Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise

Imagine celebrating Christmas Day on a boat cruising along London’s iconic River Thames, soaking in the city’s festive glow. For $270 per person, this 3-hour lunch cruise offers a chance to enjoy a traditional Christmas meal while passing some of London’s most celebrated landmarks, all with the backdrop of glittering holiday lights. Departing from Westminster Pier, you’ll glide past the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, South Bank, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, all beautifully illuminated for the season.

What we love about this experience is the combination of spectacular views and the warmth of a hearty holiday meal. The fully heated saloon ensures comfort, even if London’s weather turns chilly. Plus, the open-air upper deck provides a rare opportunity to stand outside and truly appreciate London’s Christmas sparkle—an experience you’re unlikely to forget.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the food quality as an area for improvement, and drinks are paid separately, which might affect the overall value for some travelers. This cruise is ideal for those who want a relaxing, scenic, and festive way to spend Christmas Day, especially if you appreciate good views and a touch of holiday magic.

If you’re after a joyful, visually stunning way to celebrate Christmas in London—perhaps with family, friends, or a special someone—this cruise offers an experience that combines tradition, iconic sights, and festive cheer.

Key Points

• Iconic landmarks like Parliament and the London Eye are visible from the boat.
• Heated interior offers comfort, with an open upper deck for outdoor views.
• The traditional 3-course Christmas meal includes roast turkey and festive trimmings.
• Spectacular Christmas lights illuminate the Thames and London’s waterside.
• Authentic holiday atmosphere with festive music and carols onboard.
• Drinks are available for purchase, but are not included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Landmarks

Starting at Westminster Pier, the cruise begins with an introduction to London’s grand political and cultural icons. As you set sail, you’ll pass the Houses of Parliament, an architecture marvel that looks especially stunning lit up at night. The London Eye offers a panoramic backdrop, twinkling amidst the Christmas lights. The route also takes you past South Bank, where holiday decorations add to the festive atmosphere, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, with its majestic dome standing out against the winter sky.

The cruise lasts about three hours, which might seem long, but the time flies when you’re comfortably seated, enjoying your meal and the scenery. The route is designed to showcase London’s waterside wonders, giving you a different perspective of this vibrant city during the holiday season.

The Food and Drink

The 3-course Christmas lunch is the highlight for many, featuring familiar favorites like roast turkey with sage and onion stuffing, Vichy carrots, roasted rosemary-onion potatoes, and bordelaise sauce. A starter of Madagascan prawn and crab croquettes sets the tone, and a choice of vegetarian options is available. The food is served by friendly waiters, making it a relaxed, hotel-like dining experience.

One reviewer pointed out that the main course was lacking and suggested the meal could be improved, which is something to consider if you’re a foodie expecting gourmet standards. But for many, the hearty, traditional fare hits the right note, especially paired with a glass of sparkling wine—a welcome touch for a Christmas celebration.

The Atmosphere and Views

This cruise offers a festive ambiance with onboard music, carols, and holiday decorations creating a warm, cheerful environment. The open-air upper deck is especially popular, providing a prime spot to take photos of London’s lights and snap selfies with the illuminated skyline as a backdrop.

The view of London’s Christmas lights along the river is memorable, and many guests find the experience magical. It’s a chance to see the city’s waterside landmarks in a new light—literally—and perhaps capture some of the best holiday photos of your trip.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The cruise departs from Westminster Pier, with no included hotel transfer, so plan your transportation accordingly. It’s recommended to dress smart casual or festive, as the experience encourages a neat appearance. The three-hour duration means you should set aside enough time, and since drinks are extra, you might want to budget for additional purchases at the cash bar.

While the price of $270 might seem steep to some, it includes a welcome glass of sparkling wine, the meal, tea or coffee, and festive entertainment. Compared to the cost of a fancy dinner in town, the cruise offers a unique, scenic setting that adds value to the experience.

Authentic Feedback from Reviewers

One traveler praised the staff and entertainers, noting, “all the crew were fantastic and very polite,” which contributes to a festive, pleasant atmosphere. Another highlighted the decorations and boat route, describing it as “something really nice and different” for Christmas Day, though some found the main course disappointing, suggesting there’s room for improvement in the food.

This honesty helps future guests weigh their options, especially if they’re looking for a memorable Christmas outing rather than a gourmet meal. The overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 indicates most guests enjoyed the experience, despite some critiques.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing holiday outing with spectacular views of London during Christmas. It’s suited for those who appreciate a traditional festive meal combined with sightseeing, and enjoy the idea of celebrating the holiday on the water. Families, couples, or groups of friends will find this a charming way to mark the day.

If you’re after a scenic, festive atmosphere and don’t mind paying a bit extra for the experience, this cruise delivers a memorable holiday experience. However, if food quality is your top priority, you might want to explore other options or consider arranging your own meal afterward.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Christmas Day Thames cruise offers an authentic and scenic way to celebrate in London, blending iconic sights with a festive meal. The spectacular views of London’s lights and the warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a memorable experience, particularly if you enjoy being on the water and taking in cityscapes from a different angle.

The value depends on your expectations—if you’re after a beautiful setting, traditional food, and holiday ambiance, this cruise delivers a lot of what makes Christmas special in London. The cost reflects the convenience and the unique experience, but be prepared for some trade-offs in food quality and the need to purchase drinks separately.

This cruise suits those who want a relaxed, scenic, and festive celebration that combines London’s stunning winter scenery with a traditional holiday meal. It’s a good pick for families, couples, or anyone looking for a special way to enjoy Christmas in this vibrant city.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes a 3-hour river cruise, a welcome glass of sparkling wine, a 3-course traditional Christmas meal, tea or coffee, and festive music and carols.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It departs from Westminster Pier and returns to the same spot at the end of the cruise.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, a smart casual or festive dress code is recommended, so dress neatly for the occasion.

Can I bring extra drinks?
Drinks are available for purchase at the cash bar, but they are not included in the ticket price.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately three hours.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, a vegetarian alternative is available for the main course.

What about mobility or accessibility?
The information provided doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have special needs.

To sum it up, the Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise provides a scenic, festive way to mark the holiday in London. It’s perfect for those who want to combine iconic sights, a hearty meal, and holiday cheer—all wrapped in a memorable boat ride. While it may not be the place for food connoisseurs, the experience’s scenic beauty and festive atmosphere make it a worthwhile choice for many holiday travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: