London: Uber Boat 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off and Cable Car Tickets

Traveling around London can be a whirlwind—buses, tubes, walking—and sometimes, it all gets a little overwhelming. That’s where this combo ticket for Uber Boat by Thames Clippers and the IFS Cloud Cable Car offers a fresh perspective. It’s designed for those who want to see the city from the water and the sky, while keeping travel simple and enjoyable.

From what we’ve gathered, this experience stands out because it combines the ease of unlimited river travel with breathtaking aerial views, all in a single day. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a relaxed yet scenic way to explore London’s iconic sights. Two things we love? The convenient hop-on hop-off river service that lets you explore at your pace, and the spectacular views from the cable car that give a new perspective on the city’s famous skyline.

One thing to consider is that the ticketing process can be a bit confusing if you’re not prepared—reviewers have noted some initial delays with ticket exchanges and boat availability. Still, these are minor hiccups compared to the overall experience, and they don’t take away from the fun of seeing London from the water and sky.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed, flexible sightseeing day without the crowds of busy buses or packed tourist spots. It’s great for those who want to combine ease of travel with picture-perfect views, whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor wanting a new way to see London’s landmarks.

Key Points

• Flexible hop-on hop-off river service allows you to explore at your leisure
• Breathtaking panoramic views from the cable car, especially of the O2 Arena and Olympic Park
• Convenient locations with multiple pier options including Westminster, Greenwich, and North Greenwich
• Comfortable onboard experience with indoor and outdoor seating options
• Affordable price point for a full day of sightseeing, considering the views and ease of travel
• Ideal for those wanting a relaxing yet scenic way to see London’s central sights

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This combination ticket offers an ideal way to weave through London’s most famous sights with minimal fuss. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers operates on the Thames’ fastest fleet of catamarans, departing every 10-20 minutes from key piers like Westminster, Embankment, Greenwich, and North Greenwich. This frequency means you can hop on and off as often as you like within the day, making it easy to explore areas at your own pace.

What makes this such a practical choice? The boats have indoor seating and covered outdoor areas, which is perfect for when the weather isn’t cooperating—or when you just want to enjoy the breeze without getting soaked. Plus, the boat crew members are widely praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, making the journey even more pleasant, as one reviewer noted, “Very comfortable and lovely crew on board. This made our trip to London so special.”

The itinerary covers some of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Departing from Westminster, you can glide past the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. On the way to Greenwich, you’ll pass the Cutty Sark and the historic maritime district, giving you a chance to explore these areas further if you wish. The ability to hop off and explore is what makes this experience so appealing—just remember to check the timetable for the last boat back.

The ride on the river isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s also about soaking in the views. Several reviews mention how the boat ride is “very easy to use” and “very regular,” making it a stress-free way to see the city from the water. The river acts as a wonderful guide, offering glimpses of London’s hidden corners and famous monuments.

Switching gears to the cable car—the IFS Cloud Cable Car—it provides a quick, scenic lift across the Thames from North Greenwich. Built for the 2012 Olympics, it’s now a favorite for visitors wanting a bird’s-eye view of London. From this vantage point, the landmark sights like the O2 Arena and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park come into stunning focus.

The cable car journey is roundtrip, giving you a chance to admire the skyline in both directions. The indoor cabins are comfortable, and the experience is smooth and quiet. Reviewers shared that the views are “fabulous,” especially with clear weather, and it’s a unique way to see the city from above.

What to Expect at Each Stop and Activity

Starting at Westminster Pier, you’ll likely find your boat waiting swiftly, thanks to the frequent departures. This pier puts you in the heart of London’s historic core, with sights like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey nearby. From here, you can hop on and enjoy the ride past the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, or the Millennium Bridge.

Greenwich is another popular stop. It’s not just a scenic area but also steeped in maritime history, home to the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory. Many travelers use this stop to visit the local markets or walk along the riverfront. The boat service here is praised for being “easy and fast,” and you’ll love how relaxed it feels compared to the busy underground.

Barking Riverside and Putney are farther out, offering a more tranquil escape from central London. While most visitors will focus on central sights, the extended route allows for a broader exploration of the city’s neighborhoods.

At the cable car, you’ll start from North Greenwich, which is easy to reach by Tube. The ride gives you 360-degree views of London’s skyline, including the O2 Arena, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and beyond. You’ll want to have your camera ready—these are the kind of views that make for great photos.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews, travelers find that the ticketing process can have some initial hiccups. For example, one reviewer mentioned the need to exchange printed vouchers for tickets at Westminster Pier, which could cause delays if you’re unprepared. So, make sure to allow some extra time on your first day to sort out tickets comfortably.

The unlimited hop-on hop-off feature is a real plus—most reviews note that the service is very regular, letting you control your schedule. Plus, the indoor seating is a lifesaver during unpredictable weather, keeping everyone comfortable whether it’s sunny or rainy.

Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard and at the cable car stations, which means you don’t need to pack snacks—though, as always, it’s wise to bring water, especially if you plan a full day exploring.

On the downside, one reviewer shared concerns about staffing issues, such as a boat crew member working alone and appearing stressed, which can affect customer service. While this isn’t a common complaint, it’s worth keeping in mind if you value attentive staff.

The price point of around $44.72 per person seems fair, especially considering the value of multiple landmark views, the flexibility, and the overall comfort of the experience. The wide coverage—from Putney to Barking Riverside—means you’re getting more than just a short cruise; it’s a mini-tour of London’s neighborhoods from the river.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combined river and cable car experience offers a relaxed, scenic way to see some of London’s most famous sights without the hustle and bustle of busy streets or underground stations. It’s ideal for travelers who value flexibility and great views, especially those with limited time or who prefer a more comfortable, less crowded way to explore.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner, you’ll appreciate the ease of hopping on and off the river, combined with the stunning aerial views from above. It’s also good for visitors who want to avoid the typical tourist crowds and enjoy a more laid-back, scenic journey.

While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the value comes from combining multiple viewpoints—water, sky, and city streets—into a single, well-organized day. Just be prepared for some minor logistical delays and plan your day accordingly.

FAQ

Do I need to print my voucher?
Yes, you’ll need to print your voucher and exchange it at one of the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers ticket offices before boarding. The same applies for the cable car, which doesn’t accept online vouchers directly.

Can I hop on and off the boat at any pier?
Absolutely. The ticket provides unlimited access for one day from any Uber Boat pier between Putney and Barking Riverside, so you can explore several areas at your own pace.

How often do the boats depart?
Boats leave every 10-20 minutes from major piers, making it easy to plan your day without long waits.

Is the cable car roundtrip?
Yes, the IFS Cloud Cable Car provides a roundtrip ride, offering panoramic views in both directions.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the scenic nature and comfortable onboard amenities make it suitable for most travelers, including families with children. Just note that children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there any additional costs?
Food and beverages are available for purchase on the boats and at cable car stations, but entry to other attractions isn’t included. Also, some activities like the O2 Post Express are not included in the ticket.

What should I keep in mind regarding weather?
The boat has covered outdoor areas, so you’ll be protected from rain or sun, but the cable car offers open cabins with great views—be prepared for the weather conditions on the day of your ride.

This tour offers a relaxing, scenic way to see London’s landmarks from different angles. With its combination of water and sky views, coupled with the flexibility of the hop-on hop-off format, it’s a practical choice for those who want an enjoyable, less stressful sightseeing experience. Just plan ahead for some initial ticketing details, and you’ll be set for a memorable day exploring London.

You can check availability for your dates here: