Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise

Planning to spend Christmas in London? This Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise offers a unique way to celebrate the holiday—combining a hearty traditional meal with breathtaking views of London’s holiday lights and iconic waterside landmarks. Perfect for those seeking a relaxing, scenic, and festive way to enjoy Christmas, all while avoiding the usual busy streets.

From the fully heated saloon to open-air upper deck, the cruise promises a blend of comfort and spectacular scenery. Expect a convivial atmosphere, delicious food, and the chance to snap holiday photos against a backdrop of glittering London. But it’s worth noting that the experience comes with a premium price tag and some mixed reviews about the food quality, so knowing what to anticipate will help you decide if this is your ideal Christmas outing.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see London’s Christmas lights from the river, the comfort of a fully heated saloon for the meal, and the open-air deck for those unforgettable views. The 3-course meal with all the trimmings is a major draw, as is the chance to relax with a glass of sparkling wine. Meanwhile, the holiday music and carols add to the festive spirit. A possible downside is the price—some reviewers felt it’s a bit steep given their experience—and the main course received some mixed feedback regarding quality.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic, relaxed celebrations, and those who want to combine sightseeing with a special meal in a festive setting. It’s especially ideal for families, couples, or groups looking for a memorable, picture-perfect Christmas in London.

Good To Know

• Scenic Views: See London’s most famous landmarks illuminated for Christmas while cruising along the Thames.
• Authentic Meal: Enjoy a traditional 3-course Christmas lunch with festive trimmings, served by friendly, professional staff.
• Open-Air Experience: The upper deck offers spectacular, unobstructed views—perfect for photos, weather permitting.
• Festive Atmosphere: Carols, holiday music, and a warm, celebratory vibe enhance the holiday experience.
• Convenient Departure: The cruise departs from Westminster Pier, making it easy to access from central London.
• Mixed Reviews: While the crew and scenery are praised, some comments mention the food quality and value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Cruise Experience

Departure and Setting

The cruise begins at Westminster Pier, a central and well-connected location ideal for exploring London beforehand or afterward. Boarding is straightforward, with most guests arriving in smart casual or festive attire—there’s a clear dress code that leans towards smart casual, which helps set the holiday mood.

Once aboard, you’re greeted with a welcome glass of sparkling wine, instantly adding a touch of celebration. The boat itself is spacious and comfortable, with a fully heated saloon that ensures guests remain cozy even if the December weather is chilly.

The Itinerary and Landmarks

The cruise takes approximately 195 minutes, giving you ample time to relax, eat, and admire the scenery. As you glide along the Thames, you’ll pass some of London’s most recognizable sights, including:

• Houses of Parliament: beautifully lit and buzzing with holiday energy.
• London Eye: illuminated and towering over the river.
• South Bank: lively with festive markets and decorations.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral: its dome shining against the winter sky.

This route offers a fantastic perspective of London’s waterside landmarks, many of which are decked out in Christmas lights, making your photos truly sparkle.

The Food: A Traditional Christmas Feast

The highlight for many is the 3-course meal. You’ll start with a Madagascan prawn and crab croquette—a flavorful, seafood-forward starter that sets a festive tone. The main course features roast turkey with sage and onion stuffing, complemented by Vichy carrots, roasted rosemary-onion potatoes, and a rich bordelaise sauce. Vegetarian options are available, ensuring there’s something for all.

From reviews, the food generally hits the mark in terms of presentation and portion size, but some guests found the main course less impressive. One reviewer mentioned, “the Christmas dinner main was terrible,” highlighting that expectations might not always match the plate. However, the staff delivering the food are praised for their friendliness and efficiency, making the meal service smooth and relaxed.

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Atmosphere and Entertainment

The cruise is designed to be festive from start to finish. Besides the delicious food, there’s festive music and carols, which add warmth and holiday cheer. Guests can enjoy their meal inside the cozy, fully heated saloon or step outside onto the upper deck for breathtaking views of the Christmas lights shimmering along the Thames.

The open-air deck is a highlight if the weather is clear, providing that rare chance to see London from the water in winter’s crisp air. Reviewers have shared that the views are truly special, and the photos taken here can become cherished holiday souvenirs.

Bar and Drinks

A cash bar offers a selection of festive drinks, including sparkling wine, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Some guests appreciated the convenience, though a few noted that drinks weren’t included in the ticket price. The drink prices are typical for London boat tours, so consider budgeting accordingly.

Duration and Comfort

The cruise lasts around 3 hours, offering enough time to enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. The boat’s interior is climate-controlled, and the staff is attentive without being intrusive—making it suitable for families, couples, and groups. The smart casual dress code encourages guests to look festive but comfortable.

Timing and Booking

Availability varies, and it’s advisable to book well in advance, especially around Christmas, when demand spikes. The cruise departs at different times, so check the schedule to find a suited slot. Cancellation is flexible—up to 3 days in advance—and refunds are straightforward.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $310 per person, the experience isn’t cheap, but it combines several elements: a scenic cruise, a traditional Christmas meal, festive entertainment, and a memorable setting. For many, the value lies in the unique holiday atmosphere and the chance to see London’s lights from the water—a perspective impossible to replicate from land.

However, some reviews point out that the food, particularly the main course, could be better, which might influence how you view the overall value. If you’re after a spectacular meal alone, other options might be more suitable. But if the idea of celebrating Christmas aboard a boat with stunning views appeals, many find it worth the splurge.

Who’s This Experience Best For?

This cruise is perfect for those who want a festive, scenic experience in London without the chill of outdoor sightseeing. It suits groups celebrating together, couples looking for romance with a holiday twist, or families wanting a special Christmas outing. If you love iconic landmarks, holiday lights, and a relaxed atmosphere, this cruise fits the bill.

It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate good service and a cozy, festive setting, even if the food isn’t gourmet. But, if you’re after a gourmet meal or a more budget-friendly activity, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed and festive atmosphere, along with a family-friendly meal, suggests it can be suitable for children, especially if they enjoy holiday scenery and boat trips.

What should I wear?
A smart casual or festive outfit is recommended, helping you look seasonal and feel comfortable during the cruise.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, the ticket covers the cruise, meal, and entertainment. Drinks are available for purchase at the cash bar.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise duration is approximately 195 minutes or just over 3 hours.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

Is the seating indoor or outdoor?
Guests have access to both. The fully heated saloon offers indoor comfort, and the open-air upper deck provides spectacular views for those willing to brave the cold.

What are the main landmarks visible from the cruise?
Key sights include the Houses of Parliament, London Eye, South Bank, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, all beautifully lit for Christmas.

Final Thoughts

The Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise offers a memorable way to celebrate the holiday, blending scenic sightseeing with delicious traditional food and a lively, festive atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers who want a unique, picture-perfect Christmas experience on the water, and who value comfort, atmosphere, and iconic views.

While the price reflects the exclusivity and setting, some guests suggest the food could be improved to match the overall experience. Still, the opportunity to see London’s famous landmarks illuminated for Christmas from the river, combined with a cozy meal and holiday music, makes this cruise a worthwhile splurge for many.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and festive way to enjoy Christmas in London, this cruise ticks many boxes. Just remember to dress smart casual, book early, and bring your holiday spirit along for a truly memorable day.

You can check if your dates are available here: