5 best boats and ships to visit in London

From the iconic HMS Belfast and the historical Cutty Sark to river cruises, discover a whole host of famous London boats and ships to visit, and sometimes even travel on.
Visit London Editors
Written by Visit London Editors 06 January 2025

Head to one of these famous London boats and ships and experience some of the capital’s richest historical locations, or simply cruise along the Thames.

Cutty Sark, Greenwich

The Cutty Sark ship against a blue sky background in London

Don't miss a chance to visit iconic Cutty Sark, part of the Royal Museums Greenwich, where you can venture underneath the decks and follow in the footsteps of merchant seamen who sailed over a century ago. It's the world's last surviving tea clipper.

The Golden Hinde, Bankside

A  black, red and yellow ship sits against a city backdrop.

Immerse yourself in seafaring history and be inspired by the voyage of Sir Francis Drake on The Golden Hinde in St Mary Overie Dock. This full-scale replica of the first English ship to circumnavigate the globe is now a history-packed museum.

HMS Belfast, London Bridge

A battleship sits atop the water with a bridge and blue sky in the background.

Head to HMS Belfast, which sits on The Queen’s Walk, and explore nine decks of amazing history, from the heavily protected Shell Rooms to the sights and sounds of the interactive Operations Room. Children under 15 go free.

HMS President, Victoria Embankment

An old boat sits on top of a river with a blue sky and city backdrop

Spot former navy ship, HMS President, which is permanently moored on the Thames near Victoria, on a leisurely stroll by the river. This 1918 beauty can also be hired for weddings and functions.

River boat tours

River cruise on the Thames in front of the London Eye.

Travelling by river is popular. If you want to get out onto the Thames, City Cruises is a top sightseeing tour, showcasing the best sights for affordable prices. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers also departs every 20 minutes from major piers, or there is the free Woolwich ferry service, which runs between Woolwich and North Woolwich. For more of a high-thrill ride, take one of a number of speedboat tours of London.

What ship is docked in London?

While many ships are docked in the capital, the most famous two are considered to be the Cutty Sark and The Golden Hinde. Both of these ships have extensive history and have undergone repairs in the past to restore them to their former glory.

Why is there a warship in London?

The HMS Belfast travelled a total of half-a-million miles before being decommissioned in 1963. Saved as an everlasting reminder of its accomplishments, the warship was moved to a new home opposite the Tower of London in 1971 where it has since remained. Nowadays, the warship doesn't see much action, and instead is open as a tourist attraction.

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