Top 5 Best Thames River Cruises (2026)
Five top-rated Thames cruise experiences, from budget sightseeing boats to luxury dinner cruises with live entertainment.
Our Top 5 Thames Cruises
A Thames cruise is one of the best ways to see London. The city looks completely different from the water, with landmarks like Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and St Paul's Cathedral framed perfectly from the river. Here are five cruises to suit every budget and occasion.
1. Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Cruise
1. Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Cruise
The classic Thames cruise and the best value option. Departing from Westminster Pier (right next to Big Ben), you sail past the London Eye, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London, arriving in Greenwich about an hour later. Live commentary explains every landmark. Greenwich itself is worth exploring, with the Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory, and Greenwich Market. Book a one-way ticket and return by DLR for the best experience.
Duration: 1 hour | From: ~£17 per person
2. Thames Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment
2. Thames Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment
The most romantic way to see London. Watch the city lights reflect on the water while enjoying a 3-course dinner, live music, and cabaret-style entertainment. The route passes all the major illuminated landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. Departing from Westminster or Embankment Pier, the cruise lasts 2-3 hours. Dress code is smart casual. This is a popular choice for anniversaries, birthdays, and special occasions.
Duration: 3 hours | From: ~£50 per person
3. Thames Speed Boat Experience
3. Thames Speed Boat Experience
For something completely different, strap in for a high-speed RIB (rigid inflatable boat) ride along the Thames. These powerful boats blast past landmarks at up to 35 knots, with your guide delivering high-energy commentary. The 50-minute Ultimate experience includes a white-knuckle blast through the Thames Barrier. Expect to get slightly wet, to laugh a lot, and to see London from a perspective nobody else gets. Brilliant for groups, stag and hen parties, or anyone who likes a thrill.
Duration: 50 minutes | From: ~£45 per person
4. Hop-On Hop-Off River Bus (Thames Clippers)
4. Hop-On Hop-Off River Bus (Thames Clippers)
The budget-friendly way to cruise the Thames. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers runs a commuter river bus service that doubles as an affordable sightseeing experience. 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. No commentary, but the views are identical to the tourist cruises at a fraction of the price.
Duration: Flexible | From: ~£3 per journey (Oyster/contactless)
5. Afternoon Tea on the Thames
5. Afternoon Tea on the Thames
Combine two quintessentially British experiences: afternoon tea and a Thames cruise. Enjoy finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of pastries and cakes, all while drifting past London's most iconic landmarks. Most afternoon tea cruises last around 1.5-2 hours, departing from Westminster Pier. It is a refined, relaxed experience that feels special without being stuffy. Perfect for birthdays, mother's day, or a treat with friends.
Duration: 1.5-2 hours | From: ~£40 per person
Which Cruise Should You Choose?
For first-time visitors, the Westminster to Greenwich sightseeing cruise offers the best combination of value, commentary, and landmark views. For a special occasion, the dinner cruise is unforgettable. For thrill-seekers, the speed boat is a unique London experience. Budget travellers should use Thames Clippers for identical views at a fraction of the cost.
For a deeper comparison, read our Thames cruises compared guide or see all London tours.
Recommended Tours
Thames River Cruise
Cruise the Thames from Westminster to Greenwich past Tower Bridge and iconic landmarks.
Thames Dinner Cruise
Enjoy a three-course dinner with live entertainment while cruising past illuminated landmarks.
London Eye
See London from 135m up with 360-degree panoramic views from the iconic observation wheel.
Tower of London
Explore 1,000 years of history and see the Crown Jewels at this iconic London fortress.