Lunch River Cruise on the Thames with 2-Course Meal

Key Points

• Affordable luxury at $70.39 per person for a 1.5-hour cruise with a 2-course meal
• Departs daily at 11:45 am from Tower Pier with guaranteed seating
• See iconic London landmarks such as Tower of London, London Eye, Big Ben, and Westminster from the river
• Enjoy panoramic views from fixed tables within the cozy indoor saloon and outdoor decks
• Includes a delicious fixed-menu lunch featuring dishes like chicken supreme, with tea and coffee
• Optional drinks available for purchase at the onboard bar

A Scenic Thames Lunch Cruise with Top London Sights

The Lunch River Cruise on the Thames offers a relaxing and scenic way to experience London’s most famous landmarks. For $70.39, this 1 hour and 30 minutes cruise from Tower Pier to Westminster includes a 2-course meal and panoramic views that make it stand out among sightseeing options. The high rating of 4.5 out of 5 from nearly 900 reviews underscores its popularity and quality. The cruise departs every day at 11:45 am, providing a perfect midday escape with a mix of sightseeing, fine dining, and gentle relaxation.

This tour appeals especially to those looking for a combination of cultural sights and leisure. The fixed tables and panoramic windows ensure everyone gets a great view, whether on the indoor or outdoor decks. The included lunch is a key highlight, with dishes like chicken supreme cooked fresh and served hot. While drinks are not included, the onboard bar offers a variety of beverages for purchase, making the experience flexible for all preferences.

Convenient Meeting Point at Tower Pier in Central London

The tour starts at Tower Pier, conveniently close to the Tower of London. Travelers should arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled departure to allow for boarding and seating arrangements. The pier is easy to find, and the tour offers guaranteed seat allocation, with tables arranged in close proximity to foster a relaxed, social atmosphere. The pier’s central location makes it simple to combine this cruise with other London sightseeing plans.

The cruise ends back at Tower Pier, giving plenty of time afterward to explore nearby attractions or continue walking along the river. The timing of the departure at 11:45 am positions the activity perfectly for those wanting a leisurely lunch and sightseeing experience before the afternoon.

What Landmarks Will You See Along the Thames?

The itinerary highlights London’s most famous sights visible from the river. Starting at Tower Pier, you’ll pass the iconic Tower of London, a historic fortress that has guarded the city for centuries. As the boat heads west, you’ll get excellent views of the Shard, a modern skyscraper dominating the skyline, and the Globe Theatre, a symbol of Shakespeare’s London.

The London Eye is one of the most photogenic sights on this cruise, situated on the South Bank, where you can take stunning photos from the upper deck. The cruise then loops at Westminster, offering close-up views of the Houses of Parliament and the Big Ben clock tower. The view of Canary Wharf appears as the boat heads toward Greenwich, and the famous Tower Bridge is passed under in all its grandeur.

Each landmark is seen from the comfort of the boat, with plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos atop the outdoor decks or through the panoramic windows inside.

The Food: A Well-Prepared 2-Course Meal

The lunch is a notable aspect of this experience, with a fixed 2-course menu that includes a main dish like chicken supreme, along with a dessert and coffee or tea. The quality of the food receives high praise, with reviews mentioning that it is cooked well and served hot, despite being a fixed menu.

The indoor saloon provides a cozy setting for dining, with fixed tables close to each other—ideal for socializing. For those wishing to enhance their experience, the onboard bar offers a selection of wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase. This allows guests to enjoy a glass of wine with their meal or unwind with a cold drink while taking in the views.

The meals are served mid-cruise, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenery and relax during lunch. The value for money is highlighted by the quality of food paired with stunning sights, making this cruise a good option for those wanting a delicious meal combined with sightseeing.

Views from the Upper Deck and Inside Saloon

You can choose to sit inside the cozy saloon or step outside onto the upper deck for the best photo opportunities. The fixed tables inside are well-positioned with panoramic windows providing clear views of London’s skyline, regardless of where you sit.

On the upper deck, travelers can enjoy fresh air and an unobstructed view of landmarks like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye. The outdoor decks are perfect for capturing photos or simply soaking in the atmosphere of the river. Weather permitting, outdoor viewing enhances the experience, but the indoor seating ensures comfort even in less favorable weather.

Commentary and Guide Insights During the Cruise

The tour includes live or recorded commentary that offers insights into London’s historical sights and modern landmarks. Review comments suggest that the commentary is informative and entertaining, adding context to the views without overwhelming the experience.

The friendly and professional staff are praised for their helpfulness, making sure everyone feels comfortable and well looked after. The commentary adds depth to the sightseeing, turning the cruise into an educational yet relaxing journey.

The Overall Experience and Crowd Levels

The cruise maintains a relaxed atmosphere, with most reviews highlighting the attentiveness of the staff and the smooth operation. The group size is capped at 60 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience and meaningful interaction with crew members.

Most reviews agree that this tour offers good value for money, balancing delicious food, spectacular views, and informative commentary. Its bookings tend to be made around 31 days in advance, indicating strong popularity and the need for early planning.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The meeting point at Tower Pier is accessible by public transportation, making it easy to reach. Since service animals are allowed, the tour is inclusive for those with specific needs. Travelers are advised to arrive 20 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding.

While the fixed tables are close together, the panoramic windows provide excellent visibility for everyone. The cruise is suitable for most travelers with moderate walking ability, though it is advisable to check for specific mobility needs beforehand.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Some reviews mention that the food options are limited to the fixed menu, which might not suit everyone’s dietary preferences. However, vegetarian options are available if requested in advance.

The drinks are not included in the ticket price and are available for purchase, so those looking for an all-inclusive experience may want to budget extra. Also, the tables are fixed and close together, which might impact privacy for some guests.

Final Thoughts on the Thames Lunch Cruise

This lunch cruise along the Thames offers a well-rounded experience combining spectacular views, good food, and relaxed ambiance. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting to enjoy London from the river while indulging in a delicious meal. The professional staff and comfortable setting ensure a smooth journey, and the view of landmarks like Tower Bridge and Big Ben makes it memorable.

While it may not be suited for those seeking a large, lively party atmosphere or special dietary customization, it excels as a calm, scenic, and tasty way to see London during the midday hours. The positive reviews and high rating reflect its reputation as a trusted and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the meal included in the price?
Yes, the 2-course meal is included, featuring dishes like chicken supreme and dessert, along with coffee or tea. Drinks are not included but available for purchase.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
You will see Tower of London, London Eye, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Shard, Globe Theatre, Canary Wharf, and Tower Bridge, among others.

What is the departure time and meeting point?
The cruise departs at 11:45 am from Tower Pier. It is recommended to arrive 20 minutes early for boarding.

Is the cruise accessible for travelers with mobility needs?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, with easy access to the pier by public transportation. Specific mobility considerations should be checked beforehand, but service animals are allowed.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 3 days before the scheduled date for a full refund. Cancellations within 3 days are non-refundable.