London Duck Tours
Amphibious sightseeing tours that drive past London landmarks then splash into the Thames — a unique land-and-water experience returning in 2026
Amphibious sightseeing tours that drive past London landmarks then splash into the Thames — a unique land-and-water experience returning in 2026
London Duck Tours is the city's original amphibious sightseeing experience — driving past the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye before plunging into the Thames at Vauxhall for a cruise past the MI6 building. Part bus, part boat, and entirely unlike anything else in London.
The original DUKW service ran from 2002 until 2017 when the slipway closed for tunnel construction. Now reopened, a new all-electric service operated by Big Bus Tours launches in 2026 with zero-emission vehicles from Seahorse Amphibious Vehicles.
London Duck Tours launched in 2002 using bright yellow DUKW amphibious vehicles — the same design that stormed Normandy's beaches in 1944. Tours departed from behind the London Eye, drove past the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Lambeth Palace, then plunged into the Thames at Lack's Dock near Vauxhall for a river cruise past the MI6 building.
No other tour offered a road vehicle driving directly into the river, and the splash moment — accompanied by theatrical commentary and enthusiastic quacking — became one of London's most memorable tourist experiences. In 2017 the slipway closed for Thames Tideway Tunnel construction, forcing the service to cease and the seventy-year-old DUKWs to retire.
The Vauxhall slipway has reopened and the Duchy of Cornwall, which owns the site, issued a new licence for amphibious operations. The contract went to Seahorse Amphibious Vehicles, a British manufacturer that has spent a decade developing purpose-built all-electric amphibious passenger vehicles.
Big Bus Tours, London's largest open-top sightseeing operator, will run the service. The new vehicles carry approximately 36 passengers, reach 30 mph on roads and eight knots on water, with zero exhaust emissions — a major upgrade from the diesel DUKWs. An exact relaunch date has not been confirmed, but the service is expected in 2026.
A duck tour is part sightseeing trip, part theatrical performance. The live guide blends London history with jokes, audience participation and duck-themed props. Children love it — the moment the vehicle enters the water produces genuine squeals of excitement.
The land section covers Westminster landmarks at road level before the perspective shifts entirely on the water, where you look up at the same buildings from river level. The contrast between the two halves is what makes the experience memorable. The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, split between land and water. Seating is open-air, so dress for the weather — life jackets are provided and safety briefings given before departure.
Prices shown are estimated for the 2026 relaunch — check the operator's website for confirmed fares when bookings open. The original service charged approximately £30 per adult.
Duck tours are extremely popular in summer and sell out quickly. Book online as soon as dates are released to secure your preferred departure time, especially at weekends.
The front rows get the most dramatic view — and the most spray — when the vehicle enters the Thames. If you want to stay drier, choose seats further back from the bow.
The vehicle is open-topped and the Thames entry can produce spray. A light waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable regardless of conditions. Sunscreen is also recommended on clear days.
You need to check in and go through a safety briefing before boarding. Arriving early ensures you do not miss the departure and gives you time to choose your seat.
The new all-electric service is expected to launch in 2026. Keep an eye on the operator's website and social media channels for confirmed dates, booking information and opening offers.
London Travel Writer · 12+ years covering UK attractions and tourism
Last reviewed: March 5, 2026
