These Los Angeles buffet cruises offer a fresh twist on traditional all-you-can-eat dining. The Newport Harbor champagne brunch cruise stands out for its combination of good food and harbor views. What I love about these floating feasts is how they pair local seafood with live entertainment – it’s like dinner theater on the water.
Holiday-themed cruises from Marina Del Rey are especially memorable, serving classic American favorites like prime rib and roasted turkey against the backdrop of decorated yachts and twinkling harbor lights.
For practical travelers, the Mariners Mile Marina departure point is easy to find and well-organized. Most cruises run 2-3 hours – just enough time to enjoy the food and scenery without getting antsy.
Let’s explore my recommended buffet cruise options…
Key Points
- The Marina Del Rey Christmas Day Cruise offers a 2-2.5 hour cruise with a chef-prepared buffet and unlimited mimosas during brunch for Kč 2,595 per person.
- The Thanksgiving Cruise in Newport Beach provides a 1-hour brunch and 2-hour dinner options with traditional Thanksgiving fare, priced at $199 per person.
- The Christmas Eve Buffet Experience in Newport Beach is a 2 to 2.5-hour harbor cruise with a brunch and dinner buffet, priced from $108.65 per person.
- The Newport Beach Cruise features a 2-hour yacht cruise with a chef-prepared brunch buffet and unlimited champagne, with a 4.7 out of 5 star rating.
- These buffet experiences offer scenic backdrops, live entertainment, and accessibility options, making them well-suited for special occasion celebrations in the Los Angeles area.
Newport Beach: Champagne and Brunch Buffet Cruise
The Newport Beach: Champagne and Brunch Buffet Cruise offers a delightful escape from the bustling city. This 2-hour yacht cruise along Newport Harbor provides a relaxing experience with breathtaking harbor views.
Theres some good a chef-prepared brunch buffet, featuring an array of breakfast and lunch items, from early riser fare to late riser specialties. Unlimited champagne and sparkling cider enhance the experience, while live entertainment sets the mood.
The cruise departs from the Mariners Mile Marina, just off the coast of Newport Beach. Parking is available on-site for $10 per car, though alternate public parking options are also nearby.
Guests are advised to dress in upscale casual to business casual attire and bring sunglasses for the journey. With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, the Newport Beach cruise is a popular choice, though some customers have noted delays in food service.
Read our full review: Newport Beach: Champagne and Brunch Buffet Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Marina Del Rey: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
For those seeking a festive holiday experience on the water, the Marina Del Rey: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a unique and indulgent opportunity. Priced from Kč 2,595 per person, this 2-2.5 hour cruise features a chef-prepared buffet, unlimited mimosas during brunch, and live music entertainment against the scenic backdrop of Southern California’s beaches.
The brunch menu includes breakfast pastries, smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, and French toast, along with a kids’ station and a dessert spread.
The dinner option features salads, three-cheese baked macaroni, oven-roasted salmon, and hand-carved turkey. All meals are served with complements like garlic mashed potatoes and traditional stuffing.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, holiday decor, and gratuities.
Note that the kitchen may have cross-contamination risks for gluten-free items. Guests should bring a valid ID and check availability for start times.
Read our full review: Marina Del Rey: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
On Thanksgiving Day in Marina Del Rey, visitors can indulge in a bountiful buffet brunch or dinner cruise.
The 1-hour brunch cruise offers sweeping views of the harbor and marina, complete with a decadent spread of traditional Thanksgiving fare. Guests can savor roasted turkey with all the trimmings, accompanied by delectable side dishes and a selection of desserts.
Alternatively, the 2-hour dinner cruise provides a more formal setting, featuring a multi-course menu highlighted by succulent prime rib and seasonal vegetables.
Both experiences are priced at $199 per person, with discounted rates of $139.30 per group of up to 6 people.
Whether opting for the leisurely brunch or the elegant dinner, this Thanksgiving cruise in Marina Del Rey promises an unforgettable holiday celebration set against the picturesque backdrop of the California coastline.
Read our full review: Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Marina Del Rey: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Visitors to Marina Del Rey can indulge in a bountiful Christmas Eve buffet aboard a 2 to 2.5-hour harbor cruise. Priced from $108.65 per person, the experience features festive décor, live music, and a delicious holiday-inspired menu.
Guests can choose between a brunch or dinner buffet, both offering an array of options, from smoked salmon and scrambled eggs to hand-carved tri-tip steak and oven-roasted turkey.
The brunch buffet includes unlimited mimosas, while the dinner buffet features a selection of salads, vegetables, and desserts.
The cruise offers scenic views of the Marina del Rey, including Burton Chace Park and local sea life, all from the comfort of a climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks.
With a non-refundable cancellation policy, it’s a festive way to celebrate the holiday season.
Based on 3 reviews, the overall rating for this experience is 4 out of 5, with positive feedback on the music, food, service, and social interactions.
Read our full review: Marina Del Rey: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the Cruises Offer Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options?
Many cruise lines offer vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate various dietary needs. Passengers should check with the cruise line prior to sailing to ensure their preferences can be catered to during the buffet and other dining experiences.
Are There Discounts for Seniors or Children?
Many buffets offer discounted rates for seniors and children. Guests should inquire about these discounts when making reservations or upon arrival. Some buffets may also provide special menus or accommodations for those with dietary restrictions.
How Early Should I Arrive to Ensure Seating?
To ensure seating at a busy buffet, it’s best to arrive 30-45 minutes before opening. This’ll give you time to be seated and start your meal before the crowds arrive. Arriving early is the key to avoiding long waits.
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Event?
You can often purchase tickets on the day of a buffet event, but it’s best to check the venue’s policies. Arriving early is recommended to ensure seating, as buffets can get crowded, especially during peak mealtimes.
What Is the Dress Code for the Cruises?
The dress code for the cruises is typically casual, though some may have semi-formal or formal evenings. Passengers should check the specific dress requirements for their cruise, as they can vary. Most allow guests to dress comfortably and enjoy the experience.
The Sum Up
Los Angeles offers a variety of exceptional buffet experiences, from the elegant Champagne and Brunch Buffet Cruise in Newport Beach to the festive Thanksgiving and Christmas Day Buffet Cruises in Marina Del Rey. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely Sunday brunch or a holiday feast, these buffets provide an unparalleled dining experience with stunning views and exceptional service.