before departure.
Most cruises have a no-smoking policy indoors, including cabins and enclosed areas. Smoking might be allowed on designated outdoor decks, so check signage.
Be cautious when moving around the boat, especially between decks or when disembarking.
Bins are provided for waste disposal. Help maintain the cleanliness of the boat by disposing of rubbish responsibly.
Children aged 13 and under are not allowed on the cruise.
Outside food and drinks are also not allowed.
Luggage is generally not permitted on the cruises unless otherwise specified. It's best to check with the cruise provider for any restrictions before boarding.

Visitor tips

Choose your pier wisely on the hop-on-hop-off route. Greenwich Pier gives you a taste of maritime history, while Westminster Pier places you close to Big Ben. Check out nearby spots for a pre-cruise bite or drink!
Arrive at the boarding point at least 15 minutes before departure. This gives you time to check in smoothly and snag a great seat on the boat.
Weather permitting, find a seat on the upper deck or outdoors. It's the ideal spot to take in breathtaking views of London's landmarks as you sail down the river.
The Thames River offers fantastic photo ops with iconic backdrops like Tower Bridge and the London Eye. So, ensure your devices are fully charged before the cruise, and consider bringing a portable charger.
Although food and drinks are usually available for purchase onboard, bringing a reusable water bottle is a great way to stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions about River Thames cruise tickets

Which pier should I choose for my cruise?

The pier you should choose for your Thames river cruise depends on the specific cruise option selected. However, popular boarding points include Westminster Pier, Tower Pier, and Greenwich Pier.

Are the cruises suitable for kids?

Yes, Thames River cruises are family-friendly and suitable for children. With diverse options, educational commentary, and discounts, they offer engaging experiences for all ages.

What's the difference between a lunch and afternoon tea cruise?

Lunch cruises offer a 2-course meal, while afternoon tea cruises include tea and pastries.

Which cruise is best for small groups or solo travelers?

Sightseeing or hop-on-hop-off cruises offer flexibility for solo travelers or small groups.

What happens in bad weather?

In bad weather, Thames River cruises typically operate as usual, with indoor areas offering shelter. Some operators may adjust schedules or routes for safety, so it’s wise to check in advance or be prepared for possible changes.

What happens if I miss my cruise?

If you miss your Thames River cruise, you can usually board a later departure on the same day with your ticket, as most operators offer this flexibility. Thames River Sightseeing, for instance, allows you to use your ticket for any departure on the same day. Always confirm with your provider for exact policies regarding fees and rescheduling.

Is there a specific boarding time?

Yes, boarding times vary by cruise. For instance, lunch cruises typically start at 11:45 am, while sightseeing cruises run every 30 minutes, allowing for more flexible boarding.

Are there any seasonal events or special cruises on Thames?

Seasonal and special cruises are available on the Thames, including Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve events, plus themed party options. Consult your provider for more details.