London: River Thames Speed Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a fast, fun, and memorable way to explore London’s most famous landmarks, then the River Thames Speed Boat Tour might be just what you need. This isn’t your typical sightseeing cruise; it’s a high-octane ride packed with adrenaline, laughter, and unique views. With a stellar rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on over 700 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience worth every penny.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the speed — you’ll be flying down the Thames at speeds of up to 30 knots, which adds a real thrill to your sightseeing. Second, the entertaining narration delivered by a comedian guide, injecting humor into the journey while sharing interesting tidbits about London’s history. A possible consideration? The tour’s speed and movement may not suit everyone, especially those with back issues or a fear of fast rides.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and sightseeing, especially those who want to see London from a different perspective. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or even a family with older children, it offers a lively way to appreciate the city’s landmarks without the usual formalities of traditional tours.

Key Points

• Adrenaline-filled ride with speeds of up to 30 knots across the Thames.
• Entertaining guide providing engaging commentary with humor, making the experience fun and informative.
• Spectacular views of iconic sights like the London Eye, Tower of London, and Tower Bridge from a unique vantage point.
• 45 to 50 minutes of high-speed sightseeing—perfect for a quick but exciting outing.
• All safety gear included, with a full safety briefing and life jackets.
• Suitable for infants from 6 months upwards, but not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

When you arrive at the Waterloo Millennium London Eye Pier, you’ll notice the lively atmosphere that comes with a popular activity like this. The tour starts from Boarding Gate 1, right underneath the London Eye, making it an easy and scenic starting point. You’ll be greeted by your skipper, who’s experienced and ready to take you on this high-speed adventure.

Once onboard, a quick safety briefing sets the tone—it’s all about having fun but staying safe. Life jackets are provided, and the boat is a sleek, aerodynamically streamlined vessel with 880bhp powering it through the water. The onboard sound system fills the air with music, keeping energy high as you prepare for the thrill ahead.

The Landmarks and Sightseeing

The core of the tour is the speedy cruise along the Thames, with frequent stops at key landmarks. The itinerary includes a quick look at the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Cleopatra’s Needle, Somerset House, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, among others. Each site is passed by for a brief but captivating gaze, with narration from your guide explaining the significance of each spot.

One user review mentioned, “It was slow up to Tower Bridge, just admiring the sights and hearing about the places, then the speed kicked in, and everyone loved it.” This pattern of calm sightseeing followed by a burst of speed is typical. The boat approaches each landmark with enough time to snap some photos, enjoy the scenery, and listen to the amusing commentary.

The Speed and Thrills

The highlight for many is the high-speed acceleration—the boat pushes up to 30 knots, which translates to around 35 mph. This isn’t just a smooth cruise; it’s an exhilarating ride that makes your heart race. Many reviews mention the adrenaline rush and how safe yet exciting the ride feels, thanks largely to the skilled skipper and crew.

A recent reviewer noted, “Flying down the river at 50-60 mph was pretty good too lol,” highlighting the pure thrill factor. The boat’s twists and turns, combined with energetic music, create a lively atmosphere that keeps everyone engaged. Despite the speed, passengers consistently mention feeling safe and well-guided, with clear instructions throughout.

The Guides and Atmosphere

What really elevates this experience is the guide’s personality. Reviewers rave about guides like Jeff, Jordan, Max, and others, describing them as funny, knowledgeable, and engaging. Their humor and anecdotes turn a speedboat ride into a storytelling adventure, making the experience enjoyable for all ages. One review states, “Jeff was really amazing. All the tour was cool. Kids were more than happy!”

This sense of entertainment coupled with informative narration makes the ride appealing not just for thrill-seekers but for anyone interested in London’s sights. The crew’s friendliness and wit are often cited as a highlight—adding a layer of personal touch that differentiates this from more traditional tours.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is a steady parade of London’s most recognizable landmarks, with brief passes rather than long stops. Here’s what you can expect at each stage:

• London Eye
  A quick pass providing spectacular views of the giant ferris wheel and the South Bank. Many reviews mention the stunning scenery and the chance to see the city from a different angle.

• Houses of Parliament
  While you pass by quickly, it’s a chance to admire the historic building and listen to the guide sharing tidbits about Parliament’s history.

• Cleopatra’s Needle & Somerset House
  Passing these iconic monuments and buildings, you get a glimpse of London’s ancient and modern architectural contrasts.

• St Paul’s Cathedral & Shakespeare’s Globe
  From the water, the domes and theaters stand out impressively, making for great photo opportunities.

• London Bridge & The Shard
  You’ll glide past London’s famous bridge and the sleek Shard skyscraper, marveling at their impressive structures from the water.

• HMS Belfast & Tower of London
  These historic sites are a highlight, with the Tower’s fortress walls and the battleship’s sleek lines offering compelling visuals.

• Tower Bridge
  The iconic bascule bridge is a must-see, and although you only pass by for about two minutes, it’s a classic London shot.

• Speedboat segment
  Separate from the sightseeing, this is where your adrenaline peaks—roughly seven minutes of full-throttle fun.

• Canary Wharf & Return
  After the speed section, you cruise past the modern Canary Wharf, soaking in the skyline views before heading back to the starting point.

• Photo stop and free time
  Towards the end, there’s a 15-minute window for photos or simply soaking in the sights before returning.

The Value and Practicalities

At $80.75 per person for around 50 minutes, this tour is a good deal considering the speed and entertainment factor. It’s more than just a sightseeing cruise; it’s an experience that combines adventure with education, all delivered by guides who keep it lively.

While it’s not a long tour, many reviewers feel the adrenaline and views make it worth the price. Several mention that it’s a “great value” and recommend it for a quick, memorable splash of London’s sights. Plus, the included safety gear and professional crew help ensure a secure experience, even at high speeds.

However, note that food and drink are not included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or thirsty. Also, check availability beforehand, as the tours require at least 8 passengers and may be rescheduled if that minimum isn’t met.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is fantastic for adventure lovers who want a high-energy way to see London, especially if you’re tired of traditional boat cruises. It’s very popular among those who enjoy speed and fun, and the humorous guides make it accessible and entertaining.

Families with children over six enjoy the ride, though it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users. The experience suits solo travelers, couples, or groups looking for a lively activity.

If you’re someone who appreciates a good story along with your sightseeing, and you’re open to a little adrenaline, this tour is a great pick. Just be prepared for a fast-paced ride that will leave your heart pounding—and your camera full of memorable photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 50 minutes, including sightseeing, speed segments, and photo stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Boarding Gate 1, Waterloo Millennium London Eye Pier, and returns to the same point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 months and older can participate, but all passengers need to be able to sit unaided.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially since London weather can be unpredictable.

Are food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the ticket price.

What if the minimum number of passengers isn’t met?
The tour can be rescheduled if fewer than 8 passengers book for a specific sail.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users. Also, unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

Wrapping It Up

The London River Thames Speed Boat Tour offers a lively, memorable way to see London’s most iconic sights with a hefty dose of excitement. It’s an experience that combines the thrill of high-speed adventure with engaging storytelling, making it a hit for travelers craving a bit of adrenaline along with their sightseeing. The guides’ humor and professionalism shine through, and the views are truly stunning from the water.

This is best suited for those who enjoy a fast-paced, fun activity—be it a solo traveler, a couple seeking a unique date, or a family with older children looking for an adventure. If you’re after a traditional cruise with a relaxed vibe, this probably isn’t for you, but for thrill-seekers and sightseers alike, it’s a solid choice.

Just remember to dress weather-appropriate, hold on tight, and prepare for a ride that’s as much about the laughs and sights as it is about speed. It’s an adventure you’ll talk about long after your trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: