DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise

Craving a unique way to see Washington DC’s iconic monuments? The DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise offers a luxurious experience aboard The Odyssey. Priced at $71 per person and lasting 2 to 3 hours, this cruise combines spectacular views, delicious meals, and a relaxing atmosphere. Whether you choose a plated brunch with unlimited mimosas or a gourmet 3-course dinner, this tour is ideal for those looking to combine sightseeing with fine dining in a comfortable, elegant setting.

While the experience is generally praised for its stunning vistas and friendly service, some reviews note service delays and food temperature issues. Still, for families, couples, or groups seeking a memorable city experience, this cruise offers a wonderful way to enjoy Washington DC’s shoreline from the water.

Key Points

• Luxury cruise aboard The Odyssey with gourmet meals and curated background music
• Enjoy 360° views of DC’s monuments and landmarks from multiple decks
• Brunch with unlimited mimosas or a 3-course dinner prepared by an onboard executive chef
• Boarding begins one hour before departure; smart-casual attire recommended
• Reviews highlight delicious food, friendly staff, and beautiful scenery
• Some service delays and food temperature issues are noted but do not overshadow the overall experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Odyssey: A Stylish Vessel with Prime Views

The Odyssey sets the scene for a luxurious river cruise in Washington DC. This modern, elegant boat features climate-controlled decks and observation decks that provide unobstructed 360° views. The design ensures guests can comfortably enjoy the sights regardless of weather, and the curated background music enhances the relaxing atmosphere.

The vessel’s interior is praised for its beautiful decor and ample space, making it suitable for both romantic dinners and larger groups. Multiple decks allow passengers to move around comfortably and find the best vantage points to admire the cityscape.

Dining Options: From Brunch to Gourmet Dinner

Guests select between a brunch option with unlimited mimosas, or a 3-course gourmet dinner featuring fresh, locally prepared dishes. The brunch menu includes breakfast pastries, Scottish smoked salmon, and scrambled eggs, with additional options like French toast and breakfast meats. For dessert, guests can enjoy individual sweets and seasonal fruit.

The dinner menu offers starter choices like Caesar salad or lobster soup, followed by main courses such as oven-roasted chicken, broiled salmon, braised beef short rib, or Pacific cod. Dessert options include New York-style cheesecake, triple chocolate mud pie, or warm butter cake. Meals are prepared fresh daily by the onboard executive chef.

While some reviews mention food being served at a slightly lower temperature, the variety and presentation are generally well-received. Guests also enjoy unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea during their cruise, adding to the relaxed dining experience.

Unparalleled Views of DC’s Monuments

One of the main highlights of this cruise is the spectacular scenery. From the deck, travelers see the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and other iconic landmarks gliding past as the boat cruises along the Potomac River. The observation decks are perfect for photos and sightseeing, offering panoramic views that are difficult to match from land.

Guests consistently praise the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere that make this cruise a perfect escape from busy city streets. Some mention the cruise at night, allowing for a wonderful view of illuminated landmarks and a calm, romantic environment.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Boardings usually begin one hour prior to departure, so arriving early is vital to avoid missing the boat. The meeting point can vary based on the selected option, so checking your ticket details is recommended. Guests should dress in smart-casual attire, avoiding jeans, shorts, or athletic shoes.

You’ll want to inform staff of any food allergies before ordering, especially since menu items may change. Smoking is only permitted on outdoor observation decks, as all interior spaces are non-smoking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Service and Entertainment: Friendly Staff and Good Music

The staff on board are largely praised for being attentive and friendly, with Luther often highlighted for excellent service. Many reviews note a pleasant atmosphere created by the background music and curated playlists.

Some reviews mention service delays or slow meal service, but overall, the hospitality and professionalism of the crew are appreciated. The DJ enhances the experience with entertaining music, especially during evening cruises, making the entire trip feel lively and enjoyable.

Value for Money and Considerations

At $71 per person, the cruise offers good value considering the stunning views, quality food, and luxurious setting. However, some note that additional costs—such as purchasing alcoholic beverages—should be considered, as alcohol is available for purchase but not included in the package.

A few reviews highlight service delays and food temperature issues but do not detract significantly from the overall experience. Guests should also plan to arrive early and dress appropriately to maximize their enjoyment.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Guests are advised to bring their passport or ID for check-in. No large parking facilities are mentioned, so arriving early and planning parking options are wise. The cruise duration ranges from 2 to 3 hours, with options available during morning, afternoon, and evening.

The entire experience is designed to be relaxed and comfortable, making it suitable for families, couples, and groups seeking a special way to explore Washington DC.

Unique Features of This Tour

What sets this cruise apart is its combination of luxurious dining and spectacular river views. Guests enjoy gourmet meals prepared fresh daily, paired with unlimited drinks, including mimosas during brunch. The multiple decks and climate-controlled environments ensure comfort in various weather conditions.

The possibility of capturing keepsake photos and the curated music create a memorable ambiance that enhances the overall experience. The views of monuments from the water are particularly impressive at sunset or night, adding a special touch to the tour.

Final Thoughts on the Washington DC Dinner and Brunch Cruise

This luxury cruise experience offers a beautiful way to see some of Washington DC’s most famous landmarks. Its elegant setting, delicious food, and friendly service make it a popular choice, especially for special occasions or relaxing outings.

While some reviews point to service delays and food temperature concerns, these are minor issues compared to the overall quality of the scenery and hospitality. The price point reflects the luxurious nature of the experience, and many find it worthy of the cost.

Whether celebrating a special event, enjoying a romantic evening, or simply looking for a different perspective on DC, this cruise provides a comfortable, scenic, and tasty journey along the Potomac River.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the cruise price?
The price covers the gourmet brunch or dinner cruise on The Odyssey, with unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and mimosas (brunch only).

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts between 2 and 3 hours, with options available during morning, afternoon, and evening.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point varies depending on the option booked. Guests should check their tickets for specific details and arrive an hour early.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, smart-casual attire is recommended. Avoid jeans, shorts, tank tops, or athletic shoes.

Can I buy alcohol on board?
Yes, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Unlimited mimosas are included only in the brunch option.

What should I do if I have food allergies?
Inform your server before ordering, as menu items may change, and staff can accommodate special dietary needs.

Is there parking nearby?
The data doesn’t specify parking options, so arriving early and planning transportation is advisable.

Can children join the cruise?
While not explicitly mentioned, the kid’s station on the menu suggests children are welcome, especially during brunch.

Are there any restrictions on smoking?
Yes, smoking is only permitted on outdoor observation decks; all interior areas are non-smoking.

Is this experience suitable for large groups?
Absolutely. The ship’s space and seating arrangements support large groups, and reviews mention groups of 28 enjoying together.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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