San Francisco: City Cruises Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise

A cruise in San Francisco offers a fantastic way to see the city’s most famous sights while indulging in a delicious buffet meal. Priced at $108 per person and lasting 2 to 2.5 hours, the San Francisco: City Cruises Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise from City Cruises California combines scenic views, good food, and relaxing onboard atmosphere. This tour is ideal for those who want a leisurely experience on the water, with options for an afternoon lunch cruise or a nighttime dinner cruise.

While the experience includes unlimited coffee, tea, and soft drinks, alcohol is available for purchase. The cruise departs from Pier 3 on the Embarcadero, a convenient location within walking distance from the Embarcadero BART Station. Guests should be prepared for an upscale casual to business casual dress code and note that menus may vary but tend to feature a variety of fresh salads, entrees, and desserts.

This cruise is well-suited for families, friends, and couples seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with good food and drinks. However, some reviews highlight the importance of punctuality and choosing your reservation carefully, especially if you want to sit together or avoid last-minute schedule changes.

Key Points

• Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours, with afternoon and evening options
• Price: $108 per person, includes buffet and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks
• Location: Meets at Pier 3 on the Embarcadero, San Francisco
• Highlights: Views of Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and city skyline
• Food: Buffet with salads, entrees, desserts, and international favorites
• Alcohol: Available for purchase onboard
• Punctuality: Essential to avoid missing the cruise or schedule changes
• Reservations: One group reservation recommended to ensure seating together

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Scenic Views of San Francisco from the Bay

The cruise offers outstanding views of the San Francisco skyline, with a chance to see Alcatraz up close as you glide around the bay. Passengers get a spectacular perspective of the Golden Gate Bridge, especially as the boat passes underneath it, which is a highlight of the voyage.

As you cruise past Angel Island and the Palace of Fine Arts, the scenery is both impressive and photo-worthy. The open water and unobstructed views make this trip a peaceful escape from busy city streets, providing a different angle on San Francisco’s most recognizable landmarks.

The Buffet: Fresh, Varied, and Generous

The buffet meals are a core part of the experience, designed to satisfy a variety of tastes. The lunch menu features salads, such as Caesar and a summer berry and farro salad, along with pasta salads and main courses like honey sesame chicken, oven-roasted flounder, baked ziti, and a root vegetable fricassee. Some menu items are available upon request, catering to dietary needs.

For dinner, guests enjoy comfort foods such as baked potato bar, mac & cheese, BBQ pulled pork sliders, and three bean chili, complemented by international favorites like fried plantains and vegetable sauté.

Desserts are a highlight, with signature dessert stations offering cakes, brownies, and seasonal fruit. The buffet setup provides small plates from three food stations, allowing guests to sample a variety of dishes at their leisure.

Drinks and Beverages: Unlimited Non-Alcoholic Refreshments

One of the appealing aspects of this cruise is the unlimited coffee, tea, and soft drinks, included in the ticket price. These beverages help guests relax and enjoy the cruise comfortably. For those interested in wines, beers, or cocktails, these are available for purchase on board, adding to the leisurely vibe of the evening or daytime trip.

The Experience: Music, Atmosphere, and Seating

On the dinner cruise, the experience is elevated by music and dancing, creating a lively atmosphere after sunset. The upscale casual to business casual dress code complements the relaxed but refined setting. Since seating arrangements are subject to reservation practices, making a single reservation for the entire group can help ensure everyone sits together.

Guests board at the South Gate near the white overhang, making for an easy walk from nearby parking and transportation options. The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the chance to reserve now and pay later, which adds flexibility to the booking process.

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Practical Tips for Booking and Attending

It’s worth noting that children under 3 can attend for free when a ticket is purchased for an adult, but must be registered as such during booking. Parking at Pier 3 is limited, so arriving early or considering nearby public lots can prevent last-minute hassles.

Some reviews mention the importance of timely arrival, especially since the schedule can change unexpectedly. One review describes a schedule change with little notice, emphasizing the need to arrive on time and stay updated on any communication from the cruise operator.

The Strengths and Limitations of the Tour

This cruise excels in offering unbeatable views of San Francisco’s iconic sights combined with a generous buffet and unlimited drinks, making it a popular choice for special celebrations or leisurely outings. The scenic route, passing underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz, is truly memorable.

However, some reviews highlight potential schedule changes and limited parking as challenges. The menus may vary, so expectations should be flexible regarding food options. The duration of 2 to 2.5 hours is ideal for a relaxed experience but might feel brief for those seeking a longer tour.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise the Most?

This cruise is best suited for families, friends, and couples looking for a relaxed, scenic outing with good food and drinks. It’s perfect for special occasions or simply enjoying a day or evening on the water. Those interested in photography will find the views compelling, and food lovers will appreciate the buffet spread.

Final Thoughts: A Worthwhile Bay Experience with Caveats

The San Francisco: City Cruises Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise offers a balanced mix of scenery, cuisine, and relaxation. The views of the Golden Gate and Alcatraz are hard to beat, and the buffet provides a satisfying meal with unlimited non-alcoholic drinks included.

While schedule changes and parking limitations can be drawbacks, making a single reservation and arriving early can help ensure a smooth experience. This tour delivers a memorable outing for those wanting to enjoy San Francisco from the water without the hassle of planning their own boat trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts 2 to 2.5 hours, with options available in the afternoon and evening.

How much does the tour cost?
The ticket price is $108 per person, which includes the buffet and unlimited coffee, tea, and soft drinks.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The departure point is Pier 3 on the Embarcadero, near Washington Street, with boarding at the South Gate.

Can I bring children?
Children under 3 can attend for free when booked with an adult ticket, but must be selected during the reservation process.

Are drinks included?
Non-alcoholic drinks are unlimited and included. Alcoholic beverages such as wine and beer are available for purchase onboard.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, upscale casual to business casual attire is recommended for comfort and appropriateness.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, the cruise offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is parking available near Pier 3?
Yes, paid public parking is available at Pier 3, though space is limited on weekdays, so arriving early is advised.

What should I know about the menu?
The menu may vary, but generally features salads, entrees, desserts, and international favorites, with some items available upon request.

Who is the provider of this cruise?
The experience is run by City Cruises California.

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