London: Christmas Party Lunch Cruise

Imagine gliding along the River Thames during the festive season, surrounded by London’s most famous landmarks, all while enjoying a hearty Christmas lunch and lively holiday music. This 3-hour cruise offers a unique way to soak up London’s holiday spirit, making it an especially memorable way to celebrate the season. Priced at about $101 per person, it strikes a balance between a special experience and sensible value, especially when you consider the included three-course meal, sparkling wine, and live entertainment.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the charm of a boat cruise with the opportunity to see London’s skyline in a festive glow. The spectacular views of Tower of London, The Shard, London Eye, and Tower Bridge are a highlight, especially from the upper deck, where you can snap photos as you sail past. We also appreciate the live vocalist performing Christmas tunes, which adds a warm, celebratory atmosphere that feels both relaxed and lively.

One thing to consider is that the tables are quite close together, seating up to 10 guests, which fosters a convivial, festive feeling—but if you prefer more privacy or space, this might feel a bit crowded. Also, since the cruise requires smart-casual or festive dress, you’ll want to dress up a bit for the occasion, especially if you’re aiming for that seasonal photo opportunity.

This tour suits anyone looking for a festive, scenic, and delicious way to enjoy London in December. It’s particularly perfect for groups, couples, or friends wanting a lively holiday outing with excellent food, great views, and a touch of entertainment.

Key Points

Scenic Thames views of iconic landmarks like Tower of London and The Shard.
Delicious 3-course meal with traditional festive dishes.
Live Christmas music adds to the joyful atmosphere.
Includes a welcome glass of sparkling wine to toast the season.
Seating is in shared tables of up to 10, fostering a communal holiday vibe.
Ideal for those seeking a festive celebration with good food and views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

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The Itinerary and Setting

This Christmas lunch cruise departs from Westminster Pier, a central and easily accessible starting point in London’s heart. As soon as you board, you’re greeted with a welcome glass of sparkling wine, setting a celebratory tone. The boat then begins its gentle journey downstream, heading toward Canary Wharf, giving passengers a chance to settle in while enjoying the panoramic views.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll pass some of London’s most photographed landmarks, like the Tower of London, London Eye, and Tower Bridge—each illuminated and festive in December. The upper deck, where most of the photo opportunities happen, is ideal for capturing the sparkling cityscape in the winter glow.

The Food: A Festive Feast

The 3-course menu is designed to evoke traditional holiday flavors. Expect a smoked salmon and prawn starter, a roast turkey with all the trimmings for the main course, and a festive chocolate dessert to finish. The focus on classic dishes means you’ll get a true taste of seasonal comfort food, presented in a manner suitable for a special occasion.

Including tea or coffee after the meal helps wind down the experience, making it a well-rounded dining event rather than just a quick snack. The price reflects a quality meal combined with the scenic setting—it’s about value for those who want a memorable holiday experience without breaking the bank.

Live Entertainment and Atmosphere

The vocalist performing festive music adds a charming layer to the cruise, elevating the holiday spirit. From traditional carols to lively tunes, the on-board entertainment encourages guests to sing along or dance, fostering a cheerful, communal vibe. This makes it more than just a sightseeing cruise; it becomes an event that brings people together in celebration.

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Practicalities and Comfort

The cruise lasts around three hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy your meal, take photos, and soak in the views. The group seating in tables of 10 encourages mingling, which works well for those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.

The dress code is smart-casual or festive, so packing an extra layer or a nice sweater is wise, especially since it can get chilly on the water. Since additional drinks are not included, you may want to visit the licensed bar for a glass of wine or a holiday cocktail, which is available for purchase.

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Who Will Enjoy This?

This experience is perfect for couples looking for a romantic holiday outing, groups of friends eager for a lively celebration, or families (over 18) wanting to enjoy London’s sights and festive cheer in one go. Its combination of good food, scenic views, and live music makes it a well-rounded choice for anyone wanting a special Christmas experience with a relaxed, party vibe.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This For?

If you’re after a festive, scenic experience that combines the beautiful sights of London with a delicious meal and holiday music, this cruise hits the spot. It offers excellent value, given the scenic backdrop, quality meal, and entertainment, making it a smart choice for those wanting to celebrate Christmas in a memorable way.

However, if you prefer more privacy or a quieter, more intimate experience, the shared tables and lively atmosphere might not be ideal. It’s also not suitable for children under 18, so keep that in mind if traveling with minors.

This cruise provides a joyful, picture-perfect way to enjoy London’s festive season, blending scenic views with good food and holiday cheer. For anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with celebration, it’s a recommendation worth considering.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, this experience is not suitable for children under 18. It’s designed as an adult festive celebration.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts about 3 hours, which includes your meal, sightseeing, and entertainment.

What should I wear?
A smart-casual or festive outfit is recommended. Dress warmly, especially in winter, as you might want a coat or layers for comfort.

Are drinks included?
A welcome glass of sparkling wine is included, but additional drinks are available for purchase from the licensed bar.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your holiday planning.

What are the highlights of the views?
Expect stunning views of Tower of London, The Shard, London Eye, and Tower Bridge, especially from the upper deck, which is perfect for photos.

How crowded does it get?
Seating is in tables of 10, which encourages a festive, communal atmosphere. If your group is smaller, you’ll share a table, but the environment tends to be lively and convivial.

Enjoy your holiday in London, and perhaps consider this Christmas Lunch Cruise for a memorable, scenic, and tasty celebration.