Trips depart on a set departure schedule. Please arrive 15 minutes before at the correct Pier location detailed on your booking confirmation. Failure to arrive at the correct Pier location on time may result in you missing the trip.
Join the Thames Barrier Experience, the ultimate 70-minute high-speed RIB adventure on the River Thames. Designed for thrill-seekers and sightseeing fans alike, this tour blends fast-paced sections with engaging guided commentary as you travel from Embankment Pier or Westminster Pier to the iconic Thames Barrier, passing many of London’s most recognisable landmarks along the way. It’s the longest trip currently offered on this route.
The experience begins with around 15 minutes of guided commentary as you cruise through central London at a steady pace. During this section, your guide brings the river to life while pointing out famous sights including Big Ben, the London Eye, The Shard and Tower Bridge, giving you time to take photos and get your bearings on the river.
Once past the central sights, the pace increases for a full 40 minutes of high-speed travel as the boat heads east towards Canary Wharf and beyond. Expect fast acceleration, sweeping turns and open stretches of water where the power of the boat really comes into its own, with music playing through the onboard sound system to match the energy of the ride.
The final 15 minutes slow things back down for a more relaxed sightseeing cruise on the return journey. This gives you a chance to enjoy the views from the water once more, ask any final questions, and round off the experience with a calmer run back into central London.
The trip departs from your choice of either Embankment Pier or Westminster Pier, both ideally located in central London. This convenient starting point allows you to explore London by water, with easy access via public transport and a wealth of nearby landmarks.
We provide London’s fastest and most exciting speedboat rides, backed by over a decade of safe and memorable experiences on the Thames. Our state-of-the-art RIB boats feature powerful engines, full safety equipment, and expert crew members, ensuring a thrilling and secure experience for all ages. From the soundtrack to the commentary, every aspect of the trip is designed to leave a lasting impression.
The best way to get to us is by public transport.
Please allow plenty of time for your journey and check for any potential road closures or train delays in advance, as we cannot offer refunds or reschedules for missed trips.
We’re unable to offer refunds or reschedules due to illness; however, our tickets aren’t name-specific, so you’re welcome to pass them to a friend or relative to enjoy the experience.
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate pregnant passengers or those with heart or back conditions.
You may request a date or time change with a minimum of 7 days’ notice and all alterations are subject to a £35.00 administration fee per individual bookings and a £100.00 administration fee per boat for private hire/charter bookings.
If your trip is affected by the Minimum Passenger Policy (MPN), we will contact you the day before to offer an alternative time or a full refund for card payments. Voucher bookings will receive a three-month extension to rebook. Same-day bookings may be notified up to 15 minutes before departure. We cannot cover travel expenses or loss of earnings.
Water does not usually come on board, though you may experience a light spray during high-speed manoeuvres. In good weather, you’re unlikely to get wet at all.
We operate in all weather and provide disposable ponchos if necessary to help keep you dry. Please bring all personal belongings on board, as we cannot store items at the pier.
Our vessels travel at speeds of up to 30 knots maximum, ensuring an exhilarating experience!
We have not encountered passengers experiencing sickness on board, as speed boats typically do not cause motion sickness.
There is a minimum weight requirement of 15kg (approx. 2st 4lb). There is no maximum age or weight limit, and life vests are available for all sizes.
Children under 14 must be accompanied by at least one adult aged 18 or older at all times. Children aged 14-17 may travel without an adult if parental/guardian consent is given. We may ask for proof of age.
Disposable plastic ponchos are provided free of charge when necessary due to weather conditions.
Disabled passengers are welcome to join, provided they have a carer and can step into the vessel unaided or with their carer’s assistance. Wheelchairs and pushchairs can be left on the pier at the owner’s risk. Please refer to our full Access Statement for further information here https://thamesribexperience.com/thames-rib-experience-access-statement.
We do not offer storage at the pier, and for security reasons, we cannot hold onto possessions. Hand luggage-sized bags may be taken on board and stored underfoot.
There are no toilets at the pier, though nearby public facilities are available for a fee.
We have a strict no-alcohol or drug policy, and anyone under the influence will not be allowed to board.
Yes, you may take your own photos, though it’s at your own risk. We’ll also take on-board shots available for purchase after the tour.
If printing isn’t possible, you may show your booking confirmation email on your phone.
There is limited metered parking near Embankment Pier or Westminster Pier, and a public car park at Tower Hill (charges apply).
Yes, once on board, you may choose your seats, though pre-selected seating is not available. Boarding is not based on arrival order.
Each vessel accommodates up to 12 passengers, along with two crew members: your tour guide and skipper.
About the centre
Embankment Pier, London
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Thames Rib Experience, a partner of adventuro.
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