Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise

Imagine celebrating Christmas Day aboard a boat gently cruising along the Thames, with iconic London landmarks illuminated in their holiday best. While we haven’t personally been on this particular cruise, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a cozy, festive experience perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a traditional holiday meal.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular views of London’s historic sights like the Houses of Parliament and St. Paul’s Cathedral, all lit up for Christmas. Second, the delicious 3-course roast lunch with all the trimmings, served inside a fully heated saloon—perfect for staying warm and comfortable. Third, the ability to enjoy the open-air upper deck, giving you a chance to snap photos of London’s festive lights and breathe in the crisp winter air.

However, one potential downside is that drinks are not included in the price, with additional beverages available at the cash bar, which might catch some guests off guard. This cruise is best suited for visitors who want to experience London’s Christmas scene from the water in a relaxed, stylish setting, and who appreciate hearty holiday food with a view.

Contents show

Key Points

Iconic Landmarks: See London’s famous sights like the London Eye, Westminster, and St. Paul’s Cathedral lit up for Christmas.
Hearty Christmas Meal: Enjoy a traditional 3-course roast with festive trimmings, served in a cozy, heated environment.
Stunning Views: Take advantage of the open-air upper deck for panoramic views and holiday photos.
Relaxed Atmosphere: The cruise lasts 3 hours, offering a laid-back way to celebrate Christmas in style.
Extra Touches: Festive music and carols add to the holiday cheer, along with a welcome glass of sparkling wine.
Pricing & Value: At $270 per person, it’s a premium experience, but one that combines sightseeing and a special Christmas meal in one package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in London

Departure and Setting the Scene

The cruise begins at Westminster Pier, located conveniently on Victoria Embankment. This central location makes it easy to access, whether you’re coming from a London hotel or nearby attractions. The ambiance beforehand hints at a festive celebration—think holiday music, twinkling lights, and the promise of a memorable afternoon.

The Route and Sightseeing Highlights

Once onboard, the boat departs on a 3-hour journey along the Thames, passing some of London’s most recognizable sights. As the boat glides past Parliament and the London Eye, you’ll see the city in its Christmas glory. The route is designed to showcase the festive lights and waterside decorations that transform London into a winter wonderland.

Inside the Fully-Heated Saloon

Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting—perfect for settling in with a glass of sparkling wine that welcomes you aboard. The food service is efficient and friendly, with experienced waiters delivering your meal. The starter options include Madagascarian prawn and crab croquettes, a delightful way to begin the feast.

For the main course, the menu features a traditional roast turkey with sage and onion stuffing, Vichy carrots, roasted rosemary onion potatoes, and bordelaise sauce. Vegetarian options are available, making the meal accessible for different diets. Reviewers note that the food is hearty and filling, meant to satisfy even the most ravenous appetites after a day of sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Open-Air Deck and Photo Opportunities

The highlight for many is the upper deck—an open-air space that offers unfiltered views of London’s Christmas lights. It’s the perfect chance to take holiday photos, capture the illuminated skyline, or simply enjoy the crisp winter air with a festive drink in hand.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in London

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Festive music and carols set a cheerful tone, creating a lively yet cozy environment. The inclusion of holiday tunes makes the experience feel more special, emphasizing the seasonal spirit.

Additional Details: Drinks and Bar

While the meal is included, drinks are not, although a licensed bar offers festive beverages for purchase. Some guests found this a minor inconvenience, but it also gives you the freedom to choose exactly what you’d like to sip—be it wine, mulled drinks, or soft beverages.

What Reviewers Say

Guests generally appreciate the friendly crew and the beautiful decorations that enhance the festive atmosphere. One reviewer highlighted the entertainers’ energy, which added a lively touch to the cruise. However, some mentioned that the price point might feel high compared to the overall service, especially since drinks are extra.

A few critiques focused on the meal quality; one guest called the main course “terrible,” suggesting that improvements here could elevate the experience significantly. Still, most found the overall ambiance and sightseeing to outweigh minor drawbacks, especially given the spectacular views and festive environment.

Practical Tips for Booking and Attending

Dress code is smart casual or festive, so consider layering warmly, especially if you plan to spend time on the open deck.
The cruise is fully booked with a fixed duration of 3 hours, so arrive a little early at Westminster Pier for smooth boarding.
Since drinks are extra, budget accordingly if you want wine or bubbly, or bring cash/card for additional purchases.
The experience is suitable for families, couples, or groups looking for a unique way to celebrate Christmas.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a special Christmas experience without the crowds of a busy hotel or restaurant. It offers a combination of sightseeing, festive cheer, and a hearty meal all in one. If you’re someone who values spectacular views, cozy indoor seating, and a holiday atmosphere, you’ll love this journey.

However, if you’re particularly picky about food quality or looking for an all-inclusive bar experience, this might not be the perfect choice. It works best for those who embrace the holiday spirit with a relaxed attitude and a love for scenic waterside views.

Final Thoughts

The Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise offers a unique way to mark the holiday—combining London’s iconic sights with a traditional Christmas meal and cheerful entertainment. While it may not be the cheapest option, the experience provides memorable photos, scenic views, and a cozy atmosphere that makes Christmas in London special.

If you’re visiting London during the holiday season and want to see the city’s lights from a different perspective, this cruise is worth considering. It’s especially perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, festive outing that balances sightseeing with comfort and good company.

In the end, this cruise delivers a blend of tradition, scenic beauty, and holiday spirit—making it a worthwhile splurge for a memorable Christmas Day in the capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers a 3-hour Thames cruise, a welcome glass of sparkling wine, a 3-course traditional Christmas lunch, and tea or coffee, along with festive music and carols.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase at the licensed bar. The price of the meal is inclusive, but additional beverages will cost extra.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It departs from Westminster Pier at Victoria Embankment and returns to the same location at the end of the cruise.

What should I wear?
A smart casual or festive outfit is recommended. Since some of the cruise is outdoors, dressing warmly is a good idea—think layers, warm coats, and perhaps a hat or scarf.

Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, vegetarian alternatives are available for the main course, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty meal.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the sights and meal without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, bookings can be canceled up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and festive environment make it suitable for children, especially if they enjoy boat rides and holiday lights.

Will I see London’s main landmarks?
Absolutely. Key sights like the Houses of Parliament, London Eye, and St. Paul’s Cathedral are part of the route, all beautifully lit for Christmas.

Is this experience good value for money?
Considering the scenic views, festive ambiance, and inclusive meal, many guests find it a worthwhile splurge, though some suggest the overall service could be better for the price.

This festive cruise offers a charming, scenic way to enjoy London during the holidays, perfect for those wanting a relaxed celebration with memorable views and hearty food. Whether you’re visiting London for Christmas or looking for a special way to celebrate, it’s a journey that combines tradition, scenery, and holiday spirit in one delightful package.