In the heart of London, a thrilling way to explore the city has emerged, offering visitors an unforgettable journey along the Thames River. While many may consider viewing platforms like the London Eye or Sky Garden as the best way to see the city, others argue that nothing beats experiencing London from the water. Among the various boat cruises available, Thames Rockets stands out with its high-speed tours, providing a unique perspective of the city's iconic landmarks.
Imagine embarking on a journey through London aboard a state-of-the-art speedboat. In a vibrant corner of the city near the London Eye Pier Boarding Gate One, lies the starting point for this exhilarating adventure. Launched in 2006 by Charlie Matheson, Thames Rockets revolutionized river cruises with their red inflatable speedboats capable of reaching speeds up to 35 miles per hour. Now, they have unveiled the Rocket Rebel, a groundbreaking lightweight aluminum craft powered by two 725hp engines, seating 26 passengers and boasting the title of London’s fastest sightseeing speedboat.
The tour begins at a leisurely pace, allowing passengers to soak in the sights of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the Shard, Tower of London, HMS Belfast, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and the Tate Modern. As the boat glides under bridges such as London Bridge and Waterloo Bridge, fascinating stories about the city unfold. Once the vessel reaches Canary Wharf, the real excitement begins. Here, in the ‘no speed limit zone,’ the Rocket Rebel unleashes its full potential, reaching breathtaking speeds accompanied by energetic music, including the James Bond theme tune.
From the knowledgeable guides to the thrilling experience of speeding along the Thames, the Rocket Rebel offers an unparalleled way to witness London’s ever-evolving skyline and learn intriguing facts about the city.
As a journalist, witnessing the transformation of traditional river cruises into adrenaline-pumping adventures is inspiring. Thames Rockets not only provides entertainment but also fosters a deeper connection with the city. By combining speed, education, and fun, they redefine urban tourism, proving that sometimes, the best views come from feeling the wind rush past while racing along the water. For those seeking an extraordinary London experience, the Rocket Rebel is undoubtedly worth exploring.