Best Thames River Cruises Compared: 2026 Guide

There are five main types of Thames cruise in London, each suited to different budgets and interests:

• Sightseeing cruises (from £17) - narrated trips past major landmarks
• Hop-on hop-off river buses (from £3-8) - Thames Clippers commuter boats
• Dinner cruises (from £50) - evening meals with illuminated city views
• Speed boat rides (from £45) - high-adrenaline Thames experiences
• Private charters (from £500) - exclusive hire for groups and events

The classic Westminster to Greenwich cruise is the best value sightseeing option. Departing from Westminster Pier (right next to Big Ben), you sail past the London Eye, Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London, arriving in Greenwich about an hour later. Live commentary explains the landmarks and shares stories. Prices start from around £17 one-way when booked online.

This cruise works perfectly as transport too: visit Westminster in the morning, take the cruise for sightseeing, and spend the afternoon in Greenwich (see our Greenwich guide).

Thames Clippers (now Uber Boat by Thames Clippers) are the commuter river bus service that doubles as an affordable sightseeing experience. They accept Oyster cards and contactless payment, with fares from around £3-8 depending on distance. Routes run from Putney to Woolwich, stopping at piers near the London Eye, Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, Greenwich, and the O2. There is no commentary, but the views are identical to more expensive tourist cruises.

An evening dinner cruise on the Thames is one of London's most romantic experiences. Watch the city lights reflect on the water while enjoying a 3-course meal and live entertainment. Most cruises depart from Westminster or Embankment Pier and last 2-3 hours. Prices range from around £50 for a basic package to over £150 for premium experiences with champagne and live jazz.

For something completely different, a Thames RIB (rigid inflatable boat) experience offers a high-speed ride through London. These boats blast along the Thames at up to 35 knots, passing landmarks while your guide delivers commentary at volume. The 50-minute Ultimate experience includes a blast through the Thames Barrier. Not for the faint-hearted, but brilliant fun for adrenaline seekers and groups.

Choose based on your priorities:

• Best value: Thames Clippers with Oyster card (from £3)
• Best sightseeing: Westminster to Greenwich cruise (from £17)
• Best for romance: Evening dinner cruise (from £50)
• Best for families: Sightseeing cruise with commentary (children love the boat ride)
• Best for thrill-seekers: Speed boat experience (from £45)

Whichever you choose, sit on the right (starboard) side heading east for the best views of the Tower of London and city landmarks. The open-air upper deck is best in good weather; the enclosed lower deck has large windows for rainy days.

See our full Thames cruise guide for more detailed route information.