Embark upon a unique river journey and cruise along London’s famous landmarks
After serving the capital for over 20 years, London’s Thames Clipper partnered with Uber in 2020. The Uber Boats departs every 20 minutes from 23 piers across the Thames, from Putney in the west all the way to Woolwich (Royal Arsenal) in the east. Onboard, you will find comfortable seats by big windows, outdoor back decks for a more authentic sailing experience, and even a small cafe.
My intention for this voyage was to sit back, relax, enjoy the views and take pictures of the special things that we pass by on my old disposable camera. I took advantage of the slower pace of the journey to really enjoy the experience and pay closer attention to my surroundings.
Here are some of my favourite moments from the boat trip.
Discovering the stunning architecture of St. George’s Wharf in Vauxhall.
Admiring the impressive Southbank riverside and the London Eye from the comfort and calmness of the UberBoat avoiding the ever-present crowds in the area.
The impressive architecture of St. Paul’s Cathedral stands out on London’s skyline.
Approaching Bankside Pier and passing by the legendary Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
Had the unique experience of passing under Tower Bridge.
I’ve passed by the HMS Belfast – a historical warship and museum many times before, but I was incredibly impressed by its size from the view of the humble river bus.
A young couple on a romantic cruise along the River Thames overlooking the iconic buildings of Canary Wharf.
Seeing one of my favourite places in London, the majestic Old Royal Naval College from a special perspective.
Taking the river bus is an unusual and authentic way to travel across London for early morning commuters as well as families and romantic souls who wish to explore London’s famous sights from a unique angle while avoiding crowds and traffic.
The UberBoat route I took stopped at these 15 piers, passing by some of the most iconic sights of London:
- Battersea Power Station
- Vauxhall (St. George Wharf) for Vauxhall Bridge and scenic riverside.
- Millbank Pier for Tate Britain;
- Westminster Pier for the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey;
- London Eye Pier for the London Eye and Southbank Centre;
- Embankment Pier for Waterloo Bridge;
- Blackfriars Pier for St. Paul’s Cathedral;
- Bankside Pier for Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre;
- London Bridge City Pier for HMS Belfast, Borough Market and The Shard;
- Tower Pier for Tower of London and Tower Bridge;
- Canary Wharf Pier for Canary Wharf’s iconic skyline;
- Greenland Pier (Surrey Quays)
- Masthouse Terrace Pier
- Greenwich Pier for Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory and the National Maritime Museum;
- North Greenwich Pier for The O2 and the Emirates Air Lines.
Check the Uber Boat routes and timetable on their website.
You can tap your Oyster card on the yellow card reader on the pier before you board and again when you get off. Alternatively, buy a ticket from a ticket office seller or a machine on the pier or book online before boarding.