London: 20-Minute Tower RIB Blast from Tower Pier

If you’re looking for a quick adrenaline rush with a side of London’s most famous sights, the 20-minute Tower RIB Blast offers just that. This speedy boat ride takes you from the historic Tower Millennium Pier along the River Thames, giving you a taste of high-speed fun and iconic city views. It’s a tour designed for travelers craving excitement, a dash of adventure, and memorable photos—all packed into a short, lively trip.

What really makes this experience shine is its combination of thrill-seeking and sightseeing. We love how effortlessly it turns a river cruise into an action-packed ride, especially with the Bond-style soundtrack and the chance to feel like a secret agent zipping past London’s landmarks. But, as with any adrenaline-focused activity, there are a few things to keep in mind, like the maximum group size of 12 and the weather dependency typical of speedboat rides.

This tour suits those who enjoy quick, fun adventures, are comfortable with water-based activities, and want a different perspective on London’s famous skyline. If you’re the type to prefer slow, in-depth sightseeing, this may not be your best bet. But if you’re after a fun, memorable thrill with impressive views, it’s a solid choice that offers excellent value for a short, high-impact outing.

Key Points

• Brief but Exciting: 20 minutes of high-speed fun on the Thames with iconic landmarks in view
• Authentic London Views: See Tower of London, The Shard, HMS Belfast, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf
• Flexible & Easy: Book now, pay later, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance
• Family & Group-Friendly: Limited to 12 passengers, suitable for most ages (not for pregnant women, small children, or those with certain health conditions)
• Photo Opportunities: Souvenir photos and videos available afterward
• Professional Crew: Guide and skippers who prioritize safety and fun

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The adventure begins at Tower Millennium Pier, a convenient starting point in the heart of London’s historic East End. From here, the boat gently cruises past well-known sights like the Tower of London, a fortress and royal palace that’s been guarding London for centuries, and the HMS Belfast, a floating WWII museum. The Shard looms nearby, giving you a glimpse of London’s modern skyline.

The itinerary is quick but packed with visual treats. You’ll spend roughly a minute at each of the first three stops—enough to snap a few photos or simply admire these landmarks from the water. The Tower of London especially stands out as a symbol of history, contrasting sharply with the modern glass of The Shard.

The highlight for most travelers comes as the boat approaches Tower Bridge, where a brief two-minute stop allows for photos of London’s most famous bascule bridge. Here, the palpable energy of the boat, the sound of the engines, and the excited chatter of fellow passengers set the mood for what’s to come.

After the stops, the fun begins as the boat accelerates into the speedboat segment. Within a few seconds, you’ll feel the rush of wind and the exhilaration of zipping at speeds around 40 mph. The onboard soundtrack, featuring themes from James Bond movies, amplifies the sense of adventure—making you feel like a secret agent in pursuit of a villain.

For those who love the thrill, this part is the real highlight. According to reviews, the boat ride is akin to a roller coaster on water—quick, bouncy, and full of adrenaline. The crew’s professionalism and friendliness are often praised, making sure everyone feels safe even as the boat twists and turns on the river.

The trip concludes back at Tower Millennium Pier, where you can opt to purchase souvenirs—photos taken during the ride serve as a fun reminder of your high-speed adventure. The entire experience, from start to finish, is designed to be exhilarating without overstaying its welcome, making it perfect for a quick break in your London day.

What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

The main draw is the 20-minute speedboat ride, which delivers a burst of excitement combined with views of London’s most famous sights. The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide, providing commentary that enhances the experience, whether it’s pointing out landmarks or sharing fun facts about London’s history.

Staff and crew are described as friendly and professional, with safety gear like life jackets and optional plastic ponchos provided—an essential addition for a water-based activity. The boat limits groups to 12 passengers, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere, especially compared to larger cruise ships.

However, the experience does not include extensive sightseeing beyond the landmarks visible from the water, nor does it provide food or drinks during the trip. Souvenirs, including photos and videos, are available for purchase afterward, adding a personal touch to your memory.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing—the boat ride can be bouncy, and it’s best to be prepared for wind and splashes.
• Bring warm layers if you tend to feel cold easily, especially since the ride is outdoors and exposed.
• Arrive early at Tower Millennium Pier to ensure a smooth check-in, especially during busy times.
• Sit in the front if you want to maximize the thrill, as many reviews suggest that front seats tend to feel the most exhilarating.
• Age and health restrictions are in place: not suitable for pregnant women, children under 33 lbs (15 kg), or individuals with certain health conditions. Be aware of the weight minimum of 15 kg.
• Cancellation policy is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it less risky if plans change.

The Value Proposition

At around $50 per person, the price for this short but energetic experience offers good value, particularly for thrill-seekers and fans of quick trips. You get a customizable experience—fast-paced, visually engaging, and with some fun elements like the Bond soundtrack—that makes it stand out from standard Thames sightseeing cruises.

Compared to longer boat tours, this one is all about thrills rather than in-depth commentary or leisurely exploration. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a memorable burst of excitement or to add a different flavor to your London visit.

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Who Will Love It?

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers, families with teenagers, and anyone eager for a fun, fast-paced experience. It’s also an excellent choice if you want a memorable photo opportunity at iconic London landmarks, especially from a perspective you can’t get elsewhere. If you’re after detailed historical commentary or a relaxing cruise, you might prefer a longer, more laid-back tour.

Travelers who appreciate professional staff and the chance to capture souvenir photos will find this experience particularly satisfying. Just note that it’s not suitable for pregnant women, very young children, or those with certain medical issues—safety always comes first.

Final Thoughts

The London Tower RIB Blast offers a short, adrenaline-fueled way to see London’s most iconic sights from the river, blending sightseeing with high-speed fun. It’s a great option for travelers looking for a quick dose of excitement, a different perspective on the city, and some memorable photos to take home.

While it’s not a comprehensive sightseeing tour, it excels at delivering pure entertainment and excitement in a compact package. The professional crew, clear safety measures, and lively soundtrack make it a well-organized, fun-filled activity.

For thrill-seekers, photo enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to feel a little more like a secret agent, this ride provides a unique, lively way to enjoy London’s river.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride?
The ride lasts exactly 20 minutes, making it a quick, high-impact experience perfect for fitting into a busy day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Tower Millennium Pier, centrally located in London’s historic East End.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see the Tower of London, The Shard, HMS Belfast, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf—all visible from the water during the trip.

Is the ride suitable for children?
Children over 33 lbs (15 kg) are welcome, but very young children and pregnant women are advised to avoid it due to the high-speed nature.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adding flexibility to your travel plans.

Are souvenirs included?
No, souvenirs like photos and videos are available for purchase after the tour.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes, and bring layers if needed, as it can be windy and splashes are possible.

In the end, this tour offers a lively, fast-paced way to see London from the Thames—perfect for adrenaline junkies and those wanting a memorable, quick adventure. Just remember to dress for the weather and sit in the front for the most thrill. It’s a fun addition to any London trip, especially if you’re looking to add a little excitement to your sightseeing schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: