The Thames has been described as London’s forgotten highway, but with a £10 million cash injection due from TfL, and the Mayor targeting 12 million passengers per year by 2020, river commuting is on the up.

With the City, London Bridge and Canary Wharf increasingly accessible by boat, apartments in London’s waterfront developments are an attractive alternative for commuters, with residents often enjoying easy access to the river boat piers, as well as facilities such as a gym, pool, underground parking and 24-hour concierge.

Still not convinced? Savills Waterfront team has put together seven of the best reasons for river commuting.

1. Speed

It’s faster and more frequent than you might think – Imperial Wharf in Fulham to Blackfriars, for example, takes 27 minutes, with journeys every 30 minutes during peak times. Check timetables here.

2. Refreshments

You can buy coffee (or a G&T) on board – each vessel has a shop selling drinks and snacks, including alcohol.

3. Cost

With prices starting at £4.20, single tickets aren’t cheap. However, a monthly pass gives unlimited travel for the equivalent of around £5.90 per day. A 12-month pass gives better value still, costing the equivalent of around £5.10 per day.

4. Good connections

Unlike on the Tube, you will have 3G connection, and with fold-down trays for each seat, you can get your laptop or mobile phone out and take care of those morning emails before arriving at the office.

5. Convenience

You can pay for travel via your mobile phone – with the free Thames Clipper mobile app you can book tickets, check live departure times and plan routes from your phone, so no need to queue. Tickets are also available at the piers or on board, and your Oyster card works too, though not yet contactless cards.

6. Fresh air

You can travel on deck if you choose, though be aware that it can get chilly. Not all piers are under cover.

7. Great views

You will be passing some of London’s finest landmarks. There aren’t many commutes that double up as tourist attractions.