Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise

Discover Toronto from the water with a 2.5-hour brunch cruise offering scenic views, a buffet, jazz music, and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for a weekend treat.

Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise Review: A Relaxed Way to Enjoy the Harbour and City Views

Thinking about adding a touch of elegance and fun to your Toronto weekend? The Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise might just fit the bill. This 2.5-hour voyage takes you through Toronto Harbour aboard the charming Obsession III, with the city skyline as your backdrop. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it promises a laid-back way to see the sights, indulge in good food, and enjoy some live jazz — all while floating on the water.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines scenic views with delicious brunch options. The boat’s retractable roof means you can enjoy the views no matter the weather, and the inclusion of a mimosa makes the start of the cruise feel special. Plus, the relaxed, jazz-filled atmosphere makes it more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a little escape from the busy city streets.

That said, it’s worth noting that this cruise isn’t perfect for everyone. The price point (around $87.93 per person) is reasonable, but some may find the food offerings somewhat limited or the schedule a bit uncertain if booking early. Also, since the cruise depends on weather, poor conditions could mean cancellations or rescheduling, which is something to keep in mind.

This experience suits those who want a leisurely, scenic outing with a good balance of food, drinks, and entertainment. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a romantic touch, a relaxed way to catch the skyline, or simply want a different perspective on Toronto’s waterfront.

Key Points

Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise - Key Points

  • Scenic 2.5-hour cruise through Toronto Harbour offers views of the city skyline and Toronto Islands.
  • Includes a brunch buffet and a complimentary mimosa upon boarding.
  • Relaxed ambiance with jazz music playing in the background adds to the leisurely vibe.
  • Retractable roof provides flexibility in weather and unobstructed views.
  • Limited food options were mentioned by some guests as an area for improvement.
  • Weather-dependent schedule means cancellations are possible if conditions worsen.

A Closer Look at the Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise

Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise - A Closer Look at the Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise

When you consider a brunch cruise like this, it’s all about balancing scenic beauty, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere. The Toronto Obsession III offers a neat way to see the city from the water, especially if you’re not keen on a hectic sightseeing schedule but want to enjoy some spectacular sights. The boat departs from Queens Quay, right at the heart of Toronto’s waterfront, making it easy to access whether you’re staying downtown or nearby.

What the Experience Looks Like

As you step aboard the Obsession III, you’re greeted with a complimentary Champagne mimosa—a nice touch that sets the tone for a leisurely brunch. The boat’s retractable roof means you can enjoy the views whether it’s a sunny day or a bit overcast, which is especially nice given Toronto’s unpredictable weather. Once settled, the boat gently cruises through the harbor, giving you a chance to relax and take in the sights.

In the reviews, many mention how the views of Toronto’s skyline — including the iconic CN Tower — are impressive and make the trip worthwhile. The large windows offer great vantage points of the Toronto Islands, which you can also see open-air through designated lookouts. It’s a relaxed way to appreciate the waterfront’s beauty without the hustle of a busy tour.

Food and Drinks

The brunch buffet is a highlight, with guests noting the delicious fruit and coffee. However, some mention that the food choices could be more varied, especially if you’re used to a broader brunch spread. Still, the buffet is sufficient enough to satisfy most, especially when paired with the fully licensed bar available for purchase, which includes a selection of drinks beyond the complimentary mimosa.

Jazz music plays softly in the background, adding a soothing soundtrack that complements the gentle rocking of the boat. It’s a nice touch that elevates the experience from just sightseeing to a more atmospheric, almost conversational vibe.

The Itinerary and Sights

The main highlight is the harbor cruise around Toronto’s waterfront, with plenty of time to relax, enjoy your meal, and soak in the views. You’ll see well-loved attractions like the CN Tower and the Toronto Islands, both of which look stunning from the water. The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, which feels like ample time to unwind without feeling rushed.

One review mentions that the trip was a good length, with “a nice amount of time spent around the harbour,” and that “the crew were great,” making the journey smooth and enjoyable. Guests also appreciated that most wheelchair users reported no problems during boarding or the cruise itself.

Practical Considerations

The cost of $87.93 per person is quite reasonable for a daytime experience involving food, scenic views, and entertainment. When you think about it, you’re paying for a couple of hours of relaxing sightseeing combined with a brunch, which can be a memorable way to start a weekend.

However, it’s worth noting that parking is not included, and drinks apart from the mimosa are available for purchase. If you’re with a group or planning a special occasion, bringing some extra cash or planning for drinks could enhance your experience.

Booking should be done about 26 days in advance on average, as this experience is popular, but keep in mind the cancellation policy — the cruise is non-refundable, and if cancelled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who is This Cruise Perfect For?

Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise - Who is This Cruise Perfect For?

This brunch cruise is great if you’re after a relaxed, scenic outing that combines good food with stunning views. It’s especially suited for couples seeking a romantic experience or groups wanting a gentle, social activity. It could also serve as a nice break for visitors who want to see Toronto from a different angle without committing to a full-day tour.

It’s less ideal for those expecting a gourmet brunch or a lively party atmosphere, as some reviews mention the menu could be more extensive. Also, if you’re sensitive to weather, it’s best to keep an eye on the forecast to avoid disappointment from cancellations.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What is included in the experience?
You get a brunch buffet, a complimentary mimosa upon boarding, and the chance to see Toronto’s skyline and waterfront attractions.

Are drinks available for purchase?
Yes, a fully licensed bar offers a variety of drinks you can buy during the cruise.

Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, but it’s best to advise at the time of booking if needed.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise depends on good weather. Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the cruise start?
It departs from Queens Quay at Harbourfront West, Toronto, making it easy to access from downtown.

Ready to Book?

Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise



3.5

(19)

“In case the app, Viator OR the marketing team for Great Lakes Schooner doesnt correct it, the boarding time is 12, not 11. I was confused and waite…”

— Richard M, Aug 2024

Final Thoughts

Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise - Final Thoughts

The Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise offers a peaceful yet scenic way to spend part of your weekend in the city. It’s not going to blow your mind with gourmet food or nonstop excitement, but it delivers on beautiful views, a relaxed vibe, and a touch of elegance. If you’re looking for a laid-back way to see Toronto’s waterfront, enjoy some good food, and listen to relaxing jazz, this could be just the ticket.

While it may not be the most comprehensive tour, it’s perfect for those who want a gentle, scenic break from the hustle, ideally suited for couples or anyone craving a peaceful waterfront experience. Just keep an eye on the weather and book in advance to secure your spot.

In a nutshell, the Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise is about enjoying a peaceful cruise with scenic views, decent food, and a soothing soundtrack. It’s a charming way to make your weekend a little more special, as long as you’re prepared for the weather and don’t expect a gourmet feast. It’s a solid pick for a relaxing, picture-worthy outing that offers a different perspective on Toronto’s waterfront.