Newport Beach’s harbor dining scene combines two California essentials: great food and beautiful water views. These boat-based meals range from casual brunch buffets to upscale dinner cruises, all while gliding through one of Southern California’s most scenic harbors.
The best experiences pair fresh seafood with sunset views – favorite picks include the holiday dinner cruises (especially for Thanksgiving and Christmas) which offer generous buffets and live music. For special occasions, the intimate evening tours with chef-prepared meals are worth the splurge.
Check out these top-rated Newport Beach dining cruises that consistently earn rave reviews:
Key Points
- Experience panoramic harbor views and chef-inspired buffets on the Newport Beach Mother’s Day Cruise, starting at $161.58 per person.
- Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner cruise in Marina Del Rey, with a gourmet menu and scenic views, starting at $139.30 for up to 6 people.
- Celebrate Thanksgiving on the water with a traditional buffet and live entertainment on the Newport Beach Thanksgiving Buffet Cruise, starting from Kč 2,575 per person.
- Indulge in a festive Christmas Day cruise in Newport Beach, featuring a buffet, unlimited mimosas, and scenic harbor views, starting from $121.19 per person.
- Experience a Christmas Eve cruise in Newport Beach with a chef-prepared buffet, unlimited mimosas, and live music, starting from $107.72 per person.
Newport Beach: Mothers Day Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise
The Newport Beach Mother’s Day Cruise offers a delightful way to celebrate the holiday. This 2 to 2.5-hour cruise along the scenic Newport Beach harbor features a chef-inspired brunch or dinner buffet, along with free-flowing champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider during the brunch option.
Guests can also enjoy onboard live entertainment as they take in the stunning views of the Newport Beach skyline.
The brunch buffet includes a variety of breakfast classics like scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, and French toast, as well as salads, main dishes like birria-style chicken and oven-roasted salmon, and a signature dessert station.
The dinner buffet offers a more extensive selection, including salads, sides, and main dishes like oven-roasted salmon, baked orecchiette pasta, and hand-carved tri-tip steak.
Both options provide unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
With a non-refundable cancellation policy and prices starting at $161.58 per person, the Newport Beach Mother’s Day Cruise promises an unforgettable dining experience on the water.
Read our full review: Newport Beach: Mothers Day Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Marina Del Rey: Luxury,Romantic Surprise Dinner Boat Cruise
Aboard the luxurious Marina Del Rey dinner cruise, guests embark on a romantic, candlelit journey along the serene waterways. This 1-hour private cruise offers an intimate, personalized experience, perfect for special occasions or simply to enjoy the stunning coastal views.
Pricing starts at $139.30 per group of up to 6 people, making it an affordable way to indulge in a night of luxury. The cruise’s delectable menu features a variety of delicious options, from gourmet appetizers to main courses and desserts, all served with impeccable service.
As the boat glides across the tranquil waters, guests can soak in the breathtaking sights of the marina and surrounding landmarks. Whether celebrating a milestone or seeking a unique dining experience, the Marina Del Rey dinner cruise provides an unforgettable opportunity to create cherished memories.
Read our full review: Marina Del Rey: Luxury,Romantic Surprise Dinner Boat Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Newport Beach: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Newport Beach offers a range of festive dining experiences for Thanksgiving, including a bountiful buffet brunch or a scenic dinner cruise along the harbor.
The Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise is a new activity in Newport Beach, lasting 2 to 2.5 hours. Prices start from Kč 2,575 per person, making it an affordable option for families and groups.
The cruise features a sumptuous Thanksgiving spread, including traditional dishes like roasted turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes, as well as a variety of sides and desserts.
Guests can enjoy the meal while taking in the picturesque views of the harbor and the surrounding coastal scenery. The dinner cruise also includes live entertainment, ensuring a festive and memorable experience.
Whether you opt for the brunch or dinner cruise, the Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise in Newport Beach provides a unique and convenient way to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones, all while enjoying the beauty of the local waterways.
Read our full review: Newport Beach: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Set out on a festive Christmas Day adventure with the Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise. Priced from $121.19 per person, this 2-2.5 hour harbor cruise offers a delightful dining experience with a buffet of breakfast staples, salads, entrees, and desserts.
Brunch-goers can indulge in unlimited mimosas, while dinner cruisers enjoy a selection of seasonal dishes like three-cheese baked macaroni, oven-roasted salmon, and hand-carved turkey.
The intimate, climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks provide a scenic backdrop of Newport Beach, all while being entertained by live music.
This wheelchair-accessible experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as gratuities.
With an overall rating of 5/5 from past travelers, the Newport Beach Christmas Day Cruise promises a merry and memorable outing.
Read our full review: Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Newport Beach: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Guests can enjoy a festive Christmas Eve celebration with the Newport Beach: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise. Priced from $107.72 per person, this 2-2.5 hour harbor cruise offers a chef-prepared buffet and unlimited mimosas during brunch.
The experience also features live music entertainment and scenic views of Southern California.
The brunch menu includes an array of options, from early risers’ favorites like scrambled eggs and breakfast meats to late risers’ choices such as Caesar salad and oven-roasted salmon.
The dinner menu offers a selection of salads, main dishes like three-cheese baked macaroni and hand-carved turkey, and desserts like apple crisp.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible and includes complimentary coffee, tea, and water. For brunch, guests can indulge in free-flowing champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider.
Gratuities are also included in the price. Guests should bring a valid ID or passport and check availability for desired start times.
Read our full review: Newport Beach: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Newport Beach’s harbor cruises offer a unique and memorable dining experience for special occasions like Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. With stunning views, luxurious settings, and delectable cuisine, these cruises provide an unforgettable way to celebrate with family and friends. Whether it’s a brunch or dinner cruise, these dining experiences in Newport Beach are sure to impress and create lasting memories.