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Getting To Know Tower Bridge – Cruise port Guide London

Our Tower Bridge cruise port guide is a quick and easy introduction to everything there is to see and do in the nations capital city, London.

Located in the heart of London, this is one of the most iconic and unique cruise ports in the world. Berthing alongside HMS Belfast and tendering via river shuttle boat across the Thames – beneath Tower Bridge – is one of the most spectacular ways to embark your cruise ship, and this wonderful experience is reserved exclusively for those much smaller vessels. The sailaway from Tower Bridge is spectacular and you’ll find spectators lining the pavements to bid bon voyage as your ship leaves this iconic landmark behind.

Of course, no embarkation or disembarkation at Tower Bridge would be complete without spending time in the UK capital. London is bursting with things to see and do, so why not add a short stay into your holiday plans. You can delve deep into London’s history; sample some of the finest food in the world; enjoy a show in the West End, splurge on Oxford Street; take in many of the typical tourist sites; relax in one of the cities many public parks; take a ride on the famous London Underground; enjoy the city view from the top of The Shard; and many, many more.

Don’t forget to stop by our cruise blog for updates on Tower Bridge (London) cruises.

Travel Tips:

London is easy to explore on foot and via public transport, and the quickest way to get around is via the London Underground. TravelCard tickets are the most cost effective and they cover all public transport within the city, including the DLR, bus services, London Overground, Emirates Air Line, River Bus and National Rail Services. If you’re only in the city for one day, we’d recommend using the pay as you go system. If you’re staying for 2 or 3 days, purchase the Visitor Pass.

These are some of the things you can do and places you can enter in the city for FREE: British Museum, Museum of London, Natural History Museum, IWM London, National Portrait Gallery, all public parks, London Mithraeum, Queens House, walking tours, Museum of London Docklands, Science Museum and the British Museum.

Key highlights of London

• Tower of London – located opposite your ships berth
• HMS Belfast
• Buckingham Palace
• Westminster Abbey
• The British Museum
• Covent Garden
• Oxford Street
• Camden Town and Market
• Emirates Air Line
• Royal Albert Hall
• London Transport Museum
• Westminster Bridge
• Palace of Westminster & Big Ben
• Portobello Road
• Tate Modern
• Piccadilly Circus
• Leicester Square
• The National Gallery
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• Trafalgar Square

Regular cruise line visitors

• Windstar Cruises

Timelapse of Tower Bridge Transit by Steve Dunlop

Cruise expert insider  🔎  tower bridge & london by sue bryant.

London is all about the views. Luckily, you’ll have what’s arguably the best view of all if you’re docked at Tower Bridge, with the Tower of London, the dome of St Paul’s and the futuristic skyscrapers of the City right in front of your ship. Book online in advance to visit the glass walkways that span Tower Bridge; there’s even a glass floor if you’re brave enough to look down, and the views up and down the river are stupendous.

The temptation with London is to cram in too much, so pace yourself. This is a city of neighbourhoods and it pays to discover one pocket at a time. The area east of Tower Bridge, on the South Bank, all walkable, is Shad Thames, former warehouses that are now hip apartments, cool restaurants and buzzing bars and cafés. The famous Borough Market is a short walk west from HMS Belfast, where you’re docked, for a whistle-stop journey through the world’s cuisines, from gourmet chocolate to coffee, cheeses, organic fruit and vegetable stalls, paella and pies. It’s closed on Sunday but brunch here on Saturdays is a big event for Londoners. More local and, some would say, less touristy is Maltby Street Market in Bermondsey, which is open on Saturdays and Sundays, for fabulous street food: green juices, artisanal gin and authentic bangers.

If you’re having a South Bank day, the other big attractions here are the Tate Modern, one of London’s finest galleries, and Shakespeare’s Globe, where you can do behind-the-scenes tours as well as watch plays in a recreation of the original Elizabethan playhouse. And for more of those amazing views, climb on board the London Eye and try to spot all the legendary landmarks.

Areas like Oxford Street, Regent Street, Buckingham Palace and Parliament Square need little introduction, as they’re on a well-trodden trail. So why not dig a little deeper? When I’m playing tourist in my own city, I sign up for a guided walk with London Walks (walks.com), which, thanks to the eloquent and very entertaining guides, never disappoint, whether you follow the trail of Jack the Ripper, The Beatles or London’s ghosts.

Speaking of ghosts, one of the best tours I’ve done is the London Transport Museum’s ‘ghost stations’ visit, where guides take you on a very exclusive visit underground to learn the fascinating story of the disused underground stations, used as anything from air raid shelters in World War II to the set for the James Bond film, Skyfall. These are really popular, though, so you need to plan well ahead (ltmuseum.co.uk).

For a city with more than eight million inhabitants, London has some gorgeous outdoor space. You’ll probably see the Royal Parks on a tour: Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, Green Park and St James Park, all of which are beautiful at any time of year. In summer, if your ship is overnighting, it’s always worth checking out the Open Air Theatre at Regent’s Park. Book a ticket, pack a picnic and enjoy productions like A Midsummer Night’s Dream in an atmospheric woodland setting.

Slightly further afield, but an easy journey from London Bridge on the Northern Line, another of my favourite views of the city is from Primrose Hill, an extension of Regent’s Park. Sometimes, I combine a visit here with a wander through the boho market at Camden Lock, or head further north still for a stroll on Hampstead Heath to the neoclassical villa of Kenwood House and the Spaniards Inn, a pub dating back to 1585, or through chichi Hampstead Village for shopping and grazing.

A few days in London is never enough, though. You’ll always want to come back for more.

Cruise Editor , The Times & The Sunday Times

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London Tower Bridge port

The cruise port at London Tower Bridge, England

Where is london tower bridge port  .

This dock—served by tenders—is right in downtown London , by Tower Bridge and the HMS Belfast near the Tower of London .

What cruise itineraries use London Tower Bridge port ?  

Most cruises out of London Tower Bridge visit the British Isles and Ireland , Baltic , and Scandinavia .  

Which cruise lines use London Tower Bridge port ? 

Only smaller ships can come this far up the Thames, including cruises run by FTI Cruises, Hebridean Island Cruises, National Geographic Expeditions, Silversea, and Windstar Cruises.

How can I get from London Tower Bridge port to London?

You already are right in London! The closest Tube stop is Tower of London .

• London Tower Bridge
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If it's one of the seven deadly sins—gluttony (booze; food), greed (gambling), sloth (spas), extravagance (shore excursions)—it's how a cruise lines makes all its profit

Also in Cruise to London:

• Southampton cruise port
• Portsmouth cruise port
• Dover cruise port
• Harwich cruise port
• Tilbury cruise port

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• London homepage
• England destinations
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The Tube's longest escalators

Everyone marvels at the sometimes ludicrously long escalators at some Tube stations. Most visitors experience those at Holborn (49m/161 feet), Knightsbirdge (40m/131 feet), or Westminster (32m/105 feet).

The longest is actually at Angel station, on the Northern line just east of Kings Cross, where the moving staircase stretches a whopping 60m (197 feet).

In close second place at 59m (194 feet) is Hampstead, also on the Northern line. Hampstead was built in 1907 and at 58.5m (192 feet) below street level is the deepest station in the system. If its escalators and 180-foot lift (elevator) are out of service, there is an emergency spiral staircase... of 320 steps.

(For the record: The shortest escalator runs just 4.1m./13 feet at Stratford station.)

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Home Blog The World’s Most Exclusive Cruise Ports Part 1 – Tower Bridge

The World’s Most Exclusive Cruise Ports Part 1 – Tower Bridge

In the first of a new feature, we take a look at the iconic tower bridge cruise port in london..

Tower Bridge (HMS Belfast) is one of the most exclusive cruise ports in the world and is open to only a select number of cruise ships.  The majority of vessels that berth here are often from the ultra-luxury market and they really are a lucky few that can take full advantage of this prime berthing location.

So why is it so exclusive? Unlike a normal cruise port, at Tower Bridge you will find yourself berthed right alongside HMS Belfast. There is no pier or big fancy cruise terminal, just a warship that will offer you a completely different experience when it comes to berthing. Even the entrance is one that will stay with you forever. As Tower Bridge opens up and welcomes you into the heart of the bustling English capital you can tell yourself you have officially arrived and you have certainly arrived in style. Size of the visiting vessel also plays an important part, after all HMS Belfast cannot host a vessel larger than she is and at just 186.99-metres there are only a select number of cruise ships that meet the specific 158-metres or less in length requirement for berthing alongside – thus making Tower Bridge fully exclusive.

Accessing your berthed vessel is incredibly easy too. At Tower Millennium Pier at the Tower of London you board a water taxi that takes you across the River Thames to a jetty located just off HMS Belfast. Walk up a few steps and you shall find yourself aboard the largest preserved warship in Europe. Take a short walk along her deck before accessing your ship, which is berthed right alongside. Our Managing Director recently had the pleasure of embarking on this exact journey and in his words “the experience from shore to ship is an exciting journey in its own right!”  After all, there are not many cruise ports in the world where one can say they boarded their vessel via a 1930’s Royal Navy cruiser.

Tower Bridge Visiting Cruise Ships

The cruise port at Tower Bridge is for a small ‘club’ of ships, only those that are the right size can be accommodated and as mentioned earlier these vessels are often found within the luxury cruise market.

Compagnie du Ponant’s luxury cruise ship,  Le Boreal  visited London on May 15 th  and we managed to obtain some incredible footage of her entrance courtesy of Ponant (which you can view in the video below) but she is not the only impressive luxury ship that has paid a visit to this exclusive cruise port. SeaDream Yacht Club, SeaDream I was also alongside HMS Belfast just a few weeks ago on May 10 th and 2014/2015 shall see .  Seabourn Legend  and Silver Cloud visit the capital several times during their cruise seasons.

Other cruise ships to have been moored alongside HMS Belfast include, Hapag Lloyd Cruises, Hanseatic, a 5-star expedition vessel, FTI Berlin, a traditional and elegant vessel with space aboard for just 412-passengers and MV Hamburg which is operated by Plantours Kreuzfahrten

HMS Belfast and Tower Bridge

 HMS Belfast originally entered service as a Royal Navy light cruiser in 1938 and is the only surviving cruiser that was built in the 1930’s – she is also the largest preserved warship in Europe. She was decommissioned in 1963 but during her time she was active in the Second World War, D-Day and the Korean War. A branch of the Imperial War Museum since 1978, HMS Belfast is permanently moored next to Tower Bridge right in the very heart of London.

Tower Bridge was built between 1886 – 1894 and is close to the Tower of London, from which it takes its name. The closest Underground station is Tower Hill so if you visit and want to head further into the city or even venture into the surrounding suburbs, you can do so with great ease.

Voyage Options Including Tower Bridge

Below is a selection of voyages departing in 2014 and 2015 that visit London’t Tower Bridge cruise port.

Baltic Gems and British Isles  aboard Seabourn Legend. Departing August 15 2014 for 27-nights

British Isles and Atlantic Harbors  aboard Seabourn Legend. Departing August 27 2014 for 27-nights

Tower Bridge to Reykjavik  aboard Silver Cloud. Departing August 4 2014 for 9-nights

Lisbon to Tower Bridge  aboard Silver Cloud. Departing May 29 2015 for 10-nights

Baltic no-fly  aboard Silver Cloud. Departing August 3 2015 for 15-nights

For more information on Tower Bridge cruise itineraries please contact one of our Cruise Experts on 0800 008 6677

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Tower Bridge (London), England Cruises

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Cruises from/to Tower Bridge (London), England

Tower bridge (london), england cruise port.

• It is definitely accurate to describe the British Museum as the ‘world in one place’. Some of the most magnificent pieces from powerful empires and great treasures from Rome, Egypt, Assyria and other places in the world are beautifully displayed here with captivating and informative descriptions.  
• Visit the original Victorian engines that allow the Tower Bridge to operate smoothly and experience the spectacular glass floor where you can see the barges going into the lower level structure. It is grandiose and quite stunning with panoramic views that cannot be missed!  
• Shakespeare Globe and Exhibition Tours are available all year round with phenomenal productions in the works. The tours are very informative and engaging, and will transport you back to Elizabethan London with fascinating stories.

Top 10 Cruises to Tower Bridge (London), England

• World Voyager 9-Night Dublin to London Departing From Dun Laoghaire, Dublin, Ireland (Sep 2024)
• World Traveller 10-Night London to Glasgow Departing From Tower Bridge (London), England (May 2025)

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10 interesting vessels to sail through Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is world-famous for many reasons: its iconic architecture; its location in the heart of London; and that it opens for vessels. In fact, around 800 vessels still pass through the bascules each year. 

The types of boats, barges and ships that visit continue to change, from cargo vessels and paddle steamers to pleasure cruises and royal yachts. We’ve taken a look through our archives to find some of the most interesting and iconic boats and ships that have passed through Tower Bridge and present ten of the best Bridge Lifts below.

1. The first Bridge Lift, 1894

Everyone wants to be the ‘first’ to do something: first man on the Moon (1969), first selfie (1893), first video on YouTube (2005), but what was the first vessel to pass through Tower Bridge?

Tower Bridge was officially opened on 30 June 1894 by HRH the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII from 1901-10). Huge crowds lined the Thames in giddy anticipation. As the clock turned midday, the ceremonial trumpets sounded, the Bridge was blessed and, after a two minute delay ‘during which the crowd held their breaths’, the Bascules lifted for the first time. In celebration, the guns of the Tower of London fired a Royal Salute and the ships began their approach…

First through the Bridge was the Harbour Master’s vessel Daisy . It may have been the first, but it was quickly followed by a procession of honourary vessels: the Conservator Steamer ; then the Trinity House Yacht Irene ; the gunboat HMS Landrail ; the Bismark ; and the Clacton Belle . These last three can be seen in William Lionel Wyllie’s painting ‘Opening of Tower Bridge’, pictured adjacent, which is on show at the Guildhall Art Gallery .

2. London’s own sea cruise

The British seaside getaway is an iconic part of the country’s history. Ice cream, arcades, beaches and piers; what’s not to love.

In 1932 the Royal Eagle was one of the biggest, fastest, luxury paddle steamers, ferrying passengers between London and several seaside destinations including Southend-on-sea, Ramsgate and Margate. Between 1932 and 1938, it’s estimated it carried more than three million passengers – that’s half a million passengers every summer.

The Royal Eagle   would take day trippers through Tower Bridge and along the Thames towards Ramsgate and Clacton. Guests were treated to fine dining and relaxing lounges. Passengers snooze on deck, and, as was the fashion of the day, almost everyone wore a hat.

You can still take this journey on either pleasure Steamers Waverley & Balmoral , which depart from Tower Pier. You can sail back in time aboard these wonderful historic passenger ships to the Kent and Essex coasts and to the historic Thames Forts.

3. The Royal Yacht Britannia

In the Spring of 1954, thousands of Brits flocked to the banks of the River Thames to see the Royal Yacht Britannia pass under Tower Bridge, bringing Her Majesty the Queen and her family home from a Commonwealth tour that lasted six months. It was the first to be undertaken by the Royal Yacht Britannia, which the Queen had launched herself in 1953. 

During its career as Royal Yacht, Britannia conveyed the Queen, members of the Royal Family and various dignitaries on 696 foreign visits and 272 visits in British waters. Charles and Diana, the Prince and Princess of Wales, took their honeymoon cruise on Britannia in 1981. The Royal Yacht Britannia also made a visit to the Thames at Tower Bridge to honour the Queen Mother's 90th birthday in August 1990.

On 20 October 1997 the royal yacht made its final journey passing through Tower Bridge . It was decommissioned in 1997 and is now berthed in Edinburgh, where it opened in 1998 as a star tourist attraction . 

Image: © Topfoto

4. HMS Belfast

Light cruiser HMS Belfast passed under Tower Bridge to take its mooring in the Pool of London on 14 October 1971.

The following day, 15 October 1971, HMS Belfast was towed to its resting place and attached to two dolphins, which guide the ship during the rise and fall of the tide. 

Built by Messrs Harland & Wolff in 1936 and launched on 17 March 1938 by Anne Chamberlain, the wife of Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, HMS Belfast was opened to the public six days later, on Trafalgar Day, 21 October 1971. It became part of the Imperial War Museums in 1978.

5. The bridge lift that wasn’t booked

On the morning of 15 May 2004, the STS Lord Nelson set off along the Thames towards Tower Bridge and the Pool of London, expecting the Bridge to lift. The impressive three-mast vessel, along with the SV Tenacious, were the only wheelchair accessible tall ships in the world, built so that both disabled and non-disabled people could sail as crew.

As the vessel approached Tower Bridge, they radioed ahead, as is normal procedure, but received no response. As the Nelson got closer and closer to the the Bridge, further attempts to contact were met with silence and the Bridge didn’t look like it was ready to open. Finally, through Woolwich Radio, the crew had made contact with the staff at Tower Bridge and it was ascertained that no Bridge Lift had been booked! The experienced crew set to action to turn the boat around in time… but it was too late.

Due to the current, and the proximity to other vessels the Lord Nelson struck the south pier of Tower Bridge just after 10am. Fortunately, no one was injured and there was very little damage to the ship.

A later enquiry vindicated Tower Bridge authorities, after it established that no notice for a Bridge Lift had been sent or received.

The Lord Nelson was decommissioned in 2019 but the SV Tenacious still sails today.

6. Third time's the charm

If you think hitting the Bridge once is embarrassing, spare a thought for the Spanish Cargo Ship Urquiola . On 30 January 1967 the Urquiola hit Tower Bridge for the third time in ten years (1957, 64 & 67). A police spokesman announced: ‘they are starting to make habit of it’.

The damage report, date 30/1/1967 states:

'Tower Bridge was closed to traffic for an hour and a half today (Monday) after being hit and damaged by a Spanish cargo vessel. The 7,000 tom 'Monte Urquiola' swung broadside into the bridge as it was being towed to the Pool of London. It smashed into the north east buttress sending blocks of masonry tumbling into the river.'

The Monte Urquiola (1949-74) was one of four ships operating for the Aznar Line until Autumn 1974, and was a frequent guest in the Pool in London. The Aznar Line operated a large share of the Canary Islands fruit and vegetable market to Britain, sailing to both London and Liverpool. 

The Monte Urquiola was renamed In 1974 and decommissioned in 1977.

7. London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony

In the Summer of 2012, Olympic fever struck London. For just over two weeks, athletes came from all over the world to compete in the world’s greatest sporting event. London 2012’s opening ceremony, arguably the best yet, showcased the British spirit to the world and some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. 

An estimated 900 million people watched David Beckham driving the speedboat Max Power , carrying Torchbearer Jade Bailey and the flame on its penultimate stretch along the Thames. As the speed boat powered towards the Bridge, the Bascules raised and fireworks flew from the high-level Walkways. A curtain of sparks fell from the Bascules as the boat continued on its way to the Olympic Stadium - one of the defining images of the London 2012 Games.

The speedboat was a Bladerunner BR RIB 35 called 'Max Power' and fitted with two Mercury Verado V6 engines providing a maximum speed of 65 knots (75mph). It is reported to have been sold for £250,000 after the opening ceremony.

Image: © Clive Totman

8. Cruise Ships in Central London

It’s not everyday you expect to see a cruise ship entering central London, but since 2013, the city has attracted no less than 30 cruise ships a year: the Hamburg , Le Boreal , Silver Cloud and Silver Wind and many others have passed under Tower Bridge. 

These mammoth vessels are much larger than the ships that originally passed through in 1894, but ships like the enormous Silver Cloud, at 157m long, still manage to squeeze through carrying up to 300 passengers and a crew of 222.

You can get a spectacular view of the ship passing under Tower Bridge through the Glass Floor . They are so tall, sometimes it seems you can almost touch them.

9. JS Kashima

Japanese ship Kashima  (TV-3508) passed under Tower Bridge in the morning of 22 June 2022. The training vessel made its way upstream the Thames and berthed near the Tower of London, where it stayed until 25 June. It then sailed downstream, crossing our bascules once more on its way back to the sea.

The Kashima came to London, while JS Shimakaze was called at Portsmouth, to promote ‘friendship and goodwill’ between the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) and the Royal Navy. On 28 June 2022, the ships conducted a bilateral exercise with HMS Severn in the English Channel.

The visit of the Kashima and the Shimakaze to England echoed a stopover to Japan by Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group in 2021, and it marked the 120th anniversary of the Japan-UK alliance.

The Kashima visited London and passed under Tower Bridge once before, on 31 July 2016.

10. Götheborg of Sweden

The  Götheborg of Sweden , one of the world’s largest ocean-going wooden sailing vessels, passed through Tower Bridge’s bascules up and down the river on 8 August 2022.

The ship moored in Canary Wharf until 12 August as part of a two-year-long expedition from Stockholm to Shanghai. The Götheborg is a replica of an 18th-century ship that sank off the coast of Sweden in September 1745 and that it was owned by the Swedish East India Company.

The Götheborg first visited in London in 2007, when it fired its cannon in salute, with HMS Belfast’s guns firing in return.

Götheborg of Sweden crossing Tower Bridge in June 2022 ©Edward Hasler

Since 1894, Tower Bridge has opened hundreds of thousands of times and it will lift for more extraordinary vessels in the years to come. 

Let us know if we've missed your favourite Bridge Lift on Facebook and Twitter . Follow the link below to find out when the Bridge will lift next.

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Located in the heart of the iconic city, London Bridge offers a unique and convenient starting point for your cruise adventure. This bustling port provides a seamless connection to the vibrant capital of England, offering a multitude of attractions and experiences to explore before or after your voyage.

London Bridge Cruise Port is well-equipped to accommodate various cruise itineraries, allowing you to embark on unforgettable journeys to captivating destinations around the globe. The port provides modern facilities and a smooth embarkation process, ensuring a seamless transition from land to sea.

As you prepare for your cruise, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant city of London. From historical landmarks to cultural treasures, London is a city that has it all. Visit world-renowned attractions such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey, each steeped in rich history and architectural grandeur.

London is home to a diverse range of museums and art galleries, including the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern. Delve into the city's thriving theatre scene with a visit to the West End, where you can catch a mesmerizing stage performance. Indulge in retail therapy along iconic shopping streets like Oxford Street and Regent Street, or explore the eclectic markets of Camden or Portobello Road.

The city's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering a wide range of flavours and cuisines from around the world. From traditional British pub fare to Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant street food markets, there's something to satisfy every palate.

London Bridge is a vibrant district that offers a mix of modernity and historical charm. Alongside the famous London Bridge, you'll find an array of restaurants, bars, and shops. The nearby Borough Market is a food lover's paradise, showcasing a wide selection of gourmet delights.

As you embark on your cruise journey from London Bridge Cruise Port, take the time to explore the captivating city that surrounds you. Immerse yourself in its history, marvel at its iconic landmarks, indulge in its diverse cultural offerings, and savour the anticipation of the incredible experiences that await you at sea. London Bridge Cruise Port sets the stage for a memorable adventure, combining the allure of the city with the excitement of embarking on your cruise of a lifetime.

Directions to the Port

By car: From central London, take the A3 road towards the River Thames.Follow the signs for Tower Bridge and the cruise port. The port is located on the south bank of the River Thames, just downriver from Tower Bridge. You can park in the London Bridge City car park, which is located just a short walk from the terminal.

By public transportation: There is a direct train service from London Waterloo station to London Bridge station. The journey takes about 5 minutes. From London Bridge station, it is a short walk to the cruise port. You can also take the London Underground (Circle and District lines) to London Bridge station, which is a short walk from the terminal. There are also a number of bus services that stop near the terminal.

By taxi: Taxis are available from all major hotels and train stations in London. The journey from central London to the port takes about 10 minutes.

By Uber Boat by Thames Clippers: The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers stop at London Bridge City Pier, which is just a short walk from the cruise port. The journey from central London to the pier takes about 15 minutes.

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Tower Bridge – The Ultimate Guide

Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, and a great place to visit if you’re visiting London for the first time (or any other time for that matter).

This ultimate guide contains everything you need to know about this famous tourist attraction, with expert knowledge from someone who has lived within sight of it for over 20 years!

Having lived in London for most of my life, I’ve probably taken a lot of it for granted. Walking past famous landmarks with barely a glance up from my phone, or travelling thousands of miles to look at amazing places when actually there is so much to see on my own door step. I’m glad to say this isn’t the case with Tower Bridge though. I’ve spent a lot of time around and inside it, photographing it and have even visited deep inside the interior where the public rarely gets to see.

Local knowledge

A few details about tower bridge, 5 fun facts about tower bridge, where is tower bridge, train or tube (london underground/subway), what to do at tower bridge, tower bridge opening hours, how much does it cost to visit tower bridge, is tower bridge worth it, how often does tower bridge open          , what else can i do near tower bridge, pubs near tower bridge, places to eat near tower bridge, tower bridge gifts, map of places to eat and drink near tower bridge.

I’ve decided to share some of my knowledge to help anyone thinking of visiting this iconic London landmark. So this guide is for you – whether you’re a tourist visiting London for the first time or someone who lives more locally but hasn’t got round to visiting it yet.

You may have read about it, looked at photos of it or seen it in films but it’s a great experience to see it for yourself. There is a lot more to it however than just its history and being a landmark to take photos of from afar.

You can walk across the upper walkways 42 metres above the River Thames, taking in views of London. Or how about looking down through the glass floor at boats passing under the bridge. Inside the bridge, you can learn about how it was built and discover how the technology behind it works.

It’s even possible to tour the old engine rooms and marvel at the Victorian steam engines that were once used to power the bridge lifts. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to go on the rare behind-the-scenes tour that takes you down into the depths of one of the chambers below the road!

• It is what’s known as a bascule bridge. This is a moveable bridge where the spans are balanced by a counterweight. In this case, the counterweights are inside the bascule chambers.
• Construction of the bridge started in 1886, and it took 432 workers a total of 8 years to complete.
• Over 11,000 tons of steel was used in its construction, and when built it was the largest and most sophisticated bascule bridge ever made.

• It had a starring role in the 2012 Olympic Games. Not only did it have a giant set of Olympic rings suspended from the top walkway, but it also featured twice in the opening ceremony.
• Several aircraft have flown through the bridge, most notably an RAF Hawker Hunter jet fighter in 1968!
• A bus jumped over the bridge in 1952! The number 78 double-decker was crossing the bridge when it started to rise. The driver Albert Gunter continued to accelerate, clearing a 3-foot (1m) gap to land on the other side. Fortunately everyone escaped without any serious injuries.
• It has its own Act of Parliament – the Corporation of London (Tower Bridge) Act of 1885. This means that river traffic always takes priority over road traffic, even when it’s the President of the USA! Bill Clinton was caught out by this in 1997 as his motorcade arrived just as the bridge was lifting and he had to wait.
• It is fitted with a state-of-the-art lighting system that enables the bridge to be illuminated in different colours for special occasions. Recent occasions include the Platinum Jubilee of the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, and the coronation of King Charles III in May 2023.

It is located in East London, and crosses the River Thames near to the Tower of London (hence its name). If you’re visiting the exhibition, the main entrance is located in the north-west tower of the bridge, closest to the Tower of London.

How to get to Tower Bridge

Like most places in London, the quickest way to get there is by Tube (the London Underground subway system), but there are other options too.

It’s very easy to get to via public transport – either by road, rail or water!

There is a river boat pier (Tower Pier) very close to the bridge to the north of the river. This is served by Thames River Services. There’s another pier (London Bridge City Pier) slightly further away on the south side of the Thames. This is just past HMS Belfast and is served by the RB1, RB2 and RB6 services.

You can find more details, including timetables, here :

There are a number of bus routes that will get you to Tower Bridge. Routes 15 and 100 are served by stops to the north of the bridge. Routes 42, 78 and 343 stop on both sides as they cross over the bridge.

The bridge is close to two mainline train stations (London Bridge and Fenchurch Street), and two London Underground subway stations (London Bridge and Tower Hill).

London Bridge is served by the Jubilee (grey) and Northern (black) Lines. Tower Hill is served by the Circle (yellow), District (green) and Docklands Light Railway (turquoise).

If you get off at London Bridge, there’s a short 10 minute walk to get to Tower Bridge. You then need to head across the bridge itself to get to the entrance on the north-west tower.

If you get off at Tower Hill, you’ll be on the north side of the bridge already. The entrance is in the tower nearest the Tower of London which will be on your right as you head towards the bridge.

More details can be found on the Tower Bridge website .

This isn’t just a bridge that lifts up to let boats pass through – which is still pretty amazing in itself. You can also:

• Learn all about the bridge in the Tower Bridge Exhibition
• Walk across the upper walkways with fantastic panoramic views of London, as well as look down at boats passing under the bridge beneath your feet through the glass walkways.
• Visit the Engine Rooms and find out how the bridge used to be powered by steam.
• Go Behind the Scenes with a Guided Tour and find out more about the history of the bridge.
• Experience a Bridge Lift , and watch the roadway rise up to allow river traffic to pass through.
• Take Photos from on the bridge or the surrounding area. Tower Bridge makes a fantastic subject at any time of the day, from sunrise all the way through to night.

You can walk or drive across the bridge 24/7 (unless it is raised of course). The Tower Bridge Exhibition is open from 9:30am – 6pm, with last entry at 5pm. It’s open every day of the year other than between the 24 th and 26 th December, although opens slightly later at 10am on 1 st January.

Walking across the bridge for free, but if you want to access the towers, upper walkways or engine rooms you need to buy a ticket for the Exhibition. It can be quite busy at times, so it’s always a good idea to buy your tickets online in advance. You can pick the time slot you want on the specific day, and also see how many tickets are left to get an idea of how busy it’ll be.

Standard tickets are £12.30 (Adult) and £6.20 (Child)

A 90-minute Guided Tour costs £27 (Adult) and £23 (Child). This includes the standard entry fee, and is only available at weekends.

If you live locally and can prove you’re a resident of Tower Hamlets, Southwark or the City of London entry costs just £1 – a bargain!

The Behind-the-Scenes Tour takes you to places the normal tour doesn’t, including inside the machine room and the huge bascule chamber. This costs £75 (Adult), but is only available during the winter months from November to March and sells out quickly.

If you’re travelling to London by train, you can get 2for1 tickets to the bridge (and many other attractions too). Simply book online and enter the code you get from National Rail once you book train tickets. More details are on the National Rail website .

Full ticket price details are on the official website where you can also book in advance.

I think so yes. It’s an interesting way to spend a couple of hours, and you get to learn about a fascinating piece of engineering as well as a key part of London’s history. You also get to see some of the best views in London – all for just over £12!

Tower Bridge lifts around 1,000 times per year – sometimes several times a day, and they can be at any time – even late at night. The lift times are published in advance, so if you want to time your visit to see a bridge lift, you can check this page on their website .

All kinds of different ships pass through the bridge – from small sailing barges to large cruise ships. They even had the world’s largest ocean-going sailing ship, the Götheborg of Sweden, pass through in 2022!

There are many things to do near the bridge – enough to keep you busy for several days at least. Here are some suggestions!

• Visit The Tower of London
• Have a drink while admiring the views from the 72 nd floor at the View from The Shard
• Explore WWII ship HMS Belfast
• Walk along the River Thames Path
• Take a boat tour to Greenwich
• Wander around St Katherine Docks
• Visit London Bridge Experience (this is near London Bridge station, and not to be confused with the Tower Bridge Experience)
• Check out Southwark Cathedral – London’s oldest Gothic church
• Sample some of the tasty treats on offer at Borough Market, one of the largest and oldest food markets in London.
• Climb the 311 stairs to the top of The Monument – a 202 feet tall tower commemorating the Great Fire of London. Top Tip – if you buy a combined ticket to both at either attraction, you can save 20%!

I’ve also written a separate article with more in-depth suggestions for what to do near Tower Bridge.

If you fancy a pint or some proper pub grub to eat, there are a few pubs nearby that I recommend. I’ve created a map at the bottom of the page with locations of all of them.

• The Dickens Inn, St Katherine Docks – a reconstructed 18 th -century timber-framed warehouse overlooking the marina. It serves decent food, and has a large beer garden.
• Prospect of Whitby, Wapping – a historic river-side pub. It’s a bit of a walk from Tower Bridge – around 20 minutes, but if you’re after an authentic old London pub with lots of history then it’s worth the effort. You’ll also walk past two other pubs worth visiting on the way as you wander along the cobbled streets of Wapping – Town of Ramsgate and The Captain Kidd.
• Dean Swift Pub – a small pub tucked away in a quiet back street in Shad Thames. It’s only a short walk from the bridge, but it’s far enough away to be hidden from all the crowds.
• The Vault 1894 – a small pub located directly underneath the bridge on the south side. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to get one of the window seats overlooking the river.

There are loads of places to eat in the vicinity – from cafes to high-quality restaurants. You can even eat your own picnic in Potters Field Park which is an open space next to the bridge, overlooking the river. Here are some of the cafes and restaurants I’ve eaten at and would recommend. You can see where they’re all located in the map at the bottom of this page.

• Coppa Club Tower Bridge – located on the north of the river, next to the Tower of London. You can eat inside, on the terrace, or even book your own cozy igloo with stunning views of the river!!
• Gaucho Tower Bridge – if you’re in the mood for Argentinian steak, this is the place to go! Located a few minutes walk away, on the way to London Bridge station.          
• Ivy Tower Bridge – a good quality brasserie located next to Potters Field Park, and with views of the bridge.
• Butlers Wharf Chop House – a good quality steak restaurant overlooking the Thames. You can sit inside, or enjoy an outdoor heated terrace for the ultimate river views. They also serve an excellent Sunday Roast!
• Le Pont de la Tour – a classic French restaurant next door to Butlers Wharf Chop House.
• WatchHouse – a coffee shop located just a couple of minutes away down the cobbled streets of Shad Thames. They serve great quality pastries as well as other snacks.
• The Real Greek – a Greek restaurant situated right next door to the Tower Bridge gift shop.
• The Coal Shed – another good quality steak restaurant just a few minutes walk from Tower Bridge. You will usually need to book in advance.
• St Katherine Docks – there are a selection of restaurants just a few minutes walk from Tower Bridge in this picturesque marina.
• Borough Market – choose from a selection of food stalls at this famous food market about 10 minutes minutes walk from Tower Bridge.

If you’re just looking to just grab something quickly, there is a mini Tesco supermarket nearby. This is located down the stairs on the north side, opposite the Tower of London.

If you’re a fan of Tower Bridge, or want to buy something to remind you of your visit then check out these gift ideas!

How to use this map : Click on the icon in the top-left corner of the map to reveal a list of locations. If you click on one of the locations in the list, or one of the pins on the map, you can get more information or directions to it. Click on the star just to the right of the title to save to your Google Maps account. You can then view the map on your phone or computer by opening Google Maps, clicking the “Saved” icon and then selecting Maps. You’ll then see this map in your list. To open a larger version of the map in a new tab, click on the icon to the top right.

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About the Author

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Tower Bridge (Butler's Wharf Pier) to Westminster

Important information, thames river sightseeing cruise ticket, tour description.

See the best of London from the water on this Thames River sightseeing cruise, from Tower Bridge (Butler’s Wharf Pier) to Westminster Pier.

Climb aboard our sightseeing tour at Tower Bridge (Butler’s Wharf Pier) and head to Westminster Pier, admiring famous landmarks such as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard, the Tate Modern, the Houses of Parliament, and more. During your tour, enjoy panoramic and uninterrupted views from our enclosed lower decks or open-air upper decks as you cruise along the River Thames. Experience a unique perspective, grab a beverage and snack from our fully licenced bars, and sit back as our local skippers provide entertaining information about London’s history and its famous sights.

Tower Bridge (Butler's Wharf Pier)

Tower Bridge (Butler’s Wharf Pier) offers a memorable stop with its mix of heritage and modern charm. Once a busy trading hub, it’s now home to trendy restaurants, bars, and stylish apartments. Take a leisurely walk along the riverbank and enjoy stunning views of Tower Bridge and the city skyline. Don’t forget to visit the Tower Bridge Museum to learn about its fascinating history and across the bridge, you’ll find the famous Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels. Just a short walk along the southern bank of the river, you can also visit the Second World War warship HMS Belfast, which is now a museum about life onboard during a conflict.

Westminster Pier

Cruising with us.

Yes. Always confirm with the ticket office or crew as to the time of the last boat.

The journey time from Tower Bridge (Butler’s Wharf Pier) out to Westminster Pier is 20-30 minutes.

Yes, we have fully licensed bars selling a wide range of tasty snacks and drinks, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic.

The top attractions and activities around Westminster Pier include the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, the London Aquarium, the London Dungeon, and more. You can find more details on our Attractions page.

THAMES RIVER SIGHTSEEING

The Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, known for its iconic presence and accurate timekeeping since 1859.

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City Cruises Tower Pier

Address: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames St, London EC3N 4DT

Nearest Tube:

• Tower Hill underground station
• London Fenchurch Street Station
• Tower Gateway DLR station
• London Bridge Train station

Nearest Bus Stops:

• Tower of London (Stop TB) 15, N15
• Tower of London (Stop TA) 15, N15
• Tower Gateway (Stop TD) 42, 78, 100, 343, N551
• Tower Hill / Tower Gateway Station (Stop TE) 42, 78, 100, 343, N551

Santander Cycles drop off point at Tower Gateway Station.

Disable access:

The Pier is accessible

Ticket booth open times:  

10:00 – 18:00* (*subject to change)

Things to do at Tower Pier

Why not check out our Sightseeing and Dining Cruises where you can come on board at Tower Millenium Pier and see London from a different view.

Closest Attractions near Tower Pier

• The Tower of London
• Tower Bridge

Other pier locations

Where is tower pier in london.

Tower Pier is on the north side of the River Thames, located in Tower Hill and within walking distance of the Tower of London.

How to get to Tower Pier?

The closest tube station is Tower Hill which is on the Circle and District Line, from there it is a 2-minute walk to the pier There is also Tower Getaway Station on the DLR.

How do you get to Tower of London by boat?

Tower Pier is the closest pier if you want to go to the Tower of London. The pier is based next to it.

What kind of boat rides does City Cruises do from Tower Pier?

You can start your Sightseeing Cruise from Tower Pier. Also our Afternoon Tea and Lunch Cruises start from Tower Pier too.

Can I use my Oyster Card at Tower Millenium Pier?

What is the postcode for Tower Millennium Pier?

The postcode for Tower Pier is Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames St, London EC3N 4DT

What are the nearest tube stations to Tower Pier?

The nearest tube stations are Tower Hill, Fenchurch Street and London Bridge.

What are other things to do at Tower Pier?

There are plenty of attractions near Tower Pier like the Tower of London, The Superbloom and Tower Bridge.

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ACL American Encore

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ACL American Encore Review

Review of acl american encore.

The 2026-built MS American Encore cruise ship is the seventh/last newbuild in the American Cruise Lines ' "Modern Riverboat" fleet.

From this class/with the same design are the sisterships American Song (2018), American Harmony (2019), American Jazz (2020), American Melody (2021), American Symphony (2022), American Serenade (2023). Unlike the sisterships, ACL's ship Encore has a slightly modified design to allow more staterooms, including the two-room Signature Suite (fleet's biggest accommodation so far).

American Serenade is identified by an IMO number tba and is USA-flagged (MMSI tba).

History - construction and ownership

The shipowner American Cruise Lines (ACL) is the USA's largest river cruise company (headquarters in Guilford Connecticut) operational since 1991. The company specializes in cruise shipping on the USA's largest navigable inland waterways (rivers and lakes) as well as in cruises along the US East Coast, US West Coast and Florida. All ACL vessels feature some of the industry's largest passenger cabins with private balconies, spacious lounges and outdoor deck spaces, gourmet cuisine, top-quality enrichment program with many complimentary land tours and excursions, highly-personalized service by all-American staff and crew.

All ACL cruise ships are USA-flagged and built by the company-owned Chesapeake Shipbuilding Yard in Salisbury (Maryland USA).

Traditionally for large-sized USA riverboats, American Encore has a fore-located boarding ramp (bow-location on Deck 1) that allows passengers to go ashore at any place along the ACL's cruisetour itinerary. The ramp has an innovative design being constructed as a retractable gangway (passenger bridge). The technology is often implemented on some of the largest ferries and features an opening bow door.

While other small cruise lines purchase second-hand vessels/older ships, American Cruise Lines made brand expansion with new boats to maintain the company's reputation for premium quality and services. Each of the ACL newbuilds features an innovative design and spacious indoor and outdoor areas.

Decks and Cabins

American Encore staterooms (94 total) are all outside, some of the industry's biggest, all with full-size bathrooms and private step-out balconies, and providing modern hotel amenities.

All staterooms are balconied. The smallest are the Studios (single-occupancy cabins for solo travelers) sized 250 ft2 (23 m2). Double stateroom sizes range between 275-315-350-370 ft2 (26-29-33-34 m2), balcony size included.

American Encore has three suite categories - Sky Suite (470 ft2 / 44 m2), Grand Suite (650 ft2 / 60 m2) and the largest accommodation is the bow-facing Signature Suite with Wraparound Terrace (1010 ft2 / 94 m2).

All suites are on Deck 4 (with top-deck locations).

The boat has 5 passenger-accessible decks , of which 3 are with cabins.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

MS American Encore's interior features a 4-story Vestibule (glass-walled Atrium), spacious indoor and outdoor lounges, large open-deck spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the vessel. The 4-deck Atrium has floor-ceiling windows (portside and starboard) and two SkyLights (transparent glass-roof covers) allowing natural light into the interior.

Two Sun Deck is fitted with sunbathing and shaded seating areas, but lacks the deck-games area (with Putting Green and Shuffleboard).

aaaThe ship has 6 lounges (3 with outdoor terraces), Grand Dining Room (complimentary, glass-enclosed restaurant), Chart Room & Library, fore-located Main Lounge (with a central stage for live shows and musical productions, and with a glass-roof cover), aft-located Sky Lounge (with glass-roof cover and access to an alfresco dining terrace/Ellipse Cafe), Fitness Room (indoor Gym), Yog Studio (for group classes and private lessons).

The Sun Deck (top-deck) is furnished with plenty of outdoor furniture - padded sun loungers, padded wicker sofas and deckchairs, 2-seat and 4-seat tables, live plants. The Sundeck has all 3x large-sized shaded seating areas (covered by 9x retractable canopies) and 2x SkyLights (glass roof covers) over the Sky Lounge (aft) and the Atrium/Vestibule (midship-portside).

The list of the ACL Encore ship's main public venues includes:

• (Deck 1) Boarding Ramp/bow, Vestibule/lobby level, Ship's Office, River Lounge, Dining Room Restaurant, Galley/Kitchen & Storage Rooms
• (Deck 2) Bow Terrace/observation area with seating, Horizon Lounge/forward, Lyric Lounge/midship-starboard, wellness facilities/aft (Fitness Center/indoor Gym, Guest Laundry Room)
• (Deck 3) The Study & Library/midship-starboard, Pilothouse/Wheelhouse
• (Deck 4) High Note Lounge/midship-starboard, Sky Lounge (indoor, aft), Ellipse Cafe (aft, outdoor terrace serving as an alfresco dining venue)
• (Deck 5) Sun Deck with plenty of outdoor seating (premium patio furniture) and a Sky Walk (wraparound 2-lane Walking/Jogging Track)

The Gym is fitted with modern exercise equipment, including treadmills, elliptical machines, resistance training equipment, free weights.

The Guest Laundry is a self-service facility equipped with washers and dryers (detergent is provided).

Lyric Lounge is a small room perfect for relaxation and reading, also used for playing cards and popular board games.

The Horizon Lounge has direct access to the Bow Terrace.

Two Lifts (passenger elevators in the Atrium) connect all decks.

Deck 1's fore-located River Lounge is the main lounge with floor-ceiling windows. It also serves as the boat's show lounge with a central stage, grand piano, ample comfortable seating (comfy armchairs and plush sofas). Here are served warm cookies starting at 10 am. The complimentary Afternoon Tea service (with fresh pastries) is at 3:30 pm. The free-drinks cocktail hour is at 5:30 pm. Root beer and ice cream are passed around during the evening show. The evening entertainment includes one show (beginning at 8:15 pm) lasting about 1 hour. The show program could be a live concert, solo performances, music tribute, themed music, movie trivia. The large space for the evening shows is in the room's center. Furniture is daily rearranged (sometimes 2 or 3 times a day) to suit the themed entertainment. This is also the place for the American Cruise Lines' enrichment program, consisting of differently-themed lectures (history, food and wine, literature, etc). Also hosted here are media presentations and the current ACL cruise itinerary and tours-related multimedia presentations and port talks.

Deck 4's aft-located Sky Lounge is an indoor venue with premium furniture, floor-ceiling and wall-to-wall windows (allowing 270-degree views), glass-roof cover (SkyLight) and direct access to an open-air Terrace (Ellipse Cafe). Throughout the day, there are served beverages, snacks, freshly-baked cookies, pastries, beverages. Sky Lounge's opening glass doors allow it to expand by including the furnished Terrace/Ellipse Cafe. Throughout the day, the Cafe's Bar serves complimentary water, soda, light snacks. Complimentary Afternoon Tea service is available between 3:30-4:30 pm. In the evening, there is a cocktail hour with free drinks.

Sky Lounge's Ellipse Cafe's staff serves the entire Sun Deck (relaxation and sunbathing top-deck area) with drinks and snacks.

Itineraries

American Encore itinerary program starts with the Maiden Voyage departing from Portland Oregon on May 5, 2026. Early booking prices varied between USD 6600-11300 per stateroom.

The 8-night/9-day "Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise" itinerary (between Portland OR and Clarkston WA ) visits Astoria OR (DAY3), Kalama WA (DAY4), The Dalles OR (DAY5), Columbia River Gorge (DAY6/cruising), Richland WA/Pendleton OR (DAY7), and Clarkston WA (DAYs 8-9/overnight).

For the ACL Encore ship's inaugural season was also scheduled the "National Parks & Legendary Rivers" cruisetour itinerary (15-night/16-day from Portland OR to Jackson WY) visiting Astoria OR (DAY3), Kalama WA (DAY4), The Dalles OR (DAY5), Columbia River Gorge (DAY6/cruising), Richland WA (DAY7), and Clarkston WA (DAY 8/debarkation). From Clarkston starts the voyage's land portion - DAY9 (Coeur d'Alene Lake cruise, Kalispell overnight hotel stay), DAY10 (Glacier National Park), DAY11 (Yellowstone National Park, Butte MT, Ennis MT), DAY12 (Yellowstone National Park/Yellowstone's Grand Loop, Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Fall), DAY13 (Yellowstone National Park/Yellowstone Lake, Grant Village Dining Room, Yellowstone Playhouse, Meadow Vue Ranch), DAY14 (Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park/Jackson Lake Lodge), DAY15 (Grand Teton National Park/Craig Thomas Discovery Center, Jenny Lake Visitor Center, Jackson Hole's National Museum of Wildlife Art), and DAY16 (Jackson WY/transfer to Jackson Hole Airport

ACL cruise deals are inclusive of a pre-cruise hotel package, all shore excursions (organized daily), cocktail hour (each evening), cruise accommodation, gourmet meals, Afternoon Tea service, room service (Breakfast only), onboard enrichment and entertainment programs, Wi-Fi (shipwide coverage).

Other American Cruise Lines cruise ships

• ACL American Constellation
• ACL American Constitution
• ACL American Eagle
• ACL American Glory
• ACL American Harmony
• ACL American Jazz
• ACL American Legend
• ACL American Liberty
• ACL American Melody
• ACL American Patriot
• ACL American Pioneer
• ACL American Serenade
• ACL American Song
• ACL American Symphony
• American Empress
• American Heritage
• American Independence
• American Pride
• American Spirit
• American Splendor
• American Star
• American West

ACL American Encore Wiki

The improved ship design of the Modern Riverboat series allows "bow landings" via a retractable and rotating gangway (passenger bridge) that extends from Main Deck (deck 1) to the dock or directly onto the river bank. This feature is available on all traditional-design US paddlewheel riverboats and provides expanded options for river cruise itineraries unmatched by most newbuild river cruise ships .

The ship has a modern propulsion system consisting of 2x azimuth thrusters ("Z-drives") manufactured by Veth (Holland). These 360-degree rotating propellers (1x forward, 1x aft) provide the boat with greater maneuverability and berthing flexibility.

The ship is powered by 2x Caterpillar marine engines running on low-sulfur diesel. These modern engines require less fuel and produce fewer emissions (COx, NOx, SOx) and soot particles in comparison to other boats on the US river cruising market.

American Cruise Line's "Modern Riverboats" are all constructed at Chesapeake Shipbuilding (shipyard in Salisbury MA). During the launch ceremonies, the vessel's hull (yard number 144) is floated out from drydock into Wicomico River, then positioned in the shipyard's East Outfitting Basin to receive the superstructure (upper decks) and final outfitting.

The ship's name (American Encore) was officially announced by ACL on September 3, 2024.

ACL boat's namesakes are Norwegian Encore (2019) and Seabourn Encore (2016).