Speedboat ‘Tower RIB Blast’ from Tower Millennium Pier – 20 minutes

If you’re visiting London and craving a burst of excitement along with some iconic views, the Speedboat ‘Tower RIB Blast’ from Tower Millennium Pier might just catch your eye. This quick but adrenaline-packed ride offers a very different way to see the city, combining sightseeing with a rush of high-speed fun. Although it’s only 20 minutes long, this experience has managed to garner rave reviews and a solid reputation, making it worth considering if you’re after a memorable thrill.

What we love about this tour is how it blends spectacular views of London’s landmarks with a fun, energetic ride. Plus, the fact that it’s suitable for most ages (with some considerations) makes it more accessible than many other adrenaline activities. On the flip side, the brevity of the trip means you don’t get as much time on the water as you might wish. But overall, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a quick, memorable splash of adventure in the city.

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, families with older children, or anyone who loves the idea of zipping past Tower Bridge at full throttle. If you’re short on time but eager to see a different side of London, this tour fits the bill. Just be aware that it’s weather-dependent and that the group is small, which adds to the feeling of exclusivity and safety.

Key Points

• Fast-paced adventure: 20-minute high-speed boat ride along the Thames.
• Iconic sights: Zoom past Tower Bridge, The Shard, HMS Belfast, and more.
• Engaging commentary: Live, humorous narration enhances the experience.
• Group size: Small groups (up to 12) allow for a more personalized trip.
• Weather considerations: Weather can impact the trip, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
• Booking in advance: Usually booked around 15 days ahead, so plan early if possible.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at Tower Millennium Pier, conveniently located just a short walk from Embankment station. Once you arrive, you’ll find the crew ready to welcome you and brief you on safety. The tour is operated by Thames Rib Experience, who emphasize safety and fun in equal measure. Expect to receive a life jacket, and if the weather looks dodgy, a complimentary poncho to keep you dry.

The Itinerary and Sights

While this is a short tour, it hits some of London’s most recognizable landmarks. As the boat accelerates, you’ll experience a rush like no other, zooming past Tower Bridge, which is always a crowd favorite. The ride also takes you past The Shard and HMS Belfast, giving you a fresh perspective of these iconic structures from the water.

A notable highlight is the stop near the Tower of London and the location where executions took place over 400 years, including that of Captain Kidd. It’s a brief pause in the ride, but the commentary offers some lighthearted history and amusing anecdotes, adding context to the quick sightseeing tour.

The boat then heads toward Canary Wharf and the View from The Shard. The small group size makes it feel more intimate, and the skippers are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable attitude, making safety and fun their priority.

The Thrill Factor

The real draw of this tour is, of course, the speed. The boat alternates between full-throttle bursts and slower, narrated cruising. As one reviewer put it, riding past London Bridge with the James Bond theme music playing gives it a cinematic feel. The adrenaline is real, but so is the safety—many reviewers appreciate the professionalism of the crew, who made them feel secure throughout.

What You’ll Experience

• High-speed thrills: Expect to be whipped past landmarks at full throttle.
• Humorous commentary: The crew keeps you entertained with witty, live narration.
• Scenic views: Despite the short time, the views of London’s skyline are impressive.
• Music and atmosphere: Some reviews mention the James Bond soundtrack, adding to the excitement.
• Weather preparedness: If it’s rainy or chilly, a poncho is provided, but be prepared for an outdoor experience.

Pricing and Value

At around $50.95 per person, this ride is a pretty good deal for a splash of adventure and some of London’s best views. Considering the 20-minute duration, it’s a quick hit but often described as good value for money. Many reviews mention how much fun they had and how it’s worth the price, especially given the personalized, small-group feel.

Who It’s Suitable For

While the ride is generally safe and suitable for most ages, it isn’t for pregnant women or people with serious medical conditions like heart or back problems, as the ride involves high speeds and sudden turns. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult and must weigh at least 15kg. It’s quite popular among families with older kids and adults looking for a thrill, but maybe less ideal for very young children or those sensitive to motion.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a short but exhilarating way to experience London from the water, the Tower RIB Blast is a solid choice. It offers spectacular views, lots of thrilling moments, and a relaxed, friendly vibe thanks to the attentive crew. The small group size makes it feel personal, and the comic commentary adds a lighthearted touch that many travelers appreciate.

The main drawback is its duration—some might find 20 minutes too brief, especially if they’re craving a longer adventure. Also, since it’s weather-dependent, your day could be affected by rain or wind, which might be disappointing but is understandable given the outdoor nature of the ride.

All in all, this speedboat ride is best suited for adventure lovers who want to see London from a different angle and aren’t afraid of a splash of adrenaline. It’s a memorable, fun experience that leaves you with some fantastic photos and stories to tell.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 13 years and under can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult and weigh at least 15kg. It’s ideal for families with older kids who enjoy a thrill.

How long does the tour last?
The trip is approximately 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick but exciting burst of activity.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll pass Tower Bridge, The Shard, HMS Belfast, and the Tower of London. There’s also a brief stop near an historic site related to historical executions.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made around 15 days in advance, but you can sometimes book closer to your date if availability allows.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the high-speed cruise, live commentary, a life jacket, and a complimentary poncho if needed.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the trip. The tour can also be rescheduled if weather causes cancellations.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellation, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—outdoor gear, weatherproof clothing, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are there any medical restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women, or anyone with serious medical conditions like heart or back problems, should avoid this trip.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 12, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

If you’re looking for a fun, quick way to see London’s iconic sights and love a bit of speed, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s a lively, scenic ride that’s easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing—and, frankly, it’s a lot of fun. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, and you’ll be set for an adventure that’s memorable for all the right reasons.