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Buy Thames River Dinner Cruise Tickets

thames river cruise london dinner

Select Your Experience

westminster to tower bridge quay thames cruise-1

Westminster To Tower Bridge Quay Thames Cruise

  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
  • Enjoy a cruise from Westminster Pier to Tower Bridge Quay, with a choice between one-way and round-trip.
  • Let the live English commentary wash over you as you enjoy the city views, or tune in to WiFi audio guides available in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin.
  • Revel in a serene route that takes you through Embankment, Festival, and Bankside piers before reaching Tower Bridge Quay.
  • Catch stunning views of famous monuments, including the London Eye, National Theatre, HMS Belfast, Tower of London, and many more.
  • Sightseeing Cruise (One-way or round trip)
  • Live English commentary
  • WiFi audio guides in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin

This ticket has the following options that you can choose from:

  • One-Way Cruise
  • Round Trip Cruise

evening cruise on river thames-1

Evening Cruise on River Thames

  • Enjoy a 2-hour cruise on the Thames during the sunset which offers the best views of the city at the best times of the day.
  • Check out the prominent landmarks of the city from the water including the London Eye, Big Ben, London Bridge and more.
  • Relish a selection of delicious canapes and sparkling wine as you relax on the Thames evening cruise.
  • Head indoors and witness the breathtaking cityscape while enjoying a live pop, rock, swing, or funk performance.
  • Please note: Children aged 13 and under are not allowed on the cruise.
  • 2-hour evening cruise on the Thames
  • Sparkling wine or soft drink on arrival
  • A selection of cold canapés served throughout the evening
  • Live music performances on board
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

westminster to greenwich river thames sightseeing cruise-1

Westminster To Greenwich River Thames Sightseeing Cruise

  • Take the scenic route from Westminster to Greenwich by hopping onboard this River Thames cruise.
  • Tune in to an engaging WiFi audio guide (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin) as you enjoy the cruise.
  • See the iconic monuments of London such as the London Eye, Tower of London, The Shard, and many more.
  • Choose between a one-way trip or a round trip to enjoy more time onboard.
  • River Thames sightseeing cruise tickets (one way or round trip from Westminster to Greenwich)
  • WiFi audio guide (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin)
  • One Way - Westminster to Greenwich
  • Round Trip - Westminster to Greenwich and Back
  • You will need a smartphone to access the live audio commentary.
  • Please note that the exact cruise times might vary.
  • At Westminster Pier go directly to the boarding point B.
  • At Greenwich Pier board from the right-hand side of the pier.

The River Thames is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, England. It's a source of inspiration for poets, painters, and photographers alike. A Thames River Dinner Cruise is a perfect way to experience the beauty and majesty of this historic river while enjoying delicious food and exceptional entertainment.

As the sun sets, the Thames transforms into a breathtaking display of shimmering lights, reflecting the city's skyline in the water. The river's banks come alive with illuminated landmarks, such as the Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the Shard. The atmosphere is magical, and the views are simply stunning.

Why Choose a Thames River Dinner Cruise?

Unbeatable views of london's landmarks.

A Thames River dinner cruise is a unique opportunity to see the city's most famous landmarks from a completely different perspective. Admire the Houses of Parliament, the Tower Bridge, the London Eye and other iconic sights as they're illuminated by the evening lights.

Memorable Experience

A Thames River dinner cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you'll remember forever. The magical atmosphere and stunning views make for a truly unforgettable evening. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a night out, a dinner cruise is a great way to create memories with loved ones.

Live Entertainment

A Thames River dinner cruise often includes live entertainment, such as a band or a singer, to enhance the experience. Enjoy the sounds of jazz, soul, or pop music while you dine and take in the sights of London. The live entertainment adds an extra layer of fun and enjoyment to the evening, making it even more memorable.

Highlights of Thames River Dinner Cruise

A Thames River Dinner Cruise is a delightful way to experience London's most iconic sights while enjoying some delightful drinks and food. The cruise offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the city's beautiful skyline and landmarks from a unique perspective.

See London's Skyline Transform After Dark

As you cruise along the Thames River, you'll witness the transformation of London's skyline. From the glittering Shard to the iconic Tower Bridge, each landmark is illuminated in a way that adds to the city's enchanting atmosphere. The lights reflect beautifully on the river, creating a magical ambiance that you won't find anywhere else.

Experience the City's Culture and History

A Thames River Dinner Cruise also provides an opportunity to learn about London's history and culture, as you glide past the city's landmarks. You'll learn about London's rich past, its architecture, and its people. It's an engaging and educational experience that will enrich your understanding of the city.

Savor Live Entertainment

A Thames River dinner cruise often includes live entertainment, adding an extra layer of fun and enjoyment to the evening. You'll be treated to live music or other performances while enjoying your food and taking in the sights. The live entertainment adds to the magical atmosphere and makes for an unforgettable experience.

Marvel at London's Iconic Landmarks

As you cruise down the Thames River, you'll have the opportunity to marvel at London's most iconic landmarks from a unique perspective. You'll glide past the London Eye, Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament and many more stunning sights. These landmarks are even more impressive when viewed from the river, and you'll be able to take in their full grandeur from the comfort of your boat.

Relax in Luxury and Comfort

A Thames River Dinner Cruise is a luxurious and comfortable experience. The boats are equipped with all the amenities you need to relax and enjoy your evening, including comfortable seating, air conditioning and large windows that offer unobstructed views of the city. The attentive staff will take care of your every need, ensuring that you have a pleasant and stress-free experience.

Capture Stunning Photos

A Thames River Dinner Cruise is a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photos of London's landmarks. The lighting and reflections on the water make for some of the most beautiful and memorable photo opportunities. The boat's comfortable and spacious deck provides an excellent vantage point for taking photos, and you'll be able to capture the city's beauty from a unique perspective.

Tips for Enjoying the Thames River Dinner Cruise

If you're planning to book the Thames River dinner cruise, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

  • Book tickets in advance: It's a good idea to book your tickets in advance. You can book your tickets online.
  • Dress appropriately: A Thames River dinner cruise is a special occasion, so make sure you dress accordingly. Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so bring a jacket or a wrap in case it gets chilly.
  • Arrive on time: Make sure you arrive on time for your cruise, as the boat won't wait for latecomers. Allow plenty of time to get to the departure point and check in before boarding the boat.
  • Bring a camera: You'll want to capture the stunning views of London's landmarks as you cruise along the river.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thames River Dinner Cruise

Yes, there is a smart casual dress code for a Thames River dinner cruise.

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed on board.

Children aged 13 and under are not allowed on the cruise.

The staff can cater vegetarian food but is unable to cater for any other allergens or dietary requirements on this cruise.

The Thames River dinner cruise lasts for around 2 hours.

Yes, there are restrooms on board the boat.

You can book a Thames River Dinner Cruise online.

The 5 Best Thames River Dinner Cruises [2024 Reviews]

While you are in london enjoy a sightseeing and dinner cruise on the thames river.

London is certainly a hot spot for tourists and locals alike, as it has just about everything you could want or need. The Thames river and surrounding areas are particularly popular, with beautiful views of the water, bridges, and more.

Dinner cruise tours have quickly grown in popularity, offering a relaxing way to enjoy a delicious meal with an elegant twist. If you’re looking for a great restaurant, may as well take it up a notch and enjoy one of these selections!

We’ve taken it upon ourselves to do the “hard” part for you, bringing you the top Thames River dinner cruises in London!

Best Dinner Cruises on the Thames River

Quick answer: the 5 best rated thames river dinner cruises for 2024.

  • Best Evening Cruise: River Thames Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music
  • Best Dinner Cruise: London Thames River Dinner Cruise
  • Best Budget Cruise: London: River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapés
  • Best Value Cruise: London: River Thames Dinner Cruise
  • Best Lunch Cruise: Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea

Thames River Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise Reviews

1. best evening cruise: london: river thames dinner cruise with live jazz.

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Departure:  Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London
  • Departure Time: 8:00 PM
  • Includes:   River cruise on Thames,  3-course dinner, welcome drink , l ive band on board, bar offering champagne, Pimm’s, bear & wines

Who doesn’t love dining or drinking in the midst of some good live music? You’ll get all that and more with the River Thames Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz ! You get to choose from a variety of menu options of a 3-course dinner of mouth-watering dishes, with some of the best views of the city!

Lasting around 3 hours, it’s one of the longer tours on our guide. This makes it a great date night activity, or for going out with friends as well! We don’t really recommend it for younger children, however, as the overall theme really is a bit more designed for adults.

Start by boarding the Pleasure Boat at Embankment Pier, which is aptly named considering you’re about to have a ton of fun onboard! Start off by cruising along the famous river, taking in incredible sights from some of the most legendary landmarks!

The Houses of Parliament, the massive London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and more! This also is a great way to check out places to further explore later on, once you’re not on the cruise!

As you listen to amazing live music, you’ll enjoy plates such as: Courgette, green olive, and basil tart, roast chicken, pea a la Francaise, tortellini, potato Devonshire crab tortellini, cherry tomato compote, and an array of mouth-watering desserts!

We really appreciated that the staff welcomes guests to take their time, even after docked, to stay and have some drinks.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best dinner cruise: london thames river sunset dinner cruise.

  • Duration: 2 hours, 45 minutes
  • Departure: Victoria Embankment Pier
  • Departure Time: 6:30 PM
  • Includes: Five-course à la carte menu, live entertainment, wine throughout dinner, prosecco, beer and soft drinks

This next cruise is very similar to the one we just covered, and is perfect for small groups or couples. The London Thames River Dinner Cruise is also around 3 hours long, consisting of a couple different dinner options that you’re sure to love.

If you’re looking for a way to see some of the top sights of the city without walking around, this is a great option.

Make sure before anything else, you select the dinner option you want. The Premier Dinner option includes wine and mineral water (however, beer and other alcoholic beverages are extra, regardless of the option you select).

Meet at the Embankment Pier and walk down the ramp to check in and board your elegant Scandinavian cruiser boat for the evening. The staff will welcome you and bring you to your table, where you’ll be able to take in amazing views of the river and the surrounding sights.

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The furniture is beautiful, complete with a dining area, large outer deck for prime viewing, and a glass room which offers great views with protection from the climate even if the weather isn’t ideal. Keep in mind that the menu does change frequently.

With live entertainment, you’ll love watching as you cruise along the river while the sun sets. The relaxed atmosphere combined with the great service and tasty food really makes for a fantastic time.

You’ll see the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Tate Modern, London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and even head under the notorious Tower Bridge.

Search For London Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best budget cruise: river thames evening cruise with bubbly and canapés.

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Departure: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames St
  • Includes:   Canapes, r iver cruise,  1 glass of sparkling wine or 1 soft drink on arrival

Are you looking for a slightly shorter cruise or maybe one that offers a vibe that’s perfect for socializing with others? If so, check out the London: River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapes .

This is a sunset cruise where you’ll enjoy the beautiful river in both the daytime and nighttime while you listen to smooth jazz and pop while enjoying some sparkling wine and canapes.

From the title alone, you can probably guess that this cruise isn’t ideal for younger children. However, if you have teenagers they’ll probably enjoy the canapes and live music while hanging out on board!

London really is a beautiful city with a fascinating history and architecture to match, so you’re in for a real treat! We found the boat to be very clean, with friendly, well-organized staff who did a great job.

They’ll get you all sorted as the sun starts going down and the lights turn on. Enjoy a refreshing glass of sparkling wine and an array of different canapes as you enjoy the view. They really do offer a nice amount and options of canapes for the price.

You’ll see the usual suspects, like the London Eye, Tower of London, Canary Wharf skyscrapers, Tower Bridge, and much more. The background music consists of a calm jazz and chill-out pop from live performers, which really suits the environment perfectly.

If you’re looking to spend a couple of hours at night before dinner or just want to see some of the most popular attractions from a different perspective, this is a wonderful option.

4. Best Value Cruise: London River Thames Dinner Cruise

  • Departure:  Westminster Pier
  • Departure Time: 7:45 PM
  • Includes:   Dinner and dance boat cruise,  1 glass of sparkling wine per person on arrival,  4-course dinner with tea and coffee

This one is yet another 3-hour dinner cruise that is one of the crowd favorites. The London: River Thames Dinner Cruise is a bit different than most others in that you’ll have live performances and music, but this one includes live cabaret performances!

One thing is for sure – you won’t be short on entertainment! Meet at Westminster Pier to board the boat. We found that the staff and service were incredible right from the beginning.

There’s someone waiting to greet you as you board and will help direct you to make sure everyone knows where they’re going and is taken care of.

As you arrive, you’ll be served a glass of sparkling wine to enjoy before eating dinner. Once you settle at your table, you’ll be served a 4-course meal.

We found each course to be well-timed so you never feel overwhelmed nor waiting around for the next to arrive. The food itself was delicious and looked pretty, too!

After eating dinner, you’ll be offered either a tea or coffee to sip while you enjoy the live singer who sings tunes from West End shows! Dancing is also encouraged, and is definitely likely as the performers really are great at what they do!

It’s definitely a very light-hearted experience, and is even more enjoyable watching some of the most iconic London attractions lit up from the river!

If you’re more into just gazing out at the sights, we suggest heading up to the top deck of the boat! Here, it’s a bit more secluded, quiet, and ideal for taking photos or simply staring in awe at these beautiful landmarks.

5. Best Lunch Cruise: Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea

  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Departure: Tower Pier, London
  • Departure Time:  3:30 PM
  • Includes:  Cruise, afternoon tea – selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones

Are you on the hunt for a cruise that’s shorter and easier to fit into a busy schedule? Perhaps you’re looking for a cruise that’s just scheduled in the daytime? If that sounds like you, then we highly recommend booking the Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea .

Lasting 1.5 hours, it’s a fabulous way to incorporate extra sightseeing and relaxation in-between other adventures throughout the day! What is more British than enjoying a luxurious time sipping on tea, delicious cakes, while viewing some of the most important London landmarks?

Meet up at the Tower Pier located in central London to board your elegant boat and get ready for your cruise! We all know that London’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, so head into the cozy indoor saloon where you’ll get full panoramas of the shoreline!

The walls are all made of a sturdy glass so you get stunning views without the wind or rain!

You’ll first head by the (supposedly haunted) Tower of London, which has a pretty interesting history of its own. Next, you’ll see the fantastic Shard building which is hard to miss, as it’s almost 100 stories and made of glass!

Shakespeare’s legendary Globe Theatre comes next, followed by the London Eye, South Bank entertainers, Houses of Parliament, and more.

While you check out the sights, enjoy some tea, an array of freshly-baked cakes, scones, and sandwiches.

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat a tasty lunch, we highly recommend just boarding this cruise instead! You’ll spend the same amount of time you would at a restaurant, with a lot more to offer!

London Travel Guide

Planning guide for your london trip, airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions.

If you’re planning a trip to London anytime soon, be sure to add one of the best Stonehenge tours from London to your itinerary. But which ones are the best? We’ve reviewed the top 5 Stonehenge tours and provided you with a guide for visiting both Stonehenge and London.

Most likely, your day trip to Stonehenge from London will be a small part of your vacation to this historic English city. Here, we offer a guide to visiting London, from the airport you will be arriving at to other attractions you may want to visit and even the weather.

Let’s help you make the most of your vacation to London!

There are five airports that service London, England. If you are traveling abroad, you will most likely be arriving at London Heathrow . For shorter flights departing European airports, should you be heading to London from a previous vacation spot, you may fly into one of these smaller London airports:

  • London City
  • London Gatwick
  • London Luton
  • London Stansted

To enter the United Kingdom, UK, you will need a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for your entire stay and can’t expire before your expected departure.

Visiting London is unlike visiting any other city on earth. Because of this, you will want to keep some things in mind when planning and packing. We list our top 5 tips for visiting London below. Do you have additional tips to suggest? We’d love for you to comment them below!

Tip #1: Bring Your Walking Shoes

Much of your travel around the city will be walking. Even when you head out of town for a day tour, such as those to Stonehenge, most of the tours require quite a bit of walking. It’s best to be relaxed wearing athletic shoes instead of wearing more fashionable shoes that can make the necessary walking uncomfortable.

Tip #2: Bring a Converter or Transformer

Your electric and electronic devices made for use in the US will not work in the UK without a converter or transformer. A converter is made to use with electronics such as your phone or tablet and a transformer with electric devices such as a hairdryer. The US runs on 120 V and the UK on 240. This means that using your US devices without a voltage converter or transformer in the UK may damage them.

Tip #3: Start Planning Your Trip Early

London receives millions of tourists each year. This means that you will most likely have to book tours well in advance. You should also book your accommodations and reservations in restaurants as soon as possible. This is especially true for tickets to theater events and shows.

Tip #4: Always Bring an Umbrella

It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting London, quick showers and rainstorms are always a possibility. It’s best to bring an umbrella with you as purchasing one at a convenient location in the city will most likely cost much more. A collapsible umbrella that is easy to carry with you is ideal.

Tip #5: Start Budgeting in Advance

London is quite an expensive city to visit but it’s worth it. Be sure you have budgeted for your flight and accommodations as well as your daily meals. You should have plenty of British pounds, the local currency, on hand as taxis and some stores may not take debit or credit cards. Also, keep in mind that the farther out your trip is planned, the better deals you will get, especially on accommodations.

There are several Dishoom restaurants located around the city. These restaurants serve high quality and delicious Indian food within a modern atmosphere. London is one of the best places to enjoy Indian food outside of India. These restaurants often have a wait but the wait is well worth it.

Not only will you want to experience the delicious Indian food, it also wouldn’t be a trip to London without an afternoon tea. There are plenty of places around town to enjoy your tea, but afternoon tea at The Savoy Hotel, London is something not to be missed. Sketch is another afternoon tea hotspot offering a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a meal with a great view, you’ll want to make reservations at the Duck & Waffle. However, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the most popular meal in London, fish and chips, at many local hotspots.

Nightlife in London can be anything you’d like it to be. There are nighttime tours of the city and surrounding areas for something a little more low-key, or you can head to a nightclub or one of the many music venues to turn up the entertainment dial.

From standup comedy and dramatic theater to the trendy clubs of the West End and even the casinos that can be found around town, nightlife in London is perfect for everyone.

As mentioned, visiting London requires a lot of walking. However, you can also choose to ride the subway, board a boat, or even hop on a bus or take a taxi. You may find the subway also referred to as “the underground” or “the tube.”

The cost of transportation by any of these methods will be determined by your destination’s distance from central London. The city and surrounding areas are divided into zones that determine distance and cost. If you’re going to be visiting for at least a few days, you may want to invest in a daily or weekly Travelcard pass .

There are many choices in accommodations when visiting London. You may find a great Airbnb location, and you can also find everything from a small hostel to a five-star, luxury hotel. The accommodations you choose should be determined by your budget, but also by the type of experience you’re looking for. An Airbnb can instantly make you feel like a local.

A hostel can provide plenty of opportunities to meet other tourists and learn more about attractions and eateries. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, the Camden Enterprise Hotel or even the Dorset City London can provide it.

The average low temperatures during the winter months are in the mid-40s Fahrenheit or around 7°C. These mild winter temperatures make London an ideal vacation spot for the holidays. July, London’s hottest month of the year, usually doesn’t reach the 70s Fahrenheit, or above 18⁰ Celsius.

Even with mild temperatures during the summer, it can feel quite humid and you may run into a short shower or two. Once again, always have an umbrella handy.

A vacation to London necessitates a visit to Buckingham Palace . Other attractions include the Coca-Cola London Eye , the Ferris wheel easily seen in every London skyline, as well as historical landmarks such as Kensington Palace, the London Tower, or the Churchill War Rooms.

While in London, be sure to visit one of the many museums and art galleries that can be found in nearly every area of the city. Parks, waterfronts, and bridges provide great photo ops and can provide a beautiful place to rest and take in the local sights.

If you want to see a castle, the Windsor Castle is a don’t miss! This 1000 year old castle has been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there. To fully appreciate the splendor, be sure to take a guided tour of Windsor Castle .

The History, Beauty, in the Cotswolds and Oxford

When planning your vacation to London, be sure to plan for a day trip to the Cortswods  while there. The best guided tour from London to Oxford and the Cotswords will allow you to experience the English countryside.

However, that doesn’t mean you can skip on visiting the many museums and art galleries, enjoying some of the best food available, and taking time to appreciate the beautiful mix of modern style and historical sites that London provides.

Enjoy your trip to London!

Food Quality

The Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music is our Editors Choice for the best Thames River dinner cruise

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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London River Dinner Cruise

London river dinner cruise overview.

Take your London exploration beyond the cliché, and come aboard the famous London River Dinner Cruise. The Thames, which runs through the heart of the UK capital, is the centre of many luxurious river cruises that promise stunning views of London and its iconic attractions. From London Eye to Big Ben, View from the Shard to St. Paul Cathedral , witness all the landmarks on your itinerary as you sail through the winding river on a relaxing cruise boat. One of the top Thames river cruises are the dinner cruises that offer unmatched views of the city at night-time with sumptuous dinner courses for you and your loved ones.

Celebrate special occasions or spend valuable time with your loved ones or even conduct corporate events on the Gold and Platinum Thames Dinner Cruises, where you get fine dining and drinks as you explore London’s charm. Indulge in live singing and dancing on the London Dinner Cruise with Live Performance, or enjoy foot-tapping melodies as a jazz quintet performs on the London Friday Night Jazz Cruise. And if London’s mysterious lanes bring out the detective in you, then you are in for a memorable experience as you hop on board the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise.

London River Dinner Cruise Deals

Cruise Ticket

Sail across the heart of London, witnessing the beautiful sunset & prominent destinations on this 3-hour Dinner Cruise

Head to the open-roof decks to witness spectacular night views over the London skyline

Settle in the lounge area for an exciting cruise tour as you're welcomed with the finest wine

Devour a delicious 4-course meal (British Dishes) as you spend quality time with your family and friends

Complement your evening with live entertainment by Cabaret singers and dancers

Capture the moment as you see attractions like The Shard, London Eye, HMS Belfast, & St. Paul's Cathedral

  • Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
  • We do not guarantee that products are free from nuts or traces of nuts. For gluten-free tea give at least 24 hours’ notice.
  • No allergies or dietary requirements can be catered for on the day of travel.
  • Not wheelchair accessible.
  • Stroller accessible.
  • Service animals allowed.
  • Infants must sit on laps.
  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
  • Boarding begins 20 minutes before departure time.
  • When you board you will be shown to your table. Please note tables are fixed and within close proximity. Our panoramic windows provide great views from all angles of the passing sky-line, regardless of your table location.
  • Your seat on board is guaranteed and will be allocated to you before the cruise takes place.
  • Please note that as part of the relaxed atmosphere of this cruise experience, your table may be situated in close proximity to other guests.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travelers.
  • Infants in the age group of 0-4 years can avail of this experience for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children above the age of 5 years will be considered adults and have to pay as per the adult cost.
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.

Highlights of London River Dinner Cruise

Highlights of London River Dinner Cruise

  • Sail across the heart of London and witness the breathtaking views of the city’s major attractions as the sun sets on the London River Dinner Cruise.
  • The three-hour cruise welcomes you with the finest wine and offers fascinating night-time views of the London skyline from the open-roof decks.
  • Unwind in the lounge area of the cruise as you witness live entertainment by talented cabaret singers and graceful dancers.
  • Relish mouth-watering three-course and five-course meals with your loved ones in the stunning backdrop of a London evening as you sail across the Shard, the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, HMS Belfast, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and several other prominent London tourist hotspots.

Top London River Dinner Cruises

Exploring London on foot is common, try something special by hopping on a Thames River cruise for witnessing all of London’s major landmarks. These London River Dinner Cruises promise heavenly meals for you to relish with your loved ones or even business partners as you indulge in mesmerising evening views of the UK capital.

Thames Dinner Cruise (Gold)

One of the best experiences you can enjoy in London, the Gold Thames Dinner Cruise takes you on an evening tour of London. Indulge in stunning views of London’s prominent landmarks with your loved ones or corporate clients as you relish a freshly-prepared delicious three-course meal. The Gold London Dinner Cruise includes a three-hour river cruise, an aperitif, a three-course set meal prepared by a talented head chef from locally sourced seasonal produce, a half bottle of fine wine per guest, and soothing live music. The boarding point of this exciting experience is at Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London.

Thames Dinner Cruises (Platinum)

If you wish to explore the iconic landmarks of London in their evening glory, then the Platinum Thames Dinner Cruise is the ideal option for you. An elegantly luxurious experience, this London Dinner Cruise offers unforgettable views of the city and its highlights as you unwind and enjoy sumptuous meals with your loved ones or business partners. The Platinum Thames Dinner Cruise includes a memorable three-hour river cruise, an aperitif upon arrival, a delicious seasonal a la carte five-course meal with delicacies from international cuisines, free-flowing selected fine wines, and gentle live music. The boarding point of the cruise is at Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London.

London Dinner Cruise with Live Performance

Enjoy an unforgettable evening as you indulge in the stunning night-time views of London and its landmarks on the London Dinner Cruise with Live Performance. Unwind with your loved ones in settings reminiscent of a posh restaurant as you relish an amazing four-course meal and enjoy a musical live performance of top hits and show songs. The non-window package includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, sparkling wine on arrival, a four-course set meal, and a live singing and dance performance. The window package, on the other hand, includes all of the above and offers a window table that seats two people. The boarding point for this experience is Westminster Pier.

London Friday Night Jazz Cruise

If jazz music is your jam, dress up in your finest smart casual wear as you head for an unforgettable night out on the London Friday Night Jazz Cruise. Sail through London as you savour unmatched evening views of the city and its attractions, all while enjoying live jazz music and a delicious and elegant three-course meal. This cruise experience includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, a three-course set meal, and live jazz performance. You can also book a window seat for two to enjoy this enthralling experience. The boarding point of this London Dinner Cruise is Westminster Pier.

Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise

If London’s reputation as the hub of detectives is what draws you to the city, then you need to book the Murder Mysteries Dinner Cruise. Sail across London on a cruise that promises bewitching night-time views of the city and its attractions and a delicious three-course meal. But that’s not all, as you also need to find out a murderer who hides among the passengers of the cruise. This London River Dinner Cruise includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, a welcome drink on arrival, a sumptuous three-course meal, and fun and interactive Murder Mystery entertainment. You can also get a window table for two to enjoy this memorable experience. The boarding point of the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise is Tower Pier.

Also Checkout: IFS Cloud Cable Car

Other London River Cruise Deals

Thames Hop On Hop Off River Cruise

What are the top attractions to spot while on the London River Dinner Cruise?

  • London Eye : Witness London’s most iconic attraction, the London Eye, which is the world’s tallest cantilever wheel. Visitors get a bird’s eye view of the entire city as they board this wheel.
  • St. Paul’s Cathedral : One of the most stunning architectural marvels of the city, the St. Paul’s Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London.
  • The Shard : London’s modernity is reflected in its ever-changing skyline, a prominent attraction of which is the ultra-modern architectural marvel, the skyscraper Shard.
  • Tower Bridge : Tower Bridge is one of the most renowned landmarks of London, and has for a century stood as the defining attraction of the city and even the UK.

What is the best time to take the London Dinner River Cruise?

The best time to take the London River Dinner Cruise is in the evenings. As the city and its attractions light up at night, the views on offer are unmatched. Witness the enthralling evening views of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, the Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Thames, and so on.

How long does the London River Cruise last?

The London River Dinner Cruises last for three hours. The timings for the different cruises vary, but they sail for three hours in the evenings from different piers on the Thames River.

What is the minimum age to buy tickets for the London River Dinner Cruise?

London River Dinner Cruises are open to visitors of all ages. Children less than four years of age do not require tickets when they are accompanied by a paying adult. Children above the age of four years need tickets and are supposed to pay the same as adults.

Also Read: Stonehenge History

Are pets allowed to take the London River Dinner Cruise?

Pet dogs are allowed on the London River Dinner Cruises as long as they are kept on a leash and sit with the owners. Pets are not allowed to sit on separate seats on board the cruise.

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London Thames River Dinner Cruise

thames river cruise london dinner

  • See London’s top landmarks from a new perspective
  • Enjoy dinner with live entertainment
  • Bring a camera for panoramic photo ops of the cityscape
  • Option to include wine with the Premier Dinner upgrade
  • Live entertainment
  • Views of London
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, WC2N 6NU, London WC2N 6PA, UK Please walk down the left hand ramp at Embankment Pier and check in to our reception area
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Infants must sit on laps
  • Infant seats available
  • Transportation is wheelchair accessible
  • Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • A smart casual dress code is the norm, however, please feel free to dress for your occasion whether you are celebrating or just heading out for a fabulous meal on the Thames. We would advise against flip-flops, leisurewear and ripped jeans.
  • Vegetarian option and other dietaries are available 48-hours in advance; please advise at time of booking if required
  • Children aged 12 years and under are not permitted on board
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

thames river cruise london dinner

  • marianmT4198ZM 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Very dissapointing Had a Sunday Lunch booking and when we arrived on the day of the cruise the premises were shut. Asked at the Uber boat next door and was told the company had gone bankrupt in October, we could not believe it. We paid for this cruise as a special treat, very disappointing we lost what we paid. Read more Written December 31, 2023
  • travelgeek1982 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Dodgy Company sold me a gift voucher despite having suspended all sailings and shutting the business two months prior. Have tried to get my money back and nobody answers the phone or replies to emails. Very dodgy, I will escalate to Sodexo Head Office. Read more Written December 17, 2023
  • DavidT512 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Bateaux London - Beware this company Children booked my wife and I a luxury dining cruise with Bateaux London at a cost of £169 per person. We live in the North and travelled to London especially for this cruise. The day before the cruise Bateaux rang to say that the company had decided to cancel all further cruises with no explanation as to why? Not sure if our children will be refunded. This company is the pits. Beware when booking any kind of event with them, they don’t care about their customers. Read more Written September 30, 2023
  • Vacation11156818144 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Horrible experience Horrible experience, the price for the package we had did not match up to the quality we received. We paid £135 for a three course set meal and only had 4 selections of cheap wine. The starter was undercooked and nearly sent me to a &e the next day by giving me chronic diarrhoea. The main course which consisted of chicken and peppercorn sauce with potatoes and broccoli was mediocre and cheap in taste, I am sure even my frail 90 year old grandmother could cook better. The chefs need to wake up and do better. The dessert and the view of the river thames were the only good things that really came out that cruise. The waiting staff were really friendly and welcoming, however the senior management on the boat were the complete opposite. The two restaurant managers seemed to isolate themselves by sitting down during most of the cruise chatting to each other drinking cocktails at the bar section instead of engaging with the guests. They were also eating in front of guests which was highly unprofessional as their waiting staff were not doing the same.They did not look welcoming or professional at all. And from what I saw with my own eyes they do not speak to their waiting staff with respect . They spoke to them like slaves and cattle. The live music was entertaining kudos to them. The waiter that served me tried their best even though me and my family were not highly impressed. I wanted to tip on the card for her effort, but I was told that Bateaux London do not give tips that are left on the card to their staff. What a shame. I was also informed by the waiter that the company is loosing money and is hanging on their last leg which is probably why the steal tips from their staff. I probably will not come here again unfortunately. Read more Written September 9, 2023
  • GillA305 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Mixed review The boat was beautiful, lovely table settings, spotlessly clean. The cruise was lovely, music good. The only disappointment was the Sunday lunch. Starter and desert were good, but the main was a disappointment. The meal was lukewarm, Yorkshire puddings hard, roast potatoes were reheated and so not crispy and fluffy inside. The gravy was gloopy. Cocktails at £15 each were overpriced. I would go again but for a different meal type. Read more Written September 5, 2023
  • ren_erI5674FA 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Experience Although it was a rainy day the cruise, music and food was great. I would do it again. It was an enjoyable afternoon. Read more Written August 7, 2023
  • U8623GAcatherinel 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Even better than my high expectations Highly recommend. Was even better than I expected. Lovely boat, excellent service, refined and delicious food. Great views, classy music supported an elegant atmosphere. Read more Written July 31, 2023
  • Kashvir123 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend Amazing experience -afternoon tea. This was a birthday surprise for me and I absolutely loved it. Highly recommend. Cruise lasts approximately 2hours and you got to see all the lovely landmarks from River Thames. Tea and eats were superb. Read more Written July 30, 2023
  • Haley W 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great food and views This was a great way to spend the afternoon. Food was really good. We enjoyed the views and chatting with others on the cruise. The boat had a mix of locals and tourists. Very organized and thought out. Only negative: I wish more drink options would have been included in the price. If you wanted different drinks: cocktails, soft drinks, you had to pay extra for them. Read more Written July 26, 2023
  • 843RichardW 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A thoroughly enjoyable experience Our Sunday lunch cruise was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The team could not have been more friendly and helpful and the food was excellent. We live in London so it was not something we had ever thought of doing before but loved every minute. Would certainly do it again. Read more Written July 9, 2023
  • felices708 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Cruising down the Thames This was a delightful trip up the Thames. The food was good, the excellent wait staff was attentive, the views were wonderful and the jazz music was smooth and soothing. The boat and the decor were festive. The only downside was that it sat at the pier for an hour. Otherwise, it was an enjoyable day. Read more Written July 5, 2023
  • 602oliviac 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Afternoon Tea Cruise I took my mum on an Afternoon Tea cruise and it was fantastic. The views of London & the live piano on board were great and the waiting team couldn’t be more friendly and accommodating. Particularly Vanitha, Buiyan & Nuno. Read more Written June 24, 2023
  • timothys860 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Saturday Tea & Snacks This was well worth every penny spent, which I believe was about 80 pounds per person. The tour was super cool rolling along the river and and as first time visitors to London it gave us a great perspective of the city. The service was excellent and we have no complaints. Our assigned table could not have been better and there was a man playing piano in the background which instilled a calm and relaxing vibe. They brought a platter of sandwiches and desserts that all seemed fresh and had great flavors. We would highly recommend this tour, especially for first time visitors to London. We would do the dinner cruise on a future trip. We chose this event because my wife and daughter were recently in Paris and used the same company for a dinner cruise and had just an amazing time. We did not know what to expect here in London, but we were not disappointed. Great job! Read more Written June 14, 2023
  • guccifrenchy67 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Delightful Champagne Afternoon Tea on the Thames After visiting a very busy and crowded RHS Chelsea Flower Show I booked the Champagne Afternoon Tea 2 hours cruise on the Thames as a treat and what a treat it was. Located just outside the Embankment Tube station, the afternoon tea cruise is available every Saturday from 14.00 onwards with a live pianist. On this lovely sunny day and after walking miles around the Chelsea Flower Show and Kings Road, the thought of stepping aboard a boat for musical afternoon tea was heavenly and everything was perfect from the moment a host greets you at the gate and takes you to the boat where you are met by the captains and taken to your table. The interior is spacious, airy, very much like a floating conservatory with shaded rooftop and large bay windows from which you can enjoy London's most famous landmarks from the comfort of your seat and table. Everything was immaculately clean including the cloakrooms and the service was personalised and friendly by some of the most gracious waiting Staff I have met so far with a special mention to the lovely Blagica. The talented live pianist very kindly accommodated my request to play my favourite tune "A Nightingale Sang on Berkeley Square" and the lovely families, group of friends and couples truly enjoyed themselves. The champagne afternoon tea option comes with a choice of classic or pink champagne and the appetising three tiered afternoon tea tray includes dainty mini cakes, warm scone & clotted cream as well as delicious selection of finger sandwiches. I loved to be able able to step outside on the deck to enjoy the breeze and the views and there are some great pictures opportunities of London famous landmarks such as Tower Bridge, House of Parliament, London Eye and many more. A truly absolute delight from the moment you step onboard leaving London's hustle and bustle behind. I will most definitely be back and Thank You so much to everyone who made this 2 hour cruise such a pleasure ! Read more Written May 29, 2023
  • 398barb 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Would Recommend We rushed to get to the boat only for it to not leave until an hour later. We had plans after the cruise that we were a little worried about getting to on time as a result Other than the boat not leaving the dock until an hour later, we enjoyed the cruise. The boat was nicely appointed. The musical duo was great. The service was top notch. And the food was not bad at all. Overall it was worth the price of admission. Only thing that could have been better would have been some notice of when we passed by landmarks and (again) a true indication of schedule. All was noted as far as schedule was it would be 2.5 hours. It was. However, the 2.5 hours didn't start until 1 so we didn't get back until 330 instead of 230. The dress was mostly smart casual. The best part of this cruise was the service we received. Our wait staff was extremely accommodating and welcoming. Read more Written April 12, 2023

More to explore in London

thames river cruise london dinner

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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London Thames River Dinner Cruise provided by Bateaux London

  • United Kingdom

Best London Thames River Cruises – Which One is the Best?

best London Thames River cruises

Embark on a journey along the beautifully scenic and meandering river Thames, with one of the best London Thames River cruises !

A trip to London isn’t fully complete without learning more about the historic Thames, a crucial route for trade and transportation dotted with iconic landmarks and numerous bridges!

From afternoon tea river cruises and dinner boat rides with cabaret entertainment to high speed boat trips, an experience along the majestic Thames River ranks highly amongst the top and most memorable things to do in London !

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

  • river cruises in London

List of Thames River sightseeing cruises

1 – westminster to greenwich cruise by thames river sightseeing.

Westminster to Greenwich cruise by Thames River Sightseeing

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 10752 reviews )

“Very entertaining and pleasant ride and the explanations (in English) were very entertaining and interesting. There is also an app to get information about the sights in other languages.” Brigitte, Getyourguide

Explore the delights along the river Thames with the  Thames River Sightseeing which includes cruising past some of London’s top cultural highlights such as the Tate Modern art gallery, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the impressive 310-meter Shard skyscraper!

Sit up on the outer deck and take in the refreshing breeze coming straight off the river. The journey will take you to the fascinating area of  Greenwich , celebrated for its Royal Observatory , large green park and a historic bustling market dating back to the 1700s.

Don’t forget to take a look at the Cutty Sark, a clipper ship from the 19th century that was formerly used for transporting tea!

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The boat deck offered some great panoramic views for soaking up the sights of London! The live guide kept us entertained, providing plenty of historic facts and background knowledge along the route. Thanks to the skip-the-line ticket everything was super smooth and we didn’t have to queue for boarding!

2 – Westminster to Tower of London cruise by Thames River Sightseeing

Westminster to Tower of London cruise by Thames River Sightseeing

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 113 reviews )

“The narrator was so informative and the view from the boat was beautiful!!!” Patricia, Tiqets

For those looking for a slightly shorter river cruise, but still jam-packed with a high density of major sights, hop on board the Thames River Sightseeing tour to the legendary  Tower of London ! The Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Sight featuring a white tower built by William the Conqueror dating to the 11th century! The tower is also world famous for being home to the Crown Jewels!

During this fascinating river journey, guests can hop on or off at Embankment Pier, Festival Pier, Bankside Pier, or St Katharine’s Dock. Cruise past the London Eye , the London Dungeon , the National Theatre and the HMS Belfast and learn more about the rich history of the capital!

The live guide was engaging and we enjoyed learning more facts about iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Awesome views and photographs of Tower Bridge. All the crew staff were super friendly and made the experience a relaxing part of our day out in London.

3 – River sightseeing cruise by The London Eye

River sightseeing cruise by The London Eye

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 802 reviews )

“The boat ride was good fun, very full but still the lovely staff made it a great experience. Must be done at least once.” Sarah, Viator

After embarking on a trip in the extraordinary London Eye, get a river’s eye view of the big wheel during The London Eye river cruise which will take you down the Thames to the Tower of London.

Highlights include watching the lively atmosphere along the Southbank with views of the Tate Modern Art Gallery, the open-air Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the iconic Oxo Tower.

Snap some photos of the grandiose dome of St Paul’s Cathedral with its famously unique double-shell design before arriving at the Tower of London, home to ravens, beefeater guards and royal treasures!

Highly recommended for all ages. The guided commentary consisted of a good balance between historical background facts, compelling storytelling and humor. It was beautiful passing under the London bridges and gazing up at the London Eye from the water. Great views of the stunning St Paul’s Cathedral.

4 – Hop-on hop-off sightseeing cruise by City Experiences

Hop-on hop-off sightseeing cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 15 reviews )

“It very good experience. The commentator was very good man and very updated with latest news too. He was very funny man making Very good jokes.” Rousa, Tiqets

With boats departing every 30 minutes, this 24 hour ticket hop-on hop-off cruise is ideal for those looking for a flexible schedule!

If you want to avoid messing around on the tube, this City Experiences river cruise is an ideal way to transport yourself to some of the best major landmarks whilst soaking up the incredible views of the river.

Hop on the boat as many times as you please in 24 hours so you can really get to know the animated atmosphere along the banks of central London! Enjoy a live guide on board who can fill you in with lots of interesting facts along the way.

It was great to have the option of a hop-on hop-off boat as we could get off at the London Eye and explore the beautiful Jubilee Gardens and the Sea Life London Aquarium. I loved watching how the light along the river really changes throughout the day.

5 – River cruises from Westminster Pier by Thames River Boats

Westminster Pier by Thames River Boats

The  Thames River Tours cruise from Westminster to Kew is undoubtedly one of the best London Thames River cruises for those wanting to see a large stretch of the river! From the Houses of Parliament , meander past Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury that dates back to the 13th century!

Pass by the towering Art Deco chimneys of Battersea power station and the green park areas of Wandsworth and Bishops Park as you meander along the Thames.

Sit back and relax as you pass under impressive bridges such as Chelsea or Albert Bridge and admire the mix of charming riverside houses, boat clubs and small river islands.

It was lovely to get a contrast from the hustle and bustle of busy Westminster and travel down the river to pass by some more tranquil areas such as the edge of the London Wetland Center. We loved seeing the iconic glass greenhouses such as the Victorian Palm House at Kew!

6 – River cruises from Kew Pier by Thames River Boats

Kew Pier by Thames River Boats

With a collection of over 50,000 living plants, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Kew are a great starting point for a  Thames River Tours cruise.

Before embarking on your riverboat look around and discover the Temperate House (the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world), the Treetop walkway or the historical Queen Charlotte’s Cottage!

From the Kew Pier, travel along the river to see the major sights of Westminster such as the London Eye and Houses of Parliament. Or instead opt for a trip towards Hampton Court in Richmond, a superb example of 16th-century Tudor architecture with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the world!

We selected the cruise from Kew to Hampton Court. It was great to stop off and explore the Henry VIII apartments and Tudor style Great Hall at the Palace. Passing through Richmond was very pleasant with lots of riverside pubs and restaurants and elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings.

7 – Hop-on hop-off Uber boat cruise by Thames Clippers

Hop-on hop-off Uber boat cruise by Thames Clippers

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1081 reviews )

“I am new to the city but honestly, I got to see all the key monuments while beating the excessive crowds by boarding the Thames Clippers.” Brantley, Headout

Roam around plenty of London river sights thanks to the efficient Thames Clippers boats! The boats run across a wide circuit divided into three zones (the West Zone, the Central Zone and the East Zone). Choose your itinerary stops and explore areas such as Vauxhall where you can check out the Battersea Power Station, the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens or glimpse the MI6 headquarters!

Alternatively, why not get off at London Bridge city, where you can gaze up at the famous Shard (the tallest building in the United Kingdom), delve into the gourmet treats of Borough Market or discover contemporary artists at Tate Modern?

Good news is that the boats run from early morning until late at night!

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The coffee from the onboard bar was very tasty. The boats are frequent and the speed powerful. A scenic and fast way of traveling around the city especially with the River Roamer Hop On Hop Off Pass. Amazing views and helpful staff on board.

8 – Thames River sightseeing cruise by Viscount Cruises

Thames River sightseeing cruise by Viscount Cruises

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 (62 reviews)

“a great way to see some of the iconic buildings and bridges of London – highly recommend” Everly, Tripadvisor

On a river trip with Viscount Cruises travelers can pass by more than 44 London landmarks starting off at Westminster and continuing along to Greenwich.

During cold weather, there is interior seating available in the heated saloons with panoramic windows for optimal river views. Pass by Embankment Pier and look out for Westminster Bridge, the South Bank cultural center and Shakespeare’s Globe. Capture some extraordinary photos as you go under Tower Bridge with its intricate Gothic and Victorian-style design!

Finish off your cruise in Greenwich, an area dotted with historical buildings such as the Old Royal Navy College and the Royal Observatory founded in 1675!

We could download an interesting audio guide on our phones to listen to during the cruise to help us learn more about the key landmarks on route. The option of a 2 day river pass was useful since we were visiting London for multiple days allowing unlimited access to the boats!

9 – Thames River sightseeing cruise by Terrible Thames

Thames River sightseeing cruise by Terrible Thames

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 (23 reviews)

“Fabulous experience…so much fun and energy from the guys…. loads to laugh at and learn about London, tremendous for kids and bigger kids (aka adults) thank you!!” Lain, Tripadvisor

The  Terrible Thames boat rides are the best London Thames River cruises for those in search of some engrossing storytelling regarding the darker and more gruesome historic tales of the Thames! Learn more about important historical figures who have left their mark on London’s history from Henry VIII and Queen Boudicca, to the notorious Jack the Ripper!

Expect plenty of entertainment and wit along with lots of unusual facts and gory anecdotes that you wouldn’t experience on a typical London tourist sightseeing trip!

This river cruise certainly makes a memorable day out for all the family!

The actors were brilliant and really brought the stories and facts to life! A fantastic way to get the kids engaged in sightseeing and curious about the past of London. The dialogue is fast paced and also includes a bit of audience participation which was hilarious! Classic family fun!

List of Thames River brunch and lunch cruises

1 – thames river lunch cruise by city experiences.

Thames River lunch cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1019 reviews )

“Great value for money, food was very good, staff were friendly and the commentary was great. Very relaxing and enjoyable experience.” Stephen, Headout

Soak up the breathtaking views of London from the river as you tuck into a delicious two course lunch! The City Experiences lunchtime cruise is the perfect romantic experience for couples or a memorable way to celebrate with friends and family during your trip to London.

All diners have access to the views as you meander along the river but book in advance to reserve a window seat.

When you have finished dining, head up onto the panoramic deck for 360-degree views of the river and take some excellent snapshots of top sights like the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the Tower of London! Get a a close up shot of Big Ben and some interesting angles as you go under London Bridge.

A relaxing dining experience with an informative commentary detailing the sights as we passed along the riverbanks. The service was excellent and the food was very good. The crew was professional and attentive, assuring an enjoyable day out!

2 – London lunch cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

London lunch cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Enjoy the sights of the Thames during the daylight with the lunchtime  Thames Dinner Cruise experience.

Guests will be served a scrumptious 2-course meal while watching the activity on the riverbanks and the historic mix of river architecture pass by!

The cruise can cater to several special dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free and Halal alternatives which must be pre-booked in advance!

Starting at the Tower of London, head along until London Bridge and pass the famous Millennium Bridge, taking in the sights of the Southbank and Westminster!

A unique dining experience that is a lot more special than any static restaurant. The roasted supreme of chicken was very moist with delicious dauphinois potatoes and vegetables. We also enjoyed the lemon meringue tart. The commentary was interesting and we learned some new facts!

3 – London bottomless brunch cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

London bottomless brunch cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

This fun-loving brunch cruise organized by  Thames Dinner Cruise promises an unforgettable experience with plenty of glasses of Prosecco and tasty snacks!

Relax as your glass is refilled and tucked into your individual brunch box (both vegetarian and vegan options are available upon pre-booking)! During the cruise guests can boogie along to the DJ party playlist, watching out for major landmarks along the Thames such as Big Ben, the London Eye and London Bridge!

This lively brunch cruise is perfect for birthday celebrations or sophisticated bachelor/ette groups for both Londoners or visitors alike!

What a treat to sail down the Thames with a glass of fizz! The atmosphere was super enjoyable with friendly vibes and great tunes playing! We spotted lots of London sights that we recognized up on the top deck. We particularly liked the salmon and cream cheese bagel and Italian pasta salad.

4 – Halal Lunch Cruise by Halal Tourism Britain

Halal Lunch Cruise by Halal Tourism Britain

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a 2 course lunch menu on the Halal Tourism Britain river cruise for some tasty food accompanied by great central London panoramas!

Enjoy waiter’s service to your table as you gaze out of the large panoramic boat windows!

After you have your finished tea or coffee, guests can stroll around on the open air deck and spot some classic British landmarks such as the glorious dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, the 21 meter tall Cleopatra’s Needle obelisk, The Golden Hinde (a replica of Sir Francis Drake’s galleon ship) or the gigantic Shard!

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An excellent way to spend midday in London! We savored the delicious leek and mushroom creamy chicken dish and it was fun to cruise past Southbank and the City of London. We got some excellent photo opportunities of the Houses of Parliament and the tour duration was the perfect length for dining and appreciating the views.

List of Thames River afternoon tea cruises

1 – afternoon tea cruise by city experiences.

Afternoon tea cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 1722 reviews )

“Great activity for people who want to explore London by boat. Got amazing glimpses of the city from the Thames whilst enjoying a traditional afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones and petit four” Dana, Getyourguide

The  City Experiences Afternoon tea river trip is one of the best London Thames River cruises for those who love a good selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked cakes, scones laden with sweet fruit jam and clotted cream and a refreshing cup of classic British tea!

Listen along to the onboard commentary whilst sipping on your tea and learn more facts about the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Shard and much more!

Put your feet up after a long morning of sightseeing and allow yourself to be mesmerized by the calm waters of the Thames and the interesting array of different architecture along the banks!

A delicious selection of egg and cucumber sandwiches and plenty of sweet treats. The panoramas were amazing and we appreciated the unlimited refills of tea and coffee during the trip. Couldn’t feel more British than savoring a scone whilst cruising past Big Ben!

2 – Afternoon tea cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Afternoon tea cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1303 reviews )

“First off, this cruise is very enjoyable, but add in finger foods and unlimited tea and we have ourselves a mighty winner.” Omar, Headout

Packed with tea time treats that will delight those with both a savory and a sweet tooth, the Thames Dinner Cruise afternoon tea experience is a wonderful way to enjoy the Thames highlights.

From Tower Pier, journey along through the Millennium Bridge and Blackfriars arriving at the heart of Westminster. Highlights include spotting the London Eye, Big Ben, St Paul’s and the HMS Belfast!

Feast on mini sandwiches, pastries and scones whilst listening along to the educational and entertaining commentary provided on board.

There are also options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free and Halal requirements!

The tables were well presented with generously laid out portions. Booking was very quick and hassle free. During the cruise, the staff were very friendly and accommodating. The commentary helped give us a broad overview of the different London neighborhoods as we passed by!

3 – Afternoon tea cruise by River Thames Cruises

Afternoon tea cruise by River Thames Cruises

Spend a relaxing afternoon in the spacious and comfortable boat of River Thames Cruises and treat yourself to a traditionally British afternoon tea served onboard. Expect all the classic afternoon tea trimmings such as finger sandwiches, sultana scones and lots of pastries!

When you have had your fill of cups of tea, head up on deck to experience the fresh breeze running straight off the river and observe the bustling riverbanks of central London.

Make sure to keep an eye out for impressive London landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the Golden Hinde, Tate Modern, Southwark Cathedral, St Paul’s, Big Ben and more!

A very satisfying afternoon tea occasion. For those who already have a feel for central London, it was nice having a river cruise without an overhead commentary so we could have a good chat over the scones and soak up the breathtaking cityscape views.

4 – Afternoon tea cruise by Halal Tourism Britain

Afternoon tea cruise by Halal Tourism Britain

Gather a group of friends or family and join  Halal Tourism Britain  for an afternoon tea experience along the river. Snack on traditional scones with clotted cream, cakes and expertly prepared Halal sandwiches during your ride.

As the boat cruises from Tower Pier up to the Houses of Parliament, keep a look out for the London Eye, The Globe Theatre, St Paul’s, Big Ben, Cleopatra’s Needle and the Tate Modern Gallery.

Guests can enjoy unlimited cups of tea and coffee to wash down the tasty afternoon tea treats. Sit back and enjoy the iconic sights of London flying past before your very eyes!

The boat crew was very helpful and made us feel right at home from the start of the cruise. Lovely warm scones and a good selection of freshly prepared sandwiches. Even though we weren’t at a direct window seat, the views were great and we enjoyed sitting up on deck after our tea.

List of Thames River evening cruises

1 – thames river evening cruise by city experiences.

Thames River evening cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.0/5 ( 388 reviews )

“Really was impressed with this little cruise. A nice way to end our trip to London. Nice drinks, nibbles and atmosphere. The music by Patrick Phelps was brilliant. Would highly recommend.” Mandy, Viator

Fancy seeing the twinkling lights along the riverbanks of the Thames and illuminated major landmarks? Embark upon the Evening river cruise with  City Experiences for a unique journey combining live jazz music and the magical London sunset!

Sip on sparkling wine to celebrate the occasion and dig into some delicious canapé snacks. Get some fresh air out on the upper floor deck as the boat passes by Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.

Watch the lights dance off Tower Bridge and watch that dreamy sunset glow encapsulate the city!

The bubbly upon arrival was fantastic and then there was an open bar to purchase further drinks. We loved the live singer on board who created a really warm and special atmosphere. A highlight of any trip to London!

List of Thames River dinner cruises

1 – dinner dance cruise by city experiences.

Dinner dance cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1187 reviews )

“It was a wonderful way to spend an evening in London. The service was excellent. The music was great along with the female singer. The dancing was so much fun.” Linda, Getyourguide

Spice up your evening in London with an abundant 4 course meal and a live cabaret performance with popular musical songs from the West End.

This City Experiences evening dinner cruise is one of the best London Thames River cruises for those looking to get into the swing and have a bit of a boogie on deck. Kick the evening off with a welcome glass of sparkling wine upon arrival and watch the sun go down over the capital.

During the trip, guests can take some excellent photos of London’s illuminated modern landmarks such as the massive O2 arena, the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and the City Hall, as well as post card classics such as the Houses of Parliament and St Pauls!

The music and singer were fantastic! The food was delicious and it was lovely to sit and watch the lights of the city go by whilst sipping on our after dinner tea and coffee. The tables were well presented and the ambiance felt cosy and intimate. A lovely way to spend a special evening!

2 – Dinner cruise with live jazz by City Experiences

Dinner cruise with live jazz by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 ( 153 reviews )

“It was a fantastic experience! The food was good, the service was good, the sprits were good, the jazz band was good, the weather was good, the selection was fantastic and one you will never forget!” Tiziana, Getyourguide

Combine the stunning sights of London’s riverbanks with an appetizing 3 course meal whilst relaxing to the chilled-out melodies of the ChiJazz quintet with a repertoire ranging from classic jazz to more contemporary pop songs.

The cruise takes place on the newest addition of the City Experiences  fleet, the Millennium Diamond. This boat is a state-of-the-art vessel with a huge open deck and a modern dining salon.

Enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz upon arrival and allow yourself to be mesmerized by the illuminated glow of London at night!

A great cruise for jazz and food enthusiasts! The open deck area was very spacious and provided an excellent vantage point for observing the city. The staff were friendly and we managed to take some excellent photos before the dinner.

3 – London dinner cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

London dinner cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (391 reviews)

“This dinner boat cruise was amazing! My husband and I have a lovely time aboard this beautifully decorated boat. The food was very tasty and the staff were incredible. The sites to see were breathtaking.” Melinda, Google

For those looking for a fun filled evening combining live entertainment and the sightseeing panoramas of London by night, the Thames Dinner Cruise offers a four course set meal with a live professional performer and after-dinner dancing opportunities!

Enjoy popular songs from West End musicals and feel good party tunes as you sail along the Thames! Thames Dinner Cruises caters to vegetarians, vegans, gluten or dairy-free or Halal alternatives.

The boat has floor-to-ceiling windows around the dining area ensuring you can glimpse the sights passing by as you savor your dinner!

This dinner cruise is a very special way to spend a birthday or anniversary occasion. The sparkling wine upon arrival was lovely and we thoroughly enjoyed the burrata salad and warming tomato soup. We would definitely repeat the experience.

4 – Murder mystery dinner cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Murder mystery dinner cruise by Thames Dinner Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 11 reviews )

“I had a blast! Good food and fun experience!” Thomas, Getyourguide

Get involved in an interactive murder mystery on the Thames Dinner Cruise involving plenty of clue solving and detective work! Put your brains to the test and prepare for the unexpected during this fun ‘who done it’ game experience!

Enjoy a 3 course meal on board and then head up to the upper deck to take in the views of London at night! From the banks of Westminster, the soaring Houses of Parliament and Big Ben to the modern skyscrapers and docklands of Canary Wharf, this dinner cruise offers plenty of spectacular views and entertainment.

A hilarious theatrical evening spent in good company. The murder mystery entertainment was fun and kept us on our feet and we loved taking some fresh air on deck for photo opportunities when going under London and Tower Bridge.

5 – Dinner cruise by River Thames Cruises

Dinner cruise by River Thames Cruises

During the River Thames Cruises evening experience, guests can enjoy a delicious four course dinner full of British inspired dishes. Sip on a complimentary glass of sparkling wine upon boarding the boat and unwind from a busy day!

A live band on board provides fun dinner entertainment and there is a dance floor for those ready to party! Travel all the way to the Thames Barrier passing by the legendary sights of Greenwich, the City Hall and the modern O2 Arena.

What a sophisticated evening full of freshly prepared fine food and great wine. The live band were full of energy and they really lit up the experience. The boat crew were very helpful and ensured everything about the trip ran smoothly!

6 – Dinner cruise with Elvis Tribute by City Experiences

Dinner cruise with Elvis Tribute by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 23 reviews )

“Awesome. Elvis was good, food was good, cruise the best we have done (and there are quite a few), service pleasant, good atmosphere.” Corina, Getyourguide

Transport yourself back to the golden age of rock and roll with the  City Experiences Thames river cruise including a spectacular three course dinner and a live Elvis impersonator tribute band!

Kick your evening off to a celebratory start with a complimentary drink of sparkling wine on the upper deck before tucking into a freshly prepared dinner menu in the salon below. Get grooving and get your hips swaying to the timeless hits full of nostalgia and electrifying charisma!

In addition to the Elvis entertainment, feast your eyes on the views of London at night as the boat passes the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the South Bank.

The Elvis tribute had a fantastic stage presence and really managed to captivate the whole audience during the meal! It certainly felt quite immersive and the diners felt truly part of the action. An evening of pure enjoyment for all!

7 – Dinner cruise by Golden Tours

Dinner cruise by Golden Tours

For fabulous views of London by night and an outstanding four course meal, hop on board the  Golden Tours dinner cruise!

Guests will be serenaded by a two-set live singer performance with the option to hit the dance floor after the meal or head upstairs on the open deck to breathe in the fresh nighttime breeze coming straight off the river.

As the boat sails down the river towards the Thames Barrier, keep your camera ready to capture the twinkling lights of the riverbanks and impressive landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye and Big Ben!

The atmosphere on board was fantastic with everyone joining in on the dance floor during the return journey back to Westminster. The cruise was extensive and we got to see a lot of main sights such as the Tower of London, St Paul’s, Canary Wharf and Greenwich.

List of Thames River speedboat tours

1 – speedboat tour by thames rockets.

Speedboat tour by Thames Rockets

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 527 reviews )

“Fantastic experience! Something to do absolutely if you visit London! The staff on board was really nice and good at their job! Recommended to everyone!!!” Valentina, Getyourguide

Zoom from the London Eye to Canary Wharf with the ultra dynamic  Thames Rockets  experience.

Speed under the bridges of London such as the magnificent Tower Bridge and look up at the city monuments as you propel across the waters to the docklands.

Enjoy the commentary provided by a comedian guide who will have you smiling with endless jokes and storytelling about the history of London. Traveling at 30 knots per hour, this speedy vessel will make you feel invincible! Soak up the refreshing and exhilarating breeze of the Thames first hand.

  • book this speedboat tour

Make sure you wrap up warm with weather appropriate clothing! It was extremely fun when the boat started going super fast. The captain and guide made the journey very enjoyable and we loved the feel-good music playing on the onboard sound system.

2 – Speedboat tour by Thames Tigers

Speedboat tour by Thames Tigers

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 663 reviews )

“We had such a fun trip. The tour guide was knowledgeable and very enthusiastic. Would highly recommend it!” Julie, Viator

Travel all the way from the Tower of London to Greenwich on the speedy  Thames Tigers rib boat experience! Stop off at Greenwich to take a peak and learn a few facts about the famous Cutty Sark tea clipper ship and the impressive Royal Observatory before swerving past the magnificent O2 arena and heading back into central London!

With a maximum of 12 passengers on board, this tour is an intimate and exhilarating way to discover the heart of the Thames River! Listen along to your enthusiastic guide who will share snip bits of history and anecdotes through the journey.

What a blast of a ride! We had a real adventure along the Thames and it was great to pass through some of the different London neighborhoods. The boat was clean and comfortable and all the kids on board were absolutely loving it. A fabulous way to see London from another perspective.

3 – Speedboat tour by Thames Rib Experience

Speedboat tour by Thames Rib Experience

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 340 reviews )

For fans of high speed rollercoasters and sensational adrenaline kicks, there’s no better option than the dynamic Thames Rib Experience which allows you to blast through the river Thames on an exciting speedboat rib!

Get into the mood for adventure with some James Bond theme tunes playing on the loudspeakers as you zoom past iconic London sights and listen along to the entertaining commentary that will help orientate you along the way!

With a maximum of 12 passengers on board, this rib experience can guarantee some fast-paced exhilarating river action! See London as you have never seen it before and soak up the unparalleled city views!

We would definitely recommend wearing warm and comfortable clothing! The rib experience was a great team bonding experience, everybody on board was having a ball! We enjoyed every minute from start to finish, from the interesting facts and explanations of the cheerful guide to the super speedy accelerations!

4 – ThamesJet speedboat ride by City Experiences

ThamesJet speedboat ride by City Experiences

Get ready for a thrilling rush of excitement with the  City Experiences speedboat ride through central London. Feel like you are on a top secret MI5 secret mission as you wizz past major city monuments such as the Shard, St Pauls and the London Eye.

This fast paced river cruise operates during the summer months and don’t worry if you get slightly splashed because passengers are provided with protective waterproof jackets!

Feel your heart pumping with some epic river turns and twists as you propel across the Thames!

The crew made us feel really safe and there was a good safety briefing before we set off. We loved the bumpy parts of the boat ride and the guests were shrieking in excitement. A great way to see a lot of London landmarks in just 50 minutes. What a ride!

List of Thames River private small boat tours & boat rental companies

Escape the crowds with our curated selection of private cruises in London. Indulge in luxurious yacht experiences for tranquility or rev up the excitement with high-speed power boats among friends.

For an exclusive touch, charter a houseboat or yacht for a day on the Thames, offering a unique and sophisticated way to enjoy London’s iconic waters. The perfect way to relax and create some long lasting memories!

  • boat rentals in London

1 – Tate Boat

Tate Boat, Uber Boat

For those who want to explore both the modern art collections in the Tate Modern (located inside the former Bankside Power Station on the South Bank) and the huge collection of British masterpieces at Tate Britain (situated at Millbank on the North Bank), opt for the  Tate Boat that connects the two galleries!

On average a typical journey between the two galleries takes around 25 minutes!

2 – Cruise London

Cruise London

For large birthday events, weddings and celebrations,  Cruise London offers a private party boat charter with two spacious indoor decks and an outer garden deck. The boat can cater for up to 245 guests should you be looking for a large venue capacity!

Cruise London can personalize and tailor your river cruise to suit your preferences with special drinks, food menu and in-house entertainment options.

3 – Thames Luxury Charters

Thames Luxury Charters

Thames Luxury Charters offers a large and elegant fleet of private charter vessels with a capacity of up to 620 guests if you are planning a huge celebration!

Their famous boats include the Dixie Queen, a replica 19th-century paddle steamer that frequently docks at Tower Pier or the smaller Edwardian built in 1985 by Sir Richard Branson.

4 – Thames Limo

Thames Limo

For an intimate romantic dinner, private sightseeing tours or small and select birthday parties, Thames Limo offers private sunset Thames cruises or daytime private river cruises to Hampton Court Palace in a luxurious Venetian water limousine!

The Venetian water limousine adorned with a Union Jack on its hull mixes British character with Italian style finesse!

5 – Out on the Thames

Out on the Thames

With Out on the Thames guests can customize their river itinerary when hiring a choice of three large party boat vessels. The MV Hurlingham has a capacity for 150 guests with a DJ booth and dance floor!

For sightseeing tours, groups can hire out the 200-guest capacity M.V. Chay Blyth, a traditional British passenger boat! Alternatively, experience the historic MV Viscount Boat built in 1907 with a large open front deck.

6 – Diplomat Cruises

Diplomat Cruises

If planning a romantic proposal whilst in London, consider the luxury VIP yachts available at Diplomat Cruises ! They also offer sightseeing cruises with personal guides or dinner cruises with private chefs or buffet catering.

For those who like a bit of fast paced action, their high speed cruises on a private Sunseeker Superhawk promise excellent London panoramas and Bollinger.

7 – Capital Pleasure Boats

Capital Pleasure Boats

Capital Pleasure Boats tick all the boxes for large scale private club nights, birthday discos to graduation parties. With the choice of 4 party boats based at Temple Pier in Central London, the Capital Pleasure Boats can hold from 40 to up to 240 passengers.

Relax on the sundeck, show off your moves on the dance floor, or dine in the central heated saloon areas!

8 – Westminster Party Boats

Westminster Party Boats

Westminster Party Boats provide private chartered events boats that can travel between Gravesend and Kew. They accommodate a wide range of group sizes from just 2 guests up to 220.

With over 30 years of experience organizing and hosting events on the River Thames, the Westminster Party Boats can find the right boat for your occasion.

How to book Thames River cruises in London?

Many companies are offering Thames River cruises and there are also many travel websites selling the same tours online. Certain websites may offer discounts, so prices may vary from one website to another.

To ensure that you find the best deal for your river cruise, use the Tourscanner search engine to thoroughly compare offers, reviews, and prices!

  • compare Thames River cruises in London

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Food & Drink

London dinner river cruise: fine dining on the river thames.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in London, you should definitely consider doing a London dinner river cruise!

Enjoy a lovely three or four course meal from the comfort of a boat, as it cruises up and down the Thames past some of the main landmarks in London .

I recently did a Dinner Showboat Experience with City Cruises , and had an amazing time. If you’re planning your own dinner cruise on the River Thames, but not sure what to expect or which one to book, this is the guide for you!

In this guide I will go over all the logistical information, menu, cruise route, what to expect, prices and more to help you choose your London cruise dinner. So let’s dive straight in!

Enjoying our London dinner river cruise with City Cruises

In this guide:

  • 1.1 Where do you board?
  • 1.3 Timings
  • 1.4 Cruise route
  • 1.5 Dinner Showboat Menu
  • 2 Our experience with City Cruises
  • 3 How to book your London dining cruise

Key information about a River Thames dinner cruise

Before we dive into our experience, I wanted to go over some logistical information.

Where do you board?

The pier from which your cruise will start ultimately depends from the company you do it with. We did our cruise with City Cruises and start our cruise from Westminster Pier.

This is a pretty good one to start as it’s so central and just next to the London Eye and Big Ben; two of the main landmarks in London. You can you get there early and relax, admire the view, maybe snap some fun Instagram shots .

We did the Dinner Showboat, which is priced at £81 per person. This includes half a bottle of wine per person and a four-course meal. If you want a window table it’s a £10 extra charge.

The salmon mousse and prawn starter on our River Thames dinner cruise

Boarding commences at 19:30 and the boat departs from the pier at 19:45. Be on time since the boat won’t wait! The cruise lasts three hours and you will be back at Westminster Pier around 22:45.

Cruise route

We departed from Westminster Pier and cruised east. We went past all the main landmarks in London, such as the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard and Tower Bridge.

We then cruised past the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, the O2 Arena and all the way to Greenwich. At Greenwich we turned around and cruised back to central London, seeing all the main sights also on the way back.

The Shard, Tower Bridge and the London skyline as seen from the River Thames during our dinner cruise

Dinner Showboat Menu

We were served an incredible four-course menu. I was a bit wary that the focus of the experience would be on the cruise and the food would suffer because of it, but I was pleasantly surprised. The food was delicious.

We were served the following dishes:

  • Smoked salmon mousse with king prawns and a salad for starters
  • Tomato, roast pepper and basil soup
  • Roasted chicken wrapped in Parma ham, served with Dauphinoise potatoes, thyme and red wine sauce and seasonal vegetables as main
  • White, dark and milk chocolate truffle cake with raspberry sauce

If you have allergies or dietary requirements they can alter the menu, you just have to make sure to request it beforehand.

The chicken main during our dinner cruise

Our experience with City Cruises

We did the Dinner Showboat with City Cruises . As a university student in London I had attended loads of boat parties on the Thames, so I was looking for something a bit different.

I was already familiar with the experience of enjoying the London sights from the river, but the fine dining was a new and very welcome experience.

We loved the food and found it was delivered in a timely and organised fashion. We never had to wait much for our plates, which is very impressive given that you’re on a boat after all!

The chocolate truffle cake we were served as dessert during our cruise

Throughout most of the dinner there is live music going on. There was a band playing and a singer that would wander around and involve the audience.

Once the dinner was over quite a few people stood up and joined her for a bit of a boogie on the dance floor.

If you’re afraid of having issues with seasickness, you don’t have to worry. The river is always pretty calm, there are never any waves that rock the boat. You can comfortably eat without getting sea sick.

Overall it was a very enjoyable experience. The food was lovely, the skyline of London at night is always incredible, and the showboat element was a fun addition to the evening. I can highly recommend it, it’s a must on any London bucket list !

Especially if you’re visiting London in winter or on a rainy day , it’s still a great activity. The dining area is indoors and it allows you to tour around and see London while being cosy and dry indoors.

Toasting to our London dinner cruise

How to book your London dining cruise

You can book the same Dinner Showboat we did here . Online you can choose your preferred date, seat and dietary requirements.

Click here to book your London Dinner Showboat!

More London Thames dining experiences

The river dinner cruise we did was the “Dining Showboat” by City Cruises, however both City Cruises and other companies offer a lot of different types of cruise dining experiences in London.

Some examples include Sunday brunch , afternoon tea or jazz cruises . Ultimately what type of cruise dining experience you choose is up to your personal preference.

The tomato soup during our Dinner Showboat

Personally I would recommend doing a fancy dinner or afternoon tea, for a bit of a special occasion. For something like Sunday brunch you could explore one of the many boozy bottomless brunches in London and have more fun!

As far as timings go I would also recommend doing a dinner experience in summer. That way it will still be light when you set off and you can enjoy the beautiful views from the river.

As you cruise the sun will go down and you can then admire the beauty of the London night skyline. I’ve listed below some River Thames cruise dining experiences that you can check out:

  • Jazz Dinner Cruise on the River Thames
  • London Afternoon Tea Cruise
  • London Sunday Brunch Cruise
  • River Thames Lunch Cruise

Cruising under Tower Bridge during our London dinner cruise

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Final thoughts on doing a River Thames dinner cruise

If you’re looking for a bit of a different dining experience, doing a London dinner river cruise is a great choice.

Even if you’re a Londoner, it gives you the opportunity to see your city from a completely different angle, while enjoying a lovely four-course dinner.

I hope this guide answers all your questions about doing a dinner cruise in London! If you have any questions just let me know in the comments below.

Looking for more London travel advice? Check out these resourecs:

  • How to get around London
  • London 1-day itinerary
  • London 2-day itinerary
  • London 5-day itinerary
  • Where to stay in London for first time visitors
  • 10 best places to stay in London
  • The 25 most beautiful places in London
  • 33 awesome free things to do in London

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Greta Omoboni is a full time blogger based in London. After 3.5 years of blogging about destinations all over the world on her main site, Greta's Travels, she decided to start a new site, dedicated to her second home and favourite city; London!

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  • Festive Dinner Cruise

FESTIVE DINING WITH THE BEST VIEWS ON THE RIVER THAMES IN LONDON

Join our Shared Festive Thames Dinner Cruise for the perfect London dining experience on the River Thames this Christmas season. Enjoy the panoramic views as we cruise through the heart of London with a Festive Meal & Live Music.

Packages

Enjoy a magical evening through the heart of London with a Festive Dinner and Live Music whilst sailing past some of the Capital's most iconic landmarks along the River Thames. We have 2 different packages available: - Platinum - Gold

Platinum Festive Dinner

  • 3hr Thames River Cruise
  • Aperitif upon arrival
  • Festive à la carte Five Course Meal
  • Free-flowing selected wines during dinner

Gold Festive Dinner

  • Festive Three Course Set Meal
  • Half btl of Wine per guest

Menu

All food is freshly prepared on-board and designed by our talented head chef. We try to use locally sourced seasonal produce which means that the menus will change throughout the year. Our chefs reserve the right to change menus as required without prior notice. We can provide vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free and Halal alternatives which must be pre-booked on the dietary requirements section during your check out process. Whilst we can accommodate food allergies, we cannot accommodate other ingredient substitutions. Please note that we cannot eliminate the risk of cross-contamination and therefore cannot guarantee the absence of allergens such as traces of nuts. Please note we must be informed of any dietary requirements at the point of booking or 72 hours prior to sailing.

thames river cruise london dinner

The Glass Room (aka Symphony) River Restaurant Boat plays host to the Festive Dinner Cruises. An unusual and unique vessel with an all-glass structure provides guests with uninterrupted views of London’s most iconic River Thames sights. The sleek and modern furnishings, and open plan layout create a bright and spacious atmosphere and provide an elegant yet relaxed dining experience.

thames river cruise london dinner

Our Festive Dinner Cruises run to a very strict timetable and unfortunately we cannot wait for any late arrivals. It is your responsibility to arrive at the pier in plenty of time for your cruise to avoid any disappointment. We recommend that you arrive no later than fifteen minutes prior to your scheduled boarding time to ensure that you have checked in at reception and are ready to board. Please be advised that once the boat departs, it cannot return to the pier to collect passengers. No refunds or change of date will not be offered in such circumstances.

Location

Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London WC2N 6NU The nearest Tube Station is Embankment which is located directly across the road from Embankment Pier.

FAQ's

Here you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, just click on the down arrow to reveal the answer. Our Thames Dinner Cruise team are on hand if you require any further information or need help with booking - please call us on 0203 551 3942, phone lines are open Monday - Friday between 09.00 - 17.30.

thames river cruise london dinner

  • Cancellation Policy We do not accept any cancellations, reduction of numbers or change of date with any of our Christmas Cruises, if tickets are cancelled then 100% of the ticket price is payable by the client.
  • Dress Code Festive Smart Casual. The cruise is a special experience and a great opportunity to create some wonderful memories with your friends and family. A smart casual dress code is the norm, however, please feel free to dress for your occasion whether you are celebrating or just heading out for a fabulous meal on the Thames. Trainers, ripped jeans, flip flops and leisurewear are not permitted.
  • Child Policy Children under the age of 12 are not permitted on-board. (including babies in prams or slings)
  • Accessibility We request that you inform us of special needs or disabilities at the time of booking in order for us to meet any personal requirements. Step-free access is offered from Embankment Pier onto the vessel. Guests with mobility issues may be accommodated at easily accessible tables and additional space may be providing for seeing and hearing guide dogs. Disabled toilet available.
  • Weather The Cruises operate regardless of the weather unless in conditions of poor visibility. The Captain will make the decision on the day if the cruise will not operate. You will be informed of your options on the day if this affects you. Our vessels are closed in so you will not be affected by wind, snow or rain.
  • Smoking Smoking is permitted on designated outside areas only.
  • How to Book To book a Festive Dinner Cruise please click the “BUY NOW” button on your preferred package and follow the online booking process. Full payment is required at the time of booking. Once you have completed the booking process you will receive an automated booking summary via email. You will receive your Boarding Confirmation in a separate email. Your booking is not confirmed until you receive your Boarding Confirmation which will specify the boarding times and pier location and will need to be shown on arrival at the boat. Boarding Confirmation will be sent within 72 hours of making the booking Monday - Friday. Bookings made over the weekend and bank holidays will receive the Boarding Confirmation on the next working day. Your boarding confirmation will state the schedule and pier location. Please check your boarding confirmation carefully and inform us immediately if anything is incorrect. You will need to take your boarding confirmation and present it on arrival at the pier in exchange for your boarding pass.

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  1. Best Thames dinner cruises

    Book now. 5. Evening Thames Cruise and a Glass of Sparkling Wine with Canapes for Two*. Enjoy sparkling wine and canapes as you sail down the Thames on a dinner cruise. Image courtesy of Red Letter Days. Take your loved one on a journey along the Thames, soaking up the city as it sparkles against the setting sun.

  2. Thames Dinner Cruise, Restaurant Cruises in London from £48pp

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    A London river dinner cruise is perfect for any occasion. Overview Includes Excludes Offers Schedule Where to Meet Additional Information Dress Code Duration of Max Less than an hour A few hours Featured Experience Recent Bookings View Dining Menu Highlights Inclusions Departure Point/Entrance Departure Time hour hours 5 hours 4 hours 3 hours 3 ...

  4. Discover London: Thames River Dinner Cruise Experience

    A Thames River dinner cruise often includes live entertainment, such as a band or a singer, to enhance the experience. Enjoy the sounds of jazz, soul, or pop music while you dine and take in the sights of London. The live entertainment adds an extra layer of fun and enjoyment to the evening, making it even more memorable.

  5. The 5 Best Thames River Dinner Cruises [2024 Reviews]

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    Enjoy a memorable evening of food, wine, and entertainment on this showboat dinner cruise on the Thames River in London. Feast on a 4-course dinner aboard your sightseeing boat as you sail past London attractions such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge, all illuminated at night. While you eat and admire the sights, background music will be played during the cruise instead ...

  7. Restaurant Cruises in London

    The Thames. 1hr 30min River Cruise with Afternoon Tea and Commentary. From £52 per person. Enjoy a 3-hour Thames River Cruise with a glass of Sparkling Wine on arrival and three-course dinner, accompanied by a live Jazz band. Dine in a relaxed and informal environment with a live vocalist. from £87 per person.

  8. Dinner Cruises

    London Friday Night Jazz Cruise. Enjoy a 3-hour Thames River Cruise with a glass of Sparkling Wine on arrival and three-course dinner, accompanied by a live Jazz band. From £99 per person. View All Special Events.

  9. Thames Restaurant Cruises in London

    The London Dinner Cruise Restaurant boat will hold between 100 - 200 people on-board. The boat has floor to ceiling windows around the dining area and a large open top deck allowing for great views of the River Thames. Window Tables seat 2 people only. Non-Window tables seat 4 people.

  10. Thames Dinner Cruise, London

    Enjoy a magical evening through the heart of London with dinner and live entertainment whilst sailing past some of the Capital's most iconic landmarks along the River Thames. We have 2 different Thames Dinner Cruise packages available: - Platinum - Gold *From the 16th Nov, we will be running the Festive Dinner Cruises on Thur, Fri and Sat ...

  11. London River Dinner Cruise: Witness The Beauty Of City At Night

    The Platinum Thames Dinner Cruise includes a memorable three-hour river cruise, an aperitif upon arrival, a delicious seasonal a la carte five-course meal with delicacies from international cuisines, free-flowing selected fine wines, and gentle live music. The boarding point of the cruise is at Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London.

  12. London Thames River Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment 2024

    Take to the Thames for a sparkling river dinner sailing past London's waterfront sights. Settle at your table to savor a delectable dinner and admire floodlit city sights such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and Big Ben as you eat and relax, and enjoy enchanting live entertainment. Thames River dinner cruise in London.

  13. THE TOP 10 London Dinner Cruises (UPDATED 2024)

    The best Dinner Cruises in London according to Viator travelers are: Thames River Jazz and Dinner Cruise. Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London. London by Night Sightseeing Tour - Open top bus. Luxury 6 Course Bus Dining Experience Through London.

  14. Thames Evening River Cruise

    Continue to Checkout. Book an evening on the Thames with a range of cruises from City Experiences - London's No 1 Evening Cruise on the Thames.

  15. 15 best Thames river cruises and boat trips in London

    Book a Thames Lunch Cruise with City Cruises now. 6. London Eye River Cruise with City Cruises. See spectacular views of London from above and from the water with a London Eye and river cruise package, which combines a ride on the iconic London Eye with a 40-minute London Eye river cruise . Enjoy incredible 360-degree views over the capital ...

  16. London Thames River Dinner Cruise

    About. See London from a perspective rare to visitors on a dinner cruise through the Thames River. The experience features dinner, live entertainment, and plenty of sailing time. Throughout the evening, take in sweeping views of the cityscape and top landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Big Ben.

  17. Best London Thames River Cruises

    The bubbly upon arrival was fantastic and then there was an open bar to purchase further drinks. We loved the live singer on board who created a really warm and special atmosphere. A highlight of any trip to London! List of Thames River dinner cruises 1 - Dinner dance cruise by City Experiences. Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (1187 reviews)

  18. London Dinner River Cruise: Fine Dining On The River Thames!

    Price. We did the Dinner Showboat, which is priced at £81 per person. This includes half a bottle of wine per person and a four-course meal. If you want a window table it's a £10 extra charge. The salmon mousse and prawn starter on our River Thames dinner cruise.

  19. Jazz Dinner Cruise on the River Thames

    Be the first to get offers and news. Continue to Checkout. Book a Thames jazz cruise and enjoy some of London's most iconic sights while enjoying music and a delicious 3-course meal.

  20. Festive Thames Dinner Cruise

    Enjoy an evening of fine food, drinks and live music as you sail along the River Thames, past London's most iconic sights. 0203 551 3942. Home; Dining Cruises. Mother's Day; Dinner Cruises; Brunch Cruises; Lunch Cruises; Afternoon Tea Cruises ... Our Thames Dinner Cruise team are on hand if you require any further information or need help ...

  21. London Thames River Dinner Cruise

    Take to the Thames for a sparkling river dinner sailing past London's waterfront sights. Settle at your table to savor a delectable dinner and admire floodlit city sights such as Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and Big Ben as you eat and relax, and enjoy enchanting live entertainment. Thames River dinner cruise in London.

  22. THAMES DINNER CRUISE (London)

    The London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River. 238. Food & Drink. from. £87.00. per adult. Thames River Jazz and Dinner Cruise. 47. Dinner and Show Tickets.

  23. River Thames Valentine's Dinner Cruise in London

    City Cruises - London / Valentine's Day Dinner Cruise | City Cruises™ Overview Includes Excludes Offers Schedule Where to Meet Additional Information Dress Code Duration of Max Less than an hour A few hours Featured Experience Recent Bookings View Dining Menu Highlights Inclusions Departure Point/Entrance Departure Time hour hours 5 hours ...