Festive London New Years Eve 3-Course Dinner Cruise

This cruise offers a chance to ring in the New Year on the River Thames aboard a stylish boat, with a 3-course dinner, Champagne, and a front-row seat for London’s world-famous fireworks. While it’s a memorable way to celebrate, it’s worth examining what really makes this experience stand out—and where it might fall short.

What I like about this cruise is the opportunity to enjoy stunning views of London’s illuminated skyline from the comfort of a heated saloon or an open-air deck. The inclusion of a three-course meal paired with half a bottle of wine per person, plus a glass of Champagne at midnight, adds a touch of celebration to what is often a very crowded night in the city. Also, the cruise’s route takes you past iconic sights like Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Greenwich, and the O2, offering a unique perspective on London’s festive lights.

However, one possible drawback is the firework viewing angle. Several reviewers have noted that the best view of the midnight fireworks is somewhat compromised because the display is behind a bridge, not directly in front of the boat. For a high-ticket event costing over $600 per person, this might be a letdown for travelers expecting unobstructed, panoramic fireworks views. Still, the overall atmosphere, live music, and toast at midnight help make the evening special despite this issue.

Key points / Takeaways

• Prime London fireworks view: Mooring near Big Ben for front-row fireworks viewing offers a special moment, but the actual fireworks are behind a bridge, which may affect the visual impact.
• Well-rounded package: Includes Champagne, a hearty 3-course meal, tea or coffee with petits fours, and live entertainment—great value for a festive occasion.
• Comfort & convenience: The fully heated saloon and optional open-air deck make it adaptable for the winter weather.
• Limited flexibility: Dinner seating is shared with up to 10 people on tables, and the dress code is festive but formal, so avoid jeans or sneakers if you want to keep in tune with the atmosphere.
• Cost consideration: At roughly $640 per person, this is a premium experience—worth it if you value comfort, views, and a special celebration but may be steep for budget travelers.
• Booking & cancellation: Non-refundable after December 1st, so plan ahead. The menu options require pre-order by December 17th.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Route
The cruise begins at Tower Pier, right next to the Tower of London, a spectacular spot to start your evening. From there, you’ll cruise gently under Tower Bridge, passing the shimmering skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and the Docklands—each illuminated and festive, making for wonderful photos. This part of the journey feels less like just a cruise and more like a nighttime sightseeing tour, with London’s winter skyline shimmering around you.

The Greenwich Stop & Returning Route
Greenwich and The O2 are included in the route, giving you a chance to see some of London’s historic and modern landmarks from the water. For those into architecture and cityscapes, this part offers a less crowded, leisurely glimpse of London’s riverfront. The return trip will bring you back towards Westminster, where the boat moors for the main event—watching the midnight fireworks over the Houses of Parliament.

The Fireworks Viewing Experience
This is the highlight for many, but it’s worth setting realistic expectations. The fireworks are launched from a barge near the London Eye, but because the boat moors near Big Ben, the display is behind a bridge—meaning you’re viewing it through or beside it rather than with an unobstructed front-row perspective. One reviewer remarked, “The view for the fireworks is behind a bridge and not from the front,” which could diminish the overall impact for some.

Dining & Entertainment
Your evening includes a traditional 3-course dinner, with a live singer and music for dancing afterward. I appreciate that the dinner is served in a fully heated saloon, which is a big plus in winter. The included half-bottle of wine per person pairs nicely with the meal, and the toast with Champagne at midnight is a festive touch that makes the occasion feel truly special.

Atmosphere & Group Dynamics
Shared tables of up to ten create a convivial but possibly crowded setting. The dress code is festive, so don’t expect to show up in jeans or sneakers—something to keep in mind if comfort is your priority. The lively music and dancing afterward help extend the celebration beyond just the fireworks.

Cost & Value
At nearly $640 per person, this cruise is a significant expense. For this price, you’re paying not only for the views and food but also for the convenience of a pre-arranged celebration and the chance to avoid crowded streets. That said, the experience might feel less intimate or exclusive given the shared tables and the limited fireworks vantage point, especially if you’re expecting a perfect panoramic display.

Who Will Enjoy This Most?
This cruise is ideal for couples or groups seeking a stylish, fuss-free way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. It suits those who enjoy good food, live entertainment, and a comfortable setting. It’s probably less suited for travelers looking for an unobstructed fireworks view or those on a tight budget.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

This New Year’s Eve cruise offers a unique way to see London’s iconic skyline and celebrate the arrival of the new year in style. The inclusion of a full meal, Champagne, and live entertainment makes it a festive, all-in-one package. However, the drawback of fireworks views being somewhat obscured by a bridge is notable, especially at this price point.

If you’re someone who values comfort, good company, and a memorable experience without the hassle of navigating crowds or street parties, this cruise could be a good fit. It’s especially appealing if you want to relax, enjoy a good meal, and toast in the New Year with a view of London’s illuminated landmarks.

But if unobstructed fireworks are your top priority, you might find this experience slightly disappointing. Remember, the event is non-refundable after December 1st, so plan carefully.

This cruise is a glamorous, comfortable way to mark the New Year in London—best for those who prioritize a festive atmosphere over a perfect fireworks spectacle.

FAQs

What is included in the price of the cruise?
The ticket includes a glass of Champagne, a 3-course dinner, tea or coffee with petits fours, half a bottle of wine per person, live music and dancing, and a glass of Champagne at midnight.

Where does the cruise start and end?
The cruise departs from Tower Pier on Lower Thames Street and returns there at the end of the evening.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience provider states that the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
There is a festive dress code, so avoid jeans and sneakers. Dress smartly to match the celebratory atmosphere.

Can I cancel my booking?
Bookings can be canceled for free before August 31, 2019. After December 1, 2019, cancellations are non-refundable.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, but check the specific starting time for your reservation.

What if I want more drinks?
Additional drinks are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately on board.

Will I get a good view of the fireworks?
You’ll get a view for the midnight fireworks, but some reviews mention the display is behind a bridge, which may affect the view.

Are there options for menu preferences?
Yes, menu options need to be selected before December 17th, so plan ahead if you have dietary restrictions.

This London New Year’s Eve dinner cruise provides a stylish, comfortable way to toast the year’s end. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind paying a premium for convenience and atmosphere—and who are OK with fireworks views that may be a bit obstructed. If you’re after a memorable, fuss-free celebration with good food, live music, and a special setting, it could be just the ticket for your New Year’s Eve in London.