Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise

Imagine spending Christmas Day gliding along the iconic River Thames, surrounded by sparkling lights and London’s most celebrated landmarks—all while enjoying a hearty, traditional holiday meal. The Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise offers a unique way to mark the holiday, combining sightseeing with delicious food and a touch of elegance.

What we love about this experience is how it balances the magic of Christmas with the stunning backdrop of London’s waterside attractions. The chance to sit inside a warm, fully-heated saloon or step outside on the open-air deck to feel the crisp winter air and snap festive photos is truly special. One thing to consider, however, is that the price might seem a bit steep for some — but when you weigh the quality of the meal, the scenic views, and the holiday atmosphere, it offers good value for those looking for a memorable Christmas experience. This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a sophisticated, relaxing way to enjoy London’s holiday lights and landmarks without the hustle of busy streets.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, this cruise offers a cozy, festive setting with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good food, scenic views, and a touch of holiday cheer on Christmas Day.

Key Points

• Exclusive Christmas experience with a 3-hour scenic cruise along the Thames.
• Hearty 3-course traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, served with attentive service.
• Spectacular views of London’s iconic landmarks adorned with Christmas lights.
• Open-air deck option for better photo opportunities and fresh air.
• Inclusive drinks, including a welcome glass of sparkling wine, with a licensed bar for additional beverages.
• Limited duration, making it a manageable way to enjoy Christmas without commitments.

An In-Depth Look at the London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise

Setting the Scene: Departure from Westminster Pier

The cruise departs from Westminster Pier, a central and easily accessible location. From here, you set out at a leisurely pace along the river, giving you ample opportunity to admire London’s waterside scenery. The boat itself is comfortable, with a fully heated saloon ensuring a cozy, festive atmosphere even on the chilly December day.

The Itinerary: What Happens During the Cruise

This is a 195-minute journey—just over three hours—that combines sightseeing, dining, and holiday cheer. As the boat moves past major sights like the Houses of Parliament, London Eye, South Bank, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, you get a front-row seat to London’s twinkling Christmas lights. The views from the boat are particularly impressive in the evening when the city’s landmarks glow against the winter sky.

Inside the Fully-Heated Saloon: The Meal

The meal is a highlight. You’ll start with an appetizer of Madagascan prawn and crab croquette, which reviewers noted as flavorful and well-presented. The main course is a traditional roast turkey, accompanied by sage and onion stuffing, Vichy carrots, roasted rosemary-onion potatoes, and bordelaise sauce. Vegetarian options are available, which is a thoughtful touch for diverse groups.

Service is generally praised for being friendly and efficient, with waitstaff delivering dishes directly to your table. The inclusion of tea or coffee at the end of the meal adds a pleasant finishing touch.

The Open-Air Deck: Up Close with the Lights

Once you’ve eaten, many guests recommend stepping outside onto the open-air upper deck. Here, you can take photos of London’s festive illuminations and enjoy the crisp winter air. This part of the cruise offers unmatched views of the city’s Christmas displays along the Thames — a perfect photo opportunity for holiday cards or memorable keepsakes.

Drinks and Atmosphere

A welcome glass of sparkling wine sets a celebratory tone at the start. You can also purchase additional drinks at the cash bar, including festive cocktails and wines, which help enhance the holiday mood. The cruise features festive music and carols, creating a cheerful, holiday-rich atmosphere that’s both relaxed and lively.

What the Reviews Say

While most reviews highlight the crew’s politeness and the cruise’s beautiful decorations, some travelers felt the dinner could be improved. One reviewer mentioned, “the main was terrible,” but others appreciated the “fantastic and polite” crew and the “good energy” from onboard entertainers. The route’s length was also praised, though one traveler suggested extending the cruise for even more sightseeing time.

Duration, Cost, and Practicalities

At $310 per person, this experience is a bit of an investment, but it includes the meal, drinks, music, and scenic views—factors that add value for a special holiday occasion. The cruise lasts about three hours, making it manageable even for those with busy schedules or young children.

Attendance is limited to a festive dress code, so guests typically dress smart casual or more festive, adding to the event’s special feel. The departure location at Westminster Pier is central, but note that hotel transfers are not included.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This cruise appeals to travelers who want a combination of sightseeing and fine dining on Christmas Day, especially those who enjoy a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic holiday experience, families wanting a memorable festive outing, or groups of friends celebrating together. The scenic views, combined with a hearty Christmas meal, make this a memorable way to celebrate the holiday in London.

However, if you’re after a casual or budget-friendly outing, this cruise might feel a bit too expensive. Also, if you’re a foodie looking for a gourmet experience, the mixed reviews on the dinner’s quality suggest that this may not be the top priority of the cruise.

Final Thoughts

The Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise offers a charming, scenic way to enjoy London’s holiday lights and landmarks from the comfort of a warm boat. Its combination of a hearty meal, festive atmosphere, and unbeatable views makes it a compelling choice for those looking to mark Christmas in style.

While the price point could be considered high, the experience delivers memorable sights and a cozy holiday ambiance. This cruise suits travelers who appreciate good scenery, a touch of elegance, and the chance to celebrate Christmas in a relaxed, picturesque setting.

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic, and festive way to spend Christmas Day in London, this cruise ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for the cost and dress accordingly to match the smart casual or festive dress code.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the festive and elegant atmosphere suggests it’s best suited for older children and adults. It could be enjoyable for families with teenagers who appreciate scenic views and holiday ambiance.

Does the cruise depart at a specific time?
Yes, check availability for the starting times, but expect the cruise to last around 195 minutes. Departure details are given upon booking.

Are drinks included in the price?
A welcome glass of sparkling wine is included, but additional drinks are available for purchase at the cash bar.

What should I wear?
A smart casual or festive dress code is required, so think neat and cheerful holiday attire.

Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, a vegetarian alternative to the main course is available, ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 3 days in advance.

Is the route long enough to see all major landmarks?
The cruise covers key sights like the Houses of Parliament, London Eye, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, with some reviewers wishing for an extended route to see more.

This detailed review captures the true essence of celebrating Christmas in London via the Thames. Whether you’re in it for the scenic views, the hearty meal, or the festive spirit, this cruise offers a memorable way to spend the day.