London Speedboat Tour: Thames Sights & 45-Minute River Thrill

Summary

Rush past Big Ben Tower Bridge Canary Wharf on a fast river ride

You’ll race along the Thames in a small group speedboat tour, catching wild views of London landmarks like Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf while your local guide shares stories you probably haven’t heard before. Expect cold wind on your face, some laughs with fellow passengers, and a new way to see familiar sights — plus all safety gear included.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the lifejacket felt — snug, a little stiff around my neck, and then the guide grinned and told us not to worry, “It’s just in case you get too excited.” We set off from Westminster Pier, engines humming under our feet. The Thames looked almost silver that morning, with a chilly breeze that made me zip up my jacket higher than I’d planned. Our group was just ten people; you could hear everyone’s nervous laughter echoing off the water as we picked up speed.

I didn’t expect to actually learn anything — I mean, it’s a speedboat tour of London, right? But our guide (I think his name was Sam?) started pointing out things I’d never noticed even after living here for years. He told us about the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, but also weird little stories about HMS Belfast and Execution Dock. At one point he asked if anyone knew who Captain Kidd was — someone guessed wrong and Sam just laughed, “Not quite — but close enough!” The sound system worked even when we were flying past the Shard; you could actually hear every word over the engine.

We slowed down by Tower Bridge so everyone could take photos. There’s something odd about seeing those huge stone towers from so low down — they look even more unreal from the water. A couple behind me kept pointing at The Shard trying to figure out which floor their friend worked on (they never agreed). As we got closer to Canary Wharf, all glass and sharp lines against the sky, I caught this weird mix of smells — river mud and something sweet from somewhere upstream. Not exactly pleasant but somehow very London.

Forty-five minutes went by faster than I thought. My hands were cold but I didn’t really mind; there’s this moment when you’re bouncing over the waves near HMS Belfast where everything feels loud and alive. It’s not quiet or peaceful — it’s more like being part of the city’s heartbeat for a bit. I still think about that view back toward Parliament as we turned around; maybe it’s silly but it made me feel kind of proud to live here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Speedboat tour of London's top sights

• Board speedboat at Embankment or Westminster Pier
• Hear guided commentary on Houses of Parliament
• Pass by Big Ben with commentary
• View London Eye with guided insights
• See The Shard while listening to guide
• Pass HMS Belfast with commentary
• View Tower of London and hear history
• Learn about Execution Dock location
• See Tower Bridge with guided commentary
• Pass Canary Wharf with insights
• Complete 45-minute speedboat sightseeing tour

Top questions

How long does the London speedboat tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes from departure to return.

Where does the speedboat depart in London?

You can start from either Embankment or Westminster Pier.

What landmarks will I see during the tour?

You’ll see Houses of Parliament & Big Ben, London Eye, The Shard, HMS Belfast, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Execution Dock, and Canary Wharf.

Is there a guide on board?

Yes, there is a live guide providing commentary throughout the cruise.

How many people are on each boat?

The maximum group size is 12 passengers per boat for a personal experience.

Are lifejackets provided for this speedboat tour?

Yes, lifejackets are provided for all passengers as part of your booking.

Can children join the London speedboat sightseeing tour?

Children 13 years & under must be accompanied by an adult; minimum weight is 15kg (2.36 stone).

Is lunch included in this experience?

No meals are included; this is a sightseeing cruise only.

Can pregnant travelers join this speedboat trip?

No, pregnant travelers or those with heart/back conditions cannot participate for safety reasons.

What’s included

Your booking includes a high-speed river cruise along central London’s Thames sights with live guided commentary from a local expert. You’ll get fitted with a lifejacket before boarding and receive a complimentary plastic poncho if needed for weather protection. All departures are conveniently located near public transport options at Embankment or Westminster Pier.