River Transport Booms as London Sizzles in Heat Wave

London river boat service MBNA Thames Clippers has seen summer business surge as commuters and tourists opt for a cool and comfortable journey about town

This year’s sky-high temperatures have seen travellers take to the Thames in increasing numbers, with passenger carryings up 10 per cent compared to last summer.

The uplift in business has been particularly striking on the main commuter route (RB6) which runs from Putney in the west to Canary Wharf in the east. During the last two weeks – when temperatures in London have been at there highest – traffic has risen an incredible 33 per cent.

Since opening in November last year, passenger numbers from the new Battersea Power Station Pier, served by the RB6 route, have increased every month as residents and visitors make the most of the 15-minute journey times in to Central London.

Sean Collins, CEO MBNA Thames Clippers commented: “Our services have established themselves as a vital part of the capital’s transport mix and it is great to see that Londoners and visitors to the city realise that we offer a relaxed and stress free option for them.

“Oyster Card usage on the main RB6 route has risen significantly, which demonstrates to us that commuters are switching from other modes of public transport to the river as the temperatures rocket. Being able to travel on the water with a breeze in your hair or in our climate controlled cabin, a cool drink in hand from our on board bars, is certainly the way to go.”

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