London: 40-Minute Thames Beast Jetboat Tour — Thrilling Speed on the Thames

The London: 40-Minute Thames Beast Jetboat Tour offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure right on the River Thames. For $76.78 per person, travelers are whisked away on a high-speed ride that lasts approximately 40 minutes, starting from Tower Millennium Pier. This tour is perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of fast-moving watercraft who want a memorable way to see famous London sights from a new perspective.

With 880 HP jet-powered engines driven by two Rolls Royce jets, the Thames Beast guarantees excitement, twisting and turning at speed along the river. The tour includes a safety briefing, qualified skippers, and minimal guided commentary, allowing the focus to remain firmly on pure exhilaration. It’s important to note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with heart or back issues, or children under 15 kg (33 lbs).

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Key Points

High-Speed Adventure: 40 minutes of adrenaline on a jetboat with twists, turns, and lively music.
Iconic Sightseeing: Views of Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, The Shard, and the Thames Barrier.
Expert Skippers: The tour is led by qualified professional crew ensuring safety and fun.
Minimal Commentary: Focus on thrill and sights, with light PA announcements.
Comfort and Safety: Includes mandatory life jackets and complimentary ponchos if needed.
Meeting point at Tower Millennium Pier, easily accessible via Tower Hill Station.

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Starting at Tower Millennium Pier for a Speedy River Quest

The journey begins at Tower Millennium Pier, located on the north bank of the Thames. Travelers should walk onto Boarding Point E, just a 5-minute walk from Tower Hill underground station. The tour departs at various times (check availability), with the entire experience lasting around 40 minutes. After the ride, guests return directly to the same pier, making logistics simple and straightforward.

Twisting Through London’s Most Famous Landmarks

During this fast-paced trip, the boat makes a quick sightseeing detour at The Shard and HMS Belfast, each for about 1 and 2 minutes respectively. These brief stops allow for quick photo opportunities of London’s skyline and historic ships. The highlight is the photo stop at Tower Bridge, where the boat pauses for a couple of minutes, giving viewers a chance to capture pictures of one of London’s most iconic structures.

The Thrill of the Thames Beast Jetboat Ride

Most of the 35-minute main segment involves speeding and spinning along the river. The boat’s 880 HP engines propel it at high speeds, with twisting turns and a roaring sound that adds to the excitement. The ride features music playlists that enhance the atmosphere, with Bond tunes and “beasty vibes” cranking up the energy.

The minimal commentary means the focus remains on the thrill of the ride, with the crew providing safety instructions and reassurance. The screaming twists and speeding are what set this tour apart from calmer sightseeing cruises, making it ideal for adventure lovers.

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Safety Measures and Accessibility

Safety is a priority on the Thames Beast. Every passenger wears a mandatory life jacket, and complimentary plastic ponchos are available in case of splashes or rain. The boat limits passenger numbers to 12 per trip, ensuring a comfortable and secure experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the activity is conducted in English.

However, travelers should be aware of weight restrictions (minimum of 15 kg (33 lbs)) and that any persons with heart, back problems, or pregnancy are not eligible to join. The operator reserves the right to alter booking times if passenger minimums (6–8) are not met, so flexibility is advised.

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Practical Tips for Your Thames Speed Adventure

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and dress in warm clothing, as the boat ride can be chilly, especially on windy days. Since food and drinks are not permitted onboard, it’s best to eat beforehand. No smoking, vaping, alcohol, or unaccompanied minors are allowed onboard, ensuring safety and comfort for all participants.

It’s advisable to check availability and start times in advance, as the tour runs at different times during the day. Cancelations are free if made at least 24 hours before departure, giving flexibility in case plans change.

What Sets the Thames Beast Apart from Other Thames Tours?

Unlike traditional sightseeing cruises, the Thames Beast delivers high-speed thrills on speedboats powered by Rolls Royce jets, reaching full throttle in just seconds. The short, intense 40-minute format ensures a full dose of adrenaline without taking up the entire day.

While some tours focus on leisurely sightseeing or dinner cruises, this experience emphasizes speed, excitement, and energetic music, appealing to adventure enthusiasts and young travelers. The brief stops at key landmarks make it a quick yet exhilarating way to see the city.

Summary of the Experience

The London: 40-Minute Thames Beast Jetboat Tour offers a unique blend of London sightseeing and high-speed adventure. For $76.78, thrill-seekers get a fast-paced ride past Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, and the Thames Barrier, with plenty of twists and turns designed to thrill.

The expert crew and safety measures guarantee a secure experience, while the music playlist and screaming turns add a fun atmosphere. This tour is best suited for adults and older children who crave speed and excitement, rather than a slow sightseeing cruise.

It’s a compact, adrenaline-filled activity that leaves a lasting impression of London’s river and skyline—perfect for those wanting a dose of adventure on the Thames.

Ready to Book?

London: 40-Minute Thames Beast Jetboat Tour

4.6

(9)

“Super cool experience, also quite exciting. Not for the faint hearted Plays loud music, speakers next to first row.”

— Ace, July 25, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 15 kg (33 lbs) or 13 years and under need an adult over 18 present. The ride is fast and intense, so it suits older children and adults best.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as the ride can be chilly. Ponchos are provided if needed.

Are food and drinks allowed onboard?
No, food, drinks, smoking, and vaping are not permitted during the ride.

How many people are on each boat?
Each boat holds a maximum of 12 passengers, keeping the experience intimate and secure.

What landmarks will I see?
You will pass Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, The Shard, and stop briefly at the Thames Barrier.

How long is the main speed segment?
The speedboat ride lasts approximately 35 minutes, with brief stops for sightseeing.

Where does the tour start and end?
Starts and ends at Tower Millennium Pier, on the north side of the river.

Is the tour guided?
There is minimal commentary, mainly safety instructions and some fun facts, provided via PA system.

What makes this tour unique?
Its high-speed jets powered by Rolls Royce engines and thrilling twists distinguish it from calmer river cruises, making it ideal for adventure lovers.

This detailed review captures everything you need to know about the London: 40-Minute Thames Beast Jetboat Tour—a quick, exciting, and unforgettable way to explore London’s river in a rush of adrenaline.