Lunch River Cruise on the Thames with 2-Course Meal

An Honest Look at the Thames Lunch Cruise with 2-Course Meal

Taking a sightseeing cruise along the Thames is a popular way to see London’s most famous sights from a different perspective—and this lunchtime cruise aims to combine classic scenery with a tasty meal. Rated 4.5 out of 5 based on hundreds of reviews, this experience offers a relaxed, scenic journey from Tower Pier to Westminster, with plenty of photo opportunities and a comfortable onboard atmosphere.

What really stands out is the value of combining an hour and a half of sightseeing with a well-prepared 2-course meal—something that appeals equally to visitors wanting a break from busy sightseeing or those celebrating a special occasion. The live or recorded commentary adds context, and most reviewers find the overall experience well worth the price of around $70 per person.

One consideration is that the tables are fixed and close together, which means you might find yourself sharing space with other guests. If you’re seeking a private, intimate dining experience, this could be a minor drawback. But for those who enjoy mingling or simply want a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, that tight seating tends to fade into the background.

This cruise suits travelers who love iconic views, appreciate good food, and are looking for a more leisurely way to see London without the crowds on land. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a memorable midday break with a scenic twist.

Key Points

• Stunning views of London landmarks like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye from the water
• Well-priced at around $70, combining sightseeing and a meal for a reasonable cost
• Comfortable cruising experience with informative commentary—either live or recorded
• Delicious 2-course meal with options like chicken supreme, served with coffee and tea
• Great for photo enthusiasts with ample opportunities to capture iconic sights from the upper deck
• Limited flexibility regarding dietary options beyond vegetarian and special requests, so check ahead if you have specific needs

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Seamless Booking and Meeting Arrangements

Booking the cruise about a month in advance is common, with an average of 31 days in advance—showing that this experience is popular among London visitors. The meeting point at Tower Pier is straightforward to find, and arriving 20 minutes early ensures smooth boarding, especially given the maximum group size of 60 travelers. The ticket is mobile, making it easy to keep handy.

Starting Point: Tower Pier

Your journey begins at Tower Pier, just steps away from the iconic Tower of London, giving your day a historic start. Boarding is smooth, and you’re guided to your table in the cozy indoor saloon, where panoramic windows promise great views regardless of your seat location. The setting is relaxed, and you’ll be encouraged to settle in and prepare for an hour and a half of sightseeing and dining.

The Route and Key Landmarks

The cruise heads west from Tower Pier, passing close to notable sites: the historic Tower of London, the towering Shard, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and the London Eye. From the upper deck, you’ll get unrivaled photo opportunities of these sights, with some reviews mentioning that you can snap perfect shots of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

As your boat approaches Westminster, you’ll enjoy the view of Big Ben — a moment many reviewers cite as a highlight. The cruise then loops back, passing under Tower Bridge, which many agree is a breathtaking sight, especially from the water.

Commentary and Atmosphere

The onboard commentary—either live or recorded—adds context, offering tidbits about London’s history and landmarks. Some reviews note the commentary is engaging and informative, though a few mention it could be a touch more lively. The relaxed atmosphere allows for ample mingling, taking photos, or simply soaking in the views.

The Meal: Two Courses of London Comfort Food

The highlight for many is the meal itself. Expect a fixed menu featuring dishes like chicken supreme, served hot and cooked well. The meal includes an entree, dessert, and coffee or tea—delivering good value for the price. Reviewers frequently praise the quality of the food, describing it as delicious and well-presented.

You can also visit the onboard bar to purchase wine, beer, or other drinks, which can elevate your experience. Several guests appreciated the opportunity to pair a glass of wine with their meal, making the afternoon feel more indulgent.

Outside Deck and Return Journey

After lunch, you’re encouraged to step outside and enjoy the fresh air on the upper deck. From there, the views become even more spectacular—perfect for photos or simply taking in the scenery. As the cruise concludes back at Tower Pier, travelers often feel refreshed and inspired by the sights and the leisurely pace.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Board at Tower Pier: Located conveniently near the Tower of London, boarding is quick if you arrive early.
• Cruise towards Westminster: The first major landmark is the Tower of London, with its historic fortress and royal history.
• Photo stops: The upper deck offers amazing photo ops of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the London Eye—some reviewers mention being able to get clear, unobstructed shots.
• Loop at Westminster: The boat turns around here, giving you a second chance to view the Westminster Palace and Big Ben from different angles.
• Pass under Tower Bridge: An iconic moment that many guests find memorable, with some describing it as “breathtaking.”
• Return to Tower Pier: The sail back allows more time for photos, resting, or enjoying the scenery.

What the Reviews Say

Many reviewers talk about how the experience exceeded expectations. One noted, “The scenery was fantastic, the food was amazing, and the crew exceptional,” highlighting the combination of good food and beautiful sights. Others appreciated the professionalism of the staff, with comments like “friendly, helpful & knowledgeable,” making the whole process smooth and enjoyable.

Several guests emphasize the quality of the meal, with phrases like “the fixed menu was cooked well and hot,” and “the food was very good.” The views are consistently praised—“iconic landmarks like the London Eye and Tower Bridge looked incredible from the water”—and many note that the outside deck is the best spot for photos.

Despite mostly positive feedback, some mention the seating is close, and the commentary could be more lively. Yet, these minor points don’t seem to detract significantly from the overall experience, which many call “relaxing” and “well worth the money.”

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book early: Tours are often booked 31 days in advance, so secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
• Arrive 20 minutes early: This guarantees a smooth boarding process given the limited spots.
• Dress comfortably: The cruise runs at midday, but weather can vary—bring layers if it’s chilly or rain-resistant gear if rain’s in the forecast.
• Consider dietary needs: Vegetarian options are available, but if you have specific requirements, notify the operator when booking.
• Bring your camera: The upper deck offers prime photo opportunities, especially of Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye.
• Enjoy the bar: If you’d like wine or beer with your meal, purchase it onboard—many guests find it enhances the experience.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This Thames River lunch cruise offers a solid blend of scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and good food. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, meal-filled break in the middle of their day. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups, it’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate beautiful views and a casual atmosphere without the hassle of crowded land-based tours.

If you’re after a memorable, photo-worthy experience with quality food at a reasonable price, this cruise ticks those boxes. It offers a unique vantage point of London’s most iconic sights, all while enjoying a comfortable, leisurely ride.

However, if you’re seeking a private, intimate dining experience or have strict dietary restrictions, you may want to explore other options. Still, for most visitors looking for a fun, scenic, and tasty way to enjoy London at midday, this cruise delivers excellent value and authentic moments.

FAQ

Is the ticket for this cruise a mobile ticket?
Yes, your ticket is mobile, making it convenient to present at the pier.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, from boarding at Tower Pier to return.

What time does the cruise start?
It begins at 11:45 am, so arriving 20 minutes early is recommended for smooth boarding.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Vegetarian options are available, and you can note special dietary needs when booking. Gluten-free options may require 24 hours notice.

Does the cruise include drinks?
The 2-course meal is included, but drinks such as wine, beer, or non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Can I take photos from the outside deck?
Absolutely. The outside upper deck provides the best vantage points for iconic sights like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye.

Is there commentary onboard?
Yes, either live or recorded commentary provides context about landmarks and the city’s history.

Do I need to bring my own headphones for the commentary?
Most likely, yes, especially if the commentary is recorded. It’s best to check with the provider or bring your own earbuds.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children often enjoy the views and the experience. However, check with the operator if you have specific age considerations.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 3 days before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations within 3 days are not refunded.

This cruise is a wonderful way to enjoy London’s sights from the comfort of a boat while relishing a tasty meal. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and delicious break during their visit—offering great views, friendly service, and an overall memorable experience.