The Ultimate London Speed Boat Tour: Thames Rockets

If you’re looking for thrilling things to do in London, the Thames Rockets London speed boat tour will get your adrenaline pumping. This exhilarating ride takes you from the London Eye Pier along the River Thames. It offers a fast-paced adventure with iconic sights, expert commentary and a dose of high-speed fun. 

I’ll be honest, I was a bit nervous before getting on the boat, even though I have done this type of tour once before. However, when it was over I was elated to have completed one of the most exciting things you can do in London. Here’s everything you need to know about this heart-racing experience.

Booking and Pre-boarding Information

Booking the Thames Rockets speed boat tour is easy and can be done online in advance. I recommend it because tours often sell out, especially on weekends and peak season. 

You must arrive at the London Eye Pier at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. This ensures you have time to check in and have your safety protocol information.

The pre-boarding process is quick and efficient. The crew gives a thorough safety briefing. You learn how to properly wear your life jacket and what to expect during the ride. The safety instructions are serious, but they’re delivered with a touch of humour. It keeps the atmosphere light while ensuring everyone knows the drill.

If you’re an early bird, you’ll be among the first to board, which means you can choose from one of the 16 seats spread over four rows. There’s no bad seat, though I would recommend sitting on the outside of a row if you plan to film.

The Thames Rocket Experience

Once on board, the tour starts calmly as the boat coasts along the River Thames. Your guide provides lively commentary about the landmarks you’re passing, from the Houses of Parliament to St. Paul’s Cathedral. The guide points out interesting facts and hidden gems that even locals may not know. It’s a fun way to learn a bit of history and soak in the views before the action really starts.

As soon as you pass under Tower Bridge, things shift into high gear. The captain opens up the throttle, and the boat zooms along the river at full speed. 

The rush is immediate. You’ll feel the wind whipping through your hair, and the boat banking sharply from side to side adds a real sense of adventure. The speed feels fast, but they only go about 33 knots. 

The sharp turns and fast pace make it feel much quicker than it is. All the while, British tunes like the James Bond theme blare from the speakers, adding to the excitement. It’s impossible not to feel the thrill as the boat zooms along the Thames, offering a whole new perspective on London’s iconic landmarks.

While the speed is exhilarating, it’s not an overwhelming experience. You do get splashed a bit, but nothing too dramatic. In fact, I’ve been on theme park rides in Florida that left me far wetter. However, the wind can be intense, so bear that in mind if you’re planning a posh meal or event afterward. 

I was worried about my handbag but it was fine on the floor between my feet. It hardly got wet during the ride.

London Speed Boat Tour: What to Expect

The Thames Rockets Ultimate London Adventure experience lasts 50 minutes. My experience was complimentary. While the first half of the tour is more leisurely, with plenty of sightseeing, the second half is all about speed and thrills. As the boat picks up pace, it’s easy to see why this attraction has consistently ranked as the #1 thing to do in London on TripAdvisor for over 10 years.

For thrill-seekers, this is a must-do activity. However, there are some restrictions to keep in mind. Pregnant women and anyone with back or neck issues won’t be allowed on the boat. This London speed boat tour is probably not the best idea if you have concerns about your physical health. But if you’re up for a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping adventure, it’s a fab way to experience London. Or if you live here and want things to do in London that are high energy- consider it too.

The Thames Rockets crew knows how to strike the perfect balance between fun and safety, making sure everyone has a fantastic time. The boat banking hard on turns might feel scary at first, but it quickly becomes part of the excitement. In fact, by the end of the ride, I was laughing and grinning from ear to ear, even though I started out a little terrified.

I’ve published a Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok video sharing our experience, if you’d like to see what I mean!

@sunny_in_london

Cool Things to Do in London | London Trip | The London Eye | London Life | Speed Boat Tour in London #thingstodoinlondon #londontrip #londonlife #americaninlondon #speedboat #londoneye

♬ James Bond Theme – Nicholas Dodd

Seasonal and Themed Tours

If you’re thinking about doing a Thames Rockets London speed boat tour during the holiday season, they offer a Christmas-themed ride called the Jingle Bell Blast. This festive twist on the classic experience includes Christmas caroling as you speed along the Thames, adding an extra layer of fun. It’s just another reason why this London speed boat tour is so popular year-round. 

There are also other themed rides throughout the year, so it’s worth checking their website for the latest offerings. Whether you’re looking for a date activity for a day out in London, or a more thrilling evening ride, the Thames Rockets has options to suit everyone. I took one of my best friends from university who was visiting me from Florida.

Final Thoughts

The Thames Rockets speed boat tour is undoubtedly one of the most exciting activities I recommend for things to do in London. It combines the thrill of high-speed boating with the chance to see the city’s most famous landmarks in a whole new way. Whether you’re a local looking for something different to do or a first-time visitor seeking a unique London experience, this tour won’t disappoint.

Keep in mind that this activity appeals most to thrill-seekers. If you’re not keen on high speeds and sharp turns, it may not be for you. And you’ll definitely end up windblown and a bit disheveled by the end! 

A note to those who will want to film the adventure- bring a GoPro attached to an extendable monopod with a hand strap. My friend filmed with her new iPhone and was fine, but I wouldn’t chance it. 

Have You Tried It?

Have you ever taken a speed boat tour in London? What’s your favourite adrenaline-pumping experience in the city? Share your thoughts in the comments – I’d love to hear about your adventures!