Chicago New Years Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Spending New Year’s Eve on the water is a unique way to celebrate the arrival of a new year. Chicago’s Lake Michigan plays host to a luxurious buffet dinner cruise, offering guests the chance to welcome 2023 in style. With a prime rib carving station, live music, and views of the city skyline, this smart casual event promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a festive atmosphere or simply want to try something different, this cruise could be the perfect option.

Key Points

• A New Year’s Eve dinner cruise on Lake Michigan that combines a freshly prepared buffet, live DJ entertainment, and a stunning fireworks display over the Chicago skyline.
• The cruise departs from Navy Pier and features heated indoor and open-air outdoor viewing areas to enjoy the views.
• The menu includes dishes like roasted prime rib, honey-glazed ham, and garlic-herb roasted chicken, accommodating various dietary preferences.
• Tickets cost $199 per person, with online and phone booking available, and the cruise accommodates up to 300 guests.
• The cruise has a 3.8 out of 5 rating based on 11 reviews, with some feedback noting issues with organization and service quality.

Event Overview

This New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan offers a four-in-one experience that combines dinner, dancing, stunning views, and fireworks.

Guests will set sail from Navy Pier aboard a luxurious cruiser and enjoy a freshly prepared buffet dinner. A top Chicago DJ will provide live entertainment, and the cruise includes a midnight Champagne toast to welcome the new year.

Heated indoor and open-air outdoor viewing areas allow guests to take in the incredible views of the city skyline and the fireworks display.

This cruise promises an unforgettable way to celebrate the new year.

Dining Experience

The cruise features a freshly prepared buffet dinner, allowing guests to indulge in a variety of delectable dishes.

The menu includes:

1. Roasted prime rib with au jus and horseradish cream
2. Honey-glazed ham with pineapple chutney
3. Garlic-herb roasted chicken
4. An assortment of side dishes, salads, and decadent desserts

Guests can enjoy the meal while taking in the stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.

The buffet caters to various dietary preferences, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all.

Entertainment and Activities

As guests step aboard the luxurious cruiser, they’ll be treated to an evening filled with entertainment and activities.

Live DJ entertainment keeps the party going all night long, with a soundtrack to keep guests dancing well into the new year.

The cruise offers both heated indoor and open-air outdoor viewing areas, allowing guests to take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

At midnight, a celebratory Champagne toast ushers in the new year as an incredible fireworks display lights up the sky over the lake.

Cruise Details

Guests embark on the Chicago New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise from Navy Pier, located at 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. The cruise departs at 9:30 PM and returns to the same location.

The experience includes:

1. A freshly prepared buffet dinner.
2. Live DJ entertainment and dancing.
3. Heated indoor and open-air outdoor viewing areas.
4. A midnight Champagne toast and views of the fireworks.

The cruise accommodates up to 300 guests and provides hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as gratuities.

Guests are advised to dress in smart casual attire, as the interior areas are non-smoking.

Dress Code and Policies

A smart casual dress code is required for the Chicago New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise.

Jeans, shorts, tank tops, halter-tops, gym shoes, and flip flops aren’t permitted.

The interior areas of the boat are non-smoking, but smoking is allowed on the outdoor decks.

The cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted, and infant seats are available.

The cruise has a maximum capacity of 300 travelers.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

It’s important to note these dress and policy guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Customer Reviews

The Chicago New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise has received a total of 11 reviews, with an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on feedback from Viator and Tripadvisor.

Common issues mentioned include:

1. Unorganized check-in process and long lines for tickets.

2. Lack of clarity on the specific boat names.

3. Comments on the service quality and food temperature.

4. Positive feedback highlights the great food, drinks, dancing, and fireworks experience.

How to Book

To book the Chicago New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise, travelers can visit the activity’s webpage or contact the tour operator directly.

The cruise departs from Navy Pier at 9:30 PM and includes a four-hour experience with dinner, dancing, and fireworks views.

Tickets cost $199 per person and can be purchased online or by phone. Guests should arrive 30 minutes prior to the start time.

The cruise has a smart casual dress code, and smoking is only permitted on the outdoor decks.

Reservations are limited to a maximum of 300 travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on board. The event includes a freshly prepared buffet dinner, and outside food and beverages are not permitted. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.

Is There a Kid’s Menu or Special Accommodations for Children?

The cruise doesn’t offer a special children’s menu, but it accommodates families. Kids can enjoy the buffet and activities. Infant seats are available, though the cruise may not be suitable for very young children given the late night schedule.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?

There are special meal options available for those with dietary restrictions. The buffet offers vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal selections. Guests should inform the staff of any dietary needs when booking the cruise.

Can I Request for a Private or Group Table for the Event?

Yes, you can request a private or group table for the event. The cruise offers reserved seating options for larger parties, which must be booked in advance. Contact the organizers to inquire about availability and pricing for group reservations.

How Can I Confirm the Specific Name of the Cruise Ship Used?

You can confirm the specific name of the cruise ship used by contacting the event organizers. They should be able to provide the details of the vessel you’ll be sailing on for the New Year’s Eve celebration.

The Sum Up

This New Year’s Eve buffet dinner cruise on Lake Michigan offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Guests can savor a delectable spread, enjoy live music and dancing, and witness a breathtaking fireworks display, all while taking in stunning views of the Chicago skyline. With a capacity of 300 guests, this smart casual event promises a festive atmosphere to ring in the new year.