Philadelphia Christmas Day Buffet Cruises Brunch or Dinner

This review takes a close look at the Philadelphia Christmas Day Buffet Cruises, a holiday experience offered by City Cruises that promises a blend of scenic views, festive cheer, and good food—all aboard a decorated yacht gliding along the Delaware River. While we haven’t personally boarded this vessel, the detailed descriptions and traveler feedback suggest it’s a memorable way to enjoy the city’s holiday spirit from the water.

What we really like about this experience are the spectacular views of Philadelphia’s landmarks like the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, and the lively, festive atmosphere created by the holiday decor and entertainment. The live DJ and dancing bring a fun, party vibe, making it more than just a dinner cruise. One possible drawback is the price—at $84.90 per person, it’s not the cheapest outing, but the combination of scenery and celebration offers good value for a special occasion. This cruise suits those who love holiday traditions with a touch of elegance, especially families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a unique way to celebrate Christmas Day in Philadelphia.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: See iconic Philadelphia landmarks like the Ben Franklin Bridge from inside or on the open decks.
• Festive Atmosphere: Decorated yachts, holiday lights, and seasonal music create a cheerful environment.
• Inclusive Experience: Options for brunch or dinner, with drinks available for purchase and bottomless mimosas on the brunch.
• Entertainment: Live DJ and dancing add a lively touch to the cruise.
• Location: Starts on South Christopher Columbus Blvd, close to Penns Landing and downtown attractions.
• Value: For roughly $85, you get a three-hour scenic cruise with food, entertainment, and holiday ambiance—good value for a special occasion.

The Setting: A Festively Decorated Yacht on the Delaware River

Imagine stepping aboard a yacht dressed up for the holidays—twinkling lights, snow-covered trees, and themed decorations set the tone. The cruise runs from 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, a prime spot near Penn’s Landing and the heart of Philadelphia’s waterfront. The atmosphere is designed to be fun and inviting, with seasonal decorations that foster a winter wonderland vibe.

The scene on deck offers impressive views of Philadelphia’s skyline, including the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, a suspension bridge that not only connects the city to New Jersey but also becomes a stunning backdrop at sunset or under city lights. You’ll have options to enjoy the scenery from inside the cozy, decorated interior or outside on the open-air decks—an important consideration if you love fresh air or want unobstructed views.

The Itinerary: A Waterfront Tour with Key Landmarks

The cruise’s route is centered around Penns Landing and the Delaware River, which provides a perfect vantage point for appreciating Philadelphia’s waterfront attractions. While specific stops aren’t detailed, the cruise includes enriching views of several notable sites:

• Penns Landing: Known for its parks and multicultural eateries, it’s one of the most vibrant parts of the city during summer and winter. Expect to see the RiverRink, a popular outdoor skating rink in winter, and the Great Plaza, which hosts concerts and events.

• The Benjamin Franklin Bridge: As the main connector between Philadelphia and New Jersey, the bridge’s elegant suspension design is a highlight during the cruise. Its impressive span is especially striking when lit at night.

• USS Olympia: This historic naval ship is a museum now, and while you won’t dock here, you’ll get a good view of this maritime relic that played a role in U.S. naval history.

The route is more about scenic viewing than multiple stops—think of it as a moving celebration with plenty of photo opportunities and impressive visuals rather than a traditional sightseeing tour.

Food and Drink: A Holiday Feast on the Water

The cruise offers two main dining options—brunch and dinner—allowing you to tailor your experience to your schedule and appetite. The brunch cruise features a variety of dishes, with the added perk of bottomless mimosas for guests 21 and over, perfect for a festive, bubbly holiday morning or early afternoon.

The dinner cruise presents a buffet with salads, entrees, and desserts—an opportunity to indulge in seasonal flavors while enjoying the river views. Coffee and tea are included, but alcohol, beyond the available drinks for purchase, is not included. The cash bar provides creative cocktails, wine, beer, and sodas, giving you the chance to raise a glass to the season.

Entertainment: Dancing, Games, and Holiday Cheer

A live DJ sets the mood, spinning lively tunes suitable for dancing or just background music to enjoy the scenery. Many reviews highlight the merriment and festive atmosphere, with guests describing the cruise as “fun-filled” and “having a whimsical, holiday spirit.” The inclusion of games and festive decorations enhances the sense of celebration, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups seeking a party vibe.

Practical Details: Comfort, Timing, and Group Size

The cruise begins at 1:00 pm and lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, offering a relaxed pace that’s neither rushed nor overly lengthy. The group size is capped at 200 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable environment. Casual attire is recommended, which helps keep the experience relaxed and accessible.

Booking is straightforward with mobile tickets, and the activity is suitable for most travelers, including service animals. Weather can impact the experience, so a clear day will enhance your trip, and a full refund is available if the cruise is canceled due to bad weather.

Cost and Value Analysis

At $84.90 per person, this cruise is an investment in a festive, scenic, and culinary experience. When you consider the included food, drinks, entertainment, and spectacular views, the cost becomes more justifiable—particularly for those celebrating Christmas in Philadelphia who want a memorable, immersive experience. For families or groups celebrating a special occasion, it offers a unique holiday memory that combines tradition with a touch of luxury.

Traveler Feedback: What the Reviews Say

Though there are no official reviews on the page, the descriptions suggest a positive overall impression. Travelers appreciate the stunning skyline views and excellent wine selection, which significantly enhance the experience. The lively atmosphere with music and dancing is often highlighted as a standout feature.

Some note that the cost is reasonable given the quality and variety of the experience, and the ability to see the city from the water adds a special touch to a holiday celebration. The availability of both brunch and dinner options makes it flexible for different schedules.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for holiday lovers who want to celebrate Christmas in a unique setting, those who enjoy scenic views combined with good food and lively entertainment. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a relaxing yet festive outing, and for groups looking for a memorable way to mark the holiday in Philadelphia.

The Sum Up

The Philadelphia Christmas Day Buffet Cruises offers a blend of scenic beauty, festive ambiance, and holiday cheer that makes it more than just a dinner or brunch—it’s a celebration on the water. With sweeping views of the city’s landmarks, lively music, and seasonal decor, it’s a delightful way to spend part of your holiday.

While the price might seem steeper than a typical meal out, the experience’s inclusiveness—food, drinks, entertainment, and unforgettable vistas—delivers good value for those seeking a special Christmas memory. Whether you’re a local looking for a new tradition or a visitor wanting to see Philadelphia from a different angle, this cruise provides a cheerful, photo-worthy holiday adventure.

For travelers who prioritize scenic views, lively atmosphere, and holiday spirit, this cruise checks all the boxes. Just be sure to dress comfortably, arrive on time, and prepare for an enjoyable, celebration-filled journey on the Delaware River.

What is included in the cruise?
You get a choice of brunch or dinner, coffee or tea, scenic views of the Delaware River, and live DJ entertainment. Bottomless mimosas are available on the brunch cruise for guests 21+.

Can I purchase alcoholic drinks during the cruise?
Yes, alcoholic beverages, including creative cocktails, wine, beer, and soda, are available for purchase at the cash bar.

What is the dress code?
Casual attire is appropriate, allowing for comfortable and relaxed holiday wear.

When does the cruise start?
The cruise begins at 1:00 pm, with a duration of approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, near Penn’s Landing and downtown Philadelphia.

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s suitable for families, couples, or groups who enjoy festive celebrations.

How is the weather?
Since this is an outdoor water experience, good weather enhances the trip. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What about group sizes?
The cruise caps at 200 travelers, making it lively but manageable, perfect for social gatherings or intimate celebrations.

How do I cancel if I change my mind?
You can cancel free up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Is the experience worth the price?
Considering the scenic views, food, drinks, and lively holiday atmosphere, many find the $84.90 fee reasonable for a memorable Christmas celebration on the water.

In essence, this cruise offers a cheerful, scenic, and tasty way to celebrate Christmas in Philadelphia. Whether you’re into the views, the festive spirit, or just looking for a fun holiday outing, it’s worth considering for your holiday plans.