Top United Kingdom On the Water

Set sail across the misty waters of Loch Ness—and discover the eerie legend of the Loch Ness Monster as you admire a new perspective on the scenery—on this immersive sightseeing cruise. Float past the majestic ruins of Urquhart Castle as you explore one of Britain’s largest freshwater lakes, and have plenty of opportunities to capture photos of the sights (and potentially any lurking monsters).

Have only a short stay in London? See more of the city’s landmarks in less time—and enjoy a memorable way to travel—on a Thames river cruise. Pick from numerous daily departure times, and head to the London Eye Pier to hop aboard your vessel. As you cruise along the river, glimpse monuments ranging from St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tate Modern to Big Ben and the Tower of London. Live on-board commentary is included.

Cross Llyn Padarn by kayak, and see the surrounding Snowdonia National Park from a different perspective — the water. Leaving the hiking crowds behind, you’ll paddle through countryside dominated by hills and mountains, seeing remains from the slate mining era and even 12th-century castle ruins. If the weather works in your favor, there’s the option of a swim along the way, too.

See London from the streets, water, and sky with this great-value package that lets you explore at your own pace. Choose a 24- or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket with on-board commentary and open-top panoramic views. Enjoy an aerial view aboard the London Eye giant observation wheel and a one-way River Thames cruise between the Tower of London and Westminster Pier, available in either direction.

See the scenery around Llangollen by canoe, and paddle across the impressive Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to discover a local lake. Perfect if you’re looking for a more thrilling way to explore north Wales, this half-day canoe tour is packed with games and challenges to help you improve your paddling skills as you go. The experience is limited to just 12 people, and all the equipment you need is provided.

Embark upon a sailing adventure in London without a high price tag, and get from point A to B in style. While traveling along the Thames River in a sleek catamaran, soak up views of the city's landmarks from the climate-controlled indoor cabins or from the outdoor back decks. Tickets are valid on all piers between Battersea and Barking Riverside piers.

See London from a different perspective on a one-way or round-trip Thames River cruise—without battling traffic or crowded streets. Sail between Westminster and Tower Bridge, passing landmarks including St. Paul's Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London. Along the way, enjoy live onboard commentary or access multilingual audio via a smartphone app.

Experience the English Riviera the active way—atop a sea kayak—on this eco-friendly tour from Oddicombe, near Torquay. Showcasing the coves and caves where dolphins and seals are sometimes spotted, the route offers some leisurely paddling with a guide who’s passionate about wildlife and geology. First-time kayakers and children over four are welcome, and groups are limited to 12 boats to ensure no-one gets left behind.

See the historic city of York from a different perspective during a 45-minute or 1-hour cruise on the Ouse River. Relax during a leisurely sail, accompanied by commentary that details the history and culture of York, and enjoy unobstructed views of landmarks such as Clifford’s Tower and the York Museum and Gardens. Choose from several departure times to suit your schedule.

Witness the enchantment of London at night on an evening cruise on the River Thames, which reveals the capital from a fresh perspective. A glass-encased boat provides unrivaled views of the city’s main attractions as they begin to illuminate, so you can see the London Shard, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the HMS Belfast away from the land-based crowds. Sip a glass of sparkling wine (or soft drink) and canapés as you sail.

Set sail for a romantic cruise through the heart of Oxford—and pair your sightseeing with a classic afternoon tea—on this unique, two-in-one boat tour. Tuck into English teatime treats such as finger sandwiches and scones with jam and clotted cream as you glide downstream. Following a scenic route along the University Regatta Course, discover Oxford’s greenery and admire views of the University Boat Houses, Christ Church Meadows, and Iffley lock.

See the Tower of London and the city skyline from a whole new perspective on this boat tour down the Thames. Curated by the Historic Royal Palaces charity and a presentation written by a co-creator of the BBC TV series ’Ghosts’, you’re better off leaving the guidebook at home—this tour is better. Take in over 20 landmarks on this circular trip aboard a fully electric boat.

To maximize limited time in London, combine an iconic British tradition with a sightseeing excursion on an afternoon tea cruise on the Thames River. As you sail from Tower Pier to Westminster, admire London landmarks including the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye—without having to navigate or jostle among the large crowds that gather at the monuments. Plus, indulge in tea, freshly prepared cakes, and sandwiches.

Take to the water and explore beautiful Yorkshire by boat on this relaxing sightseeing cruise. With a traditional Yorkshire tea of sandwiches, scones, desserts, and drinks served on board, cruise through the pretty countryside and admire uninterrupted views from your vantage point on the water. There’s also a fully licensed bar on board.

Check out the whitewater rapids of north Wales with this rafting adventure from Llangollen. On a half-day trip down the River Dee, you’ll learn how to paddle and navigate the water safely under the supervision of a guide. Book online to secure your preferred date, make use of provided equipment, then hold on tight to discover thrilling rapids such as the Serpents Tail, Town Falls, and more.

Discover a unique perspective on London’s landmarks—and enjoy a relaxing way to explore—on this Thames River boat tour one-way ticket. Enjoy the flexibility to board and disembark when you want from four convenient piers. Take in the views from the upper decks or relax within the cozy indoor salons, and learn more from the accompanying multilingual commentary.

Wetsuits at the ready for an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience in Snowdonia National Park. With a guide at your side, make three descents through continuous whitewater with grade 3–4 rapids every time. Feel confident with an instructional session and full safety gear provided on-site and challenge yourself with increasingly difficult runs throughout your session.

Set sail from Lowestoft on a seal spotting trip that takes in the picturesque coasts of Gorleston and Great Yarmouth. Enjoy speeding along on the ocean on your way to the seals, then get your binoculars at the ready as you slow down to see where the seals are basking on sand banks and bobbing in the water — this trip does not disturb the seals.

Seek out the Loch Ness Monster on a 2-hour cruise from Dochgarroch Lock. The boat is fitted with a special Nessie sonar, but if the elusive monster doesn’t show up, other sights will charm you instead. Pass along the Caledonian Canal into Loch Ness to see Urquhart Castle, Bona Lighthouse, and the site of a World War II bomber crash. Learn about the loch’s history and legends as you cruise.

Book your spot on this exciting coasteering adventure along Pembrokeshire's famous coastline. Get geared up in your wetsuit and helmet, then follow your guide as you learn to scramble, swim, and cliff jump. Swim in rocky coves, take in beautiful views you'd otherwise miss, and experience the coast from a new perspective. Great for groups, choose from morning and afternoon sessions to suit your schedule.

Enjoy a memorable evening of food, wine, and entertainment on this Thames River dinner cruise that reveals London when it looks best: illuminated by night. Combine British culture and cuisine as you cruise past iconic London sights such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge, far from the crowds that gather outside of them at night. While you eat and admire the riverside attractions, listen to live music.

Explore Oxford University’s famous regatta course on this Thames River sightseeing cruise. Hop aboard your sightseeing boat in the heart of Oxford and cruise out onto the famous waterway. Learn more about the city’s rich history from your guide, and discover local landmarks such as Folly Bridge, Christchurch College, the Oxford University boathouses and the Meadows.

Start by meeting your guide at the Statue of Walter Francis Montagu Douglas Scott. From there, you’ll follow in the footsteps of royalty (and even pirates) as you enter Edinburgh Castle. As you discover the castle grounds, hear stories about how this fortress was once the residence for Mary, Queen of Scots, and a prison during the Napoleonic Wars. Take a snap of the six-tonnes Mons Meg (a medieval cannon), and admire the Royal Palace. Afterwards, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace, and step inside St Margaret's Chapel, Scottish National War Memorial and more.