Eco-Friendly, Luxurious, and Historic: The Tower of London River Tour Offers a Unique Electric Boat Experience on the Thames

Published on December 9, 2025

The Tower of London River Tour is an extraordinary experience that not only takes visitors on a scenic journey through London’s historic past but also introduces a breakthrough in sustainable tourism. Operating aboard the UK’s first electric tour boat, the Silver Raven, this river cruise combines cutting-edge green technology with centuries of history, offering an unparalleled way to explore the Thames River and the iconic landmarks that line its banks. In collaboration with Historic Royal Palaces, this tour allows passengers to immerse themselves in over 1,000 years of British history in a comfortable, eco-friendly environment.

The Tower of London River Tour is a 40-minute, live-guided boat ride that sails between Tower Bridge and Westminster, passing twenty of London’s most iconic landmarks along the way. But it’s not just about the sights—this tour also brings the stories of London’s vibrant past to life, narrated by a witty and engaging guide. From the Tower of London to Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye, every twist and turn of the river unveils a chapter of the city’s fascinating history. This unique collaboration with Historic Royal Palaces allows tourists to experience London in a way they’ve never done before, blending fun and education on a fully electric, sustainable vessel.

A Revolutionary Step in Sustainable River Tourism

The Silver Raven is the crown jewel of this new venture. Powered entirely by electricity, it is the UK’s first electric tour boat, marking a major milestone in the decarbonisation of the maritime sector. This 39-metre electric catamaran was specifically designed and built by Pendennis Shipyard in Cornwall. It features a 720 kW EST-Floattech Octopus Series battery that powers the boat efficiently between tours, and thanks to its fast-charging capabilities, it can be quickly recharged for the next round of passengers.

What makes the Silver Raven even more special is that it’s not only eco-friendly but also designed for comfort and luxury. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the River Thames from the boat’s fully enclosed glass design, ensuring an amazing visual experience regardless of the weather. Whether you’re sitting inside or out, the views are uninterrupted, making this tour a feast for the eyes.

The Electric Tour Boat Experience

The Silver Raven offers more than just a ride on the river—it’s a whole experience. The vessel boasts carefully crafted interiors that pay homage to London’s rich river heritage. Inside, visitors will find eco-leather seating, bespoke carpets, and a hammered English pewter bar that reflects light just like ripples on the water. Every detail is designed to make the ride as luxurious as it is sustainable.

Key Features of the Silver Raven:

• Electric Propulsion: Powered entirely by clean, green electricity.
• Panoramic Glass Views: Offering a stunning view of London’s landmarks from any seat.
• Bespoke Interiors: Crafted from sustainable materials, blending heritage and modernity.
• Comfortable Seating: Both indoor and outdoor seating options with a glazed ceiling for protection from the elements.

A Live-Guided Journey Through History

One of the highlights of the Tower of London River Tour is the engaging and informative live narration. The script, written by Martha Howe-Douglas, co-creator of BBC’s Ghosts, brings the river’s rich history to life. As the boat glides along the Thames, the narrator guides passengers through key events in London’s past, from the turbulent times of the Tower of London to the evolution of the city as we know it today. Passengers can expect a healthy mix of historical facts, legends, and humor, making the journey both educational and entertaining.

A New Chapter for British Tourism

This partnership between Historic Royal Palaces and Woods Tours is a perfect example of how tourism can evolve to meet the challenges of sustainability while preserving the essence of a destination’s heritage. The Tower of London River Tour represents a perfect fusion of past and future, where history is shared through the lens of modern, green technology. This tour offers an entirely new way for both locals and visitors to connect with the city’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to becoming more sustainable.

Tour Details and Booking Information

The Tower of London River Tour operates throughout the day, with regular departures from Tower Bridge Quay. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, during which passengers will see twenty of London’s most famous landmarks. Whether you’re a local looking for a fresh perspective on your city or a visitor eager to see the sights from a different angle, this tour is a must.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults: £18.50
• Children: £14.50
• Tower + River Combined Ticket: A package that includes entry to the Tower of London and the river tour for a discounted price.
• Onboard Extras: Enhance your tour with a glass of English sparkling wine served on board.

Accessibility:

• Wheelchair accessible: The tour is fully accessible for adults and children with disabilities.
• BSL-interpreted and Relaxed Tours: Special tours are available for those who require additional support. A tour script can also be provided in advance.

Booking Information:

for detailed schedules and to book your tickets.

Innovative Sustainability in British Maritime Tourism

The Silver Raven is more than just an electric boat—it is part of a larger push toward sustainable tourism in the UK. The project received funding from the UK Government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC4), which emphasizes the importance of greening the maritime sector. With rapid charging infrastructure to be developed at Tower Bridge Quay in partnership with the Department for Transport and the Port of London Authority, the electric tour boat is setting a precedent for future eco-friendly tourism ventures on the River Thames.

By 2026, visitors will be able to experience fully renewable grid charging, helping to ensure that the Silver Raven stays at the forefront of sustainable tourism.

Conclusion

The Tower of London River Tour marks a turning point in London’s tourism industry, where heritage and green innovation seamlessly merge to offer an unforgettable experience. As the first electric tour boat in the UK, the Silver Raven offers a clean, quiet, and beautifully designed vessel for exploring the Thames River and the city’s iconic landmarks. The combination of cutting-edge technology and historical storytelling makes this tour a must-do for anyone visiting London. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, the Tower of London River Tour promises to offer a new and sustainable way to experience this historic city.