London’s Thames River speed boat cruises provide the ideal opportunity for adrenaline addicts to get their fill of excitement. Here’s how to cruise the Thames River in elegance, complete with high-speed thrills and vistas of the city.
A RIB experience (that’s Rigid Inflatable Boat, by the way) is the best way to explore the water. Discover our collection of Thames RIB activities, including adrenaline-fueled sightseeing tours of the city, as well as RIB, rides around Edinburgh, passing by castles, historic bridges, and rich wildlife. Whatever the occasion, one of these rides is sure to provide a thrilling encounter.
Looking for an entertaining way to experience London’s sights? A high-speed blast along the River Thames will provide pure adrenaline. This 15-20-minute trip takes you across the Thames from one of three piers: North Greenwich Pier, Tower Pier, or London Bridge City Pier. As the boat twists and bends on its fast ride, hold on tight and listen in for the commentary. As your highly-trained skipper revs up the engines and rushes past the capital’s most recognized monuments, you’ll reach dizzying speeds.
Two-person Thames Jet Boat Rush
A 50-minute adrenaline-filled Thames cruise allows you to see the wonders of London. This adrenaline-pumping Thames Jet ‘Rush’ experience combines sightseeing, speed, and acrobatics.
As you sail down the river, you’ll see some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Millennium Bridge, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and The Shard. Your skipper will ramp up the throttle as you drive down to Canary Wharf once you’ve cleared Tower Bridge. Snap advantage of a more leisurely return to Westminster to take any necessary shots, including a selfie or two.
Two-person Thames Barrier Rocket Speed Boat Ride
You may share something unique by taking a speed-enhanced tour of the River Thames. As the Thames is smashed up by the 880hp engine on your RIB, you’ll speed through the metropolis at up to 30 knots. This fast-paced tour zips along the river in one of the world’s best open-air history museums. Your tour will take you through London Bridge, Canary Wharf, Greenwich, the O2, and the Thames Barrier, with your guides keeping up the sharp banter. This tour is different from the rest because the two of you might perhaps get to see a few spectacular boats moves as the Thames expands further up if the guides are up to it on the day.
Remove the Obstacle
Break the Barrier, Rockets Speed Boat Ride on the Thames welcomes you. You and a guest will race down the Thames with a professional captain firing up the Rocket’s engine, exclusively within the “Thames High-Speed Zone,” with the winner of Visit England’s “Family Friendly Attraction of the Year.”
Your Thames Rocket is a 12-meter long fiberglass boat powered by an 880 horsepower motor. The 40-minute trip will take you across the water, giving you views of the Tower of London, HMS Belfast, and sailing directly beneath the historic Tower Bridge before you begin your all-speed adventure. If the speed, splashes, and abrupt turns weren’t enough to keep you entertained, the soundtrack will.
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FAQ's
What happens if I'm late (missed train, road closures, etc?
We ask that you leave plenty of time for your journey & check for any road closures/train delays ahead of time as missed trips cannot be refunded or rescheduled.
What happens if I am unwell on the day?
We are unable to refund or reschedule seats however tickets are not name allocated and can be passed along to a friend/relative.
Medical Restrictions
Pregnant passengers & anyone suffering from any medical heart or back complaints unfortunately cannot travel.
Can I change the date/time of my trip?
We require a minimum of 7 days’ notice and all alterations are subject to a £25.00 administration fee.
How will I know if my trip is subject to the Minimum Passenger Policy?
If your trip is MPN we will contact you the day before your trip & will offer you either an alternative time or a full refund if you have paid by card for your seats. Voucher bookings will be offered a 3 month extension to rebook. For same day bookings you may be contacted up to 15 minutes before the trip departs. We will not be responsible for any travel expenses or loss of earnings.
Will I get wet?
We do not take any water on board at most, the chances are that you may experience a little spray from the high speed manoeuvres. Providing the weather is good, you will not get wet at all.
What happens in bad weather?
We travel in all weathers & provide disposable ponchos to keep you as dry as possible. All personal belongings must be taken on board with you & nothing can be left at the Pier locations.
How fast will I go?
At high speed, our vessels travel at 35 Knots – very fast!
Travel sickness
We have never had anyone be sick on board. Travelling on a speed boat doesn’t give the same motion sickness that causes people to feel unwell.
Is there an age or weight restriction?
We have a minimum weight restriction of 15KG (2st 4lb Approx). There is no maximum age or weight & life vests are designed to fit all sizes.
Can a child travel without an adult?
All children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or older, at all times whilst on the vessel and the pier. Children between the ages of 14-17 years are permitted onboard without an adult, subject to parental consent. Thames RIB Experience reserve the right to request proof of age prior to allowing entrance to a vessel.
Waterproof clothing
Disposable plastic ponchos will ONLY be issued complimentary if the the weather dictates.
Can I upgrade my ticket / Voucher?
You can upgrade your ticket by calling us in advance & paying the difference.
Can disabled passengers travel?
Our health & safety regulations states that disabled passengers are able to travel providing they are travelling with a carer & are able to step into the vessel unaided or with the support of their carer. Wheelchairs & pushchairs can be left at the owners risk on the pier where boarding takes place. You can view our full access statement here –
Is there storage at the Pier locations?
We do not have any storage facilities at the pier & for security reasons, we cannot look after possessions. However, bags no bigger than hand luggage size can be taken on board with you and stored under your feet.
Toilet Facilities
There are no toilet facilities at the pier however, there are public toilets in the vicinity that cost 50p
Expired voucher
If your voucher has expired, providing it is within 3 months of the expiry date you can pay a £25.00 administration fee to reactivate it by 3 months.
Alcohol policy
We operate a very strict no alcohol/drug policy & any persons under the influence will not be permitted to travel.
Can I take my own Photos?
Your own photos can be taken at your own risk. On-board Shots will be taken by ourselves & will be available for purchase at the pier after the tour.
Do I have to print my ticket?
If you are unable to print your ticket you can present your email showing your booking ID on your phone.
Parking
There are parking meters in the vicinity of Embankment Pier however spaces are limited / there are car public parks at both Tower Hill & North Greenwich (O2) charges apply.
Can I choose where to sit?
Yes you choose your own seats once on board, but no pre-seat choices can be accommodated. Passengers are not boarded on a first come first serve basis.
What is the maximum capacity on board?
Each vessel seats a maximum of 12 passengers. You will be joined by 2 crew members which will be your tour guide & skipper.
