London has unveiled a brand-new tourist attraction: the Tower of London River Tour. Launched in December 2025, the experience is one of the capital’s latest additions, highlighting the city’s evolving riverfront tourism scene. Visitors can now board the country’s first purpose-built electric tour boat and enjoy some of the city’s most famous sights from the River Thames.
Created in official partnership with Historic Royal Palaces, the attraction offers a 40-minute live-guided cruise, combining British heritage with expert storytelling, scripted by Martha Douglas-Howe, and a quietly luxurious electric boating experience.
To mark its recent launch, the tour is offering a limited-time 20% discount on tickets for all journeys booked and taken by 23 February, making it an ideal half-term activity for families and visitors to the capital. “It is a refined, all-weather way to enjoy panoramic views of more than 20 iconic London landmarks,” said a spokesperson.
From Tower Bridge to Westminster, over 1,000 years of history
The tour brings more than 1,000 years of history to life as passengers journey past some of London’s most recognisable landmarks on a circular route from Tower Bridge Quay to Westminster and back.
The live narration, written by Douglas-Howe, co-creator of the Ghosts, “brings London’s stories to life with wit, warmth and wonder, revealing the river’s role as both lifeline and legend,” the spokesperson added.
Douglas-Howe said: “I’ve been on a deep dive through the Thames’ murky past, thankfully not literally, unearthing the stories that have shaped London.
“To see the Silver Raven set sail from the Tower, carrying those tales into the future, is very special. It is such an honour to be part of the brilliant team bringing the past to life on a boat designed for the future.”
The spokesperson added: “Purpose-built for London, the Silver Raven cuts a sleek silhouette on the River Thames and is beautiful both inside and out. Its enclosed glass design provides shelter from the elements while offering uninterrupted panoramic views from every seat.
“Combined with smooth electric propulsion and elegantly detailed interiors, it delivers a quietly luxurious way to experience the river in all conditions.”
A step forward for sustainable river tourism in the UK
The tour is operated aboard the Silver Raven, a 39-metre electric catamaran designed by the Woods family in collaboration with leading naval architects. Built by Pendennis Shipyard in Cornwall, it is powered by a 720 kW EST-Floattech Octopus Series battery system and engineered for rapid charging between tours.
The project received funding through the UK Government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, delivered by Innovate UK, highlighting its role as a pioneering example of sustainable British shipbuilding.
Constructed to the rigorous standards of Lloyd’s Register and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the vessel combines advanced technology with traditional craftsmanship.
Its arrival also precedes the development of new electric charging infrastructure at Tower Bridge Quay, to be implemented in partnership with the Department for Transport and the Port of London Authority, with the aim of enabling fully renewable grid charging by 2026.
“The Silver Raven is the product of years of development,” said Chris Kangis, CEO of Woods Tours. “It showcases the strength of British shipbuilding and innovation, offering a quiet, clean and beautiful way to experience the Thames. It represents the future of river tourism.”
Interiors inspired by London’s river heritage
The interiors pay homage to London’s rich river heritage, echoing the golden age of city river cruising. The design subtly connects the Tower of London with the River Thames through sustainable British materials and refined detailing.
Panoramic single-deck views, awning-shaded outdoor areas and a glazed ceiling ensure a striking visual experience in all weather conditions. The vessel also features bespoke House of Hackney Axminster carpet woven in Devon, eco-leather seating crafted in Scotland and a hammered English pewter bar reflecting light like ripples on water.
Guests can choose between open-air seating, covered outdoor areas or indoor seating, offering flexibility and comfort throughout the journey. Discounted tickets start at £11.20 for children and £14.80 for adults.
