The Thames has played a crucial role throughout London’s history, but while it may no longer be at the heart of the city’s industry, it continues to do a roaring trade when it comes to pleasure cruises.
(Photo: City Cruises Plc / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
There are a huge number of tour companies offering organised river cruises along the Thames. And one of the most atmospheric times to embark on such a trip is during the evening, when the entire city changes character in both look and feel. If you fancy adding dinner into the mix, then you have the perfect package for a great night in this magical city. Check out our pick of Thames dinner cruises below.
Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz
London is home to a thriving jazz scene, and if you fancy listening to some funky jazz but don’t want to be cooped up inside a smoky bar then this 4-hour tour could be just the ticket. Your evening will start with a complimentary glass of champagne aboard your boat, and after setting sail you’ll sit down to a delicious 3-course dinner. As you eat, a high-quality jazz band will launch into the first part of their set. You can also peer out of the windows at famous London landmarks including Canary Wharf. Be sure to make room for dessert before the band returns for the second half of their set. The music will continue until you dock at around 11pm to conclude your trip. From $115 per person.
Murder Mystery Cruise With 3-Course Dinner
(Photo: City Cruises Plc / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Combine a cruise along the Thames with a fun-packed murder mystery game during this 3-hour excursion. After boarding at Tower Pier, you’ll be treated to a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or a soft drink to kick off proceedings. Later, as you sit down to a delectable 3-course meal, the challenge of solving the clues as to who committed the onboard murder will be posed, with actors playing out the game around you while you dine. After dinner, you can soak up the views of iconic riverside landmarks before your boat makes its way back to the starting point. From $125 per person.
Evening Cocktail Cruise in Oxford
Kick back and enjoy a soothing cruise along the legendary River Thames on this 30-minute evening sightseeing trip that passes through the famous town of Oxford. Hop aboard your boat as dusk approaches and head out onto the tranquil waters with your friendly and knowledgeable local guide. Sip a glass of Prosecco, beer, wine or a soft drink and gaze out over Oxford’s beautiful Christchurch Meadows. As you navigate the waters, drifting gently past the university boat houses, your guide will regale you with tales of the city’s rich heritage. From $24 per person.
Dinner Cruise with Elvis Tribute
(Photo: City Cruises Plc / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Savour a gourmet meal with the distinctive tones of Elvis Presley in the background on this immersive 3-hour Thames cruise. As you cruise past famed London attractions on both sides of the river, you’ll get to hear songs by an acclaimed Elvis tribute act, with a dance floor for those who fancy strutting their stuff to the legendary King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The tour price includes one glass of sparkling wine, a 3-course dinner followed by tea or coffee, and live entertainment. From $115 per person.
Christmas Party Dinner Cruise
There is no more atmospheric time of year to enjoy a Thames cruise than during the festive season. Available every December, this 4-hour evening cruise includes a traditional Yuletide-themed 3-course meal, plus a live onboard DJ and dancing complete with classic Christmas tunes. Tours depart from Westminster Pier and head towards Canary Wharf, passing by some of London’s most iconic landmarks and attractions as you go. Included in the price is your dinner plus a half-bottle of wine per person and the live entertainment. From $101 per person.