London: IFS Cable Car + Uber Boat One Way River Thames Cruise

If you’re considering a trip that mixes aerial city vistas with a waterway adventure, this combo of the IFS Cloud Cable Car and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve looked at the details, reviews, and what it offers—so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your trip planning.

What stands out first is the chance to see London’s skyline from two very different perspectives—high above from the cable car and afloat on the Thames. Both viewpoints are known for offering visually stunning, memorable moments. Plus, the price—around $33.06 per person—makes it an affordable way to experience both modes of transport and take in some iconic sights.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviewers mention potential confusion about logistics, especially about where to start and what the ticket covers. If you prefer a smooth, straightforward experience, some planning might be needed. This tour suits travelers looking for a photo-friendly, flexible day out that combines scenery with a bit of practical transportation. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy unique vantage points without a hefty price tag.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Great for panoramic views of London from the cable car and the Thames.
• Affordable price point compared to individual tickets for similar attractions.
• Flexible waterway access with the Uber Boat, which runs frequently.
• Good for photography and those wanting a different perspective on the city.
• Some logistical clarity issues reported, especially regarding ticket redemption and pier navigation.
• Ideal for those with a day to explore and a taste for aerial and water views.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This combo ticket, priced at about $33.06, bundles a round-trip ride on the IFS Cloud Cable Car with a one-way cruise on the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. The overall idea is to give you a taste of London’s sights from both high above and on the river, offering different perspectives that complement each other nicely.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Thames River – Uber Boat by Thames Clippers
The journey begins on one of the fleet’s high-speed catamarans, which serve major London piers approximately every 20 minutes. This part of the experience is about comfortable, quick water travel. You can hop on at various piers in the Central and East zones, from Battersea Power Station near the south to Barking Riverside.

The boats feature climate-controlled indoor cabins, outdoor decks, and licensed coffee bars—a welcome feature if you want a drink or need a break from the sun. The view from the water is constantly changing, providing glimpses of London’s bridges, riverbanks, and landmarks like Canary Wharf.

Many reviews mention the convenience of the waterway, with some describing the boat as a “smooth ride” and an easy way to avoid city traffic. One reviewer pointed out, “You’ll love the views from the boat,” especially if you enjoy watching the city go by from a relaxing vantage point.

Note: Your ticket is valid for the entire day within the specified zones, giving you flexibility to hop on and off at different piers, which some travelers find very useful.

Stop 2: Greenwich – IFS Cloud Cable Car
Next, you’ll ascend in the IFS Cloud Cable Car, which is the highest observation point over the Thames at just under 300 feet. It connects Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks, offering spectacular aerial views of London’s skyline—think Canary Wharf, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard, The O2, and the Thames Barriers.

The cable car itself is a popular activity, especially for photographers and visitors wanting a bird’s-eye view of the city. From the air, you get a very different look at the city’s layout, with the river snaking through and the skyline stretching in all directions.

Tip: Many reviews rave about the excellent views, with one reviewer noting, “Being high above the Thames, it’s a fantastic view,” and expressing how memorable the ride is. It’s a shorter ride, but the vistas make it worthwhile.

Stop 3: Cable Car Experience & Additional Attractions
After your aerial ride, you get access to some interactive activities around the cable car station—like the Selfie Factory, Teddy Workshop, and VR experiences. These are free with your ticket and offer a bit of fun, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want to extend your visit.

What to Expect in Practice

While the visuals are the main draw, there are some practical considerations. Many reviews highlight logistical issues, especially with ticket validation and finding the correct pier. Some travelers mentioned that instructions were not always clear, leading to confusion about where to redeem tickets or which pier to go to. For example, one reviewer said, “We had to send an email because the machine didn’t work,” illustrating some hiccups.

The boarding process for the Uber Boat is on a first-come, first-served basis, which can mean waiting during busy times. The boats run on a fairly frequent schedule, but during peak hours, queues or wait times could slightly affect your plans.

The cable car generally has minimal wait times, and riders report no trouble boarding once you arrive at North Greenwich Pier. The return trip on the cable car is included, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs.

Duration and Overall Experience

This entire experience can last from about 1 to 4 hours depending on how long you spend at each stop. If you’re pressed for time, a quick ride on both the cable car and Thames waterway still offers a lot of value for the price, especially if you’re interested in great photo opportunities.

The reviews are generally positive, with many calling this a “great day out” and “worth the money,” especially for first-time visitors or those looking to see London from a new angle. Some find the experience relaxing and enjoyable, especially with friendly staff and smooth rides.

What Doesn’t Work as Well

A few reviews mention disappointments like limited views from the cable car (it doesn’t go far) or confusing instructions on how to use the tickets. One person said, “Most of what you see below is land being developed,” which might be a turnoff if you’re expecting iconic landmarks at every turn.

Another common gripe is long wait times and queues, especially for the Uber Boat during busy periods. If you’re traveling with children or in a tight schedule, this could be frustrating.

The Practical Side: Ticket Value and Limitations

While the price is attractive, it’s worth considering what you’re paying for. The $33.06 fee includes a single waterway journey and a roundtrip cable car ride, with access to the interactive exhibits. It’s not a full sightseeing tour of London’s landmarks, but it’s a good way to experience the city’s views without extra costs.

You should note that tickets are only valid within the Central and East zones (Battersea Power Station to Barking Riverside). Also, tickets are not valid for The O2 Post Show Express or West Zone services. If you’re planning on visiting other attractions, you’ll need separate tickets.

Considerations

• Booking is recommended around 12 days in advance, which gives you the best chance to secure your preferred time.
• Boarding is first-come, first-served, so arriving early helps avoid missing out.
• Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult, which is standard but worth noting if traveling with kids.
• Accessibility: Only certain mobility scooters are approved for Uber Boat, so check in advance if needed.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This combo is best suited for first-time visitors wanting an overview of London’s skyline and river. If you love photography, you’ll appreciate the unique vantage points. It’s also a good choice if you want flexibility—the waterway offers quick trips between areas without fighting traffic, and the cable car provides a scenic break.

However, if your main goal is an in-depth sightseeing tour or visiting specific landmarks, you might find this experience somewhat limited. It’s more of a leisurely, scenic outing rather than a comprehensive sightseeing day.

Final Thoughts

This London combo offers a fun and affordable way to see the city from two perspectives—sky and water. The stunning views and photo opportunities are what make it stand out. Many travelers call it “a great day out” and “worth the money,” especially when you consider the cost of doing both activities separately.

That said, some logistical challenges—unclear instructions, queues, and limited views from the cable car—are worth keeping in mind. Better planning, especially regarding ticket redemption and pier locations, can make this experience smoother.

If you’re looking for a light, scenic outing with beautiful sights, and you’re okay with some minor inconveniences, this combo tour might just fit the bill. It’s a flexible, no-hassle way to add a splash of adventure to your London trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children up to age 10 need to be accompanied by an adult. The experience is generally family-friendly, especially the cable car and waterway ride, but check the specific attractions for age restrictions if you plan to do more.

Can I use the ticket for multiple journeys?
Your ticket is valid for a one-way journey on the Uber Boat within the specified zones, plus a roundtrip on the cable car. You can hop on and off the Thames waterway within the day, offering flexibility.

Are the tickets all digital?
Yes, tickets are mobile, so you just need to show your printed or electronic ticket at the pier. Some users mentioned confusion about ticket validation, so arrive early and have your QR code ready.

How often do the Uber Boats run?
Approximately every 20 minutes, making it fairly convenient to plan your trip. During busy times, queues are possible, so plan accordingly.

Is there a restroom or food available on the boats and cable car?
Yes, the Uber Boat features licensed coffee bars and indoor seating. Food and beverages are available for purchase at the stations and on the boat.

Does the cable car go to all parts of London?
No, it connects Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. It offers great views but doesn’t cover the entire city.

What if the weather is bad?
The Uber Boats have indoor cabins, so you’re protected from rain or wind. The cable car is open but has covered sections, so it’s still enjoyable even in less-than-perfect weather.

Can I bring a mobility scooter?
Certain models of mobility scooters are allowed on Uber Boat vessels, but some larger ones may not fit. Contact Uber Boat directly if needed.

What about the noise or safety on the water and in the cable car?
Both are generally safe and well-maintained. The boats are climate-controlled and have safety measures, while the cable car is a popular attraction with sturdy safety features.

This review aims to give you a full picture of what to expect from this London combo experience—balancing the scenic perks with practical tips. If the views and water transport sound appealing, it can be a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.