Which Thames cruise is best for sightseeing?

The Westminster to Greenwich cruise is the best value sightseeing option. It passes all the major landmarks with live commentary and costs from £17.

Do Thames cruises run in the rain?

Yes, all cruises run rain or shine. Boats have covered indoor seating with large windows, plus open-air upper decks for dry days.

Can you buy food and drink on Thames cruises?

Most sightseeing boats have a small bar. Dinner cruises include a full meal. Thames Clippers have a small cafe on board.

London River Thames: Complete Cruise Guide for 2026

Everything you need to know about Thames river cruises, from sightseeing trips to dinner cruises.

Updated: 19 March 2026

Types of Thames Cruises

There are several types of Thames cruise to choose from. Sightseeing cruises (like Westminster to Greenwich) offer narrated tours past major landmarks. Dinner cruises combine a meal with evening views of illuminated London. Hop-on hop-off river buses (Thames Clippers) are a practical way to commute with great views. Speed boat experiences offer adrenaline-fuelled rides under Tower Bridge. Each type suits different budgets and interests.

The Westminster to Greenwich Route

This is the most popular sightseeing cruise and the one we recommend for first-time visitors. Departing from Westminster Pier (right next to Big Ben), you sail east past the London Eye, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London, arriving in historic Greenwich about an hour later. Live commentary points out sights and shares fascinating stories. It is the best value way to see London from the water.

What You Will See

From the boat, you get unique perspectives on landmarks that look completely different from the water. The Houses of Parliament reveal their full scale. Tower Bridge opens above you if you are lucky. The Tower of London shows its river defences. The modern skyline of Canary Wharf rises ahead. It is also the only way to see some landmarks, like the riverside entrances to the Savoy Hotel and Somerset House.

Booking Tips

Book online in advance for the best prices, typically saving 10-20% off walk-up rates. Choose a morning cruise for the best light for photography. Afternoon cruises tend to be busier. Sit on the right side of the boat (starboard) heading east for the best views of the Tower of London and city landmarks. The open-air upper deck is the best spot in good weather.

Thames Clippers: The Local Secret

Thames Clippers are the river bus service that Londoners actually use. They accept Oyster cards and contactless payment, making them much cheaper than tourist cruises. Routes run from Putney in the west to Woolwich in the east, stopping at piers near the London Eye, Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, Greenwich, and the O2. It is a commuter service with sightseeing views, at a fraction of the tourist cruise price.

Evening and Dinner Cruises

For a special occasion, an evening dinner cruise on the Thames is hard to beat. Watch the sun set over the city while enjoying a three-course meal and live entertainment. Most dinner cruises depart from Westminster or Embankment Pier and last 2-3 hours. Prices vary widely, from around £50 for basic packages to over £150 for premium experiences with champagne. Book well in advance, especially for weekend sailings.