Speedboat rides on the Thames are not a budget option, but they are thrilling - and I find them to be very popular with families who take my walking tour.
Throughout the experience, passengers will alternate between enjoying a leisurely ride along the Thames for sightseeing and a fast-paced thrill ride.
Guests are well protected with waterproof jackets, a life jacket, and goggle-style visors to withstand the thrilling wind speeds they will experience.
Thames RIB Experience
This RIB (Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat) is one of the fastest boats on the Thames, jetting visitors along the river at approximately 30 knots.
Each boat (which only holds up to 12 people) is manned by a guide who provides commentary throughout the journey.
In addition to their longer tour of the Thames, this company also manages three shorter tours of Canary Wharf, and the Tower Millennium Pier.
Ticket prices typically depend upon the length of the boat ride.
Find more information or purchase tickets here.
Ticket Prices:
Thames Barrier Experience (75 minutes)
- £69.00 for Guests 14+
- £59.00 for 14 and Under
Canary Wharf Experience (50 minutes)
- £54 for Guests 14+
- £49 for Children 2 - 13 years
Tower RIB Blast (20 minutes) - This is the one I hear the most about on my tours!
- £35.50 for Guests 14+
- £31.50 for Children 2 - 13 years
Reviews
The Thames RIB Experience has earned a full 5-star rating on TripAdvisor – and that includes over 2,500 positive reviews.
Many comments report that this is an excellent trip for families on holiday.
Other positive comments mention that you will probably get wet while on this excursion, so it’s best experienced during hot days (I know that sounds like a joke but we DO get hot weather - I promise!).
This is intended as more of an entertaining thrill ride. If you’re looking for excitement on the river, consider the Thames RIB Experience.
Thames Jet by City Cruises
Thames Jet by City Cruise speedboat service is managed by City Cruises and offers a similar excursion to the RIB Experience I listed above.
They don’t offer as many tours as their competitors, but the Thames Jet is an excellent alternative.
Their Thames Rush speedboat tour is over 50 minutes.
Ticket prices are comparable to similar services, but they also offer family tickets at a concession.
More information or to purchase tickets.
Ticket Prices:
- £49 for Adults
- £39 for Children (15 and under)
Tour Hours:
- 9 tours between 11 am and 7 pm (there may be fewer tours in the winter months)
Reviews
TripAdvisor has given the Thames Jet service 4 ½ out of 5 stars. Most of the reviews are very positive, but there are a few negative comments.
Luckily, the few negative reviews don't appear to be the norm.
Most people enjoy this speedboat tour, with a majority of reviews stating that the tour guides are very entertaining and informative.
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