London Eye River Cruise Duration 2025 | 40-Minute Tour + Best Times

London Eye River Cruise Duration: 40-Minute Thames Adventure

Everything you need to know about the 40-minute circular sightseeing cruise departing from London Eye Pier

How Long is the London Eye River Cruise?

⏱️

The cruise lasts exactly 40 minutes from departure to return

This is a non-stop circular tour without intermediate stops :cite[2]:cite[3]

Key Timing Details:

  • Arrival time: 15 minutes before departure :cite[2]
  • Departures: 45 minutes past each hour :cite[1]
  • Operating hours: 10:45am - 4:45pm daily :cite[6]
  • Late policy: No boarding after departure :cite[2]
  • Combined experience: Allow 90+ mins for cruise + London Eye :cite[1]
  • Best season: September-November for clearest skies :cite[6]

What You'll See in 40 Minutes

Iconic Landmarks

  • Houses of Parliament & Big Ben :cite[3]
  • Tower of London & Tower Bridge :cite[1]
  • St. Paul's Cathedral :cite[6]
  • The Shard & Shakespeare's Globe :cite[1]

Onboard Experience

  • Live English commentary :cite[3]
  • Audio guides in 10+ languages :cite[1]:cite[4]
  • Indoor/outdoor seating :cite[3]
  • Bar service available :cite[1]

Pro Tip for Best Experience

For optimal photography conditions, book the 12:45pm or 1:45pm departures when sunlight best illuminates both riverbanks :cite[6]. The covered deck ensures comfort in all weather conditions.

Booking Your 40-Minute Cruise

Standalone Cruise

From £15.50

  • 40-minute Thames cruise
  • Multilingual audio guide
  • Flexible cancellation :cite[6]

Combo Package

From £46

  • Cruise + London Eye
  • Save up to 20% :cite[1]
  • Valid for 90 days :cite[8]

Essential Booking Notes:

  • Wheelchair slots must be booked in advance :cite[6]
  • Children under 3 cruise free (ticket required) :cite[6]
  • BSL tours monthly at 12:45pm :cite[1]
  • Max 3 wheelchairs per cruise :cite[6]

Ready for Your 40-Minute Thames Adventure?

Book your London Eye River Cruise today and experience London's iconic landmarks from the water.

Book Official Tickets Now