London: Thames Speedboat Tour & Tower Bridge Blast

Summary

Speed past London icons on a wild Thames boat ride

You’ll feel your heart race as you speed under Tower Bridge and past London’s biggest landmarks on this Thames speedboat tour. Expect laughter, splashes of river water, live commentary from your local captain and guide, and a wild rush as you blast through the Thames Barrier — with just enough time to catch your breath before heading back.

What’s the experience like?

“Hold on to your hats — we’re about to wake up the river!” That’s what our captain yelled just before the engines kicked in. I’d barely had time to wave at Tower Bridge before we shot forward, spray in my face and that weird mix of river air and city smells (kind of metallic, kind of fried onions from somewhere upstream). The playlist was all British pop — someone behind me sang along to Blur, which made me laugh because I was too busy gripping the rail. Our guide kept up this running commentary, but honestly, half the time I just heard wind and my own heartbeat.

We blasted past HMS Belfast so fast I only caught a flash of grey steel and tourists waving. Canary Wharf looked like a pile of glass blocks stacked by some giant kid. There’s this moment after Greenwich where you hit open water — suddenly it’s less city, more sky, and you can see the O2 curve up like a spaceship. The guide pointed out bits I’d never noticed before (I think he said something about Cutty Sark but I was too distracted by the spray hitting my cheek). My jacket was useless — they handed out these plastic ponchos if you wanted one but honestly, getting a bit wet felt right.

The big finale is smashing through the Thames Barrier. It’s massive up close — way bigger than it looks from photos. We slowed down there for a second and everyone went quiet except for one kid who shouted “Again!” The ride back felt different; maybe because we’d all loosened up or maybe because London looked softer in the late afternoon light. Passing The Shard on the way back into Tower Millennium Pier, everything felt sort of unreal for a minute — like I’d seen London from some secret angle. Still thinking about that view now, actually.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Speedboat tour from Tower Millennium Pier

• Start under Tower Bridge
• Pass by Tower of London
• Pass by HMS Belfast
• Pass by Canary Wharf
• Pass by Greenwich
• Pass by The O2
• Pass through Thames Barrier
• View The Shard on return
• Return to Tower Millennium Pier

Top questions

How long does the London Thames speedboat tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes from departure at Tower Millennium Pier to return.

Is hotel pickup included for this speedboat tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at Tower Millennium Pier. Public transportation options are nearby.

Which landmarks do you see during the speedboat ride?

You’ll pass Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, Canary Wharf, Greenwich, Up at The O2, and see The Shard on return.

Is there live commentary during the speedboat ride?

Yes, there is live commentary onboard provided by your guide throughout the tour.

Are children allowed on this London speedboat tour?

Children 13 years & under must be accompanied by an adult; those 14+ can travel alone with parent/guardian permission.

What should I wear for the speedboat ride?

Dress warmly and bring a jacket; complimentary plastic ponchos are provided if weather requires.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

No, pregnant travelers or those with heart or back problems are not permitted for safety reasons.

Is there music during the boat ride?

Yes, a chart-topping playlist plays during parts of the cruise alongside live commentary.

What’s included

Your experience includes lifejackets for everyone onboard, a high-speed river cruise from Tower Millennium Pier with live local commentary throughout, plus complimentary plastic ponchos if it gets rainy or splashy while you’re out on the Thames.