London: Thames Speedboat Tour with Sights & Guide

Summary

London’s icons from the river with a twist of speed and laughter

You’ll feel London rush by as you blast down the Thames on a small-group speedboat tour—Big Ben, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral all flicker past while your local guide keeps things lively. Expect laughter, splashes, unexpected views, and stories you’ll retell long after you’ve warmed up again.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the slap of cold air as we pushed off from the London Eye Pier—like someone left a window open in winter. Our guide, Jamie, grinned at us over his lifejacket and pointed out Big Ben peeking through the morning haze. I remember thinking, “Alright, this’ll be chill,” but then the engine kicked in and I nearly lost my hat (should’ve listened about tying it down). The city looked different from the Thames—St Paul’s dome almost floating above the rooftops, people waving from bridges like they knew us.

Jamie had this way of telling stories that made even Canary Wharf sound interesting. He joked about Shakespeare’s Globe being “the only place in London where you’re encouraged to throw things at actors”—I laughed too loudly and got a look from my partner. We zipped past HMS Belfast and Tower Bridge so fast I barely managed a photo before water spray hit my face. There’s something about bouncing across the wake at 35 miles per hour that makes you forget you’re sightseeing; it felt more like we were part of some secret race through London’s history.

I still think about that moment when we slowed near The Shard—the sun caught on its glass and for a second everything was quiet except for our own breathing and distant traffic echoing off the riverbanks. Jamie asked if anyone wanted to try saying “Canary Wharf” in proper Cockney; Li tried (badly), everyone laughed, even the skipper cracked a smile. By the time we looped back to the pier, my hands were frozen but I didn’t really care—I just kept replaying those flashes of color and noise in my head. It wasn’t what I expected from a day trip on the Thames River, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Thames River speedboat sightseeing tour

• Board speedboat at London Eye Pier
• Enjoy small group river cruise
• Listen to guide's London history tales
• View Big Ben and Houses of Parliament
• See St. Paul's Cathedral from river
• Pass Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
• Spot The Gherkin and The Shard
• Zoom at 30 knots near Canary Wharf
• Pass HMS Belfast and Tower of London
• Hear comic guide facts on landmarks
• Disembark at London Eye Pier

Top questions

How long does the Thames speedboat tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes from start to finish.

Where does the speedboat depart in London?

The boat departs from London Eye Pier, right by the London Eye.

What landmarks do you see on this speedboat ride?

You’ll see Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, The Shard, HMS Belfast, Shakespeare’s Globe, Canary Wharf, and more along the Thames River.

Is there a live guide on board?

Yes—a local guide shares stories and facts throughout your journey.

How fast does the boat go on this tour?

The speedboat can reach up to 35 miles (56 km) per hour along certain stretches.

Are lifejackets provided for everyone?

Yes—lifejackets are provided for all passengers before boarding.

Is lunch or food included in this experience?

No meals are included; it’s just the boat ride with guide commentary.

Is pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at London Eye Pier for boarding.

Can children join this Thames speedboat tour?

Yes—children over 6 months can join if accompanied by an adult.

What’s included

Your ticket covers your seat on a high-speed Thames River boat ride with all safety gear provided—including lifejackets—and commentary from an expert local guide alongside your professional skipper. Just show up at London Eye Pier ready for adventure; everything else is sorted once you’re onboard.