The Thames speedboat tour swaps commentary-paced sightseeing for a high-speed 50-minute ride reaching up to 30 knots, departing from the London Eye Pier. Named a must-do experience by Time Out, it is London's original speedboat tour and the highest-rated river activity on this site.

Is the Thames speedboat tour worth it?

Yes, if you want an adrenaline experience rather than a slow sightseeing cruise. At around 77 euros for 50 minutes, it costs more per minute than a standard cruise, but you are paying for speed, not duration: the boat is an 880bhp aerodynamically streamlined vessel built to go fast, and it does.

What happens on the Thames speedboat tour?

After a safety briefing and life jackets, the boat pulls away from the London Eye Pier and heads toward Canary Wharf, hitting speeds of up to 30 knots once clear of the busier central stretch. An award-winning comedian guide narrates the landmarks you pass, including the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and HMS Belfast, with music playing from the onboard sound system throughout.

Who should book the speedboat tour, and who shouldn't?

This suits visitors and locals looking for an adrenaline activity on the river rather than a relaxed sightseeing trip, and it works as a distinctive gift or celebration booking. It is not suitable for expectant mothers at any stage of pregnancy, guests with current or historical back or spine conditions, or wheelchair users, since wheelchairs cannot be taken on board. Unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and children under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you want the sights without the speed, the Westminster to Greenwich cruise covers similar ground at a gentler pace.

What's included and how much does it cost?

Tickets start at around 77 euros and include the 50-minute speedboat ride, the comedian guide, life jackets, and onboard music. Food and drinks are not included, and tips are optional. A minimum of 8 passengers is required per sailing; if fewer book, your tour is rescheduled to a different time. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear weather-appropriate clothing, since the open-air ride is exposed to wind and spray at speed regardless of the season. Children aged 15 and 16 need a signed minor disclaimer form from a parent or guardian before departure, so arrange that in advance if you are booking for a teenager.

How does this compare to other Thames cruises?

This is the fastest and most physically intense boat experience on the river, built for the ride itself rather than a close look at any one landmark. If you want to actually stop and explore multiple piers, the hop-on hop-off cruise is the better fit. If dinner and live music appeal more than speed, look at the dinner cruise instead.