Norfolk’s waterfront serves up excellent dining with two standout dinner cruises. The 1.5-hour Mother’s Day Signature cruise and 2.5-hour Buffet dinner cruise both showcase the Elizabeth River’s beauty while offering generous buffet spreads. I’m particularly fond of these tours for their combination of good food, live entertainment, and complete accessibility – a real triple treat for travelers. Both indoor and outdoor seating options ensure comfort in any weather, and the relaxed pace allows plenty of time to soak in the harbor views. Let’s explore Norfolk’s best dinner cruise options.
Key Points
- The Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise offers a 1.5-hour cruise along the Norfolk waterfront, with a delectable buffet and scenic views of the U.S. Navy’s Atlantic Fleet.
- The Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise provides a 2.5-hour cruise along the Elizabeth River, featuring a grande dinner buffet and an impressive outdoor patio deck for stargazing.
- Both cruises offer wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as service animals allowed, catering to diverse guest needs.
- The cruises are praised for their great atmosphere, memorable celebrations, and friendly staff, making them popular choices for events such as birthdays and family gatherings.
- Advance booking is recommended due to the likelihood of selling out, and a smart casual dress code is encouraged for the dining experiences.
Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise
Featuring a captivating 1.5-hour cruise along the picturesque Norfolk waterfront, the Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise offers an unforgettable dining experience for up to 150 guests.
With a 4.5-star rating from 68 reviews, this cruise boasts a delectable buffet filled with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, complemented by unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
Guests can choose to dine indoors or on the outdoor deck, enjoying the scenic views of the Norfolk skyline and the United States Navy’s Atlantic Fleet. An onboard DJ provides entertainment and music, allowing passengers to dance and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. While non-refundable, the experience is praised by many for its great ambiance and views, with some noting memorable celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.
With its convenient start and end point at the Otter Berth, the Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise is a must-try for those seeking a unique dining adventure in Norfolk.
Read our full review: Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise Review
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Norfolk: Buffet Dinner Cruise
The Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a captivating 2.5-hour dining experience along the picturesque Elizabeth River. Priced from $88.59 per person, the cruise features a grande dinner buffet with freshly prepared dishes, from roasted salmon to jerk-style braised pork.
Guests can enjoy the relaxing background music and sweeping views of the Norfolk skyline and Navy vessels. The cruise’s impressive outdoor patio deck provides ample space for stargazing and admiring the city’s sights.
The menu includes a diverse array of salads, sides, and desserts, catering to various dietary preferences. While the drinks may be considered pricey, the overall experience is praised for its food quality, helpful crew, and transportation convenience.
With a non-refundable cancellation policy and a likelihood of selling out, it’s advisable to book the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise in advance. Guests are encouraged to dress in smart casual attire, with the outdoor decks welcoming smoking.
Read our full review: Norfolk: Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Elizabeth River, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a captivating 2.5-hour dining experience for guests.
With a 4.0 overall rating from 25 reviews, the cruise features a delicious buffet of freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. Onboard entertainment includes DJ music, lounge access, and interactive games, while unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included.
Departing from the Otter Berth, the cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps, with infant seats available.
Confirmations are received within 48 hours, subject to availability, and the non-refundable tickets start at $88.59 per person.
Positive reviews highlight the beautiful atmosphere, excellent service, and friendly staff, though some critiques mention food inconsistencies and communication issues.
The cruise is a popular choice for celebrations like birthdays and family gatherings.
Read our full review: Norfolk: Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Norfolk offers a range of delightful dining experiences on the water. From the Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise to the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruises, visitors can enjoy scenic views and sumptuous meals. These cruises provide a unique and memorable way to celebrate special occasions or simply to indulge in a relaxing evening out. Whether you’re looking for a formal dinner or a more casual buffet, Norfolk’s dining cruises have something to suit every taste.