London: Christmas Party Lunch Cruise

If you’re looking for a unique way to ring in the holiday season in London, a Christmas Party Lunch Cruise along the River Thames might just be your ideal choice. This experience promises a blend of good food, beautiful scenery, and holiday cheer all in one sitting. While we haven’t joined the cruise ourselves, we’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a solid picture of what to expect.

What immediately stands out is the chance to enjoy a three-hour cruise with a traditional festive meal and live Christmas music. The warm, communal vibe and picturesque views of London’s most famous landmarks create a memorable holiday outing. We love that it combines the relaxed atmosphere of a boat ride with the festive spirit of Christmas—perfect for those who want to celebrate in style without the crowds.

On the flip side, something to consider is the seating arrangement—guests are seated at tables of 10, and smaller groups will share tables. If you prefer more privacy, or are traveling with a large group, it’s worth planning ahead. Also, keep in mind that the experience is not suitable for children under 18.

This cruise is especially well-suited for couples, friends, or colleagues looking to enjoy a festive outing with excellent views and good food. If you’re after a cozy, lively, and picture-perfect holiday celebration in London, this might just fit the bill. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience worth considering.

Key Points

• Festive Atmosphere: Enjoy a lively holiday cruise with Christmas tunes and a warm vibe.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic sights of London’s iconic landmarks like Tower of London, London Eye, and Tower Bridge.
• Quality Food: A traditional 3-course meal, including salmon and prawn starter, roast turkey, and a festive chocolate dessert.
• Live Entertainment: Festive music performed by a vocalist, adding to the holiday spirit.
• Great Value: At around $101, it offers a full experience with food, music, drinks, and views.
• Practical Details: 3-hour duration, smart casual dress code, and a licensed bar on board.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Getting On Board and First Impressions

The cruise departs from Westminster Pier, one of London’s most recognizable spots. Staff are on hand to guide you to the correct boarding point, so even if you’re unfamiliar with the area, it’s straightforward. Once onboard, you’re greeted with a welcome glass of sparkling wine, which sets a celebratory tone from the start.

The atmosphere is friendly, and given the close seating (tables of 10), you quickly sense a warm, communal vibe—perfect for mingling or sharing the moment with loved ones. The dress code is smart casual or festive, so you can dress comfortably but appropriately for the occasion.

The Itinerary and Sightseeing

As the boat begins its journey, it heads from Westminster towards Canary Wharf, giving you an excellent perspective of London’s waterside landmarks. While enjoying your traditional 3-course lunch, you’ll be treated to views of the Tower of London, London Eye, The Shard, and Tower Bridge. These sights are especially stunning when lit up against the winter sky, and the boat’s panoramic windows make it easy to snap photos without feeling cramped.

One highlight is the opportunity to head to the upper deck—a prime spot for photos with London’s skyline as your backdrop. During the cruise, live festive music performed by a vocalist adds a lively touch. The reviews mention that the music enhances the holiday atmosphere, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

The Meal: Traditional and Festive

The 3-course menu is a key feature. You’ll start with a salmon and prawn starter, which is light but flavorful. For the main course, a roast turkey with all the trimmings satisfies the holiday craving for comforting, hearty food. The meal is served at your table, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery simultaneously. Finish with a festive chocolate dessert—a sweet ending to a festive meal.

The inclusion of tea and coffee rounds out the dining experience, and the licensed bar offers additional drinks for purchase, if you want to toast the season. The value here is notable—you’re getting a full meal, drinks, live music, and a scenic cruise all for around $101.

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The Atmosphere and Entertainment

The live vocalist performs festive music, which encourages singing and perhaps some dancing—if you’re feeling festive enough. The reviews describe the trip as “very enjoyable” and “amazing,” highlighting the cheerful, lively nature.

The tables of 10 mean you’re close enough to strike up conversations if you’re with friends or colleagues. If you book with fewer people, you’ll share a table, which can be an enjoyable way to meet new friends.

End of the Tour and Return

The cruise concludes back at Westminster Pier, making it a convenient and compact experience. The entire journey lasts about 3 hours, a good length that’s enough to soak in the sights and enjoy the food without feeling rushed.

What We Think About the Price and Overall Value

At just over $100 per person, this experience offers good value, considering the included meal, drinks, entertainment, and scenic views. It’s not the cheapest way to see London, but it’s a hassle-free, all-in-one holiday celebration that’s especially appealing if you want to combine sightseeing with a festive meal.

The reviews support this, with one calling the trip “amazing” and another “very enjoyable.” That said, the experience’s success hinges on your expectations for a festive, somewhat formal event rather than a casual or family-focused outing.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for adults or those comfortable with the seating arrangements and dress code. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups who want a cozy, festive atmosphere with beautiful views and good food. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a memorable way to celebrate Christmas without the hassle of organizing a dinner or special event yourself.

If you’re after a lively, holiday-themed experience with scenic photos and a touch of luxury, this cruise hits the mark. For families with children under 18 or groups seeking a more casual outing, other options might be better.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
This experience is not recommended for children under 18, as it’s designed for adults and has a smart-casual dress code.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts around 3 hours, including boarding, dining, sightseeing, and entertainment.

What is included in the price?
You get the river cruise, a welcome glass of sparkling wine, a three-course traditional festive lunch, tea/coffee, festive live music, and access to a licensed bar.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, especially during the busy Christmas season. You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
A smart casual or festive outfit is appropriate. The dress code helps maintain the event’s classy, holiday vibe.

Is there a bar on board?
Yes, there’s a licensed bar where you can purchase additional drinks.

Can I take photos during the cruise?
Absolutely, the panoramic views and photo opportunities on the upper deck make it perfect for capturing London’s landmarks.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The menu details aren’t specified here, but usually, special dietary needs should be communicated when booking. Check with the provider for options.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a festive, scenic, and delicious way to spend part of your Christmas season in London, this Lunch Cruise on the Thames offers a well-rounded experience. It combines the joy of holiday music, spectacular views, and a hearty, traditional meal—all within a relaxed, elegant setting.

While it’s not a casual outing and seats are shared, the overall vibe is friendly and joyful, with enough sophistication to make it feel special. It’s a great choice for those wanting something a little different from the usual Christmas festivities, especially if you love London’s iconic skyline. Just remember to dress up, book ahead, and prepare for a memorable holiday adventure on the water.

Happy holidays and safe sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: