Everything you need to know about the Thames Rockets Rocket Rebel speedboat tour
- 📍 Where: The London Eye Pier
- 🚇 Nearest Tube station: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City) and Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee)
- 📅 When: Tours run throughout the week - check the calendar when booking
- 🎟️ Price: Adult tickets from £54.95 and child tickets from £44.95
- ⏱️ Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
- 👥 Who is this for?: Thrill-seekers, sightseeing lovers and anyone wanting a high-speed way to see London from the Thames
- 🚀 What to expect: High-speed twists and turns, iconic London landmarks, onboard commentary, music and unbeatable river views aboard the eco-friendly Rocket Rebel speedboat experience
If you’re after a sightseeing experience that mixes iconic views with a bit of adrenaline then the Rocket Rebel speedboat experience by Thames Rockets is not to be missed.
With bright blue skies and the sun shining over the Thames, the weather played its part in our high-speed London boat tour. Boarding near the London Eye, the view before we'd even set off was already spectacular. We were welcomed by the friendly crew with an introduction to Thames Rockets, including what we could expect from today’s tour and a fun but thorough safety briefing.
We were even given the option of taking along a soft, fleecy blanket to wrap around ourselves on the crisp April afternoon.
Kitted out in our life jackets, there was a flicker of nervous energy as we stepped aboard Rocket Rebel, Thames Rockets’ next-generation speedboat experience, designed and built in the UK with a bigger, more spacious feel on board.
Discovering London from the water
Bright red, sleek and surprisingly comfortable for something about to launch me down the river at high speed, the boat is spacious enough to stretch your legs without feeling cramped.
On board, our guide Edward was ready to entertain – equal parts historian and comedian. From the moment we pulled away from the pier, he had us laughing while sharing stories of London’s history.
Did you know? Waterloo Bridge is known as the “Ladies Bridge” – built by women during WWII, it was the only London bridge completed on time and under budget.
The whole ride was peppered with quirky fun facts, meaning even seasoned Londoners will discover something new.
From the water, London looks completely different – and in the best way. Towering buildings, iconic landmarks and sunlight bouncing off nearby skyscrapers make it hard not to get swept up in the energy of the city from this unique vantage point.
Passing HMS Belfast was a highlight, the imposing piece of World War II history looming to our right and offering a glimpse into Britain’s wartime past.
But the big cinematic moment came when we slipped beneath Tower Bridge. The whole boat oohed and aahed at the impressive architecture while waving to onlookers above.
The speed zone
Just when I thought I’d had my fill of wow moments, the boat began to slow. The guide gave us a quick thumbs-up before taking his seat… and then boom – the soundtrack starts, the engine revs and we’re suddenly flying down the Thames.
With the music blaring (yes, girls really do just wanna’ have fun), the action-movie experience began as the boat hurtled across the water. Twists, turns, laughter and a fair few delighted screams – it genuinely felt like a rollercoaster on the river Thames.
I couldn’t help the huge grin spreading across my face as my arms flew up and the blanket attempted to make a break for it.
Now, if the idea of a high-speed boat sounds slightly daunting, don’t worry. I felt completely safe the entire time. And thanks to the clever design of the boat, there’s no splash zone on this ride either. Think windswept, not waterpark.
After the adrenaline rush, the pace slowed once again and we enjoyed a more leisurely journey back towards the pier, taking in even more famous sights including the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
Final thoughts: is a speedboat tour on the Thames worth it?
Absolutely. The Thames Rockets Rocket Rebel tour is one of the most entertaining ways to experience London from the water. It’s fast-paced, funny and packed with memorable moments – whether it’s spotting iconic landmarks, racing along the Thames at high speed or listening to your guide’s questionable Shakespeare puns.
This experience is ideal for visitors, locals, families with older children, couples and anyone wanting to see London from a completely different perspective.
Book your spot on the Thames Rockets Rocket Rebel speedboat experience.