Thames Rib Experience is a thrilling and unforgettable way to explore the city of London. The experience takes place on a high-speed Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) that can travel up to speeds of 30 knots, allowing you to travel down the River Thames at an exhilarating pace. The Thames Rib Experience offers a unique perspective of London, showcasing the city’s landmarks and skyline from the water.
The experience starts at the London Eye Millennium Pier, where you will board the RIB and meet your skipper, who will be your guide throughout the tour. After a safety briefing, you will be fitted with life jackets and waterproof gear to ensure you stay dry and comfortable during the ride. The RIB has comfortable seating for up to 12 passengers, with each seat equipped with a safety harness and a handrail to hold onto.
The journey begins with a leisurely cruise down the Thames, allowing you to take in the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the Tower of London. As you pass by these landmarks, your skipper will provide you with fascinating insights and historical anecdotes, bringing the city’s rich history to life. The skipper’s commentary is delivered through a high-quality audio system, ensuring that you can hear every word, even at high speeds.
After the leisurely cruise, the RIB picks up speed, and the real fun begins. The RIB takes sharp turns and bounces over the waves, giving you an adrenaline-filled ride that you will never forget. The RIB’s maneuverability allows you to get up close and personal with the landmarks and the bridges that span the Thames, such as the Tower Bridge and the Millennium Bridge. The RIB also passes through Canary Wharf, providing a glimpse of London’s modern financial district.
One of the highlights of the Thames Rib Experience is the Thames Barrier, which is one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world. The RIB takes you up close to the barrier, providing a unique and dramatic view of this engineering marvel.
Throughout the experience, your skipper will tailor the ride to your preferences, ensuring that everyone on board has a great time. If you want a calmer ride, your skipper can slow down and take a more leisurely pace. On the other hand, if you’re feeling adventurous, your skipper can take the RIB up to full speed, giving you an adrenaline rush that will leave you breathless.
The Thames Rib Experience offers a range of different packages to suit different preferences and budgets. The most popular package is the Ultimate London Adventure, which is a 50-minute high-speed ride that takes you from the London Eye to Canary Wharf and back. The Ultimate London Adventure is suitable for all ages, although it is not recommended for pregnant women or people with back or neck problems.
For those who want a longer experience, the Thames Barrier Explorer is a two-hour adventure that takes you from the London Eye to the Thames Barrier and back. The Thames Barrier Explorer is perfect for those who want to see more of the river and explore the lesser-known parts of London.
For corporate events or special occasions, the Thames Rib Experience also offers bespoke packages, which can be tailored to your requirements. The bespoke packages can include a range of add-ons, such as a champagne reception, a meal at a riverside restaurant, or a team-building activity.
The Thames Rib Experience has received rave reviews from visitors and locals alike. Many people have praised the experience for its thrilling ride and informative commentary, which provides a unique perspective of London. The Thames Rib Experience has also been commended for its safety record and its highly trained and experienced skippers.
In conclusion, the Thames Rib Experience is an exciting and unforgettable way to explore the city of London. The experience provides a unique perspective of the
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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.
