London: Christmas Party Dinner Cruise

London: Christmas Party Dinner Cruise — A Festive Thames Adventure

If you’re considering a Christmas-themed celebration on the water in London, this cruise might catch your eye. We’ve looked into the experience, and while it promises a memorable night with stunning skyline views, delicious food, and lively music, it’s not without its quirks. Perfect for those who want a festive splash amidst iconic landmarks, but maybe less ideal if you’re expecting a luxurious, seamless experience.

What we really like about this cruise: First, the spectacular views of London’s illuminated skyline as you glide along the Thames—there’s something truly special about seeing the city’s landmarks lit up at night. Second, the organized festive atmosphere with a three-course meal and dancing, designed to get everyone into the holiday spirit. On the flip side, a possible downside is that not everyone’s experience matches the hype; some reviews mention issues with food quality and staff visibility, which can take away from the fun.

This experience would suit travelers who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere and are looking for a cost-effective way to celebrate Christmas with friends, family, or colleagues. If you’re okay with a less polished service as long as the views, food, and fun are there, it could be a good pick. But if you’re after a top-tier, seamless dinner cruise, you might want to set your sights higher.

Key Points

• Stunning landmark views: Pass by iconic sights like Tower of London, London Eye, and Tower Bridge, all lit up at night.
• Festive meal and drinks: Enjoy a three-course dinner with half a bottle of wine, plus the option to buy more at the bar.
• Music and dancing: An onboard DJ spins Christmas classics and modern tracks, encouraging everyone to dance.
• Duration and setting: The cruise lasts about four hours, starting at Tower Pier, with tables of 10 in close quarters, creating a lively, communal vibe.
• Mixed reviews: While some praise the views and lively atmosphere, others point out issues with food quality and staff visibility.
• Best for: Those wanting a fun, festive outing with a casual vibe, and are okay with the possibility of some bumps along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and Setting

The boarding point at Tower Pier sets the scene for a quintessential London experience. Arriving about 20 minutes early, you’ll be greeted by staff who direct you to your table and help you settle in. The boat departs from Tower Pier and heads towards Canary Wharf, giving ample time to soak in the sights.

As the boat cruises along the Thames, you’ll witness some of London’s most famous landmarks—the Tower of London, the London Eye, The Shard, Tower Bridge—all brilliantly lit up, creating a magical backdrop. Many guests find the views alone worth the price, especially when the city sparkles at night.

The Food Experience

Once underway, you’re served a traditional 3-course festive dinner. Expect a starter of smoked salmon, followed by a main course of roast turkey—an obvious holiday favorite—and finished with a chocolate dessert. It’s a classic menu that hits the mark for many, but some reviews mention the main course arriving cold and lacking flavor. You get a half-bottle of wine per person, which is decent, but you can also purchase drinks at the onboard bar to extend the celebration.

One reviewer noted that after dinner, staff were somewhat absent, and serving coffee was awkward—delivered in a paper cup rather than at the table, which can feel a bit off when you’re trying to relax and enjoy the evening.

The Atmosphere and Entertainment

Post-dinner, the mood shifts to lively as a DJ plays a mix of Christmas classics and more contemporary hits. The setup encourages dancing, and many guests seem to enjoy the opportunity to cut loose and celebrate. However, some reviewers have expressed disappointment about the music selection, citing an hour of Turkish disco that wasn’t what they expected for a Christmas party.

Staff visibility is another factor; some found the crew to be somewhat unengaged or talking amongst themselves, which can make the experience feel less polished. That said, the overall vibe is intended to be festive and fun, with many guests sharing photos and smiling faces.

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The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Group Size

At around $128 per person, this cruise falls into the moderate price range for a Christmas event in London. Given the four-hour duration, it offers a fair amount of entertainment and sightseeing, especially considering the included dinner and drinks. The tables seat about 10 people, making for a lively, communal setting—perfect if you enjoy mingling or want to share the evening with friends or family.

The cruise’s dress code is smart casual or festive—think cozy sweaters and nice outfits—so it’s not overly formal but still requires a bit of effort. Note that the experience isn’t suitable for under-18s, so it’s strictly for adults.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

If you’re after a casual, festive outing with good views, hearty food, and dancing, you might find this cruise hits the spot. It’s especially good for groups wanting a fun night out rather than a refined, high-end dinner. However, if your priority is exceptional food, flawless service, or a quieter, more intimate setting, this might not live up to those expectations.

Keep in mind the mixed reviews—some guests loved the lively atmosphere and the chance to see London’s iconic skyline, while others felt the food and service left a lot to be desired. It’s a gamble, but sometimes that’s part of the charm of holiday festivities.

The Sum Up

The London Christmas Party Dinner Cruise offers a lively way to celebrate the season with friends or family. The views of illuminated London landmarks are genuinely memorable, and the included dinner adds a festive touch. The party atmosphere with music and dancing can make for a fun, carefree evening—if you’re forgiving of some logistical imperfections like service gaps or uneven food quality.

This cruise is best suited to those who value the experience of a Thames cruise with a holiday twist over top-tier dining or seamless service. It’s a good pick if you want a spirited, social setting to mark Christmas, especially in good company.

For serious food lovers or those seeking a luxurious experience, you might want to explore other options. But if your goal is to soak in London’s festive lights, enjoy some wine and good company, and dance into the night, this cruise could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is there a specific dress code I need to follow?
Yes, the cruise recommends a smart-casual or festive dress code, so think neat and comfortable, with a touch of holiday spirit.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience runs for about four hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights, dinner, and dancing.

Are children allowed on this cruise?
No, this experience is only available for guests over 18 years old.

What’s included in the price?
You get a 4-hour cruise, a welcome glass of sparkling wine, a three-course meal with half a bottle of wine per person, and DJ music for dancing.

Can I buy extra drinks?
Absolutely, there’s an onboard bar where you can purchase additional drinks to keep the party going.

Is the experience suitable for a romantic occasion?
While it can be a fun, lively setting, some reviews mention that staff and food quality issues can detract from the romantic vibe. It’s better suited for groups looking to enjoy a festive night rather than a romantic dinner.

In the end, this Christmas cruise offers a good blend of sightseeing, good cheer, and entertainment, but it’s not without its flaws. It’s worth considering if you’re looking for a spirited, social way to celebrate in London, and you’re okay with some unpredictability along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: