Lunch River Cruise on the Thames with 2-Course Meal

If you’re looking for a way to see London’s iconic sights from a fresh perspective, a lunch cruise along the Thames might just be your answer. This experience promises a leisurely 1.5-hour journey with panoramic views, tasty food, and an opportunity to relax while taking in the city’s most famous landmarks. We’ve gone through the reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect—whether you’re after a romantic outing, a scenic lunch, or a relaxed way to enjoy London’s skyline.

One of the things we love about this cruise is how it combines sightseeing with a sit-down meal—no need to choose between the two. Plus, the onboard commentary adds a layer of context to the sights you’ll see, making it educational and fun. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the experience has a fixed seating arrangement, so if you’re hoping for a more private table or a flexible dining setup, that might be a consideration. This cruise works best for those who want a relaxed, scenic meal with views that are hard to beat, especially if you enjoy good food and a bit of history along the way.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see London’s riverside landmarks without the hustle of crowded tours or the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s particularly suited for those celebrating special occasions, couples seeking a romantic change of scenery, or anyone who enjoys a laid-back, visually engaging outing. With a reasonable price point and mostly positive reviews, it’s worth considering if you’re in town and want to combine sightseeing with a hearty meal.

Key Points

• Stunning River Views: See London’s most famous landmarks from a unique vantage point.
• Delicious 2-Course Meal: Enjoy well-cooked, hot dishes like chicken supreme, with coffee or tea included.
• Informative Commentary: Learn about the sights as you cruise, adding depth to your experience.
• Comfortable Setting: Indoor saloon with panoramic windows for great views in all weather.
• Flexible Options: Vegetarian options available, dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice.
• Value for Money: For around $70, you get a scenic cruise plus a meal—good deal considering the experience.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

Your journey starts at Tower Pier, a central and easily accessible location. It’s conveniently close to the Tower of London, so you can even combine this cruise with a visit to the historic fortress if you plan ahead. We like that the check-in is straightforward—arrive about 20 minutes early to avoid feeling rushed. Boarding is smooth, and you’ll be shown to a fixed table in the cozy indoor saloon, which is a plus if you prefer staying dry or shielded from the elements.

Once aboard, the cruise kicks off heading west from Tower Pier. The first sights you’ll encounter include the Tower of London and the towering Shard. The commentary, which is either live or recorded, provides context about these landmarks, making the trip informative without overloading you with details. Many reviews mention how the commentary is both interesting and fun, which helps keep the trip lively.

The cruise then continues past the Shakespeare Globe Theatre and the London Eye—all iconic symbols that look just as impressive from the river as they do from the ground. You’ll get a great view of the London Eye from the water, and some reviews highlight how picturesque the scenery is from the deck. It’s an ideal vantage point to snap photos, especially from the upper deck. If you’re into photography or just want that perfect shot of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, heading up to the upper deck is worth it.

Sightseeing Highlights

As you cruise to Westminster, you’ll see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben—two of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Many travelers have noted how good the views are from the cruise, with some quoting the experience as “fantastic” and the scenery as “breathtaking.” When you approach Westminster, the sights become even more striking, and you’ll have the chance to take photos from the deck or the upper level.

On the return trip, the cruise passes under Tower Bridge, a highlight for many. The boat’s proximity to this iconic structure provides excellent angles for photos, especially if you venture onto the outside deck. Canary Wharf appears on your left as you head back towards Tower Pier, giving you a glimpse of London’s modern financial district contrasting with the historic sites. The voyage wraps up back at Tower Pier, leaving enough time to continue exploring or relaxing.

The Meal and Onboard Amenities

Now, let’s talk about the food. The main draw here is the 2-course meal, which usually includes a main dish like chicken supreme, alongside a dessert, with coffee or tea. The reviews are quite positive about the quality—many mention that the food is cooked well and served hot, which is impressive considering it’s served onboard a boat. Some reviewers even describe it as “very good” and “delicious,” making the meal a value-added aspect of the experience.

Plus, there’s an onboard bar where you can purchase drinks—wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options—if you want to toast or just unwind with a drink as you cruise. This extra touch adds to the relaxed atmosphere, letting you extend your enjoyment beyond just the meal and scenery.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The cruise accommodates up to 60 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable. Many reviews mention the friendly and helpful staff, who are attentive and knowledgeable. The setting is relaxed, and tables are close to each other, which can be great if you enjoy mingling or making new friends during your trip.

Practical Details and What to Keep in Mind

Timing and Duration

The cruise departs from 11:45 am, so arriving at least 20 minutes earlier is advised. The entire trip lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, a perfect duration for a relaxed lunch without feeling rushed. The seating is guaranteed, so you won’t have to worry about last-minute surprises or waiting for a table.

Price and Value

At around $70.39 per person, this experience offers a good balance between cost and what’s included. For that price, you get a scenic cruise, a cooked meal, and the chance to see some of London’s most famous sights—all without the chaos of heavy crowds or complicated logistics.

Dietary Options

Vegetarian options are available, and special dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice—just make sure to specify when booking. The reviews suggest that the food is well-prepared, which adds to the overall value.

Accessibility and Other Considerations

The tour is near public transportation, making it easy to reach. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. Just note that tables are fixed, and the atmosphere is casual, so don’t expect a fancy fine-dining setup—more of a cozy, communal vibe.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, which provides some flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

Summary and Who Will Love This

To wrap up, this Thames lunch cruise is a solid choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a relaxing meal. The stunning views of London’s most iconic landmarks, delicious food, and friendly service make it a memorable experience. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion in London. The fixed seating and casual atmosphere might not appeal if you’re after a private or ultra-formal dining experience, but if you enjoy a good balance of comfort, scenic beauty, and tasty food, this cruise ticks a lot of boxes.

While the experience has garnered largely positive reviews, keep in mind that some reviews mention the commentary could be improved, and the tables are in close proximity—so it’s not a private affair. Still, for the value, the views, and the enjoyable atmosphere, it’s worth considering for a leisurely, scenic lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You get a river Thames cruise with views of London’s major landmarks, a 2-course lunch, and either live or recorded commentary about the sights.

How long does the cruise last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect mid-day activity.

Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and dietary needs can be specified when booking.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Yes, there is an onboard bar where you can purchase wine, beer, or other non-alcoholic drinks.

Do I need to arrive early?
Yes, arriving about 20 minutes before departure ensures a smooth boarding process.

What are the main sights I’ll see?
Expect views of Tower of London, Shard, Globe Theatre, London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf.

Is the seating fixed?
Yes, your table will be assigned in advance, and the tables are in close proximity, creating a communal atmosphere.

Would this be suitable for children?
The experience is relaxed and scenic but doesn’t specify age restrictions. It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but check with the provider if you’re bringing young children.

What is the cost for this experience?
Around $70.39 per person, which includes the meal and cruise—consider it good value for a sightseeing meal in London.

This Thames lunch cruise offers a blend of good food, iconic views, and relaxed ambiance, making it a pleasant way to spend a few hours in London. If you enjoy sightseeing with a side of comfort and tasty bites, it’s definitely worth considering.