London: 20-Minute Tower RIB Blast from Tower Pier

If you’re visiting London and crave a bit of adrenaline with your sightseeing, this 20-minute speedboat ride might just be what you’re looking for. It’s not your typical cruise—think of it as a rollercoaster on water, with the chance to feel like a spy in a James Bond film. For those who love fast-paced adventures and iconic views, this tour offers a unique way to see the city from the Thames.

What really drew us to this experience are two things: first, the exhilaration of soaring at speeds around 40 mph—it’s pure thrill, especially if you’re a fan of high-energy activities. Second, the opportunity to snap pictures of London’s most famous landmarks while zooming past them at speed. But, of course, it’s not without a few considerations—mainly, this tour isn’t ideal if you’re sensitive to rougher rides or prone to motion sickness.

This experience works best for those who enjoy quick bursts of excitement, want to see major sights in a fun way, and don’t mind the loud, fast nature of a speedboat. It’s great for solo travelers, groups, or couples looking for a memorable mini adventure—just keep in mind the suitability if you have health issues or are traveling with very young children.

Key Points

• Fast-paced thrill: A 20-minute speedboat blast along the Thames delivers a quick adrenaline hit.
• Iconic views: Pass by landmarks like Tower of London, Shard, HMS Belfast, and Tower Bridge.
• Themed experience: The James Bond soundtrack adds a fun, cinematic atmosphere.
• Expert crew: Qualified staff ensure safety and a smooth ride.
• Photo opportunities: Souvenir photos and videos are available for purchase.
• Limited seating: Only 12 passengers per boat, so it’s an intimate and lively experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour is essentially a condensed adventure that packs a punch. It’s designed to give you a taste of London’s stunning riverside sights while delivering an adrenaline rush. We’ll walk through the typical flow, what to look forward to, and some practical tips.

Starting Point: Tower Millennium Pier

Your journey begins at Tower Millennium Pier, nestled along Lower Thames Street. It’s an easy spot to find, especially if you’re already exploring around Tower of London or Tower Bridge. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff, ready to gear you up with lifejackets and disposable ponchos—handy if the weather turns wet or windy.

Sightseeing Stops Along the Thames

Before the speedboat kicks into high gear, you’ll cruise slowly past some of London’s most recognizable landmarks. The tour’s narration, mostly in English, points out sights like the Tower of London, HMS Belfast, and the Shard. These moments are brief (about a minute each), but they set the scene beautifully, giving you context as you prepare for the thrill ahead.

The Highlight: The Speedboat Blast

Next comes the real fun. The boat accelerates sharply, and you’ll experience about 15 minutes of pure speed, weaving under Tower Bridge and heading toward Canary Wharf. The high-energy soundtrack, especially the Bond theme, adds a cinematic vibe, making you feel like a secret agent on a covert mission. The boat’s captain expertly navigates the twists and turns, keeping everyone safe while maximizing the thrill.

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Views of Canary Wharf and the Return

Once you’ve had your fill of speed, the boat slows down as you approach Canary Wharf, where you get spectacular sky-high views of the modern skyscrapers. It’s a fantastic photo op, especially if you love cityscapes. The return journey is a relaxed cruise back to Tower Pier, giving you a chance to catch your breath and admire the river’s scenery in a more tranquil moment.

End of the Ride

Back at Tower Millennium Pier, you’ll have options to purchase photos and videos taken during the tour. Many reviews highlight how fun these keepsakes are—if you want a visual reminder of your speedy adventure, they’re worth considering.

The Experience in Detail: Pros and Cons

The Good Stuff

Many visitors have raved about the exhilaration and fun of this tour. As one reviewer put it, “This was more fun than I expected. I really felt I was on a rollercoaster in a good way!” The crew is often described as friendly and helpful, which makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

The value for money is also notable—at around $50 per person, you get a quick but intense burst of thrill that’s a memorable add-on to a London trip. The short duration suits those with tight schedules who still want a taste of adventure.

Things to Keep in Mind

While many love the speed and sights, this tour isn’t suited for everyone. If you’re pregnant, have back or heart problems, or are under 15 kg (33 lbs), you’ll need to skip this one. The group size is limited to 12, which keeps things intimate but also means you need to reserve in advance, especially during busy times.

The weather can impact your experience—if it’s very windy or rainy, the ride might be rougher, and you’ll be glad for the ponchos. Also, participants are advised to wear comfortable, warm clothing—the wind can be chilly at high speed, even in summer.

What the Reviews Say

We found that reviews consistently praise the sense of adventure and spectacular views. One fan, Britney, said, “This was more fun than I expected. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster in a good way!” Another highlighted the thrilling speeds and the friendly staff.

People also appreciate the photo options, which allow you to preserve the memory of your high-speed jaunt. The soundtrack, especially the Bond theme, helps set a fun, movie-like tone, making it more than just a boat ride.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 20 minutes total, with most of that at speed.
• Price: Around $50 per person, which is quite reasonable for a quick thrill and prime sightseeing.
• Start/End Point: Tower Millennium Pier.
• Availability: Check current times, as they vary, but expect multiple departures each day.
• Group Size: Max 12 passengers per boat.
• Weather: Dress warmly and comfortably; bring layers if necessary.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes and clothes, maybe a camera or phone for photos.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant travelers, children under 15 kg, or those with certain health issues.
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before departure, which provides some flexibility if your plans change.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re looking for a short, energetic, and memorable way to see London from the Thames, this is a strong pick. It’s especially appealing if you’ve already ticked off the major landmarks and want to add a little adrenaline to your sightseeing. It offers a different perspective on London’s iconic skyline, and the thrill of zooming past landmarks at speed makes it stand out from standard river cruises.

However, it’s not for everyone. If you prefer a slow, scenic cruise or have mobility issues, this might feel a bit intense. Likewise, if you’re prone to motion sickness or very young children, it’s worth considering whether this high-speed adventure is suitable.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This?

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers and those wanting a fun, high-energy alternative to traditional sightseeing. It’s a great way to experience London in a compact, exciting burst—perfect for thrill-seekers, couples, or groups eager for a memorable story to tell.

If you’re after calm, leisurely views, you might prefer a longer, slower cruise. But, if you’re up for a speedy, cinematic ride along the Thames, this RIB blast delivers exactly that—fast, fun, and filled with iconic sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 33 lbs (15 kg). The maximum group size is 12, and it’s mainly designed for adults and older kids comfortable with high speeds.

Can I buy photos or videos of my ride?
Yes, souvenir photos and videos are available for purchase after the tour. Many guests enjoy having a visual keepsake of their adrenaline-filled experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 20 minutes, with most of that time spent at high speed zooming along the Thames.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see the Tower of London, Shard, HMS Belfast, and Tower Bridge, among others, with a quick glimpse of Canary Wharf.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast. Wind or rain can make the ride rougher, and the operator reserves the right to alter or cancel if conditions are unsafe.

Is it safe?
Absolutely. The crew is qualified, and safety gear like lifejackets is provided. The boat is designed for high speed but is operated by experienced skippers.

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, just be mindful of the wind and speed—secure your belongings to prevent losing anything overboard.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, warm clothes are recommended. Windproof layers can make the experience more pleasant, especially at high speeds.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the trip needs at least 6-8 passengers to go ahead, and the maximum is 12 per boat.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure.

In the end, this speedboat blast on the Thames offers a quick but unforgettable way to see London’s skyline and add a splash of excitement to your trip. It’s perfect for those who crave a lively, cinematic adventure and don’t mind a bit of wind in their hair. Just remember to dress warmly, hold onto your camera, and enjoy the ride—because this is one London experience you won’t forget easily.

You can check availability for your dates here: