London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River

London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River: A Scenic, Entertaining Evening

The London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River offers a memorable way to enjoy the city’s famous landmarks over 3 hours of elegant dining and live entertainment. Priced at $126.98 per person, this cruise departs from Westminster Pier and showcases the best of London’s illuminated riverside attractions, including the Tower of London, London Eye, and Tower Bridge.

This tour is perfect for those craving a relaxed evening with gourmet British cuisine, sparkling wine, and live music. While most travelers find the experience delightful, some reviews point out the importance of arriving early and managing expectations around food service timing. The group size maxes out at 160 people, creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• 3-hour cruise departing from Westminster Pier with fixed tables for maximum viewing.
• Includes a 3-course British meal with vegetarian options available upon request.
• Sparkling wine greeting and live music with dancing options.
• Iconic sights like Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and The Shard pass right by.
• Boarding begins 20 minutes before departure for smooth seating.
• Most reviews mention fantastic views and good food, but some note logistical delays in food service.

The Starting Point and Boarding Process

The tour begins at Westminster Pier, where boarding starts 20 minutes before the scheduled departure. Guests receive a guaranteed seat upon check-in, with tables fixed in close proximity but offering excellent panoramic views through large windows. Arriving early is recommended to ensure a relaxed boarding experience and to secure the best table options.

The pier’s central London location makes it easy to access via public transportation, and service animals are allowed onboard. Travelers should arrive dressed comfortably, especially since the outdoor decks are perfect for viewing the illuminated skyline.

What to Expect During the 3-Hour Thames Cruise

Once aboard, guests are welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine or soft drink in the lounge. This initial drink sets a relaxed tone as the vessel pulls away from Westminster, revealing early views of London’s skyline. The cruise passes under Tower Bridge, offers a view of St. Paul’s Cathedral, and sails past landmarks like Canary Wharf and Tower of London.

The itinerary includes multiple points of interest, such as passing by Sea Life Aquarium, the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and the Thames Flood Barrier. The upper deck provides perfect photo opportunities, especially of the London Eye and the Coca-Cola London Eye.

The 3-Course British Dinner

The meal features classic British dishes, with a vegetarian option available if requested during booking. The set menu offers a variety of options, with some reviews praising the delicious food, including salmon, chicken, and tiramisu.

While most reviews highlight the hot, well-presented meals, some mention moments of delay in serving the main course, which can lead to waiting at a dock before the meal begins. The dining experience balances the gourmet aspect with the practicality of a set menu served on a moving boat.

Live Music, Entertainment, and Dancing

Throughout the cruise, a live performer provides musical entertainment, enhancing the relaxed, festive atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to hit the dance floor or simply enjoy the breathtaking views from the outer decks.

The entertainment receives high praise—reviews mention a fabulous singer, requests for songs, and a friendly staff that keeps the mood lively. The dancing tends to continue late into the night, making this cruise a lively evening affair.

Highlights of the Landmark Passes

The cruise’s highlights include sailing under Tower Bridge, where the glowing structure creates a dramatic backdrop. Passing St. Paul’s Cathedral and viewing the London Eye from the water provide exceptional photo moments.

Travelers also enjoy catching Canary Wharf on the left side during the journey towards Greenwich, and viewing the London skyline at night is described as breathtaking by many.

Practical Tips for Your Thames Dinner Cruise

• Arrive 20 minutes early to avoid rushing and to secure a preferred seat.
• Special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, must be specified at booking.
• Drinks after the complimentary sparkling wine are pay-per-drink, so budget accordingly.
• The outside decks are ideal for photos and fresh air, but dress warmly in cooler months.
• Children under 13 are not allowed on this cruise, making it ideal for adults.

The Experience of the Crew and Service

Most reviews praise the friendly staff and attentive service, with the crew making efforts to ensure a smooth experience. Some reviews note occasional delays in food service or organizational issues, but overall the service is considered adequate given the setting.

Guests appreciate the value for money, especially considering the included 3-course meal, live entertainment, and spectacular views.

Comparing to Other London River Tours

While some reviews suggest that dining in a restaurant might be better for quality, most agree that the combination of scenery, food, and entertainment on the cruise offers a unique experience. The fixed tables and close proximity make it more social and lively than some private river trips.

The VIP upgrade, which includes additional canapés, welcome champagne, and upgraded seating, is available for those seeking a more luxurious experience, though basic tickets still provide excellent value.

Final Thoughts on the London Dinner Cruise

The London Dinner Cruise on the Thames offers an engaging way to see the city’s iconic sights while enjoying a gourmet British dinner and live music. The breathtaking views at night and the lively atmosphere make it especially appealing for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a special evening out.

While the timing of food service can sometimes be a minor inconvenience, most guests find the experience worth the price and the effort to arrive early. This cruise suits those wanting a scenic, entertaining, and relaxed night in London.

The combination of stunning scenery, good food, and lively entertainment makes this cruise a solid choice for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying London from a different perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, children under the age of 13 are not allowed on this cruise.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for approximately 3 hours.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket includes a guaranteed seat, a 3-course British meal, a glass of sparkling wine or soft drink upon boarding, and live musical entertainment.

Can I request dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and specific dietary needs should be advised at the time of booking.

What landmarks can I expect to see?
Guests view Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye, and Canary Wharf, among others.

Is there an option for VIP seating or upgrades?
Yes, the VIP cruise upgrade offers additional canapés, welcome champagne, and upgraded seating.

How do I find the meeting point?
The Westminster Pier is the departure location, located in central London, accessible via public transportation.

Are drinks beyond the initial glass included?
No, additional alcohol can be purchased onboard, but soft drinks and water are available with the meal.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is suitable, and layering is recommended for outdoor decks, especially in cooler weather.

How do I cancel the booking?
Cancellations are accepted up to 3 days before the cruise for a full refund. Cancellations less than 3 days prior are not refundable.