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New Year's Eve cruises in London 2026: The best dinner, fireworks and party boats

Toast to the new year during some of the best London New Year's Eve cruises and events on the river Thames.
Hannah Cornish
Written by Hannah Cornish 11 August 2026
Tower Bridge lit up at night in purples and yellows
Celebrate New Year's Eve in London.

Looking for the ultimate way to celebrate New Year's Eve in London? From elegant dinner cruises and glittering Thames party boats to unbeatable front-row views of London's world-famous fireworks, we've rounded up the very best New Year's Eve cruises in London to book for 2026. 

Our local editorial team have carefully selected these top New Year's Eve cruises based on the overall onboard experience, food and drink, entertainment, fireworks viewing opportunities and value for money, so you can book with confidence and start counting down to an unforgettable start to 2027.

Catch London's brilliant annual firework display on New Year's Eve. © Greater London Authority

📍 Departure: Doggett's Coat & Badge for dinner (SE1 9UD), then Bankside Pier for the cruise (SE1 9DT)

🚇 Nearest Tube: Blackfriars (District, Circle and Thameslink)

🗓️ When: 31 December 2026

⏱️ Duration: Approximately 8 hours, including dinner and cruise


Celebrate New Year's Eve aboard the Sapele with an evening of dining, live entertainment and spectacular Thames views.


Start with a three-course dinner and welcome drink at the historic Doggett's Coat & Badge before making your way to Bankside Pier to board the vessel for a festive cruise through the heart of London.


As midnight approaches, enjoy live music, dancing and views of London's illuminated landmarks from the heated saloon or open-air deck. The highlight of the evening is a front-row view of London's famous New Year's Eve fireworks from the river, followed by celebrations onboard into the early hours.


Best for: Couples, groups of friends and anyone wanting a classic New Year's Eve celebration with dinner, live music and fireworks views.

Good to know: Includes a three-course meal, welcome drink, cruise ticket and live entertainment. A fully stocked onboard bar is available (cash only), with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menu options available on request.

Where:

Stop 1, Bulleid Way, London, SW1W 9SR

Price:

From £389.00

Celebrate New Year's Eve in London with the annual fireworks display. Credit: Mayor of London. Image courtesy of Greater London Authority.

📍 Departure: Westminster Millennium Pier (SW1A 2JH)

🚇 Nearest Tube: Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee)

🗓️ When: 31 December 2026

⏱️ Duration: Approximately 5 hours

 

Celebrate New Year's Eve aboard the Avontuur with a lively Thames boat party featuring music, drinks and spectacular views of London's skyline.

 

Departing from Westminster Millennium Pier, this adults-only cruise combines a festive atmosphere with live DJ entertainment as you sail through the heart of the capital.

 

As midnight approaches, make your way to the open-top deck or enjoy the view from one of the heated saloons to watch London's famous New Year's Eve fireworks from the river. Raise a glass and dance into 2027 with fellow guests as the celebrations continue onboard.

 

Best for: Groups of friends, couples and partygoers looking for a high-energy New Year's Eve celebration.

Good to know: Your ticket includes unlimited beer, wine, prosecco and soft drinks throughout the evening. Spirits and champagne are available to purchase onboard. This is an 18+ event and smart partywear is encouraged.

Where:

Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2JH

Price:

From £369.00

Ring in the New Year with London's fantastic firework display. © Greater London Authority

📍 Departure: Westminster Millennium Pier (SW1A 2JH)

🚇 Nearest Tube: Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee)

🗓️ When: 31 December 2026

⏱️ Duration: Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours


Ring in the New Year aboard The London Rose with a lively Thames party cruise offering spectacular views of London's illuminated skyline.


Departing from Westminster Millennium Pier, the cruise combines music, dancing and a festive atmosphere as you sail past some of the capital's most iconic landmarks.


As midnight approaches, head to the open-air deck for a prime view of London's world-famous New Year's Eve fireworks. Celebrate the countdown with fellow guests before dancing into the early hours with a live DJ and stunning river views all around.


Best for: Adults looking for a lively New Year's Eve party, including couples, groups of friends and anyone wanting to combine dancing, drinks and fireworks views on the Thames.

Good to know: This is an 18+ adults-only experience. Unlimited beer, wine, prosecco and soft drinks are included throughout the cruise, with a DJ and dance floor onboard. Boarding takes place at Westminster Millennium Pier, and early arrival is recommended.

New Year's Eve cruises in London FAQs

What are the best New Year's Eve cruises in London?

The best New Year's Eve cruises in London range from luxury dining and party boats to sightseeing experiences on the river Thames.

Many offer fantastic views of London's illuminated landmarks, creating a memorable way to celebrate the New Year in style.

Which New Year's Eve cruise is best for watching the London fireworks?

The river Thames cruises that operate on New Year's Eve all offer excellent views of the city's celebrations.

The best option depends on your preferences, with some cruises focusing on dining and entertainment, while others prioritise sightseeing and views of London's iconic skyline.

Book your place early, as places are limited.

What's included on a New Year's Eve cruise in London?

What’s included on a New Year's cruise varies by cruise, but many New Year's Eve cruises in London feature food and drinks, live entertainment, music and sightseeing along the river Thames.

Some offer seated dining, while others focus on dancing and celebrations.

Check individual cruise details before booking, as inclusions and departure times can differ.

Do New Year's Eve cruises in London include dinner?

Some New Year's Eve cruises in London include dinner, while others offer drinks, snacks or a party-focused experience without a meal.

Options range from multi-course dining cruises to more informal celebrations on the river Thames.

Check the cruise description before booking to see exactly what's included.

How long do New Year’s Eve cruises in London last?

A New Year's Eve cruise in London typically lasts approximately four to six hours.

London’s New Year’s Eve cruises usually board between 7.30pm and 9.30pm – be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid missing the boat! Cruises wrap up some time after the fireworks display, with most returning by 1.30am.

When should I book a New Year's Eve cruise in London?

It’s essential to book your London New Year’s Eve cruise in advance as tickets sell out quickly!

Explore the different cruise options, find the perfect experience for you and secure your spot today.

Swap the crowds for a memorable night on the river and see London's New Year's Eve celebrations from a unique perspective. With everything from elegant dinner cruises to all-night party boats available, a Thames cruise is an unforgettable way to start the year in style.
 
Find more inspiration for the perfect New Year’s Eve in London, from dining spots and winter rooftops to after-parties and things to do on New Year's Day in London.
 
Book ahead and find where to stay during the festive period, and keep up to date with the latest London public transport information.