Which River Thames cruise to choose?
The Thames, a majestic river that runs through the heart of London, is much more than a simple watercourse. It is the guiding thread of a millennial city, witness to the history and dynamism of the British capital. For travelers seeking a memorable experience in London, a cruise on the Thames is an unmissable option.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing sightseeing tour, a memorable gastronomic experience, or a more intimate adventure - there's a cruise for you!
Choosing your Thames cruise
There are various types of Thames cruises: classic, Hop-On Hop-Off, sunset, with lunch or dinner, with Afternoon Tea, etc. Choose a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere (family vacation) or a more sophisticated and romantic experience (honeymoon).
Consider the seasonality and weather when booking your cruise. The summer months are often the most popular, so it is advisable to book in advance, online, to guarantee your place. Also, make sure to book early enough for special cruises related to events (Valentine's Day, New Year's, etc.).
Classic Sightseeing Cruises
These cruises are perfect if you want to discover the main tourist sites of London from the unique perspective of the Thames. They offer informative commentary (in several languages) to learn more about iconic landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, the London Eye and the British Parliament. Ideal for a first visit to London.
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If you dream of discovering London in a unique and picturesque way, then this experience is for you. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the British capital while peacefully navigating along the majestic Thames.
Let yourself be seduced by the breathtaking panoramic views of London's iconic landmarks, such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, the Parliament and Big Ben, while relaxing on board a comfortable cruise boat. This excursion on the Thames is the ideal way to combine cultural discovery with relaxation and enjoyment.
Whether you are a curious tourist or a resident wishing to rediscover your city from a new angle, the classic sightseeing cruises on the Thames promise you an unforgettable adventure. Sail and let yourself be carried away by the magic of London, creating unforgettable memories.
Hop-On Hop-Off Cruises
For a flexible exploration of London from the Thames, opt for the Hop-On Hop-Off cruises. They allow you to get on and off at various stops along the river, thus giving you the freedom to visit the attractions that interest you the most, at your own pace.
A flexible and exciting way to discover London at your own pace. Embark on a unique adventure that allows you to navigate between the iconic sites of the British capital while enjoying total freedom.
A Hop-On Hop-Off cruise gives you the opportunity to get on and off at your leisure, allowing you to visit the attractions that captivate you the most. Whether you want to explore the Tower Bridge, admire the crown jewels at the Tower of London, or stroll along the bustling banks of Southbank, this cruise offers you an exceptional perspective of the city.
Whether you are a curious tourist looking for discoveries or a resident eager to rediscover London, this flexible experience is for you. Embark on a day of exploration without constraints, taking advantage of the convenience of this Hop-On Hop-Off system.
Sunset Cruises
If you are looking for a romantic atmosphere and breathtaking panoramas, the sunset cruises on the Thames are for you! Let yourself be enchanted by the golden lights that bathe the city at dusk...
An enchanting experience that invites you to discover London under a whole new light. Let the unique charm of the British capital operate as the sun prepares to dive behind the horizon, painting the sky with a dazzling palette of colors.
Imagine yourself on board a boat, rocked by the gentle waves of the Thames, while the iconic landmarks of London gradually light up, creating a spectacular backdrop. The atmosphere is magical, romantic, and conducive to contemplation.
Whether you are looking to surprise a loved one, celebrate a special occasion or simply escape from the daily hustle and bustle, a sunset cruise on the Thames is the perfect experience. Embark on a memorable evening where the beauty of London and the charm of dusk meet.
Cruises with lunch or dinner
If you're looking for a more sophisticated experience, opt for a lunch cruise or dinner cruise. You'll enjoy delicious dishes while admiring the city of London passing by. These cruises are ideal for a romantic outing or a special celebration.
Lunch Cruises
An exceptional gastronomic and visual experience in London. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey while discovering the charms of the British capital from the peaceful waters of the Thames.
During this lunch cruise, you will be pampered with refined cuisine prepared by talented chefs. Settle comfortably at your table with a breathtaking view of London's iconic landmarks, such as the Tower Bridge, the Shard, and St. Paul's Cathedral. You will be enchanted by this experience that combines elegance and discovery.
Whether it's for a special occasion, a gathering with friends, or simply to treat yourself to an exceptional moment of relaxation, a lunch cruise on the Thames is the perfect choice. Prepare for a gastronomic and visual adventure that will remain etched in your memories.
Dinner Cruises
A gastronomic and romantic experience that promises you an unforgettable evening in London. Prepare to live a truly special experience as you savor exquisite cuisine while discovering the twinkling lights of the British capital from the comfort of a cruise ship.
During this dinner cruise, you will be welcomed in a warm and elegant atmosphere, where each dish is prepared with care by talented chefs. While enjoying your meal, you will benefit from a panoramic view of London's iconic landmarks that light up as night falls, creating a spectacular backdrop for your evening.
Whether you're looking for a romantic experience, a special celebration, or simply a unique way to discover London at night, a dinner cruise on the Thames is the ideal choice. Prepare to live a memorable evening combining gastronomy with elegance and the magic of the British capital.
Afternoon Tea Cruises
For an authentic British experience, choose a cruise with Afternoon Tea. You'll be able to savor delicious teas, fresh sandwiches, and exquisite pastries while enjoying the spectacular view of the city.
A delicious and elegant experience that invites you to savor the very essence of British tradition while discovering the charms of London from the tranquil waters of the Thames.
During this cruise, you will be treated as honored guests, with an exquisite selection of teas, fresh sandwiches, and delicious pastries served in the refined setting of a cruise ship. Sit back comfortably, enjoy the breathtaking view of London's iconic landmarks, such as the Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Parliament, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of this experience.
Whether you're looking for a memorable experience with friends, a family outing, or an elegant way to celebrate a special occasion, an Afternoon Tea cruise on the Thames is a perfect choice. Opt for a relaxing and delightful afternoon, combining traditional British taste with the enchantment of London's landscapes.
Speedboat Tours
If you're looking for a high-speed adventure on the Thames, speedboat tours are for you. These cruises offer a dose of adrenaline and allow you to discover London's iconic sites while feeling the power of the water beneath you!
An exhilarating experience that takes you at full speed to discover the wonders of London. Prepare to feel the adrenaline and live a memorable adventure in the heart of the British capital.
During this speedboat tour, you will be propelled along the Thames, offering a whole new perspective on London's iconic landmarks. The tight turns and adrenaline rushes on the water guarantee a unique experience, where excitement rivals the beauty of the urban landscapes.
Whether you're a thrill-seeker in search of strong emotions or a visitor looking for an original way to discover the city, a speedboat tour on the Thames is the perfect choice. Experience an unforgettable adventure that combines speed, breathtaking landscapes, and the buzz of London.
Themed cruises
The themed cruises on the Thames are an open window to the immense cultural and historical richness of London. Whether you are passionate about history, architecture, art, cuisine, or even British royalty, Harry Potter, 60's rock'n'roll, Sherlock Holmes, or Jack the Ripper, these cruises promise an enriching getaway and a unique immersive experience.
Embark on an adventure where each wave reveals captivating anecdotes, all animated by passionate guides. These cruises are much more than simple river walks, they are an invitation to dive into the heart of London's identity, while navigating the tranquil waters of the Thames.
Private cruises
The private cruises on the Thames embody elegance and exclusivity, offering a unique opportunity to privatize an entire boat with its dedicated crew. The tailor-made itinerary allows guests to discover the charms of London from its serene waters, while enjoying unparalleled intimacy.
Whether it's to celebrate a magical wedding, a private party or any other special event, these cruises are designed to make every moment memorable. With a breathtaking view of the London skyline and personalized service, private cruises promise a luxurious and intimate nautical experience.
Special cruises
The special cruises on the Thames embody the festive effervescence of London, a city pulsating with celebrations throughout the year.
Whether it's the sweet romance of Valentine's Day, the magical enchantment of Christmas, or the exuberance of the New Year, these cruises transform each event into a memorable water adventure. They offer a joyful and festive atmosphere, where the twinkling city lights blend with the gentle melody of the waves, thus creating an idyllic setting to celebrate special moments. Each cruise is an invitation to experience the magic of the holidays in the heart of the vibrant London metropolis, while navigating the peaceful waters of the Thames.
Practical tips
Starting points
The Thames winds through London, offering various starting points for your Thames cruise:
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- Westminster Pier: the Westminster pier is ideally located near the British Parliament and the famous Big Ben. It's a popular starting point for classic sightseeing cruises. You will also be close to the Westminster Abbey and the London Eye.
- Tower Bridge Pier: if you wish to explore the history and majesty of the Tower of London, the Tower Bridge pier is the perfect choice. From there, you can get a close view of the majestic Tower Bridge and quickly access the iconic fortress of the Tower of London. Classic and themed sightseeing cruises frequently depart from this location.
- London Eye Pier: the London Eye pier is ideal for those planning to visit this famous attraction. Indeed, it is possible to combine a cruise with a ride on the Ferris wheel. Lunch or dinner cruises and themed cruises often depart from this location.
- Greenwich Pier: if you fancy a more relaxed experience, the Greenwich pier takes you to the historic district of Greenwich. You can visit the Royal Observatory of Greenwich, the Cutty Sark, or explore the Greenwich market. This option suits travelers wishing to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
- Embankment Pier: located near Covent Garden and London's theater district, the Embankment pier is convenient for those wishing to combine a cruise with a city outing. It also offers a spectacular view of the Victoria Embankment Gardens and Somerset House.
- St. Katharine's Pier: the St. Katharine's pier is an elegant choice, located near the Tower of London. Cruises with upscale lunch or dinner and private cruises often depart from this location, offering a more exclusive experience.
Duration and itineraries
The duration of a Thames cruise varies from one type of cruise to another. For a classic sightseeing cruise, typically count between 30 minutes and 2 hours, ideal for a quick exploration of iconic sites. For a themed cruise with lunch or dinner, rather count between 2 and 4 hours of navigation.
The classic itineraries of sightseeing cruises will take you along the most famous sites of London. You can admire the Tower Bridge, the British Parliament, the London Eye, the St. Paul's Cathedral and many other iconic monuments from the comfort of your boat. These itineraries are perfect for a first visit to London, offering a comprehensive overview of the city.
If you opt for a cruise to Greenwich, you will sail to the east of London. You can discover historical attractions such as the Royal Observatory of Greenwich, the Cutty Sark and the Greenwich Maritime Museum. This option is ideal if you wish to explore a slightly less touristy neighborhood.
Themed cruises will take you to specific destinations, related to the chosen theme. For example, a Harry Potter-themed cruise will take you past the filming locations of the saga, while a cruise on the history of London will focus on historical sites.
Some cruises also adapt to seasons or special events. Like, for example, cruises for the New Year's fireworks which offer a truly unique and memorable experience.
Before booking, carefully examine the itineraries offered by the different cruise companies and choose the one that best matches your interests, the duration you wish to spend on the water, and your schedule.
Comfort and amenities onboard
The comfort and amenities offered on board your Thames cruise can greatly influence your experience. Choosing the right type of boat and the facilities that match your preferences is essential to ensure a pleasant experience.
- Types of boats: Thames cruise operators offer different types of boats, ranging from modern vessels to restored historic boats. Modern boats often offer more comfort and stability, while historic boats add a touch of authenticity to the experience.
- Seating and layout: The seating on board varies depending on the type of cruise. You will find comfortable seats with a good view on most sightseeing cruises. Lunch or dinner cruises often offer tables set up for a pleasant dining experience. Private cruises sometimes allow for total customization of the on-board layout.
- On-board services: Thames cruise boats generally offer an on-board catering service, ranging from light snacks to full meals depending on the type of cruise. Some themed cruises may also offer special entertainment related to the theme, such as wine tastings.
- Panoramic view: Most Thames cruise boats are equipped with large bay windows to offer an exceptional panoramic view.
- Accessibility: Most Thames cruise boats have access ramps, elevators or other facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.
Budget
The cost of a Thames cruise varies depending on:
- the duration of the cruise
- the type of boat
- the amenities on board
- the time of year
Classic sightseeing cruises are generally the most affordable, while themed cruises, with lunch or dinner, and private ones tend to be more expensive.
Classic sightseeing cruises generally offer snacks and drinks for purchase, but they do not include meals. Lunch or dinner cruises offer a set or à la carte menu, with delicious dishes prepared on board. Private cruises often allow for a total customization of the menu according to your dietary preferences.
Whatever option you choose, a Thames cruise offers a unique perspective on London and a memorable experience.
Being flexible on departure dates and times can help you find reduced rates. Cruises outside the high tourist season are generally cheaper. Those in the morning or evening (off-peak hours) are also cheaper than those in the middle of the day.
Tips for the crew are generally appreciated but often left to the discretion of the passenger.