City Cruises Philadelphia: Signature Buffet Lunch Cruise

A 2-hour Signature Buffet Lunch Cruise with City Cruises offers an engaging way to see Philadelphia from the Delaware River. For $86.80 per person, this cruise departs from Penn’s Landing and provides a scenic journey filled with fabulous city views, live narration, and a gourmet buffet. The tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed yet scenic experience, especially since it includes bottomless non-alcoholic drinks and DJ entertainment.

While the average booking time is 19 days in advance, it’s wise to plan ahead due to the limited group size of just 15 travelers. The 2-hour cruise is perfect for a leisurely midday activity, offering a chance to indulge in delicious food and photo opportunities. A noteworthy point is that alcoholic beverages are not included but are available for purchase. This tour suits those seeking a casual, scenic, and culinary escape without the need for heavy walking or extensive planning.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $86.80 per person for approximately 2 hours of sightseeing and dining.
• Departure Point: Begins at 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, Penn’s Landing.
• All-Inclusive Buffet: Features gourmet entrees, salads, desserts, and bottomless non-alcoholic drinks.
• Scenic Views: Offers a unique perspective of Philadelphia’s skyline, with photo ops of landmarks like the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.
• Live Narration: Guides explain the city’s key landmarks during the cruise.
• Entertainment: DJ music enhances the relaxing or festive atmosphere onboard.
• Booking and Accessibility: Most travelers can participate; boarding begins 30 minutes early, and service animals are allowed.

Philadelphia from the Water: A New Perspective

This lunch cruise departs from Penn’s Landing and explores the Delaware River, providing an uncommon view of Philadelphia’s skyline. As the Spirit of Philadelphia glides along the water, passengers enjoy fabulous city vistas, especially of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, which is highlighted during the live narration. The relaxed pace ensures you can focus on the sights without feeling rushed, making it an excellent midday activity.

The deck offers a private outdoor table with breathtaking views, though a few reviews mention that indoor tables are the main option, with outdoor seating being limited. Regardless, the large windows offer clear sightlines for photography and sightseeing, especially on clear days.

Gourmet Buffet: A Highlight of the Cruise

The buffet lunch is a key feature, with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. Guests can help themselves to a wide-ranging selection, including vegetarian options if arranged in advance. The unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water ensure that everyone stays refreshed throughout the cruise.

Many reviews praise the quality and variety of the food, noting it surpasses typical buffet standards. A few mention that some food items may arrive cold or run out quickly, so arriving early is advisable. The service is generally attentive, with friendly staff managing the buffet and drinks.

Viewing Philadelphia’s Landmarks from the Delaware River

The narration during the cruise provides insights into the city’s landmarks, making the experience both scenic and informative. You’ll see notable sights like the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and get fabulous photo ops of the Philadelphia skyline. While some reviews mention a desire for more historical commentary, most appreciate the visual experience and relaxing ambiance.

The cruise runs rain or shine, with the option to stay docked if weather conditions deteriorate. This flexibility ensures the experience remains enjoyable, regardless of the weather.

Entertainment and Atmosphere Onboard

A DJ plays background music, contributing to a festive and relaxed environment. Many reviewers highlight the friendly staff and clean facilities, including restrooms onboard. The music volume can sometimes be loud, which may affect conversations, but adds to the lively atmosphere.

The casual attire is encouraged, with comfortable clothing suitable for a laid-back daytime cruise. Seating is assigned based on the number of tickets purchased, with early boarding recommended to secure preferred tables.

Practical Details and Logistics

The meeting point at 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd is easily accessible, with parking options nearby. The Lombard Circle Parking Lot is recommended, but fees may apply. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure at 12:00 pm, so arriving promptly helps avoid missing the boat.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children (who enjoy a discounted rate) and individuals with special needs, as service animals are permitted and accessibility is provided. Weather is a factor, with rain or severe conditions potentially leading to a dockside dining experience instead of sailing.

Strengths and Limitations of the Tour

One of the biggest draws is the combination of sightseeing and dining onboard the Spirit of Philadelphia. The views and food quality are consistently praised, as is the friendly service. The live narration enhances the experience for those interested in learning about the city as they cruise.

However, some reviews point out that the narration may be lacking or that the scenery outside the city may not always meet expectations, especially if weather is poor or visibility is limited. Plus, some guests find the loud music disruptive, and the indoor tables are sometimes the only option.

Ideal Audience for the Signature Buffet Lunch Cruise

This tour suits those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and culinary experience of Philadelphia from the water. It’s perfect for families, couples, birthday celebrations, or group outings. The gourmet buffet and entertainment cater to a casual but comfortable atmosphere, making it a good option for anyone looking to enjoy Philadelphia’s skyline in a leisurely way.

The limited group size ensures personalized service, and the two-hour duration makes it a manageable and enjoyable addition to a day of sightseeing. While it’s not designed as a historical tour or nightlife experience, it offers a peaceful, scenic escape with delicious food and great views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the cruise depart from?
The Spirit of Philadelphia departs from 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd at Penn’s Landing.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, local parking is available at the Lombard Circle Parking Lot on Columbus Boulevard, though fees may apply.

Are there vegetarian options on the buffet?
Yes, vegetarian selections are available with notice, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated if specified during booking.

How early should I arrive?
Boarding begins 30 minutes before the 12:00 pm departure, so arriving early helps secure preferred seating and avoid missing the boat.

Are children accommodated?
Yes, children ages 3-11 enjoy a discounted rate, and infants under 3 can go free as lap children.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise sails rain or shine, but if the weather is severe, the boat may remain docked, and dining service continues onboard.

The City Cruises Philadelphia Signature Buffet Lunch Cruise offers a delightful midday escape with spectacular city views, good food, and friendly service. It’s an enjoyable way to see Philadelphia from a different angle, especially if you appreciate relaxed atmospheres and scenic dining.