Speedboat ‘THE THAMES BEAST’ from Tower Millennium Pier – 40 mins

Exciting Thames Speedboat Ride with Landmark Views for £78

The Speedboat ‘THE THAMES BEAST’ offers an exhilarating 40-minute adventure on the Thames River starting at Tower Millennium Pier in London. Priced at $78.18 per person, this high-speed cruise combines the thrill of a speedboat ride with stunning views of London’s most iconic landmarks. With a rating of 5.0 based on 33 reviews, and 97% recommending it, this tour is praised for its fun and unique perspective of the city. The tour is particularly appealing to those looking for an adrenaline shot while sightseeing, with an intimate group size limited to 12 passengers for a more personal experience.

This tour departs from a conveniently located meeting point in central London, making it easy to fit into your schedule. While the ride offers minimal commentary—so you can concentrate on the sights and the adrenaline—the route takes you past O2 Arena, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Greenwich, Cutty Sark, Thames Barrier, and ends with a view of the Shard on the return. The experience is suitable for most travelers, though children must weigh at least 15kg (2.36 stone), and pregnant women or those with serious medical conditions are advised against participation.

Key Points

• Fast-paced 40-minute speedboat cruise on the Thames River
• Limited to 12 passengers for an exclusive, intimate experience
• Passes famous landmarks including Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, and Greenwich
• Booking in advance is recommended, with an average of 24 days ahead
• Weather-dependent, with options for full refund if canceled
• Includes lifejackets and complimentary poncho if rain occurs

Starting Point at Tower Millennium Pier in Central London

The tour begins at Tower Millennium Pier, located on Lower Thames Street in London. This easily accessible location is near public transportation, making it convenient regardless of where you’re staying. The pier provides a straightforward meeting point, which helps keep the start of your experience hassle-free. The activity ends back at the same point, making logistics simple for travelers.

Once onboard, you’ll quickly notice the small group size of just 12 passengers, which enhances the sense of adventure and ensures you get plenty of space to enjoy the ride. The mobile ticket system allows for quick check-in, and the tour departs at a time that suits your schedule, thanks to flexible options.

The Thrills of High-Speed Thames Navigation

What makes this tour stand out is the high-speed nature of the cruise. The Thames Rib Experience specializes in providing a fast, exhilarating ride that gets your adrenaline pumping right from the start. You will zip along the river at a breakneck pace, feeling the wind and spray as you pass by key city sights. This is not a leisurely cruise—it’s an adrenaline-fueled adventure that emphasizes fun and excitement.

The boat’s high speed means you’ll cover more ground in less time, giving a dynamic perspective of the city. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a thrilling activity combined with sightseeing rather than a traditional river cruise with extensive commentary.

Landmark Passes: Tower Bridge, O2 Arena, and Greenwich

During the 40-minute ride, you’ll pass several of London’s most recognizable landmarks. The route includes a view of Tower Bridge, with its iconic bascule design, and the O2 Arena, a major entertainment hub. As you speed past, you’ll also see Canary Wharf, known for its modern skyscrapers, and Greenwich, site of the historic Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory.

The tour goes further to include a view of the Thames Barrier, a vital flood prevention structure, and concludes with a sight of the Shard building on the way back into the pier. Despite minimal commentary during the ride, the visual spectacle of these sites combined with the sense of speed creates a memorable experience.

What to Expect During the Stops and Route

The itinerary is straightforward, focusing on the ride and views rather than multiple stops. The stop points are primarily visual, allowing passengers to appreciate landmarks from the water. No lengthy stops are included, but the passage past these sites offers excellent photo opportunities—particularly at Tower Bridge and Greenwich.

While the minimal commentary enhances the focus on the scenery and thrill, the view of the Shard at the end provides a fitting conclusion to the sightseeing portion of the experience. This cruise showcases London’s skyline from a fresh, fast-moving perspective that’s both fun and visually rewarding.

What Is Included in the Price

The ticket price covers all fees and taxes, with lifejackets provided for safety. In case of rain or wet weather, a complimentary plastic poncho is available to keep you comfortable. The tour also offers a high-speed river cruise experience that is both safe and exhilarating.

It’s important to note that hotel pickup or drop-off is not included**, so travelers need to arrange their own transportation to and from Tower Millennium Pier. The mobile ticket offers flexibility, and the activity can be booked well in advance—on average, 24 days ahead—ensuring availability.

Practical Information and Safety Notes

The maximum group size of 12 makes this experience ideal for those who prefer a more personalized adventure. The tour is suitable for most people, with the exception of pregnant women, and individuals with heart, back, or serious medical conditions. Children 13 years and under must be accompanied by an adult and must weigh at least 15kg.

This activity is weather-dependent, and poor weather conditions can lead to cancellation. In such cases, participants are offered a reschedule or full refund. Changes after booking may incur a £25 admin fee, so it’s best to plan ahead.

How This Tour Compares to Other London Experiences

Unlike traditional sightseeing cruises with extensive commentary and leisurely pacing, this tour emphasizes speed, excitement, and a visual focus. It’s perfect for adventure seekers who want to see London’s landmarks in a thrilling way. The limited group size also provides a more intimate experience compared to larger boat tours.

The cost of $78.18 is competitive for a high-speed adventure of this duration, and the bookings tend to be made about 24 days in advance on average, indicating good popularity. This tour complements other activities like big bus hop-on-hop-off tours or day trips to Stonehenge, but it offers a more adrenaline-fueled perspective of London.

Cancellation Policy and Flexibility

The free cancellation policy allows participants to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Because the experience is weather-dependent, cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refundable or can be rescheduled. The policy also considers minimum passenger numbers, with the tour being canceled or rescheduled if needed.

This flexibility makes it easier to plan your day, knowing that your booking is protected against unforeseen weather issues or low participation.

Who Should Consider This Speedboat Adventure

This speedboat ride is ideal for adventure lovers, families with older children, and anyone seeking a unique, fast-paced perspective of London’s riverside skyline. It suits those who appreciate thrills but also want to see the city’s landmarks from the water.

However, travelers with medical conditions, pregnancy, or young children should consider the safety guidelines before booking. The activity’s small group size guarantees a more personalized experience, perfect for those who dislike crowded tours.

The Speedboat ‘THE THAMES BEAST’ offers an exciting, intimate way to see London from the Thames River. Its 40-minute high-speed ride passes key landmarks like Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, and Greenwich, delivering both thrills and sightseeing in one go. The limited group size makes it particularly appealing for those seeking a personal adventure.

While it’s a weather-dependent activity and not suitable for everyone, this tour stands out for its value, exhilaration, and visual impact. It’s best suited for adventure-seeking visitors who want a brief, adrenaline-packed alternative to traditional sightseeing options, adding a memorable twist to any London itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 13 years and under must be accompanied by an adult and weigh at least 15kg to participate.

What should I wear on the speedboat?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, plus a plastic poncho if rain is expected, are recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. Rescheduling is possible if weather conditions lead to cancellation.

Does the tour include any commentary?
The ride features minimal commentary, focusing on the sights and the thrill of the speedboat experience.