Processing your payment

Headout logo. Link to home.
Help

Top experiences in London

Free cancellation
Cruise boat on the Thames River with the Tower of London in the background.
Sightseeing Cruises
Thames Sightseeing Cruise with Flexible Time and Departure Pier
from
£14.50
Thames Sightseeing Cruise with Flexible Time and Departure Pier. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 1262 ratings.From £14.50
Free cancellation
Westminster cruise boat on the Thames with Big Ben and bridge in view.
Sightseeing Cruises
Thames Sightseeing Cruise from Westminster to Greenwich
from
£14.50
Thames Sightseeing Cruise from Westminster to Greenwich. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 4557 ratings.From £14.50
Free cancellation
Cruise boat on Thames River with Big Ben and Westminster Bridge in London.
Sightseeing Cruises
Thames Sightseeing Cruise from Westminster to Tower Bridge
from
£14
Thames Sightseeing Cruise from Westminster to Tower Bridge. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 2742 ratings.From £14
Free cancellation
Uber Boat on Thames River passing Westminster Palace, London.
Sightseeing Cruises
Thames River Uber Boat Trip
from
£11.40
Thames River Uber Boat Trip. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 1335 ratings.From £11.40
Guests enjoying tea and scones on Thames River Cruise with city view.
Lunch Cruises
Thames River Lunch Cruise with 2-Course Meal, Coffee & Tea
from
£38
Thames River Lunch Cruise with 2-Course Meal, Coffee & Tea. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 1188 ratings.From £38
Couple enjoying sparkling wine on Thames River cruise with Big Ben in the background.
Dinner Cruises
Thames River Dinner Cruise with Sunset Views and Drinks
from
£28
Thames River Dinner Cruise with Sunset Views and Drinks . Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 2981 ratings.From £28
Afternoon tea on a Thames River cruise with people enjoying drinks and views of London.
Lunch Cruises
Thames River Afternoon Cruise with British Tea & Scones
from
£46
Thames River Afternoon Cruise with British Tea & Scones. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 1348 ratings.From £46
Free cancellation
London Eye and Thames River cruise boat near Tower of London.
Combo
Combo (Save 15%): London Eye Tickets + Thames River Cruise
from £52.03
£44.13
15% off
Combo (Save 15%): London Eye Tickets + Thames River Cruise. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 1639 ratings.From £44.13
Free cancellation
Couple enjoying the view inside a London Eye capsule.
Combo
Combo (Save 13%): London Eye + Thames River Cruise + Tower of London Tickets
£89.03
£77.43
13% off
Combo (Save 13%): London Eye + Thames River Cruise + Tower of London Tickets. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 2045 ratings.From £77.43
Free cancellation
Tower Bridge and sightseeing cruise on River Thames, London.
Combo
Combo (Save 13%): Tower Bridge Tickets + Flexible Thames River Cruise
£34.50
£29.92
13% off
Combo (Save 13%): Tower Bridge Tickets + Flexible Thames River Cruise. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 3259 ratings.From £29.92
Free cancellation
London skyline with Big Ben and Go City Explorer Pass logo.
City Cards
London Explorer Pass by Go City: Choose 2 to 7 Attractions
from
£69
London Explorer Pass by Go City: Choose 2 to 7 Attractions. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 1250 ratings.From £69
Visitors enjoying the view at Sky Garden, London with cityscape in the background.
Combo
Combo (Save 18%): Sky Garden Tickets + Thames River Cruise
from £35
£28.80
18% off
Combo (Save 18%): Sky Garden Tickets + Thames River Cruise . Rated 4.2 out of 5 from 1124 ratings.From £28.80
Free cancellation
Golden Tours hop-on hop-off bus near Westminster Abbey, London.
Hop-on Hop-off Tours London
Golden Tours: London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Thames River Cruise
from
£42
Golden Tours: London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Thames River Cruise. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 1989 ratings.From £42
Toasting with sparkling wine on Thames River cruise at sunset.
Sightseeing Cruises
Thames River Evening Cruise with Sunset Views, Sparking Wine & Canapés
from
£28
Thames River Evening Cruise with Sunset Views, Sparking Wine & Canapés. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 1351 ratings.From £28
Free cancellation
Red double-decker bus near the London Eye on the Thames River cruise tour.
Hop-on Hop-off Tours London
City Sightseeing: London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Thames River Cruise
from
£32
City Sightseeing: London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Thames River Cruise. Rated 4 out of 5 from 384 ratings.From £32
Free cancellation
IFS Cloud Cable Car over River Thames in London with cityscape in background.
Combo
Combo (Save 5%): London IFS Cloud Cable Car Tickets + Thames Flexible Sightseeing Cruise
£28
£26.60
5% off
Combo (Save 5%): London IFS Cloud Cable Car Tickets + Thames Flexible Sightseeing Cruise. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 1190 ratings.From £26.60
Free cancellation
IFS Cloud Cable Car over London skyline and boat on Thames River at night.
Combo
Combo (Save 5%): Uber Boat Single Trip and London Cable Car
£24.90
£23.65
5% off
Combo (Save 5%): Uber Boat Single Trip and London Cable Car. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 1320 ratings.From £23.65
Free cancellation
Emirates Stadium exterior with Arsenal banners and logo in London.
Combo
Combo (Save 11%): Arsenal FC Stadium Tour + Flexible Thames River Sightseeing Cruise
£51.50
£46.07
11% off
Combo (Save 11%): Arsenal FC Stadium Tour + Flexible Thames River Sightseeing Cruise. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 3468 ratings.From £46.07
Speed boat on the Thames River with passengers enjoying the ride, London.
Sightseeing Cruises
Thames River Speedboat Tour
from
£69.95
Thames River Speedboat Tour. Rated 5 out of 5 from 4 ratings.From £69.95
Free cancellation
Uber Boat on Thames River near Millennium Bridge, London.
Dinner Cruises
London Hop-On Hop-Off Cruise
from
£24.95
London Hop-On Hop-Off Cruise. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 239 ratings.From £24.95
Free cancellation
London double-decker bus near St. Paul's Cathedral and Madame Tussauds wax figures.
Combo
Combo (Save 10%): London Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour with Thames River Cruise + Madame Tussauds Tickets
from £71.99
£64.79
10% off
Combo (Save 10%): London Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour with Thames River Cruise + Madame Tussauds Tickets. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 4874 ratings.From £64.79
Free cancellation
Crown Jewels display in London with crowns and scepters on red cushions.
Tower of London
St. Paul's Cathedral & Tower of London Guided Tour with Thames River Cruise
£119
St. Paul's Cathedral & Tower of London Guided Tour with Thames River Cruise. Rated 4.1 out of 5 from 464 ratings.From £119
Penguins on rocks at a zoo and a city cruise boat on the Thames in London.
Combo
Combo (Save 16%): London Zoo Tickets + Thames River Cruise
from £47
£39.60
16% off
Combo (Save 16%): London Zoo Tickets + Thames River Cruise. Rated 4.2 out of 5 from 1217 ratings.From £39.60
Selling out fast
Train traveling through countryside en route to Paris for Eiffel Tower lunch.
London To Paris Tours
From London: Luxury Escorted Paris Day Trip with Lunch on the Eiffel Tower
from
£318.75
From London: Luxury Escorted Paris Day Trip with Lunch on the Eiffel Tower. Rated 5 out of 5 from 2 ratings.From £318.75

The Thames River Cruise experience

Thames River Cruises offer an effortless way to immerse yourself in the heart of London. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, glide along the river to explore iconic landmarks, enjoy delicious meals, and unwind in a uniquely refreshing urban setting.

Glide past landmarks

Board a Thames sightseeing cruise and glide past iconic London landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge and the London Eye. The onboard commentary and open deck view fill your journey with engaging discovery.

Savor a river lunch

Savor a river lunch by indulging in a freshly prepared two-course meal with tea and coffee. As you dine onboard, panoramic views and informative commentary transform lunch into a relaxing journey.

Enjoy flexible boarding

Choose a flexible cruise for ultimate convenience. Board at any of the four central piers and hop on or off as you wish, enjoying live English commentary and multi-language audio for tailored, stress-free sightseeing.

Experience evening sparkle

Set sail into the evening and marvel at London’s illuminated skyline. Enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and canapés while live music provides a mellow backdrop, turning sunset into pure magic.

Discover river history

Discover London’s history on a sightseeing cruise that echoes centuries of stories. Navigate past landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral while live local commentary enriches your understanding of the city’s vibrant heritage.

Things to know before booking a London cruise

Understand London’s river route: The Thames flows through the heart of London, slicing the city into historic north and modern south banks. Cruises pass iconic landmarks like Westminster, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge, making it an intuitive way to map out your day.

Choose your cruise type: London river cruises offer a variety of experiences, including short sightseeing loops with live commentary, flexible hop-on-hop-off tickets, upscale dinner and tea cruises, and even adrenaline-fueled speedboat tours. Your choice influences ambiance, duration, and onboard comfort.

Plan your timing and duration: Cruise durations in London vary from quick 30–60 minute loops to extended evening dining cruises lasting up to three hours. Daytime sailings highlight architectural details, while sunset cruises capture the city’s illuminated skyline for a unique perspective.

Consider boarding logistics: Cruise departures are concentrated at key central piers such as Westminster, London Eye, Tower, and Greenwich. Check your boarding point to ensure a smooth transition between land-based attractions and your cruise, helping you avoid unnecessary backtracking.

Monitor seasonal effects and booking urgency: London cruises see peak demand in summer and during holidays—especially for evening and dining experiences. Book in advance to secure preferred timings, as off-peak periods often offer more flexibility and shorter waiting times at the piers.

Which London cruise is right for you?

Experience London’s dynamic spirit on a classic sightseeing cruise that offers flexible hop-on, hop-off boarding at multiple piers. Enjoy panoramic views, live commentary, and a seamless city tour from Westminster to Greenwich.

  • Key sights: Westminster, London Eye, Tower Bridge
  • Inclusions: Live commentary, open deck access
  • Ideal for: Families and first-time visitors
  • Feature: Frequent departures every 20–40 minutes

Top rated cruise operators in London

City Cruises Cruises

The vibe: Classic, flexible, informative
Why choose them: City Cruises offers a flexible hop-on hop-off sightseeing experience with live and multilingual commentary, allowing you to explore iconic London landmarks at your pace. Their spacious boats provide both indoor and open deck comfort for families and first-time visitors alike.
Departure: Westminster Pier

Thames Rockets Cruises

The vibe: Thrilling, fast, exhilarating
Why choose them: Thames Rockets delivers an adrenaline-packed, high-speed ride along the Thames with live comedic commentary, ideal for thrill-seekers and adventurous families. Their compact RIBs offer a unique blend of sightseeing and excitement, providing panoramic views of London’s skyline at remarkable speeds.
Departure: London Eye Pier

Bateaux London Cruises

The vibe: Upscale, romantic, refined
Why choose them: Bateaux London offers a premium dining cruise experience with a glass-roof boat that frames London’s illuminated skyline. Enjoy a curated multi-course meal while live music sets a sophisticated ambiance, making it perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations.
Departure: Embankment Pier

Central Thames Sightseeing Loop

Route: Circular loop from Westminster Pier to Tower Bridge and back.
Duration: 90–120 mins
Key sights: Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral

Westminster to Greenwich Extended Cruise

Route: One-way route from Westminster Pier to Greenwich Pier along the Thames.
Duration: 60–75 mins
Key sights: Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Tower Bridge, Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory

What you will see

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

From the water, admire the historic neo-Gothic spires of the Houses of Parliament alongside Big Ben, whose chimes resonate along the Thames.

London Eye

Gaze at the giant Ferris wheel with its rotating capsules, a modern icon framing London’s skyline from the river.

Tower Bridge

Experience the sight of Tower Bridge with its twin Gothic towers and glass walkways as the boat glides beneath its iconic span.

Tower of London

Observe the storied Tower of London, a centuries-old fortress whose ancient stone walls tell tales of Britain’s royal history.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

See the majestic dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral, a Baroque masterpiece rising proudly above the bustling river scene.

The Shard

Marvel at The Shard’s sleek glass façade and soaring height, a symbol of modern London amid its historic riverside landmarks.

Cutty Sark

Spot the preserved tea clipper, Cutty Sark, moored along the riverbank in Greenwich—a vivid reminder of London’s rich maritime past.

Planning your London cruise

  • Best season: Spring through early autumn offers the most comfortable temperatures for open decks; winter sailings rely more on heated indoor cabins.
  • Day vs night: Daytime cruises highlight architectural details and clearer photos; sunset and evening sailings emphasize skyline lights and a more atmospheric river.
  • Pro tip: Morning departures are typically quieter, with better top-deck space and softer, more flattering light.

Tips for your London cruise

Arrive early: Head to your pier 15–20 minutes before departure to relax and secure your preferred seating.
Dress in layers: The river breeze can feel brisk, so a light jacket or layered outfit keeps you comfortable.
Choose your spot: Opt for open-deck or window seating based on whether you prioritize panoramic views or sheltered comfort.
Time your photos: Midday or just before sunset gives you the best light to capture London’s iconic landmarks.
Book ahead: Popular cruises, especially dinner or sunset sailings, can fill up fast, so reserve your spot in advance.
Enjoy the commentary: Listen to live insights and historical tidbits that add an extra layer to your cruising experience.

Frequently asked questions about London cruises

  • Sightseeing cruises last about 40 minutes to 1 hour one-way, while dinner cruises run between 2 and 3 hours. Return trips usually take 1.5–2 hours.

  • Most cruises board at Westminster, London Eye, Tower, or Greenwich Pier, all located in central London and easily accessible by public transport.

  • Most cruises offer live English commentary along with multi-language audio options via mobile apps, providing historical context and local insights during your journey.

  • Sightseeing cruises typically include a small bar or snack service, while dining cruises offer multi-course meals with beverages. Always check ticket details for specific inclusions.

  • Cruises operate in light rain with covered seating available. In severe weather, departures may be delayed or canceled, with rebooking or refund options per ticket policies.

  • Many operators allow same-day mobile ticket purchases, but advance online booking is recommended during peak seasons or popular departure times to guarantee your spot.

  • Most large cruise boats offer wheelchair access, onboard toilets, and family-friendly seating. Confirm accessibility details with the operator when booking for personalized requirements.

  • Most cruise tickets allow cancellation or rescheduling up to 24 hours before departure. Review the specific ticket terms, as policies may vary slightly between operators.

  • Early morning and sunset cruises are ideal, offering pleasant lighting for photography and a quieter atmosphere. Consider seasonal variations for optimal river conditions.

How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

We curate the best ways to experience

We research and organise all unique experiences - from tickets to tours to special combos - so you get all the choices without the clutter.

We partner with the best

Every supplier is vetted for quality, reliability, and value so you only get top rated experiences. No surprises, no disappointments.

All the best options, in one place

Each experience is thoughtfully organised to give you maximum availability, great value and an easy way to choose.

Book with complete peace of mind

Free cancellations, Flexible payments, and 24/7 support - thoughtfully designed for flexibility, assurance, and total peace of mind.

1/4

Slide 1 of 4
We curate the best ways to experience
We partner with the best
All the best options, in one place
Book with complete peace of mind
Download app section background

What our guests say

Steffen B

Germany
Family
Last week

Choose day and timeslot, buy the tickets, get on the ride. Everything was quick and easy. Even the queue was quick to enter the cabin

Christmas at the London Eye

Sarah M

Canada
Family
2 weeks ago


It was easy to buy tickets and the queue was really short. I liked all the safety checks, it felt like they took care of the ride and passengers! Well worth the money to sit down and enjoy the views.

Christmas at the London Eye

Sylvia T

Couple
Last week



+1 more

This combination is definitely worth seeing. The atmosphere and music were perfectly tailored to the exhibitions. Very stylish. It should be on everyone’s to-do list.

Combo: Moco Museum London Tickets + Sightseeing Cruise on River Thames

Anthony C

United Kingdom
Couple
Last week



It was at my own speed no rush I could take as long as I wanted. All the guides new every answer to me vairious questions they all knew there stuff.

Combo: Tower Bridge Tickets + Flexible Thames River Cruise

Cristian Z

Italy
Solo
Last week

I arrived by following the clear directions and arriving on time. I was able to enter right away without any problems. The tour was wonderful. I highly recommend it.

Combo: Tower Bridge Tickets + Flexible Thames River Cruise

Liam T

Malta
Group
2 weeks ago

A nice display of transportation devices such as the buses and trains. Good knowledge and history of the London underground. Also a nice museum shop with plenty of favourites in small items such as buses, trains and clothes. I would recommend to others.

Combo: London Transport Museum Tickets + Flexible Thames River Cruise

Fiona A

United Kingdom
Couple
2 weeks ago

Fantastic & exhilarating time climbing the 02. It was well organised from start to finish. Not rushed in any way. Friendly staff and Michael our guide was great! Interesting facts learned. Great way to celebrate my sons 21st with champagne at the top! Thank you!

Combo: Up at The O2 Climb Tickets + Flexible Thames River Sightseeing Cruise

K B

Netherlands
Couple
2 weeks ago



+1 more

The visit to Tower Hill was impressive. The Yeoman’s guided tour, in particular, was full of funny anecdotes and lots of facts from its long history! The Bridge was amazing! The walk across the high bridge with the glass floor and the exhibition in the former engine rooms.

Combo: London Eye + Thames River Cruise + Tower of London Tickets

We've served 49 million+ guests and we are here for you

49 million+

Happy customers across 10,000+ experiences

In the media

Featured and recommended by the best brands

24 x 7 help center

Have a question? Live chat with local experts anywhere, anytime