Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise in London, United Kingdom
London, United Kingdom

Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise

Outty Ranking 48 4.2 · 12 traveler reviews3.3 hoursFrom £169
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

48/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.2/5

Based on 12 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise worth booking?

Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise is a 3.3-hour experience in London, United Kingdom, from £169 per person. It scores 48 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.2/5 rating across 12 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
48 / 100
Rating
4.2/5 (12)
Duration
3.3 hours
From
£169 per person

Enjoy a sparkling Christmas Day with a festive lunch aboard a 3-hour and 15-minute sightseeing cruise along the River Thames. Admire stellar views of London's scenic and deserted riverbanks as you sail from Westminster to Greenwich and back, while feasting on a traditional 3-course English Christmas dinner of roast turkey with all the trimmings. A vegetarian option is available, while your meal includes tea, coffee, and a glass of sparkling wine. Sample Menu: SALMON GRAVLAX Dill and lapsang scented, candied beetroot , lemon zest creme fraiche. MAIN SLOW ROASTED TURKEY Sage, walnut, beef dripping stuffing | Christmas seasonal trimmings | Cranberry sauce or roasting juices DESSERT PUDDING (V)(VG) Chocolate yule VEG & VEGAN OPTION STARTER (V)(VG) Jerusalem artichoke soup MAIN (V)(VG)(G*) Mushroom lattice | Christmas seasonal trimmings. DESSERT (V)(VG) Vegan Chocolate Yule

What you get

    About this experience

    Enjoy a sparkling Christmas Day with a festive lunch aboard a 3-hour and 15-minute sightseeing cruise along the River Thames. Admire stellar views of London's scenic and deserted riverbanks as you sail from Westminster to Greenwich and back, while feasting on a traditional 3-course English Christmas dinner of roast turkey with all the trimmings. A vegetarian option is available, while your meal includes tea, coffee, and a glass of sparkling wine. Sample Menu: SALMON GRAVLAX Dill and lapsang scented, candied beetroot , lemon zest creme fraiche. MAIN SLOW ROASTED TURKEY Sage, walnut, beef dripping stuffing | Christmas seasonal trimmings | Cranberry sauce or roasting juices DESSERT PUDDING (V)(VG) Chocolate yule VEG & VEGAN OPTION STARTER (V)(VG) Jerusalem artichoke soup MAIN (V)(VG)(G*) Mushroom lattice | Christmas seasonal trimmings. DESSERT (V)(VG) Vegan Chocolate Yule

    What's included

    Included

    • Tea and coffee
    • Festive music & Carols
    • Fully Licensed Bar
    • 3-course Traditional Christmas Lunch with festive trimmings
    • 3 hours 15 minutes Cruise
    • Welcome glass of sparkling wine

    Not included

    • Additional drinks (available to purchase)
    • Gratuities
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off

    What you'll see and do

    1. City Cruises

      This is where you will board the boat. Please arrive at Westminster Pier 20 minutes before the departure time.

      20 minutes here · Admission included

    2. London Eye

      Head to the upper deck and get the perfect picture opportunity of the Coca- Cola London Eye

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Tower of London

      Stop at Tower Pier where you will be in able to almost touch the Tower of London

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Tower Bridge

      Pass under Tower Bridge and head to the upper deck to see the bridge in all of its glory

      Pass by without stopping

    5. Canary Wharf

      Canary Wharf will appear on your left as you head down to towards Greenwich

      Pass by without stopping

    6. The Shard

      As you cruise along the River Thames you will be in perfect position to see London's highest viewing platform

      Pass by without stopping

    7. HMS Belfast

      Sail past the permanently moored for battleship which is now a floating Royal Naval Museum.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. SEA LIFE London Aquarium

      Sea Life sits on the the opposite side of the River Thames to where you will board and disembark the boat.

      Pass by without stopping

    9. St. Paul's Cathedral

      Catch the peak of St Paul's Cathedral dome where it will stand out from the rest of London's Skyline

      Pass by without stopping

    10. Houses of Parliament

      The Houses of Parliament are neighboring Westminster Pier

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    London

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Fri
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    City Cruises

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Any specific dietary requirements must be added at the time of booking
    • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
    • Seating: Please note that as part of the relaxed atmosphere of this cruise experience, your table may be situated in close proximity to other guests.
    • Dress code is festive (no jeans or trainers)
    • Infant seats available on request at time of booking
    • We do not guarantee that products are free from nuts or traces of nuts.

    Photos

    Christmas Day Lunch Cruise, Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise in LondonChristmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise in London, photo 3Singer onboard, Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise in LondonFestive cruise in London, Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise in LondonPerfect with friends, Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise in LondonOn board bar, Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise in London

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 12 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Food and drink

    8 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    12 verified traveler reviews for Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    7
    4 star
    2
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    2
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    Squidgenan · December 2025

    Amazing Christmas Day

    I absolutely loved it! Everything was exceptionally well thought out—nothing felt overcrowded or cramped at the tables, and the seating arrangements showed real consideration. The food was magnificent, with just the right portions. While additional drinks were extra, the prices were reasonable, and it was clearly stated. The entertainment was lively, with people up dancing and a fantastic atmosphere throughout. I found the whole experience relaxed and enjoyable—the only downside was that the day seemed to fly by too quickly. Thank you to everyone on board for making my Christmas Day truly splendid

    Response from the operator: Hi, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you loved your Christmas Day cruise and that every detail, from the seating and food to the lively entertainment, helped make it a memorable experience. It’s fantastic that you found the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable, and we truly appreciate your kind words about our team. We hope to welcome you back on board for another special experience soon! Kind regards. City Cruises.

    via Tripadvisor

    michelleaH6986FW · December 2025

    Underwhelming

    Music very load could not hear conversations more pub music than xmas Food very low standard christmas decorations minimal Not a very xmas vibe No drinks included in purchase price including water

    Response from the operator: Hi, Thank you for sharing your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that the experience did not meet your expectations, particularly regarding the music volume, food quality, and the overall Christmas atmosphere. This is not the festive standard we aim to deliver, and we regret that the decorations and ambience felt underwhelming. We also understand your disappointment regarding drinks not being included and appreciate you highlighting this. Your comments have been shared with our team and will be carefully reviewed as we work to improve the experience for future guests. Thank you for taking the time to let us know. Kind regards. City Cruises.

    via Tripadvisor

    karlsG2370NO · December 2024

    Christmas day traditional lunch

    Staff and service perfect made Christmas lunch a little different many thanks on board music was just to correct level could talk and enjoy the singer

    Response from the operator: Hello karlsG2370NO, Thank you for your lovely review! We're so pleased to hear you enjoyed your Christmas lunch with us and that the staff and service made it a special experience. It’s great to know the onboard music hit the right note, allowing you to enjoy both the singer and good conversation. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back for more memorable moments in the future! City Cruises

    via Tripadvisor

    Lollywood2005 · December 2023

    Overall great experience

    The cruise was well organised and the food was lovely (albeit the vegetarian option was a bit uninspiring), and the entertainer was fabulous. She really worked hard to engage people and create a great mood with carols and then more contemporary music. This cruise is great way to spend Christmas. Two things marred the experience somewhat. One was that at the end of a lovely meal, we were presented with a bill for the water and juice! I understand alcoholic drinks not being included, but at £150 a head, I would expect water and juice to be included. At the very least, people should have been warned; several were fumbling for credit cards and looked stunned to be presented with petty invoices in the context of the event. It spoiled the tone of the day a bit. The second thing that needs to be addressed is the staff proffering a tray for tips as guests exit the ship, embarrassing those who chose not to tip. We were paying guests and it’s not a cheap event. If people wish to tip, that’s fine. But the overt expectation was inappropriate and awkward. Overall a great cruise and I would recommend it. If it weren’t for those two issues, it would have been perfect.

    via Tripadvisor

    Nanette_Z · December 2022

    Christmas Day Cruise

    Excellent for Christmas Day in London. The entertainment, service and atmosphere were wonderful. You will be entertained by live music and incredible scenery.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    3.3 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Fri
    Price range
    £169 to £175
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    4
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by City Cruises, who run 16 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 50.5.

    See everything City Cruises runs

    Why this scores 48

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)64
    Review evidence (18% weight)34
    Booking momentum (14% weight)25
    Value for money (12% weight)73
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)28
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for London.

    How much does Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise cost?

    +

    Prices start at £169 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in London usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise take?

    +

    Plan for about 3.3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in London is not rushed.

    Is Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 48 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.2/5 across 12 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable food & drink in London, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise?

    +

    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in London can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in London and add a light layer if any part of the 3.3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central London within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in London?

    +

    London's best attractions split cleanly: the museums are free and need no booking, so the paid market is about views, theatre and getting out of the city for a day. That makes value scoring unusually important here, and the Outty Ranking penalises anything charging premium prices for access you could get for nothing. On Outty we rank every London experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Great British Rock and Roll Walking Tour, Soho Music & Historic Pubs Tour, London Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit London?

    +

    May to September for long evenings, December for the Christmas markets. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in London?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Included: Tea and coffee; Festive music & Carols; Fully Licensed Bar; 3-course Traditional Christmas Lunch with festive trimmings; and 3 hours 15 minutes Cruise. Not included: Additional drinks (available to purchase); Gratuities; and Hotel pickup and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Specialized infant seats are available; and Infant seats available on request at time of booking. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in London. Standard cancellation terms apply.

    What do travelers say about Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Across 12 reviews averaging 4.2 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, photo opportunities, value for money. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Christmas Day Traditional Lunch Cruise.

    Pick your date