Thames Rockets
London Eye Millennium Pier SE1 7PB
10am - 6pm (varies seasonally)
Uber boat by Thames Clipper, Waterloo Station, Westminster underground
50 mins
Based on 11 reviews
I thought this might be a bit boring, but it was really fun! As well as seeing the sights of London there was loud music and the boat was twisting and turning. The guide was really funny too.
I took my 16 and 13 year old sons on this trip. The 16 year old had very low expectations, however both boys absolutely loved it! It's a super fun trip - even more so if your ride coincides with high tide - ours did! The guide we had was really fun and gave us loads of information about the buildings along the shore when we first set off. Once we passed the police station on the Thames past Wapping it was full steam ahead. We had a very skilled driver that threw the boat around all over the place. And a brilliant sound track. All in all a great way to entertain reticent teens. Do not attempt it if you suffer from sea sickness!!!
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About Thames Rockets
Forget gentle sightseeing cruises – this is London on turbo mode. Thames Rockets take you on a high-speed RIB ride down the Thames, with pumping music, dramatic spins, and hilarious guides who know their stuff (and aren’t afraid to take the mick). Kids love the adrenaline, grown-ups love the banter, and everyone loves zooming past Canary Wharf at 35mph. It’s a proper thrill ride, but totally safe – life jackets are provided, and the crew are total pros. Perfect for birthdays, cool grandparents, and families who like their sightseeing with a splash of chaos. You’ll start near the London Eye and rocket down past iconic landmarks before looping back. Not one if you get sea sick, but for fun-loving kids and their equally fun grown-ups, it’s a big win.
Top tip from the KidRated Team:
Sit at the front if you want the full rollercoaster experience… and at the back if you’d prefer a slightly drier ride (though no promises!).
Quick Inspiration
It’s fast, fun, and splashy – more thrilling than terrifying. Kids usually love it. If your child likes theme park rides, they’ll be buzzing. Nervous types? Maybe sit this one out.
You must be at least 10 years old to ride the “Break the barrier” tour, but the “Ultimate London Adventure” is suitable for all ages.
Yes, you’ll be fully briefed and kitted out with life jackets, and the skippers are seriously experienced. This is adrenaline with a safety net.
Oh yes. This is TikTok-worthy, Insta-bragging, adrenaline-pumping fun. Speed, music, banter, and epic views? It ticks all the teen boxes. Even the sulkiest ones tend to crack a grin by the end.
Most rides depart from London Eye Pier – super easy to get to, and there’s plenty to do nearby before or after.
Small bags only – you’ll want your hands free to hold on and your phone ready for selfies. Snacks are best saved for dry land.
Adventurous ones, yes! As long as everyone’s in good health and happy with the speed, it’s a multi-generational blast.
Possibly – especially if you sit up front. You’ll get wind, splashes, and loads of fresh air. Dress accordingly!
You need to be reasonably mobile to board safely. Call ahead if you have access needs, as boarding can involve steps.
Yes! Mid-ride grins, windswept hair, and Tower Bridge in the background? Golden. Just keep that phone zipped up tight when not in use!
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The Thames Rocket’s Thames Barrier Explorer’s Voyage was absolutely thrilling! We had an amazing time speeding along the river, twisting and turning with smiles and laughs. It was so cool to see some of London’s most iconic landmarks like the O2, the Shard, Canary Wharf, and the impressive Thames Barrier! The guide was fun and full of interesting facts, making it exciting and educational. One thing we’d say is definitely wrap up warm, even if the sun’s out — the wind on the river is no joke! The music wasn’t really our vibe but that didn’t take away from the overall experience. We’d totally recommend it to other youth groups or families looking for a fun and fast way to explore London.