City Cruises Philadelphia: Buffet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise

Arranging a leisurely cruise around Philadelphia’s stunning waterfront, the City Cruises Philadelphia: Buffet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise offers a relaxing way to experience the city from the water. Departing from Penn’s Landing, this 2 to 2.5-hour cruise features a chef-prepared 3-course buffet, live entertainment, and panoramic views of Philadelphia’s skyline and the Ben Franklin Bridge. Whether you choose the bottomless mimosa brunch, a lunch, or an evening dinner, this tour is designed to blend good food, lively music, and sightseeing.

With a rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 135 reviews, it is a popular choice for those seeking a versatile experience on the water. The climate-controlled dining room with a reserved private table and access to an outside rooftop lounge make this cruise comfortable regardless of weather. While most reviews highlight the delicious food, attentive staff, and picturesque views, some note that drinks can be pricey and directions to the meeting point could be clearer. This cruise best suits those looking for a relaxed, scenic outing with good eats and entertainment.

Key Points

• Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours, departing from Penn’s Landing
• Includes: Chef-curated 3-course buffet, bottomless mimosas (21+) on brunch cruise, live DJ entertainment
• Views: 360-degree cityscapes, waterfront sights, Ben Franklin Bridge, and open-air rooftop lounge
• Food: Freshly prepared salads, entrees including fish, chicken, beef, and a variety of desserts
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, reserve entire group together for seating
• Pricing: Pay later option available; full refund if canceled 24 hours before

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Starting Point at Penn’s Landing

The cruise departs from 401 South Columbus Blvd at Penn’s Landing. It is recommended to arrive early, especially since some reviews mention difficulties in locating the dock. The coordinates are 39.94682693481445, -75.14067077636719. Travelers should bring ID, wear warm clothing, and closed-toe shoes for comfort on deck.

Experience of the Chef-Prepared Buffet

The buffet menu features a variety of salads, vegetables, and pasta dishes like baked ziti and mashed potatoes. The entrees include oven-baked Atlantic flounder, honey sesame chicken, and Italian beef meatballs. For dessert, options range from seasonal fruit to raspberry mousse and red velvet brownies. Several reviews praise the quality of the food, noting it is seasonally fresh and well-prepared, with some highlighting the baked fish and meatball dishes.

The Allure of the Water and Scenic Views

Boarding the Spirit of Philadelphia, guests enjoy stunning water views of Philadelphia’s historic waterfront, the Ben Franklin Bridge, and beyond. The outside open-air rooftop lounge provides a chance to snap photos or simply enjoy the breeze while taking in the panoramic scenery. The spacious decks also host onboard games and the dancing floor, creating a lively, relaxed atmosphere.

Drinks and Bar Offerings

A fully stocked bar is available for purchase, offering seasonal cocktails, wine, and beer. The bottomless mimosa option is available exclusively on the brunch cruise for guests aged 21 and over. Several reviews mention that drinks tend to be overpriced, with expensive alcohol and excessive ice. Some wish that water or soda could be included in the price.

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Live Entertainment and Atmosphere

A DJ provides music throughout the cruise, with many reviews mentioning that the music is lively and enjoyable. The dance floor is often busy, especially during evening dinners, with guests dancing to popular hits. The sound system and entertainment contribute to a festive and upbeat environment.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs. To ensure group seating together, it’s advised to make only one reservation for the entire party. For those arriving by car or public transit, arriving early is recommended to avoid confusion and locate the dock easily.

Pricing Flexibility and Cancellation

The reserve now, pay later option allows guests to book without immediate payment, offering full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes it easier to plan, especially for those uncertain about weather or schedule.

Customer Feedback and Common Praises

Most reviews emphasize delicious food, friendly staff, and great city views. Many guests enjoy the live DJ, dancing, and families appreciating the open decks. Some mention bachelorette parties and group celebrations. The scenery and dining experience are consistently highlighted as main draws.

Notable Criticisms and Considerations

A few reviews point out long wait times at the bar due to limited staff, especially during busy periods. Some note that drinks are expensive and not included in the ticket price. A few mention confusing directions to the dock, so arriving early and checking directions carefully is advised. The scenic views can be less impressive when the ship remains in the same stretch of the river, especially on repeat trips.

Who Will Appreciate This Cruise Most

This cruise appeals to those who want a relaxed, scenic experience with good food and entertainment. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups celebrating special occasions like bachelorette parties. The dining, music, and city views make it a memorable way to see Philadelphia’s waterfront without strenuous activity.

Philadelphia Waterfront Dining with a View: City Cruises Summary

This buffet cruise from Penn’s Landing combines delicious, chef-prepared meals with spectacular water views and live entertainment. The climate-controlled dining room and outdoor rooftop offer flexible spots to enjoy the scenery. While some reviews mention drinks being pricey and directions needing clarification, the overall experience remains highly rated for its food quality and friendly atmosphere.

Most guests find this cruise provides good value for a relaxing water-based tour with scenic views, making it a favorite for celebrations or casual outings. It’s a practical choice for anyone seeking a comfortable, entertaining way to experience Philadelphia from the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
There is no formal dress code, but guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, especially warm layers and closed-toe shoes.

Can I bring children on the cruise?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly, though infants are free with a free ticket option. It’s best to check if children’s menus or activities are available, but the reviews highlight family enjoyment.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, alcoholic beverages are purchased separately from the fully stocked bar. The bottomless mimosa is only available on the brunch cruise.

What should I bring with me?
Guests should bring ID or passport, warm clothing, and closed-toe shoes. It’s also wise to arrive early to find the dock and secure preferred seating.

How is the food quality?
The chef-prepared buffet receives high praise, with many reviews noting fresh ingredients and tasty entrees like baked fish and meatballs.

What if I need to cancel?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reserve now, pay later option offers additional flexibility.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

How busy does the cruise get?
During peak times, especially evening dinners or weekends, the guest capacity can lead to longer wait times at the bar, and the environment tends to be lively and bustling.

What makes this cruise different from other water tours in Philadelphia?
The combination of a chef-prepared buffet, live DJ entertainment, and panoramic city views from both indoor and outdoor locations elevates this experience beyond simple sightseeing.

This City Cruises Philadelphia tour offers a blend of scenic water views, delicious food, and mood-elevating entertainment. While drinks can be costly and navigation to the dock may require planning, the overall positive reviews and reliable service make it an appealing option for special occasions or casual outings alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby