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London’s best Thames river cruises

Get a whole new perspective of the city with these top Thames river cruises

Think you’ve ticked off everything London has to offer? Think again. Try a Thames river cruise – and no, we’re not talking about the Clippers (well we are, but only a little bit). There are few better ways to take in the capital than by its famously choppy, murky central waterway. Plus the views, from Hampton Court down to the City and Greenwich, are some of the absolute finest our city has to offer.

It's time to ditch dry land and hop aboard a Thames river boat tour. And plenty of London’s top attractions are best seen from the water – so get your camera ready.

RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in London

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Best Thames river cruises in London

Thames Rockets

• Ships and boats

Bring your waterproofs, because the slick RIB (rigid inflatable boat) operation offers a high-speed ride on the Thames. It's a great way to discover how exhilarating it can be to swoop along the Thames at almost 30 knots – that’s nearly 35 mph, nautical novices! We're not sure how much you'll actually be able to see, but there are plenty more leisurely-paced tours for that sorta thing.

Bateaux London Cruises

• Victoria Embankment

A good river cruise for those who want a spot of grub while taking in the sights along the Thames – Bateaux offer a full range of different dining cruises. There’s the lunch, afternoon tea and dinner cruise – or you could really pull the stops out and enjoy their three-course lunch with a live jazz band playing assorted swingin’ classics. All river cruises depart from Victoria Embankment.

City Cruises

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

Want to see the city in style? City cruises operate on a hop-on, hop-off basis and run from Westminster, Waterloo, Tower and Greenwich Piers with commentary along the way. All the departure points are convenient for the city’s various sights, with Greenwich Pier ideal for the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory.

London Duck Tours

Praise whichever brilliant mind decided to paint the scant remaining WW2 landing vehicles in bright, rubber-duck yellow! These duck city tours take in all the typical land-based sights – then has two ‘splashdowns’ into the Thames as it goes into nautical mode and takes passengers around Docklands, Canary Wharf and Greenwich.

Thames RIB Experience

• Sightseeing

Instead of a usual tour’s drab history lessons and endless stream of tedious facts, why not try something a little more thrilling? The Thames RIB Experience is more like a rollercoaster than a classic sightseeing tour, and sees passengers jetted across the water at an impressive 45mph. Lifejackets and waterproofs are provided (fortunately), leaving you free to enjoy whizzing around in figure-eights in open water between Tower Bridge and the Isle of Dogs. Try and take in some sights as the high winds reshape your face.

Thames River Boats

Thames River Boats take you all the way from the Palace of Westminster upriver to Hampton Court Palace. It’s a pretty leisurely 22-mile journey: in 90 minutes you’ll be at Kew; in another 90, you’ll be at Hampton Court. But this westward route is a lovely way to appreciate the Thames, as the banks get greener, less cluttered with high-rise buildings and the river buses are replaced by rowers.

Thames Clippers

These days the Thames Clippers are better known as ‘Uber Boats’, not because they’re the most incredible boats but because, you guessed it, they’re sponsored by a taxi company. Sure, they don’t go very fast (trundling along at a very leisurely 30mph), but they’re a pretty underrated, cost-effective way to traverse the Thames.

Vintage Red Bus Tour and Thames Cruise

Why choose between the road and the river when you can have both? First up on this guided tour you'll be driven round the capital in a routemaster (that's the old red double decker bus), before boarding a Thames Cruiser to view the sites from the water. Sail past landmarks like Shakespeare's Globe and Tower Bridge, before getting back on the bus and heading to her Maj's residence: Buckingham Palace. There's also the option to add a ticket for the London Eye on this package.

Tate to Tate Boat

A connecting service between either art institution, the Tate to Tate Boat runs every 40 minutes. Aside from getting you from one gallery to another, it’s also great for taking in lots of central London scenery. As you might expect, the boat itself is an arty affair: YBA Damien Hirst covered both the exterior and interior with his trademark spots. It’s also genuinely the quickest way to travel from Tate to Tate – this way, you avoid an irritatingly convoluted tube or bus journey.

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Sightseeing Cruise on the River Thames | City Cruises™

Choose your ticket type.

Return Ticket With a return ticket you can go one way, take in some of the sights around the pier and then take the same route back.

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See the best of beautiful London from the water on this Thames River sightseeing cruise, from Westminster to Bankside and Tower Bridge. We’ve been cruising along the Thames for over half a century now, and our expert skippers and crew look forward to welcoming you on board. Our city knowledge, entertaining tales, and local’s perspective will help turn your cruise into a special memory of your time in London. Climb aboard our sightseeing boat at Westminster Pier and cruise through the heart of London, admiring famous landmarks such as St. Paul's Cathedral, The Shard, the Tate Modern, and the world-famous Globe Theatre from your vantage point on the waves.

Yes, they have to disembark and change the boat if they wish to return to Westminster. This applies to round-trip ticket holders. Always confirm with ticket office or crew as to the time of the last boat.

Yes, toilet facilities are available on all our vessels.

The journey time from Westminster Pier to Bankside is 20 minutes.

Yes, we have fully-licensed bars selling a wide range of tasty snacks and drinks, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic.

Bankside sits at the foot of London’s iconic Tate Modern gallery and Shakespeare's Globe, which boasts centuries of history and unrivalled views along the river through central London. You can find more details on our Attractions page.

+44 20 3778 0700 [email protected]

Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment. London, SW1A 2JH

Copyright © Thames River Sightseeing 2024

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• Thames River Boats Home
• Richmond Landing Stage River Cruises & Boat Trips with Thames River Boats

Richmond Landing Stage

Richmond Riverside is a relaxed and tranquil environment over looking the River Thames. With riverside walks, boating, and exceptional mix of shops, bars and restaurants, fashionable boutiques and antiques shops, traditional pubs, bars and cafes.

If you’re looking for a place to eat or drink, there is an exceptional variety to suit every budget from a quick snack to fine dining. Richmond has something for everyone.

River Cruises from Richmond Landing Stage

Our sailings operate on selected days & are subject to change without prior notice, we advise regularly checking this page for the most up to date sailing information.

Transportation

National Rail

Richmond Station (Zone 4):  Southwestern Rail Services (20 Minutes to London Waterloo)

London Underground

Richmond Station (Zone 4):  20 Minutes to London Waterloo

London Overground

Richmond Station (Zone 4)

Bus Services

Hill Rise:  65, N65

Cresswell Road:  33, 490, 969, H22, N22, R68, R70

Coach Parking

Old Deer Park, Richmond

Richmond Landing Stage Location

Richmond Landing Stage Address:   Richmond Landing Stage, 7 Northumberland Place, Richmond, TW10 6TS What Three Words Address:   ///desks.violin.weds

• Cockney Sparrow

The Cockney Sparrow was built in 1976 at Eel Pie Island. She is a two level boat with a deceptively large enclosed saloon and an open top deck. 

M.V Connaught was built by Salter Brothers of Oxford in 1911 & has been cruising between Westminster, Kew, Richmond & Hampton Court for over 100 years. Connaught regularly operates on our services & is also available for private charters.

• Princess Freda

Princess Freda was built in 1926 by T.C. Letcher on the Isle of Wight, and has been restored to a particularly high standard.

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Unparalleled events on the Thames

Extraordinary event spaces on the River Thames for 2 to 550 guests

With the River Thames as your private playground, an event at a Woods' Silver Fleet venue, is the perfect solution for the grandest of days.

Plan your private charter

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Explore our Fleet on the thames

Silver Sturgeon

Silver Barracuda

Silver Darling

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Don't miss the boat! Check the River Bus timetable before travelling

To plan your journey by river select the relevant timetable below and scroll right or left to find departure times from your pier. Download the PDF version for offline use.

For the latest service updates please check our X account @thamesclippers .

Weekday timetable

Weekday – westbound services.

Services stopping at piers from Barking Riverside to Putney via central London

Weekday – eastbound services

Services stopping at piers from Putney to Barking Riverside via central London

Weekday - RB4

Ferry service between Doubletree Docklands in Rotherhithe and Canary Wharf

Weekend & bank holiday timetable

Weekend – westbound services, weekend – eastbound services, weekend - rb4, view our route map.

Travel along the Thames by boat, we stop at 24 piers across London.

Latest service updates

For the most up to date information on our services please follow   @thamesclippers on X (formerly known as Twitter). You can also find live departure information at the piers or on the Thames Clippers Tickets app.

Useful links

Buy tickets, ticket information, find your pier, our route map explained, commute by river, service alerts.

All Inclusive River Cruising

Uniworld has redefined the concept of all-inclusive luxury, offering only the most exceptional amenities, experiences and service—including an ample selection of premium spirits and wines, bicycles, Nordic walking sticks, onboard gratuities, onboard fitness classes (like yoga and TRX), ship-wide Wi-Fi and private shore excursions in each city. As we see it, our guests deserve the absolute best of everything and the difference is truly in the details .

2021 Offers extended for a limited time only! Take advantage of our Early Booking Savings, Picture Perfect Savings and Solo Traveler Savings. So why wait? Book today!

See all of our current offers

Or call our Travel Experts today at 1-800-257-2407

Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time

Brussels to Amsterdam | 8 days

You’ll find an ideal mix of old and new, historic and modern, in some of Europe’s liveliest cities on this journey. Spend time in Amsterdam and Maastricht, allowing you to discover great...

Ship: S.S. Victoria

Countries: Belgium, Netherlands

River: Rhine

4.6 /5 (81 reviews)

From $4,679 per person

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Castles along The Rhine

Basel to Amsterdam | 8 days

Cruise along the Rhine—Germany on one side, France on the other. Discover Alsace, whose dual French and German heritage has given it fabulous food and a winemaking tradition that goes back to...

Ships: River Queen, S.S. Antoinette, S.S. Elisabeth, S.S. Victoria

Countries: France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland

4.7 /5 (1865 reviews)

From $3,149 per person

Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland

Amsterdam to Basel | 11 days

Dive deep into the region’s culture, natural wonders, traditions and historical significance in a one-of-a-kind experience along the Rhine. Delve into the region’s world-renowned museums. ...

Ships: River Queen, S.S. Antoinette

4.6 /5 (273 reviews)

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Danube Holiday Markets

Budapest to Passau | 8 days

Budapest has celebrated Christmas for a thousand years, since the reign of St. Stephen, the king who founded Hungary and encouraged the spread of Christianity throughout his realm. As you ramble...

Ships: River Princess, S.S. Maria Theresa

Countries: Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia

River: Danube

4.6 /5 (140 reviews)

European Holiday Markets

Nuremberg to Vienna | 8 days

This cruise takes you to some of the most famous and delightful holiday markets in Central Europe. At each market, you’ll find wooden stalls displaying traditional crafts that range from quirky ...

Ships: River Princess, S.S. Beatrice

Countries: Austria, Germany

4.4 /5 (135 reviews)

From $3,599 per person

Ultimate European Journey

Amsterdam to Bucharest | 25 days

Prepare for the cruise of a lifetime as you travel the length of Europe through eight nations, exploring wonders of the Old World and the New, the East and the West.

Sail the romantic Rhine, the...

Ships: River Duchess, River Princess, S.S. Beatrice

Countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, Netherlands

Rivers: Danube, Main, Rhine

4.5 /5 (80 reviews)

From $14,899 per person

Enchanting Danube

The shimmering waters of the fabled Danube River flow for thousands of miles through the very heart of Europe, silent witness to centuries of artistic achievement and historical events. This...

Ship: S.S. Maria Theresa

4.7 /5 (799 reviews)

From $2,969 per person

Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong

Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi | 15 days

Two of the most beautiful, historic and friendly places in all of Asia, dynamic Vietnam and pastoral Cambodia are intriguing studies in contrast. Each possesses its own unique charm and social...

Ship: Mekong Jewel

Countries: Vietnam, Cambodia

River: Mekong

4.8 /5 (315 reviews)

From $6,929 per person

Portraits of Eastern Europe

Prague to Bucharest | 19 days

Beautifully preserved Prague has enchanted visitors for ages, but it is only a tiny part of this extraordinary voyage through eight nations. Sail past quaint villages and great cities on the glorious ...

Ships: River Duchess, S.S. Beatrice

Countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Serbia

4.1 /5 (45 reviews)

From $9,899 per person

Rhine Holiday Markets

Basel to Cologne | 8 days

Discover the roots of our Christmas traditions as you explore some of Europe’s most charming towns. Browse for unique ornaments in Basel’s Christmas Market. Sip vin chaud as you stroll to ...

Ships: S.S. Antoinette, S.S. Elisabeth

Countries: France, Germany, Switzerland

4.4 /5 (134 reviews)

From $4,299 per person

Highlights of Eastern Europe

Budapest to Bucharest | 10 days

Immerse yourself in new cultures as you travel from splendid Budapest to dynamic Bucharest, discovering the best that the revitalized nations of Eastern Europe have to offer along the way.

Countries: Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia

4.4 /5 (347 reviews)

From $4,499 per person

Burgundy & Provence

Arles to Lyon | 8 days

Cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers, enjoying the region’s incomparable wine and cuisine and discovering its many treasures. Stroll the very streets of Arles made famous by Van Gogh....

Ship: S.S. Catherine

Country: France

Rivers: Rhône, Saône

4.6 /5 (957 reviews)

From $3,239 per person

Classic Christmas Markets

Nuremberg to Frankfurt | 8 days

Discover villages with fairytale houses and a friendly, festive atmosphere. Share traditional holiday goodies with the people who made them. Watch as modern children abandon their usual electronics...

Ships: River Duchess, River Princess, River Queen

Country: Germany

Rivers: Main, Rhine

4.2 /5 (131 reviews)

From $3,699 per person

Grand France

Arles to Paris | 15 days

For Francophiles in love with the culture, history, cuisine, and romance of France, this grand voyage is a dream come true. Soak up the joie de vivre that makes France one of the most adored...

Ships: S.S. Catherine, S.S. Joie de Vivre

Rivers: Rhône, Saône, Seine

4.7 /5 (134 reviews)

From $6,389 per person

Delightful Danube

Budapest to Nuremberg | 8 days

Experience dynamic Budapest and imperial Vienna. Marvel at ravishing scenery as your luxurious ship glides through the Wachau Valley, celebrated as one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, ...

Countries: Austria, Germany, Hungary

4.5 /5 (92 reviews)

From €2,789 per person

Delightful Danube & Prague

Budapest to Prague | 10 days

Experience dynamic Budapest, imperial Vienna and exquisitely preserved Prague. Marvel at ravishing scenery as your luxurious ship glides through the Wachau Valley, celebrated as one of the...

Countries: Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary

4.5 /5 (491 reviews)

European Jewels

Budapest to Amsterdam | 16 days

From exotic Budapest, “Queen of the Danube,” to imperial Vienna, “City of Waltzes,” to the sky-high spires of Cologne’s Gothic cathedral—centuries of intriguing...

Countries: Austria, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands

4.6 /5 (544 reviews)

From $5,499 per person

Rhine River Valley

Nuremberg to Basel | 8 days

Immerse yourself in history as you stroll through beautifully preserved medieval towns and a stunning imperial palace. Sample the fruits of the Rhine’s famously excellent wineries and enjoy...

Ship: River Princess

Countries: Germany, France, Switzerland

3.7 /5 (15 reviews)

From $2,299 per person

Authentic Danube & Prague

Vienna to Prague | 10 days

As your adventure starts, castles, stunning architecture and natural wonders ensue. Discover the old walled city of Nuremberg and its mesmerizing castles. Stroll through countless enchanting towns...

Countries: Austria, Germany, Czech Republic

4.4 /5 (132 reviews)

From $2,799 per person

Authentic Danube

Vienna to Nuremberg | 8 days

As your adventure starts, castles, stunning architecture, natural wonders and rich history ensue. Discover the old walled city of Nuremberg and its mesmerizing castles. Stroll through countless...

4.7 /5 (58 reviews)

From $1,999 per person

Enchanting Christmas & New Year's Cruise

Passau to Budapest | 11 days

Cruise the mighty Danube, visiting classic capitals like Budapest and Vienna. Spend Christmas Eve in Passau, then ring in the New Year in elegant style in Budapest. Festive celebrations are plentiful ...

4.6 /5 (25 reviews)

From $5,399 per person

Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

Venice to Venice | 8 days

This ultimate Venetian vacation is perfected by one unique quality: your stay onboard our floating boutique hotel. Not only will you benefit from an enviable location in Venice, you’ll also...

Ship: S.S. La Venezia

Country: Italy

4.6 /5 (117 reviews)

From $3,059 per person

A Portrait of Majestic France

Bordeaux to Paris | 15 days

This picture-perfect journey blends your passion for the good life—art, culture, and gastronomy—with a broad sweep of lovely French landscapes. Travel from beautiful Bordeaux and delight...

Ships: S.S. Bon Voyage, S.S. Joie de Vivre

Rivers: Dordogne, Garonne, Seine

4.5 /5 (93 reviews)

From $6,749 per person

Paris & Normandy

Paris to Paris | 8 days

Cruise from Paris through Normandy’s countryside, uncovering its many charms: Château de La Roche-Guyon, the medieval capital of Rouen, Monet’s beloved home in Giverny and the famed ...

Ship: S.S. Joie de Vivre

River: Seine

4.7 /5 (834 reviews)

From $3,509 per person

Brilliant Bordeaux

Bordeaux to Bordeaux | 8 days

Set sail along three stunning rivers, the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde, on one fascinatingly historical and invigorating journey. Explore the country’s breathtaking backdrops, wines and...

Ship: S.S. Bon Voyage

Rivers: Dordogne, Garonne

4.4 /5 (426 reviews)

Grand Christmas & New Year's

Nuremberg to Budapest | 13 days

You’ll sail through Germany, Austria, and Hungary along the shimmering Danube and past incredible sights on this unique itinerary. Explore charming old-world villages and Gothic cathedrals and...

Ship: S.S. Beatrice

Rivers: Danube, Main

4.5 /5 (26 reviews)

From $7,199 per person

Ultimate France

Bordeaux to Arles | 22 days

This triumvirate of France brings you the very best of each region—Paris and the Normandy coast in the north, vineyard-rich Bordeaux in the southwest, and the sun-drenched Mediterranean...

Ships: S.S. Bon Voyage, S.S. Catherine, S.S. Joie de Vivre

Rivers: Dordogne, Garonne, Rhône, Seine

4.4 /5 (52 reviews)

From $10,799 per person

Splendors of Egypt & the Nile

Cairo to Cairo | 12 days

For 12 adventure-filled days, experience Egypt and the Nile’s most wondrous sites in style and luxury. * Wander amongst the towering ruins of the Temple of Karnak, the world’s largest...

Ships: River Tosca, S.S. Sphinx

Country: Egypt

River: Nile

4.6 /5 (743 reviews)

From $6,299 per person

Cruise & Rail: Grand Alpine & the Enchanting Danube

Passau to Venice | 15 days

Embark on a river cruise down the shimmering waters of the fabled Danube River, where our locally-based destination experts will take you well beyond the “must-sees” of each region,...

Countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Switzerland, Slovenia, Italy

Belgian Holiday Markets

Brussels to Brussels | 8 days

There’s no more magical way to enjoy the holiday season than with a visit to a Christmas market. And on an all-inclusive, luxury river cruise, you can wander the stalls of many such markets in...

3.8 /5 (50 reviews)

Milan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

Milan to Venice | 10 days

Begin your journey in stunning Milan and disembark in romantic Venice. These two legendary cities will bookend unforgettable experiences throughout the Veneto region.

This ultimate Venetian vacation...

4.5 /5 (91 reviews)

From $3,869 per person

Cruise & Rail: The Sacred Ganges & the Maharajas' Express

Kolkata to New Delhi | 16 days

Start your journey onboard the luxurious riverboat, the Ganges Voyager II . Travel to villages lining the Ganges River that only a few people get to see each year and experience our Wellness Program ,...

Ship: Ganges Voyager II

Country: India

River: Ganges

From $28,599 per person

India's Golden Triangle & the Sacred Ganges

New Delhi to Kolkata | 13 days

Complex and beguiling, India is a country unlike any other. Wondrous sights rich in romance and intrigue come alive in the “Golden Triangle”—Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. Delhi’s...

4.8 /5 (205 reviews)

Cruise & Rail: Milan, Venice, Istanbul & the Balkans

Milan to Istanbul | 19 days

Begin your journey in stunning Milan and embark on your cruise in romantic Venice. These two legendary cities will bookend unforgettable experiences throughout the Veneto region. Treat yourself to a...

Countries: Italy, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Turkey

Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration

Lima to Lima | 16 days

From a deep dive into Lima—the “City of Kings”—to the legendary Machu Picchu, this 16-day cruise/tour is an all-encompassing adventure into the marvels of Peru and the Amazon...

Ship: Aria Amazon

Country: Peru

4.8 /5 (35 reviews)

From $13,049 per person

Cruise & Rail: Grand Alpine & the Jewels of Veneto

Budapest to Venice | 16 days

Begin your journey in the stunning cities of Budapest and Vienna, from which you’ll ascend into the idyllic wonderland of the Alps via a luxury overnight train. Your days will be filled with...

Countries: Hungary, Austria, Switzerland, Slovenia, Italy

Cruise & Rail: Venice, Istanbul & the Balkans

Venice to Istanbul | 17 days

Embark on a private train journey to Istanbul, during which you’ll sleep on the luxury Golden Eagle Danube Express with ever-changing views at your window—the perfect addition to a river...

Grand Central Europe

Vienna to Basel | 15 days

Begin your journey in the picturesque city of Basel and end in imperial Vienna, two showstopping destinations to highlight your cruise. Along the way, you’ll cruise through 3 different...

Countries: Switzerland, France, Germany, Austria

Rivers: Danube, Rhine

4.7 /5 (17 reviews)

From $7,099 per person

Peruvian Rivers & Rainforest Discovery

Lima to Lima | 11 days

Peru is a land of mysteries, legends and ancient cultures. Your journey starts in the country’s capital, Lima. Known as the “City of Kings,” this melting pot of culture will...

5 /5 (6 reviews)

From $11,699 per person

Grand Central Europe & Zurich

Zurich to Vienna | 17 days

Cruise between the picturesque city of Basel and imperial Vienna. Along the way, you’ll cruise through 3 different rivers—the Rhine, Main and Danube—to visit Switzerland, France,...

4.2 /5 (6 reviews)

From $7,899 per person

Tulips & Windmills

Amsterdam to Antwerp | 10 days

From the canals of Amsterdam to the belfry of Bruges, you’ll discover the best of the Netherlands and Belgium. Stroll through colorful acres of tulips at Keukenhof Gardens to get a sense of the ...

Ships: River Duchess, River Princess

4.6 /5 (231 reviews)

Magnificent Moselle & Rhine

Frankfurt to Frankfurt | 10 days

Uncover the best-kept secret in river cruising, the Moselle, as you sail past some of Europe’s most serene and vineyard-lined landscapes. Explore Cochem’s castle-dotted hillsides. See ...

Countries: Germany, Luxembourg

Rivers: Moselle, Rhine

4.7 /5 (29 reviews)

From $3,999 per person

Zurich & the Rhine River Valley

Nuremberg to Zurich | 10 days

4.4 /5 (18 reviews)

From $3,099 per person

Douro River Valley

Porto to Porto | 8 days

As you follow the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port....

Ship: S.S. São Gabriel

Countries: Portugal, Spain

River: Douro

4.3 /5 (123 reviews)

From $4,409 per person

Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley

Porto to Lisbon | 11 days

Following the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port and explore ...

4.3 /5 (424 reviews)

From $5,039 per person

Wine Roads of France & Portugal

Bordeaux to Lisbon | 18 days

The Southern European climates and historic towns of both Bordeaux and Portugal are as complimentary as their palettes—expect bold reds and excellent dessert wines, from Sauternes to Port....

Ships: S.S. Bon Voyage, S.S. São Gabriel

Countries: France, Portugal, Spain

Rivers: Dordogne, Douro, Garonne

From $8,099 per person

Dutch & Belgian Holiday Celebration

Brussels to Amsterdam | 11 days

Enjoy sweet treats as you indulge in the wintertime festivities of Belgian towns, where the Christmas markets are often elaborate festivals complete with ice rinks and Ferris wheels. Warm your hands...

Rome, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

Venice to Rome | 11 days

Begin your journey in romantic Venice. Treat yourself to a private evening lighting ceremony at St. Mark’s Basilica, explore the colorful facades of Burano, and sail south to discover...

From $4,859 per person

Rhine, Moselle & Belgium Grand Discovery

Basel to Brussels | 15 days

Soak in as much of Central Europe’s fantastic cities and culture as possible in just two weeks. Snack on classic Dutch treats in the Netherlands, enjoy the fruits of Germany’s excellent...

Countries: Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France, Switzerland

From $8,549 per person

Cruise & Rail: Delightful Danube & the Castles of Transylvania

Istanbul to Nuremberg | 15 days

Begin with the exquisite mosques of Istanbul, where we explore the fascinating history and age-old traditions of this magnificent city, shaped by the empires of times gone by. Then join us on a...

Countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Turkey

From $15,598 per person

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Begin your journey in stunning Milan, where you’ll view da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” Stop for a tasting of rare Amarone wines on your way to romantic Venice. Embark on your...

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Amsterdam to Amsterdam | 8 days

Windmills, colorful flowers, a rich art history, and more bikes than you can possibly imagine—the Netherlands is like nowhere else on earth. See the full spectrum of Dutch life, landscapes, and ...

Ship: River Queen

Country: Netherlands

4.3 /5 (47 reviews)

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Lima to Ho Chi Minh City | 55 days

This 55-day odyssey will span three continents and four luxurious ships, taking 40 adventurous guests to some of our favorite destinations as well as new-to-Uniworld locales.

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Castles along the rhine (2025).

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In London, a Houseboat Used to Be the Affordable Option. Not Anymore.

With land-based home prices increasingly out of reach, more Londoners are taking to the water. But as the canals fill up, even this affordable living option is becoming less attainable.

By Ben West

When you walk along the towpaths lining London’s 100-mile network of canals, a life on the water can appear idyllic. The boats dotting the winding banks look impossibly charming, romantic, colorful. Even better, they’re cheap to acquire compared with buying a conventional land-based house or apartment in the city.

“It’s so peaceful here,” said David Ros, a freelance sound designer who has been living on the London waterways for 15 years. “I wake up in the morning and open the side door looking out over the river, and the ducks are waiting for me to feed them. It’s just a really nice way to live.”

Mr. Ros, 62, took to the water all those years ago after his marriage broke up and his mother fell ill with cancer. “At the end of that, I didn’t really have much money as I hadn’t been able to work for quite a while,” he said. “I just had enough to buy a boat, so I got one.”

As he spoke, a kingfisher flew by and the sun cascaded through the windows of his 43-foot-long Dutch barge. He bought his current houseboat about six years ago for £30,000 ($38,000). It was a “complete wreck,” he said, so he did extensive renovations. Dating from 1940, the barge has an open kitchen/saloon in the bow, a bathroom with a shower and toilet, and a double bedroom in the stern. It’s a nice setup, if a bit cramped. “The headroom is one of the main disadvantages,” he said.

Mr. Ros says he’ll never live on dry land again, as he prefers being “surrounded by nature.” But the reality is, he probably couldn’t afford a place he wanted, anyway. Home prices remain out of reach for many in London, with an average sale price of about 508,000 British pounds ($636,000), a 50 percent increase over the past 10 years. Meanwhile, a two-bedroom Dutch barge houseboat in the area will now run you around £190,000 ($238,000).

The option is almost too appealing — a new wave of residential boaters is stretching London’s canal support system past its limits. “It’s changed dramatically in the last few years,” Mr. Ros said. “There’s probably three times the number of boats, four times the number of boats than there were 10 years ago. And the demographic has changed; there are a lot more young people.”

Boaters have been living on Britain’s canals since the industrial revolution. But according to the Canal & River Trust, which looks after the nation’s waterways system, the number of residential boats in London has ballooned by 86 percent over the past decade, to more than 4,000. Boats without home moorings — that is, a legal place to stay put — have more than tripled.

“I think it is fair to say that the large increase in people living on boats in the capital is driven by the housing crisis and cost of living in London,” said Jonathan Ludford, the national communications manager for the Canal & River Trust.

With all the new boats on the water, even this affordable living option is becoming less attainable. Mr. Ros’s winter coal supply costs £22 ($29) per bag, and he needs at least 20 bags for the season. Prices for diesel and gas are also up about 50 percent, and the basic price of a boat license is rising.

Even so, the Canal & River Trust is not taking action to limit the number of boats, said Fran Read, the organization’s national press officer. “There is plenty of room, even in hot spots like London, where boat numbers are more concentrated,” Ms. Read said. “But there is a finite amount of canal, with some places very busy already. So if a boater doesn’t have a permanent mooring, they may not be able to find a mooring space just where they’d like.”

Residential boaters in London have two options: One is a permanent mooring, maybe in a marina or along the towpath, with an electric hookup for everyday functions. In inner London, permanent moorings are just about at capacity. The other option, more affordable but less stable, is to “continuously cruise,” whereby the boat has to move into what is essentially a parking spot at least every 14 days.

To ease congestion, the Trust is cracking down on rogue mariners. “If you don’t have a mooring, they move you on, just like a parking attendant,” said Mr. Ros, who has a permanent mooring for around £7,000 ($8,800) a year — a lot less than the typical amount in the area. “They have these people on bicycles controlling each area, logging how long each boat is there. You get fined £25 a day if you overstay.”

Ms. Read confirmed that boat living in London can be “considerably cheaper” than living on land, though it comes with unique challenges and isn’t for everyone. “We support any boater who is struggling wherever possible,” she said, “including directing them toward benefits that are often available for those living afloat on low incomes.”

Boaters on residential moorings can claim housing benefits the same as land-based residents. And the Canal & River Trust lobbied for boaters without home moorings to be included in the government’s Energy Support Scheme last year.

Mark Knightley, 41, and his partner, Tessa Roberts, 37, bought their first London houseboat about eight years ago after realizing that it was their best chance of living together.

“We were renting two separate places, living miles apart,” Mr. Knightley said. “And I’m an actor, while Tessa is a researcher, so we don’t have a lot of money. And the cheapest way of living together was to buy a boat.”

For five years, the couple lived on the 36-foot-long narrow boat in Hackney, east London, which they bought for about £35,000 ($45,000). “It had a bed that would fold out every night, and the floor space was about two square feet,” Mr. Knightley said. “But it was on a beautiful marina on the River Lea.”

Three years ago, shortly before their daughter was born, the couple upgraded to a 70-foot-long Dutch barge with a permanent mooring at South Dock Marina, by the Thames in Rotherhithe, southeast London, for around £200,000.

Mr. Knightley glowed about the community around them — “like nothing that we’d find anywhere else in London,” he said. “There’s a lot of creative people, and loads of history with the dock and the boats that are here.”

Still, it’s a schlep to the supermarket, and ordering food gets complicated when delivery drivers don’t understand your address. And of course, raising a child on a barge comes with its own challenges. In the winter, power outages are a problem, “which can be scary for a young child when she’s in the bath and we’re suddenly plunged into pitch-black darkness,” Mr. Knightley said.

“People assume we must be terrified about her safety all the time because of the water,” Ms. Roberts said. “But I think it’s the same as living near a road: You teach them to be careful around it and you don’t leave them unsupervised outside.”

But the couple’s biggest challenge recently has been the spike in costs. Boat license fees rose by 4 percent beginning in April 2022, and the Canal & River Trust has also phased in additional pricing bands for boats wider than 7-foot-1. Fees for boats more than 10-foot-7 wide are subject to an additional 5 percent.

Houseboats in the River Trust’s jurisdiction require a Boat Safety Scheme certificate, which must be renewed every four years. And for boaters with a permanent mooring, there are mooring fees, paid monthly or annually to the marina owners; the fee that Ms. Roberts and Mr. Knightley pay rose by 11 percent this year, to £10,000 ($12,500).

“The maintenance costs are large when the size of the boat goes up,” Mr. Knightley said. “For our barge it cost £13,000, although the work done to make it legally safe will probably last 10 years. The last time this boat came out of the water, they had to extensively replace the steel, and it cost £40,000. You should also do an engine service every five years or so.”

In their area of London, higher fees are part of a plan by the Southwark borough council to redevelop the marina, at a cost of £6 million. The goal is to address health and safety issues on the water and on the docks, create new wash facilities and a cafe, and replace old workshops that are currently in shipping containers with new purpose-built ones.

The plan, said Catherine Rose, a Southwark Council member for neighborhoods, leisure and parks, “will address urgent health and safety issues to help maintain a working marina and enhance the boat yard environment.”

To help ease the transition, she said, the council is offering a discount for boat-repair shops and staggering the rent increase over a three-year period for all existing boatyard businesses.

But boaters like Mr. Knightley and Ms. Roberts see the move as a way to replace lower-income boaters with more commercial interests. “There’s a lot of concern at the moment with the community here about how the council are essentially trying to force people out,” Mr. Knightley said. “The housing situation in London is horrendous anyway; they’re just making it even worse.”

The boaters tend to agree, though, that safety and security are urgent matters. The Metropolitan Police Service does not keep separate data on water crimes, but boaters say that crime at marinas, and even on boats, has long been a problem.

“I’d never live on a boat again,” said Janusz Konarski, 56, who did just that in London’s Little Venice from 1983 to 1995, before returning to land. “I didn’t ever feel secure. There was a bloke trying to steal my bike. Then we had a glue sniffer undoing the moorings because he was mentally ill. He pulled a knife on me, although the police got him.”

These days, Mr. Ros said, “it feels like there’s a lot of crime around. There’s a lot more breaking in, there’s a lot more general thievery going on. It’s desperate times here, and boats are an easy target.”

And earlier version of this article misidentified a London waterway. It is the River Lea, not Lee.

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• Moscow — St. Petersburg
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Russia is again welcoming travelers!

• A negative PCR test is all that's needed to enter Russia
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Luxurious river cruises in russia.

Explore authentic Russian cities. Enjoy premium service and engaging activities as you sail the Volga River.

2022 Cruise Season

Join our signature small group journeys and cruise in luxury along the Russian Volga river!

The Russian Odyssey

An extended 'South to North' view of Russia from Astrakhan to St. Petersburg through Moscow.

Explore Moscow, St. Petersburg and Russia’s Golden Ring in greater depth. Stay at gorgeous Four Seasons hotels. Enjoy special access to iconic cultural sites.

Lower Volga

Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience cruising the Volga river from Moscow to Astrakhan. The tour includes 2 nights in Moscow.

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Select destination Moscow — St. Petersburg Moscow — Astrakhan Astrakhan — St. Petersburg

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A Volga river cruise is more than a geographical voyage; it’s also a journey through Russia’s rich and captivating history. No other experience takes you so completely to another place and time. The Volga is Europe’s longest and largest river; it meanders through the stories of Ivan the Terrible and his rise to power, the two historic ‘Greats’ Peter and Catherine, and then on into today. It’s a unique opportunity to see modern Russia in the context of its intriguing history, ably assisted by friendly and professional academics and tour guides. A Volga Dream Russian river tour promises to leave you with an unforgettable afterglow of fond memories.

Moscow to St. Petersburg River Cruise

Moscow and St. Petersburg are Russia’s best-known cities, but the towns of Russia’s historic Golden Ring are delightful too. The luxurious Volga Dream offers a unique opportunity to visit these Russian gems by sailing gently along the Volga River on an unforgettable cruising experience. In small, exclusive groups you’ll enjoy preferential access to some of Russia’s most significant cultural sites.

Moscow to Astrakhan River Cruise

Your River Cruise on the luxurious MS Volga Dream takes you from Moscow along Russia’s grand Volga River to the legend that is Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) and Astrakhan on the Caspian Sea. Along the way, you’ll discover the treasures of Yaroslavl, the oldest city on the Volga, medieval Nizhniy Novgorod and beautiful Kazan, the ancient Tatar capital. We plan our tour carefully to combine the very best of Moscow with a world-class Volga River cruise.

Discover Russia with MS Volga Dream - Click-through map

We love hearing from guests about their time in Russia and one comment often hear is how surprised people are by the Russian capital. We can’t say for certain what people expected but we do know that it’s always far removed from what they imagined! It’s been called a modern metropolis, a cosmopolitan city, an historic gem, an architectural treasure and a cultural powerhouse, among other descriptions. Majestic Moscow has always surprised our guests and left them with lasting and fond memories.

Russia’s famous Golden Ring is an archipelago of historic towns surrounding Moscow. Uglich is one of the oldest and was founded under Igor, the last Varangian prince. It once resisted the Mongol invasion and its ancient walls saw the grisly murder of young Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible. The impressive Church of St. Dmitri on the Blood, with its classic onion domes and blood red walls, is a fine example of classic Russian architecture. The tour ends with an enchanting choral concert.

This, the oldest city on the Volga River, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a wealth of ancient orthodox treasures. The impressive Transfiguration of the Savior, adorned with murals depicting St. John’s apocalyptic visions can be seen in the Spassky Monastery. The Church of St. Elijah the Prophet is decorated with an awe-inspiring selection of rich frescoes. For a real taste of pre-revolutionary Russia, visitors are entertained by a costumed reception at the Governor’s House.

Close to the shores of White Lake once were the ‘tsar’s fishing grounds’. It lies in a place so serene that ancient monks chose to build no fewer than three holy sites here, including the Ferapontov Monastery. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its chapels boast magnificent frescoes by Dionysius, one of Russia’s most renowned icon painters. The Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery was a refuge for many nobles during tumultuous times and later a fortress that successfully repelled invading armies.

The Karelia region is a vast and naturally beautiful wilderness that spreads all the way from St. Petersburg to the Arctic Circle. The glorious island village of Kizhi consists almost entirely of the traditionally styled wooden buildings of ‘Old Russia’. Among them is the famous Transfiguration Church built in 1714. Remarkably, and in testament to the craftsmen of the time, not a single nail was used in its construction! Kizhi is one of the favorite stops on the river cruise to St. Petersburg.

A typical rural hamlet brought to life by warm and welcoming villagers. Volga Dream guests are invited into local homes to enjoy classic Russian fare, tea with jam and ‘pirozhki’ (pies). Enthusiastic hosts share Russian traditions and the appeal of village life while proudly showing off their scrupulously kept homes and kitchen gardens. The tour continues with a brief bus ride to see a unique World War II memorial and then, for a real glimpse of Russian life, a visit to a local primary school.

Nizhny Novgorod

This was once a wealthy city thanks to its proximity to rich eastern trading routes. During the Soviet era, the city was closed to outsiders because of its military importance. It’s also where many political prisoners were sent to live out their days in exile. The 16th-century Kremlin ramparts offer spectacular views and the city is known for its elaborately decorated churches. For Volga Dream cruise guests, the highlight of the day is an evening folk concert performed by local children.

Sailing along the Volga river, the riverbank gradually ceases to be dominated by Orthodox churches. Instead, beautiful mosques appear as the river crosses into Tatarstan where the first stop is scenic Kazan, the region’s capital. Inside the white walls of the citadel, the famous Kul Sharif mosque and the old Cathedral of Peter and Paul stand side-by-side symbolizing the two faiths’ long and peaceful coexistence in the region. A concert of traditional Tatar music ends the Volga Dream tour in Kazan.

Passing the Zhigulevskie Mountains offers wonderful views from the sundeck before touring the city. One of the key attractions is the fascinating Space Museum, which offers a revealing glimpse of how the Soviet Union pursued its ambitious journey to the cosmos. The town is also noted for its beautiful esplanade, perfect for a relaxed stroll beside the Volga river. This in turn leads to the Samara State Art Museum. Founded in 1897, it is home to a collection of more than 16,000 works of art.

This city is best known for its close associations with cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. The Russian hero who achieved worldwide fame as the first man in space lived and studied here. Saratov used to be home to a large German community, a heritage that can still be seen in the local architecture. The Volga Dream tour visits the Radishchev State Art Museum, the first picture gallery in Russia outside Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Originally called Tsaritsyn, the city was renamed Stalingrad from 1925 to 1961 in honor of the USSR’s leader. During World War II, the city’s residents put up a heroic defense, repelling an advancing Nazi invasion. The battle for Stalingrad has gone down in history as a pivotal moment in the bloody conflict on the eastern front. The most ferocious and deadly fighting took place on Mamayev Hill, where an imposing memorial now stands close to the excellent Battle of Stalingrad Panorama Museum.

Saint Petersburg

If Moscow surprises, then St Petersburg delights. Peter the Great founded the city to showcase Russia’s newfound enlightenment. He wanted to show the modern world a cultured and advanced society. In short, he built the city to impress and in that he succeeded splendidly! The striking buildings were designed by some of the finest architects Europe had to offer and even now, the ‘Venice of the North’ never fails to enchant with its spectacular buildings and impressive canal network. It is a city of true grandeur.

Cocktails with the Captain

Commanding any ship is a complex role that calls for a long list of skills. Captains know their vessels inside out as well as well as the routes they sail and when things don’t go to plan, they have to make instant decisions. Above all though, the most important part of the job, underpinning everything they do, is to keep the ship and everyone aboard safe. The Captain’s cocktail party is a great and a wonderful opportunity for passengers and crew to get acquainted as the gets underway.

Matryoshka doll painting

There is nothing more typically Russian than a Matryoshka. It embodies the fact that there’s always something deeper to be found in every aspect of Russian life. Learning the traditional designs and techniques used to decorate these iconic dolls offers a pleasant diversion and some cathartic creativity!

Superb Service & Dining

Our restaurant serves the highest standard of international cuisine, freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. Choose either a sumptuous buffet or set menu for lunch while dinner is always four or five courses with full service. High praise for the exquisite quality of meals is yet another constantly recurring feature in feedback from our guests.

Meet the Professor

From the Mongol hordes to Soviet times, Russia’s history is, like all of Europe’s, a complex web of political intrigue, war and peace, trade and treaties, as well as heroes and villains. Academics devote whole lifetimes to studying Russia’s long past and one of them presents a series of lectures shedding light on everything from Gorbachev to Chekhov, Khrushchev to Ivan the Terrible and of course, contemporary Russia. Our Professor is on board throughout the river cruise for informal conversation.

Beginner’s Russian

The Russian language can be rather beautiful and poetic and we know that many seasoned travelers enjoy trying their hand at different languages. Our onboard teachers provide an introduction to the riches of Russian, so guests can try out a few useful words and phrases on real Russians during the exciting river tours from Moscow to St. Petersburg or from Moscow to Volgograd!

Russian tea tasting

The drink we tend to associate with Russia is vodka, but tea, in fact, is the much more universal beverage of choice throughout the country. Guests will get acquainted with the Russian tea etiquette, a fundamental component of the country's social culture, and enjoy the traditional tea ceremony while cruising from St. Petersburg to Moscow or taking a Grand Volga river tour.

Russian Dinner & Vodka Tasting

All our dining is international but for Russian Dining night, the Chef includes a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and no Russian table is complete without Borsch. To add to the ‘Taste of Russia’ optional Russian dress, or at least a touch of Russian style, is provided along with enthusiastic help from our staff!

Russian Cooking Class

A plate of pelmeni might not look like much to the untrained eye, but it forms the heart of Russian cuisine and culture. Basically, it's a type of dumpling: small portions of meat and onion wrapped in a thin sheet of unleavened dough and boiled, a little like ravioli. Guests can join a Russian cooking class onboard the MS Volga Dream to learn how to cook this delicious Russian dish.

Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov Piano Recital

Some of the greatest classical music ever written comes from Russia. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting stage for a virtuoso solo recital by our resident concert pianist than the mighty Volga or a better backdrop than the heart of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov’s own serene homeland.

Russian River Cruise Aboard Volga Dream

Moscow to St. Petersburg

Why Volga Dream

Family Owned & Operated

MS Volga Dream is Russia’s only family-owned river cruise ship. She can accommodate up to 100 guests, far fewer than most other cruise ships on the river making for a uniquely friendly and intimate atmosphere aboard.

Five-Star Central Hotels

We at Volga Dream are completely convinced that, our guests should stay in great 5-star hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg within comfortable walking distance of all the major attractions, theaters and restaurants, rather than having to waste time in traffic.

Luxurious Accommodation

The MS Volga Dream is the most intimate and elegant 5-star cruise vessel in Russia. She boasts 56 cabins, all river facing, ranging from comfortable Standard Cabins to spacious Junior Suites and the luxurious forward facing Owner's Suite.

Russian Cultural Experience

Explore Russia's past with the help of professional tour guides. Our on-board program includes fascinating talks on Russian history and politics, Russian language lessons, a festival of Russian cuisine (including vodka tasting!), and much more.

Gourmet Dining

Our on board restaurant serves international cuisine to the highest standard, all freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. For Russian Dining night, he prepares a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and Borsch.

Tailored Service

All our service crew members are native Russians who are fluent in English and handpicked by the Owner. Proudly, the Volga Dream is famous for her hard working and very hospitable personnel who take care of every aspect of your life aboard.

Download Our Brochure

It's never been easier to plan your next holiday in Russia. Download our free brochure to learn more about authentic Russian river cruises.

Escape the hassle and bustle and add a satisfyingly informative element to your trip and bring together a colorful mosaic of people, history, traditions,  religion, music and art. These are the many strands that time has woven into what is known today as Russia.

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