London’s waterways are a natural way to see the city from a fresh perspective. Whether it’s gliding past Tower Bridge, cruising along the Thames, or exploring the iconic sights from the water, London offers a variety of boat and cruise experiences that reveal the city’s charm in a relaxed, scenic setting. We love the Lunch River Cruise on the Thames with 2-Course Meal, which combines sightseeing with a delicious meal, and the Tower of London: Guided Tour with Thames River Cruise for history buffs who want a deeper dive into London’s most famous fortress. For a quick but lively perspective, the Tower Bridge River Sightseeing Cruise from Westminster offers a short jaunt with great views.
London’s cruise options range from leisurely sightseeing to immersive guided tours, with some combining transportation, historic commentary, and even meals. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly hop-on-hop-off experience or an exclusive early-access tour of the Crown Jewels, you’ll find a boat ride that fits your schedule and interests.
1. London: Warner Bros. Studio Tour and River Thames Cruise
At number 1, this tour combines the magic of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour—famous for bringing the Harry Potter universe to life—with a classic River Thames hop-on hop-off cruise. The Warner Bros. experience is a must for fans, showcasing authentic sets, costumes, and behind-the-scenes secrets from the film series. You’ll stroll Diagonal Alley, marvel at Gringotts Bank, and see how the magic was made. Afterward, hop aboard a sightseeing cruise that allows you to discover London’s skyline, historic bridges, and iconic landmarks at your own pace.
This combined experience is rated 4.8/5 from 778 reviews and costs $114 per person for a full day of magic and sightseeing. It’s perfect for Harry Potter enthusiasts or families who want a mix of immersive storytelling and scenic river views. The cruise provides flexible hop-on-hop-off access, making it easy to tailor the day to your interests.
Bottom Line: For fans of Harry Potter who want a comprehensive day out, this tour offers a fun blend of movie magic and scenic waterway exploration.
2. London: Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off (Optional River Cruise)
Number 2 on our list is the Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off, which offers incredible flexibility. With a rating of 3.9/5 from over 5,600 reviews and starting at just $36, this open-top bus tour lets you explore London at your own pace over 1 to 3 days. The trip includes three different routes, 45 stops, and four walking tours—covering areas like Soho and Kensington Gardens.
The optional river cruise adds a water perspective, with audio guides available in 10 languages, and dedicated kid-friendly commentary. It’s a great choice if you want to blend sightseeing, walking tours, and transit with minimal fuss. The app makes it easy to track buses and find stops.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting to see a lot in a short time and prefer the flexibility to hop off when something catches their eye.
Bottom Line: For those who prefer self-paced exploration with the option to add a scenic cruise, this tour provides excellent value.
3. Lunch River Cruise on the Thames with 2-Course Meal
Number 3 offers a leisurely lunch cruise along the Thames, rated 4.5/5 from 889 reviews, costing about $70.39 per person. The 1.5-hour trip runs from Tower Pier to Westminster, giving a scenic yet relaxed view of London’s riverside landmarks, including Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Shard.
What makes this tour unique is the included 2-course meal, which features dishes like chicken supreme, served onboard while you enjoy views from the deck. There’s also a bar for purchasing drinks. Guests consistently comment on the “fantastic scenery,” “amazing food,” and “friendly staff.”
This experience suits those wanting to combine sightseeing with good food, making it ideal for a romantic lunch or a special treat. Arrive early at Tower Pier to ensure a smooth start.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want a scenic, sit-down experience on the Thames.
4. London: VIP Tower Opening Ceremony, Crown Jewels & Cruise
Number 4 is the VIP Tower of London tour, rated 4.8/5 by 155 reviews. It offers early access to the Tower’s Jewel House, where you can view the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive, along with a formal opening ceremony. The experience includes a guided tour of the Tower, lasting about 2.5 to 3 hours, with a knowledgeable guide revealing the history of this fortress.
The tour’s highlight is the private early access—a real treat for history or jewelry buffs—plus a one-way river cruise to see London from the water. Guests appreciate the “outstanding guide” and the opportunity to explore without the usual crowds.
This is an excellent choice for travelers interested in regal history, with a luxurious, less crowded experience. The combined tour makes for a memorable, exclusive day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers seeking VIP access and a quiet view of London’s most famous jewels.
5. Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover, Greenwich Boat Ride & Snack
Number 5 is a full-day trip rated 4.4/5 from 279 reviews, priced for a 10-hour adventure. It includes visits to Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and a drive past the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, with a cruise along the Thames to Greenwich. The tour also features a stop at the Battle of Britain Memorial.
What’s special here is the combination of castle, cathedral, and coastal scenery, with a relaxing cruise in between. Guests mention the “impressive” Leeds Castle and the “beautiful” Cliffs of Dover. There is a optional lunch in Canterbury, and the guide’s storytelling makes the day engaging.
This tour suits travelers eager to combine history, architecture, and scenic landscapes in one day. It’s ideal for those with a sense of adventure who want a comprehensive glimpse outside London.
Bottom Line: For a long, varied day exploring southern England with a mix of sightseeing and relaxing cruising, this tour hits the spot.
6. London: Sightseeing Tour with River Cruise
Number 6 offers a 2-hour guided tour that covers London’s key landmarks, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament, with a Thames River cruise included. It’s rated 5/5 from 80 reviews and costs $71 per person.
This tour combines walks and boat rides, giving a well-rounded overview of London’s most famous sights. Live commentary in multiple languages enriches the experience, making it accessible for international travelers.
A highlight is the scenic boat cruise that offers views of Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and other landmarks from the water, making it perfect for those with limited time who want a taste of everything.
Bottom Line: An efficient, guided way to see London’s top sights from both land and water.
7. Tower of London: Guided Tour with Thames River Cruise
Number 7 is a combination tour of the Tower of London with a guided visit and a cruise along the Thames, rated 4.5/5 from 176 reviews. It’s a well-balanced way to explore Britain’s crown jewel, literally, with admission to the Crown Jewels included.
The walking tour of the Tower reveals its history from 1066 to today, with a knowledgeable guide. Afterward, you’ll cruise past Tower Bridge, London Bridge, and City Hall, with commentary about London’s architecture and history.
Guests love the “fantastic guide” and the fact that it’s perfect for those interested in history and architecture. The cruise offers a new perspective on London’s skyline.
Bottom Line: Great for history and architecture enthusiasts who want a combined land-and-water experience.
8. Tower Bridge River Sightseeing Cruise from Westminster
Number 8 is a quick, 30-minute Tower Bridge River Sightseeing Cruise, rated 4.0/5 from 372 reviews. It’s an affordable way to see London’s landmarks from the Thames, with live commentary from the captain.
The cruise offers views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben, plus the iconic Tower Bridge. You can upgrade to a 1-hour cruise for a broader experience. Its frequent departures make it a flexible addition to your day.
This short trip is ideal if you’re tight on time but want a quick and lively water view of London’s most historic sites.
Bottom Line: For a quick, affordable water tour packed with landmarks, this cruise is a perfect fit.
9. Private London Departure Transfer – Hotel / Accommodation to Cruise Port
Number 9 offers a private transfer service for a stress-free start to your cruise, rated 4.5/5 from 77 reviews. It’s ideal if you want to avoid public transport with luggage, with options for shared groups of 1-8 passengers. The service operates 24/7, making it very flexible.
The driver meets you at your hotel or residence, helps with your bags, and takes you directly to the cruise port—whether it’s Tilbury, Southampton, Dover, or Harwich. The comfort and reliability make this a smart choice for those valuing convenience and peace of mind.
Bottom Line: A practical, comfortable way to begin your cruise without stress.
10. London: Ultimate One-Day Tour with Tower, Abbey & Cruise
Number 10 is a comprehensive One-Day Tour, rated 4.6/5 from 54 reviews. It bundles classic sights like Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and a Thames cruise into one packed day. The tour features a guided visit to Westminster Abbey, with optional early access, and a scenic cruise along the Thames.
Guests appreciate the balance of guided touring and free time, as well as the ability to see major landmarks in just 8 hours. It’s great for travelers who want a full immersion without multiple days.
Bottom Line: For a busy day covering the best of London’s highlights, this tour delivers a lot of value for your time.
11. Private Departure Transfer to cruise terminal
Number 11 offers a private transfer similar to number 9, focusing on a seamless ride to your cruise terminal. Rated 4.5/5 from 60 reviews, it’s perfect for those who want to avoid the hassle of public transit with luggage, with flexible pickup times.
The driver assists with your bags and takes you directly to your port of choice. It’s a reliable, comfortable option, especially for larger groups or those with tight schedules.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to start your cruise with comfort and peace of mind.
12. Tower of London Tour with Crown Jewels, plus River Cruise
Number 12 is a full experience combining a morning tour of the Tower of London with a water cruise. Guests rave about the expert guide’s stories and the chance to see the Crown Jewels without the usual crowds. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, with a focus on history and architecture, and the cruise offers a new vantage point of Tower Bridge and the London skyline.
It’s perfect for history fans who want a deeper look at Britain’s royal traditions and a scenic view. The early start helps beat the crowds, and the combined experience is priced competitively.
Bottom Line: A balanced tour for those who love history, jewels, and a scenic water perspective.
13. London: Buckingham Palace State Rooms with Bus and Boat Tour
Number 13 provides a compact inside visit of Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, combined with bus and boat sightseeing. Rated 4.4/5 from 69 reviews, the tour allows you to explore the Palace without long lines followed by a hop-on-hop-off experience around London’s top sights. The included River Thames Boat Ride complements the visit. It’s a good option for travelers wanting a mix of royal history and city views, with departures every 20 minutes for easy scheduling.
This tour offers excellent value by combining indoor exploration with outdoor sightseeing at a reasonable price.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a royal experience and an overview of London from land and water.
14. Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise
Number 14 is a special holiday experience, rated 4.4/5, with a 3-hour Christmas lunch cruise. It features a traditional 4-course roast meal as you sail past London’s illuminated landmarks. The cruise includes live music and festive decorations, making it a memorable way to celebrate Christmas.
While the reviews note some issues with vegetarian options and extra drinks, the overall experience is warm and scenic, perfect for holiday travelers. Arriving early and booking ahead is recommended for this seasonal tour.
Bottom Line: For a festive, relaxed celebration on the Thames, this Christmas Day cruise offers a truly special experience.
How to Choose Your London Boat Tour
Picking the right cruise or boat tour depends on your priorities. If you’re a Harry Potter fan or traveling with kids, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour and Thames Cruise offers immersive magic combined with scenic water views. Budget travelers might prefer the Tower Bridge Sightseeing Cruise for a quick, affordable glimpse of London’s most famous landmarks. History buffs will find the VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels tours irresistible, especially if they enjoy early access or guided commentary.
For those with limited time, the London Sightseeing Tour with River Cruise offers a quick overview, while the Ultimate One-Day Tour packs in major highlights into one efficient day. If food or festive celebrations are your focus, the Lunch River Cruise and Christmas Day Cruise are excellent options.
Final Thoughts
London’s cruise and boat options are as diverse as the city itself—ranging from quick sightseeing rides to in-depth guided experiences. For a special treat, the early-access VIP Tower tour offers a rare peek at the Crown Jewels, while families or Harry Potter fans should consider the Studio Tour combined with Thames cruise. Budget travelers and short-timers will find the Tower Bridge cruise and guided tours equally satisfying.
No matter your interests or schedule, booking early is wise—especially for seasonal tours like the Christmas cruise. A water-based tour provides a memorable way to experience London’s iconic landmarks, so pick one that suits your style and dive into the city’s lively, historic waters.