Looking for a memorable meal in San Diego? The city’s dining cruises combine great food with spectacular views. These waterfront experiences sail through San Diego Bay, offering both brunch and dinner options. Most feature 3-course meals and seasonal menus, while holiday cruises add special themed buffets.
These floating restaurants are particularly impressive at sunset, when the city skyline lights up. I love the Hornblower’s dinner cruise for its fresh seafood and attentive service. The Flagship’s Sunday brunch cruise is another standout, featuring made-to-order omelets and free-flowing champagne.
Remember to book ahead – the best cruises fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons and holidays.
Let’s explore our favorite San Diego dining cruises:
Key Points
- San Diego offers a variety of dinner cruises with gourmet meals, live entertainment, and stunning waterfront views, providing a unique and memorable dining experience.
- The holiday-themed cruises, such as Mother’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, offer special menus and festive ambiance to celebrate special occasions.
- The dinner cruises feature menu highlights like brunch with unlimited mimosas, holiday favorites like roasted turkey, and seasonal dishes that reflect the theme of the event.
- Reservations are required due to limited availability, and advance booking is recommended, as the cruises are often in high demand and sell out quickly.
- The cruises are wheelchair accessible, family-friendly, and provide a safe and secure dining environment with trained staff to assist with special needs or requests.
San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise
The San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise provides a unique dining experience that allows guests to savor a gourmet meal while taking in breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and coastline.
Priced at $124.75 per person, the cruise offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can enjoy a welcome glass of sparkling wine, a two-hour and 15-minute cruise, and a variety of dinner options, including prime rib, steak, salmon, and chicken.
For an additional $35 per person, guests can upgrade to unlimited open bar.
With an average rating of 4.0 based on over 1,000 reviews, the San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise is a popular choice for a memorable dining experience.
Read our full review: San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise Review
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San Diego: Buffet Fall-Themed Dinner Cruise With Drinks
Guests seeking a unique dining experience in San Diego can enjoy the Buffet Fall-Themed Dinner Cruise with Drinks. Priced from $109.07 per person, this 3-hour cruise offers a scenic tour of the San Diego skyline and local landmarks.
The buffet features seasonal favorites like roast potatoes, salmon, and apple crumble, with unlimited coffee, tea, and water included. While additional drinks can be purchased, guests will also enjoy DJ entertainment and a relaxing atmosphere away from the city.
With a high likelihood of selling out and a non-refundable cancellation policy, this cruise is best booked in advance. Overall, customer reviews highlight the food, atmosphere, and staff, though some note issues with food temperature and organization during service.
Read our full review: San Diego: Buffet Fall-Themed Dinner Cruise With Drinks Review
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San Diego Dinner Cruise: Gourmet Meal & Starlit Skyline Views
For an unforgettable evening in San Diego, travelers can embark on a luxurious dinner cruise that showcases the city’s stunning skyline and bay.
The 2.5-hour (3 hours on Fri. & Sat.) cruise features a gourmet 3-course meal, accompanied by panoramic views and DJ music for an immersive experience.
Ideal for special occasions, the cruise offers a relaxing and scenic atmosphere, with a private table guaranteed for guests.
While additional alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, the cruise includes coffee or tea with the meal.
Priced at $138.69 per person, the cruise has received an overall rating of 4.0 from 286 reviews, highlighting its memorable experiences.
Read our full review: San Diego Dinner Cruise: Gourmet Meal & Starlit Skyline Views Review
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San Diego: Mothers Day Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise
Celebrating Mother’s Day in San Diego takes on a whole new level of elegance and splendor aboard a luxurious harbor cruise.
For $154.85 per person, guests can enjoy a 2-2.5 hour cruise with a chef-inspired brunch or dinner, free-flowing champagne, and live entertainment.
The menu features breakfast favorites, salads, entrees like birria chicken and salmon, and decadent desserts. Guests can take in scenic views of the Coronado Bridge and Cabrillo National Monument.
While the cancellation policy is non-refundable, the experience promises an unforgettable Mother’s Day celebration on the water.
Advance reservations are recommended, and a dress code of semi-formal attire is required.
Read our full review: San Diego: Mothers Day Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise Review
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San Diego: Scenic Buffet Dinner Cruise
This scenic buffet dinner cruise along the San Diego harbor offers a unique and relaxing way to take in the city’s iconic skyline and landmarks.
For $109.07 per person, guests can enjoy a 3-hour cruise with a bountiful buffet featuring seasonal dishes like roast potatoes, salmon, and apple crumble.
While the menu may change, unlimited coffee and tea are provided. With a DJ onboard, this cruise provides a festive holiday atmosphere for families and friends.
Though reviews are generally positive, some customers have noted issues with cold food and organization.
Wheelchair access is available, though outer decks require stairs.
Advance booking is recommended as this popular cruise is likely to sell out.
Read our full review: San Diego: Scenic Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
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San Diego: Easter Buffet Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise
San Diego’s picturesque harbor provides the perfect backdrop for an Easter celebration with the San Diego: Easter Buffet Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise.
Priced at $154.85 per person, the 2-2.5 hour cruise offers views of San Diego Bay, live entertainment, and a buffet menu featuring seasonal dishes.
Brunch includes free-flowing champagne and mimosas, while dinner provides starter, main, and dessert options.
Both experiences are climate-controlled with open-air decks. Guests must adhere to a semi-formal dress code and understand the non-refundable cancellation policy.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, though stairs are required for outer decks. Infants can attend for free with a complimentary ticket.
Read our full review: San Diego: Easter Buffet Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise Review
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San Diego: New Years Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
As the clock strikes midnight, San Diego’s harbor transforms into a dazzling backdrop for the New Year’s Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise.
Priced at €127.26 per person, this 2-hour experience offers a premier buffet brunch or a four-course dinner. The menu includes mouthwatering options like jumbo shrimp cocktail, oven-roasted chicken, and decadent chocolate cake.
Guests can enjoy creative cocktails, wine, and beer, along with a sparkling wine toast for brunch and an open bar for dinner. Live music and stunning waterfront views create an elegant atmosphere, making this a memorable way to ring in the new year.
With a wheelchair-accessible design and non-refundable cancellation policy, this cruise is a popular choice for couples, groups, and families.
Read our full review: San Diego: New Years Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
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San Diego: Gourmet Dinner Cruise
For those seeking a truly special evening in San Diego, the Gourmet Dinner Cruise offers an elegant and memorable experience. Priced at $138.69 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise features chef-prepared seasonal dishes, craft cocktails, and DJ entertainment while showcasing scenic views of San Diego Bay.
The seasonal menu includes starters like a grilled peach and arugula salad, mains such as pan-seared chicken or smoked chili-rubbed salmon, and desserts ranging from chocolate toffee crunch cake to pineapple upside-down cake.
With an overall 4.3/5 rating based on 184 reviews, the Gourmet Dinner Cruise provides an upscale dining experience complemented by live music and stunning vistas of the city.
Read our full review: San Diego: Gourmet Dinner Cruise Review
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San Diego: Thanksgiving Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Amidst the vibrant culinary scene of San Diego, the Thanksgiving Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise stands out as a premier option for those seeking a memorable holiday experience.
Boasting a 4.1-star rating from 9 reviews, the cruise offers a delectable spread of traditional Thanksgiving fare, complemented by stunning views of the city skyline and harbor.
Priced at $109.07 per person, the 3-hour event promises an unforgettable celebration, complete with live entertainment, and the chance to savor the flavors of the season while enjoying the beauty of the San Diego waterfront.
Read our full review: San Diego: Thanksgiving Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
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San Diego: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
The Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise in San Diego offers a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season on the water. Priced from $134.52 per person, this 2-3 hour cruise features a live tour guide, wheelchair accessibility, and a non-refundable cancellation policy.
Guests can enjoy a chef-prepared buffet menu, cocktails, and top-notch service, with both indoor and open-air seating options. The brunch menu includes breakfast favorites, salads, entrees, and a decadent dessert station, while the dinner menu features salads, entrees, sides, and seasonal desserts.
The cruise also provides holiday decor, music entertainment, and boarding photos with Santa. The experience has received mixed reviews, with some feedback on the food and music selection.
Read our full review: San Diego: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
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San Diego: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
On Christmas Eve, visitors to San Diego can indulge in a festive buffet brunch or dinner cruise along the city’s picturesque bay.
The 2-3 hour experience costs £84.52 per person and features a non-refundable cancellation policy. Guests can enjoy a 2-2.5 hour bay cruise with scenic views, live music, and a buffet menu featuring dishes like scrambled eggs, tri-tip steak, and seasonal desserts.
Brunch includes unlimited mimosas, while dinner offers traditional holiday favorites like roasted turkey and potato gnocchi.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and a live tour guide is available in English. Passengers must bring a valid ID for verification.
Read our full review: San Diego: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Vegetarian Menu Option?
Many vegetarian-friendly restaurants in San Diego offer a variety of plant-based menu options, including salads, pasta dishes, and veggie-forward entrees. Diners can often find creative, flavorful vegetarian dishes that cater to their dietary preferences.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol?
Most restaurants don’t allow you to bring your own alcohol, but they may offer corkage fees if you’d like to bring a special bottle. It’s best to check the restaurant’s policy before your visit.
Do They Have Gluten-Free Menu Items?
Many restaurants offer gluten-free menu items to accommodate dietary needs. It’s best to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to inquire about their gluten-free options before visiting.
Is There a Dress Code for the Cruise?
There’s no dress code for the San Diego cruise experience. Guests can wear casual, comfortable clothing, as the focus is on enjoying the scenic views and onboard amenities rather than formal attire.
Can I Opt-Out of the Cruise Entertainment?
Passengers can generally opt-out of cruise entertainment, though it’s best to check the specific cruise line’s policies. Many cruises offer a range of activities, so guests can choose to participate in only those that interest them.
The Sum Up
San Diego offers a variety of dinner cruises with breathtaking views, gourmet meals, and festive themed experiences. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a family celebration, or a unique dining adventure, you’ll find a cruise that suits your tastes. These top-rated options provide an unforgettable way to enjoy the city’s scenic waterfront and create lasting memories.