London by Boat: Scenic Cruises, Speedboats & Secret Canals
Top River & Canal Boat Experiences for Visitors
Want to see London from a fresh angle—without the crowds or cobblestones? Set sail on the Thames and discover a city that reveals its best side from the water. Whether you’re into royal history, riverside pubs, high-speed thrills or relaxed sightseeing, London’s boat trips have something for every curious traveller.
From iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Big Ben to hidden gems along the leafy Richmond stretch, these river journeys are the perfect way to unwind and explore. And the best part? No traffic, no Tube, just breezy views and plenty of photo ops.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a history buff, or planning a romantic escape, here are our top picks for boat experiences in and around London—each offering a unique way to make the most of your trip.
Best Boat Trips in London: Explore the City with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers
Looking for a more relaxed way to explore London’s famous sights? Step aboard Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, the city’s modern and comfortable river bus service. It’s one of the best boat trips in London, offering a refreshing alternative to the busy Tube or crowded streets.
Discover London from the Water
Cruising along the Thames gives you a new perspective on the city. From the deck, enjoy views of the London Eye, Tower Bridge, the Shard, Big Ben, and more—all from the comfort of a spacious catamaran.
Boats run every 10–20 minutes and are fitted with open-air seating and onboard cafés. Whether you’re starting your day of sightseeing or taking a break between stops, this journey feels effortless and scenic.
Where You Can Hop On and Off
With more than 24 piers across central and east London, it’s easy to tailor the trip to your interests. Highlights include:
- Westminster Pier – for Parliament and Big Ben
- London Eye Pier – perfect for South Bank strolls
- Tower Pier – close to Tower of London and Tower Bridge
- Bankside Pier – near Shakespeare’s Globe and Borough Market
- Greenwich Pier – home to the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark
- North Greenwich Pier – for The O2 and the Emirates Cable Car
- Battersea Power Station – a newly revitalised riverside spot with shopping and dining
A River Roamer Day Pass allows unlimited travel, making it ideal for a day of hop-on, hop-off exploration at your own pace.
A Royal-Approved Way to Travel
Uber Boat has even welcomed King Charles aboard—proof that this is no ordinary commuter service. It’s family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and uses London’s contactless payment system, so it’s easy to plan ahead or be spontaneous. You can also bring bikes and small pets onboard.
Booking and Travel Tips
You can book online at thamesclippers.com or simply tap in with a contactless card at any pier. For the best value, choose a River Roamer if you’re planning multiple stops.
Sailing past London’s landmarks while avoiding crowds is a wonderfully relaxing way to experience the city. If you’re visiting for the first time—or returning to explore it differently—Uber Boat offers one of the most enjoyable and flexible ways to see London from the water.
Fancy to check out Greenwich after hopping off your cruise? Read our blog on Greenwich Hidden Gems for information on what to see and do.
Glide Through London’s Secret Oasis: The Regent’s Canal Cruise
Want to slow down and see a gentler side of London, Regent’s Canal is the answer. This charming waterway winds through some of the city’s most picturesque neighbourhoods. A Regent’s Canal cruise offers one of the best boat trips in London—peaceful, scenic, and full of surprises.
From Little Venice to Camden Lock
The classic canal cruise runs between Little Venice and Camden Lock, a 45-minute journey that feels far removed from London’s busy streets. Along the way, you’ll glide past elegant houseboats, flower-filled towpaths and ivy-covered bridges.
The route also passes Regent’s Park and London Zoo—keep your eyes open, as you might spot a giraffe peeking above the trees.
Choose Your Style of Cruise
You can opt for a traditional narrowboat with wood-panelled interiors or a more modern barge with café seating and soft music. Both offer a relaxing way to enjoy London from the water.
Cruises depart daily between March and November, with boats running in both directions. It’s a gentle, one-way trip, so consider walking back via the canal path or through Primrose Hill.
Highlights Along the Way
- Maida Vale and Little Venice – a peaceful enclave of waterside cafés and pretty bridges
- London Zoo – animals can often be spotted from the boat
- Camden Market – packed with street food, vintage shops and canal-side pubs
- Primrose Hill – a short walk from Camden, with sweeping city skyline views
The cruise also includes a journey through the Maida Hill Tunnel, adding a dash of Victorian engineering to your day.
Who It’s Perfect For
This is a lovely choice for couples, solo travellers, and families with teens or grown-up kids. It’s a slower pace—ideal for visitors wanting to savour the sights.
Booking Your Canal Cruise
Tickets are available online via Jason’s Trip and London Waterbus, or you can buy at the departure point. Book in advance during summer weekends.
Regent’s Canal is a hidden gem in the heart of the city. If you’re after tranquillity, charm, and a different view of London, this cruise is an unforgettable way to explore.
Want to explore Camden Lock after your canal cruise? Check our blog on Camden Market.
City Cruise – A Sparkling Touch of Charm and Wanderlust
Why explore London on foot when you can cruise in style instead? City Cruises offers one of the best boat trips in London, combining comfort, iconic views, and engaging commentary—perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned explorers alike.
A Front-Row Seat to London’s Landmarks
Step aboard at Westminster, Tower, or London Eye Pier and cruise past the city’s most famous sights. Enjoy picture-perfect views of Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and The Shard—all from the comfort of a well-appointed riverboat.
Whether you’re indoors in a cosy lounge or on the open-air deck, the panorama is unforgettable.
Sip, Sightsee, and Soak Up the Views
City Cruises are known for their relaxed atmosphere and extra touches. Sip a glass of prosecco or coffee as you glide by the skyline.
Live commentary shares stories and fun facts about London’s history, bridges, and riverside life. It’s sightseeing made easy, with no crowds or sore feet.
Hop-On, Hop-Off or Stay for the Ride
You can choose a hop-on, hop-off ticket, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Popular stops include:
- Westminster Pier – for Big Ben and Westminster Abbey
- London Eye Pier – near the Southbank and Jubilee Gardens
- Tower Pier – for the Tower of London and Tower Bridge
- Greenwich Pier – where you’ll find the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark
Prefer to sit back and relax? Choose a one-way or round-trip cruise for a leisurely sail between Westminster and Greenwich.
Something Special: Jazz, Dinner and Afternoon Tea Cruises
Looking for something unique? City Cruises offers themed sailings, including:
- Afternoon Tea Cruises with scones and skyline views
- Dinner Cruises with live jazz or swing
- Sunset Cruises for a romantic evening on the river
Perfect for celebrations, anniversaries or just a memorable night out.
How to Book Your Cruise
Tickets can be booked online at citycruises.com or purchased at the pier. Advanced booking is recommended for afternoon teas and dinner cruises, especially in summer.
Contactless and mobile tickets make it simple for international visitors.
From golden hour glides to jazz-filled evenings, a City Cruise offers a truly special way to see London. It’s relaxed, scenic, and effortlessly stylish—one of the best ways to enjoy the capital’s riverfront charm.
Blast Through London with Thames Rockets!
Looking for something faster than your average London sightseeing tour? Meet Thames Rockets—a high-speed adventure on the River Thames.
This is one of the best boat trips in London for travellers craving excitement, energy, and iconic views.
A Sightseeing Tour with a Twist
Thames Rockets uses high-powered RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) to speed you along the Thames at up to 35 mph.
You’ll zip past Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and under Tower Bridge in minutes.
The experience combines fast-paced fun with witty, live guides and a feel-good soundtrack.
Expect music, laughs, and fascinating facts as London’s landmarks fly by.
What to Expect on Board
All passengers wear life jackets and are seated safely in the open-air speedboat.
Tours begin gently, then accelerate once past Tower Bridge into the high-speed zone.
Highlights include:
- Dramatic skyline views at speed
- Cheeky commentary from your guide
- Famous London bridges and riverside sights
- A few surprise twists and turns along the route
It’s safe, well-organised, and very entertaining—perfect for families with teens, couples, and adventurous groups.
Tour Options and Departure Points
Thames Rockets runs several themed rides from the London Eye Pier, including:
- Ultimate London Adventure (most popular) – 50-minute tour
- Break the Barrier – the fastest ride on the Thames
- Thames Lates – evening cruises with cocktails and music
Each experience is designed to be exciting, safe, and full of memorable moments.
Who Will Enjoy It?
This trip suits adventurous couples, families with older children, and anyone wanting to see London differently.
It’s a great birthday treat or way to start a fun-filled day in the city.
Note: Minimum age is 10 years old. Not suitable during pregnancy.
How to Book
Booking is easy at thamesrockets.com.
Choose your preferred time, date, and tour option.
Advance booking is strongly advised, especially on weekends and school holidays.
Whether it’s your first time in London or your tenth, Thames Rockets is a standout.
Fast, fun, and unforgettable—it’s one of the best boat trips in London with serious wow factor.s’ market and restaurant right by the station—perfect for lunch featuring Kentish produce and local wines.
Captain Your Own Cruise with GoBoat London!
Want a peaceful, personal way to explore London? GoBoat London lets you captain your own electric picnic boat—no license required.
It’s one of the best boat trips in London for those who love freedom, food, and a gentle glide through the city.
Your Private Floating Picnic
Each GoBoat carries up to eight people, with a central table perfect for snacks, drinks, and good conversation.
Pack a picnic, pour some prosecco, and enjoy your own open-air lounge on the water.
All boats are eco-friendly, powered by quiet electric motors.
They’re dog-friendly too, so feel free to bring your four-legged travel buddy.
Scenic Routes through London’s Hidden Waterways
From Paddington Basin, drift into Little Venice’s leafy calm, past colourful houseboats and riverside cafés.
Continue along the Regent’s Canal, passing Regent’s Park, London Zoo, and on towards Camden Lock.
This is slow travel at its best—relaxed, uncrowded, and full of unexpected views.
You might even spot animals in the zoo as you pass!
Cruising speed is limited to 4mph, giving you time to unwind and soak it all in.
Designed for Comfort All Year Round
GoBoat provides cosy extras like blankets and heated seats during colder months.
It’s ideal for spring picnics, summer celebrations, or autumn strolls on water.
There’s no skipper—you’re the captain.
A short safety briefing gets you confident and ready to navigate.
Who It’s Perfect For
GoBoat is popular with families, couples, friends, and anyone seeking a peaceful London experience.
It’s also a creative option for birthdays, romantic dates, or small group outings.
Children are welcome with adults on board.
No prior boating experience is necessary.
How to Book Your GoBoat
Book online at goboat.co.uk.
Choose your departure point: Paddington, Kingston, or Canary Wharf.
Options range from one to three hours, with flexible start times.
Weekends and sunny days book fast, so plan ahead.
Looking for the best boat trips in London with total freedom and charm?
Let GoBoat London be your floating escape—no rush, no crowds, just your crew and the city drifting by.
Other Useful Links for Best Boat Trips in London
Here are more links to support your visit to London and beyond. These are services we have actually used with good reliable service. Some are our affiliate partners where we may receive commission but it will be at no extra cost to you.
- Planning short trips from London to the rest of the country: Book Your Train Tickets on Trainline.com
- Planning London Underground (Tube) journey: London Transport Route Planner
- Travel with Contactless (Credit Card) or Oyster card: Contactless or Oyster card
- Planning your travel options in London? Download our free Essential London Transport Guide.
- Best value budget hotel at great locations: Premier Inn for London and UK
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- Check out our guided walking tours: London Adventures Walking Tours
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