Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is celebrating after cruising to victory at the prestigious British Travel Awards 2025.
The River Bus service was named Best Domestic Ferry Operator of the Year during a glitzy awards evening in London featuring some of the travel industry’s biggest names.
Judges were impressed with the operation, which connects 24 piers located in key areas across London including The O2, Greenwich, Canary Wharf and Westminster, as well as residential areas such as Battersea Power Station and Barking Riverside.
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ commitment to sustainability was also recognised by the judging panel. The River Bus operator has a modern fleet of 21 vessels including three hybrid high-speed ferries: Earth Clipper (launched in September 2023), Celestial Clipper (March 2024), and Mars Clipper (August 2024). Operating on battery power in Central London, the hybrid vessels recharge while continuing their journey outside of this zone.
Since its inception in 1999, the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers has led the way in river transport innovation, focusing on sustainable development and economic growth along the River Thames.
Commenting on the award, Sean Collins, CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as Best Domestic Ferry Operator at the 2025 British Travel Awards. This achievement reflects the dedication of our entire team, who work tirelessly to deliver a reliable, comfortable and uniquely enjoyable way to travel across London.
“Every day we welcome commuters, visitors and families on board, and this award is a testament to the trust they place in us. We remain committed to investing in our fleet, enhancing the passenger experience, and continuing to champion the River Thames as one of the capital’s most sustainable and inspiring transport routes.”
This award follows the recent launch of Orbit Clipper, the UK’s first fully electric cross-river ferry, which completed its inaugural passenger trip across the River Thames on 5 December – marking a new era for sustainable transport in London.
Several high-profile figures attended a ceremony to celebrate the launch of the unique vessel, including the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. He was joined by ministers, partners and stakeholders who gathered to commemorate Orbit Clipper’s first passenger outing.
The service operates between Rotherhithe on the south of the river and Canary Wharf on the northern side with zero tailpipe emissions, providing an accessible, fast and green service for thousands of Londoners and visitors a day.
Orbit Clipper will operate in tandem with the current cross-river vessel, Twinstar, to ensure service continuity. The vessel will be progressively phased into operation, with full operation and exclusivity of the route targeted for Spring 2026. Once fully operational, the 150-passenger boat, with capacity for 100 bicycles, will cross the river every 10 minutes from each side on weekdays and every 15 minutes on weekends.
