Hop-on, Hop-off boat trips are one of the most relaxed ways to explore the sights along the banks of the Thames. Navigate the Thames from Central London to maritime Greenwich and disembark at a number of piers on the way. You can jump on the next boat that comes past. It's flexible, fun and excellent value.
City Cruises run regular services between Westminster Pier and Greenwich Pier where customers can hop-on and hop-off at either Waterloo Pier or Tower Hill Pier. Alternatively, just sit tight and stay on for the whole 2.5 hour round trip which takes in The Houses of Parliament, London Eye, the South Bank, the Globe Theatre, St Paul's, HMS Belfast, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich.
Crown River Cruises offers a similar circular hop-on hop-off trip that takes in all the famous sights between Westminster Pier and Tower Bridge - with the round trip taking one hour.London RIB Voyages provide a thrilling and alternative perspective of the Thames as up to 12 passengers are whisked up and down the river in a fast speed boat ride. Speed through the city at up to 35 knots as award-winning comedian guides provide definitive entertainment and information on the landmarks that you sail past.
The Ultimate London Adventure last 50 minutes and zip passengers along the Thames at top speed in special rigid inflatable boats, while the Thames Barrier Explorer Voyage power boats venture as far as the Thames Barrier in an 80-minute return trip from the London Eye.
Meanwhile London Duck Tours take visitors around town on the roads and along the river in bright yellow World War II vehicles that can drive as well as float. Departing throughout the day from Chicheley Street, Waterloo (behind the London Eye), they drive past famous London landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar Square, giving a commentary on the history of the city as well as the vehicles. Finally, for the waterborne part of the 75 minute tour, the truck launches into the River Thames from a slipway at Vauxhall. It's great fun and an unusual way to see the sights.