Baltimore: Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

If you’re considering spending Christmas Day doing something a bit different, this Baltimore cruise experience might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally been on it, the reviews and details paint a picture of a refined, memorable way to celebrate the season. Imagine cruising along the Patapsco River, surrounded by Baltimore’s iconic sights, with good food, drinks, and music setting the tone for a relaxing holiday.

What we really like about this cruise is its combination of scenic views and festive comfort. The ship’s design promises excellent vantage points of key landmarks like Fort McHenry and the Baltimore skyline—perfect for photos or just soaking in the city’s holiday glow. Plus, the elegant 3-course dinner or buffet brunch adds a touch of luxury to your celebration. The inclusion of unlimited mimosas (for brunch) and a live DJ elevates the atmosphere, making it more than just a boat ride.

One thing to note is that the cruise duration is fairly short—about two hours for brunch and three for dinner—which keeps things lively but means it’s a quick, curated experience. It’s most suited for folks who enjoy good food, scenic views, and a touch of elegance, rather than those looking for a long, leisurely day out. If you’re after a festive yet sophisticated way to celebrate, this might just fit the bill.

Who This Experience Is Perfect For:

• Travelers who love combining sightseeing with a culinary experience
• Those looking for a festive, upscale way to spend Christmas Day
• Visitors wanting to enjoy Baltimore’s sights from the water
• Anyone seeking a relaxed, hassle-free celebration with good service and ambiance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful Views: You’ll see Baltimore’s landmarks from a prime vantage point, making for memorable photos.
• Quality Food & Drinks: A gourmet 3-course dinner or buffet brunch, plus full bar service and mimosas with brunch.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The ship’s décor and live DJ generate a cheerful, elegant vibe.
• Impeccable Service: Friendly, professional crew dedicated to making your holiday special.
• Flexible Options: Choose between brunch with mimosas or a more formal dinner.
• Accessibility & Convenience: Wheelchair accessible and no need to worry about transportation—just hop aboard.

The Experience in Detail

This Christmas Day cruise offers a carefully curated way to enjoy the holiday, blending scenic views with fine dining. While exact timings can vary, the typical 2-hour brunch cruise usually takes place in the afternoon, giving you ample daylight hours to enjoy Baltimore’s sights. The dinner cruise lasts about 3 hours, making for a more leisurely, evening affair.

Boarding and Setting Sail: The experience begins with a warm welcome on a uniquely designed boat that maximizes viewing. As you settle into your private table, you’ll notice the festive décor—think subtle holiday touches that add to the cheerful mood without feeling overdone.

Dining Experience: The highlight of this cruise is, of course, the food. Whether you opt for the buffet brunch or the plated dinner, the chef’s craftsmanship shines through. The buffet brunch is praised for its variety, complemented by unlimited mimosas—perfect for toasting the season. The dinner, on the other hand, is thoughtfully prepared as a three-course meal, offering a more formal, refined dining experience. Reviewers mentioned the great food and professional service, which makes a big difference when you’re celebrating a holiday.

Scenic Views & Sights: As the boat glides along the river, you’ll enjoy views of Baltimore’s most notable landmarks. The outdoor decks provide a lovely setting for sipping drinks and taking photos. Many reviews mention how stunning the cityscape looks against the water—especially at sunset or under holiday lights.

Entertainment & Atmosphere: A live DJ keeps the mood lively, curating music that balances festive cheer with sophistication. The décor and overall ambiance foster a feeling of celebration, making it easy to relax and enjoy the moment.

Service & Crew: From the reviews, the staff seem to be very professional and attentive, ensuring everyone’s needs are met without fuss. They handle the logistics smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying your holiday.

Analyzing the Price & Value

At $78 per person, this cruise offers a fairly competitive price point considering the inclusions—meals, drinks, and scenic views. The value comes from combining multiple elements: the ambiance, the quality of food, the chance to see Baltimore from the water, and the festive setting. The full bar service and live entertainment add to the feeling of luxury, making it feel like a special occasion.

While some might think the duration is a bit short, keep in mind that this is a curated, upscale experience meant to be enjoyed without the fatigue of a long day. For many, the convenience and quality justify the cost.

What the Experience Feels Like

Imagine stepping aboard a stylish boat, greeted by the gentle hum of holiday music and friendly staff. As the boat begins to glide away from the dock, you’ll notice the city’s familiar skyline gradually giving way to water and nature. The views are truly impressive, with landmarks like Fort McHenry standing out prominently.

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy a delicious multi-course meal—whether a buffet with abundant options or a carefully plated dinner. The full bar is at your disposal, with mimosas (for brunch) and a selection of wines and beverages available for purchase during dinner.

The live DJ creates a festive soundtrack, elevating the entire experience. Guests often comment on the professional service and the atmosphere, which strikes a balance between festive fun and elegant relaxation.

This cruise is especially appealing if you’re seeking a stress-free holiday celebration, where the crew takes care of everything, and you’re free to enjoy the views, the company, and the good food.

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Authentic Voices from Reviewers

Willie, who enjoyed the experience recently, said, “the food was great and the atmosphere was good. the servers were very professional.” This encapsulates what many find appealing—the combination of delicious food and attentive service. Another guest from the U.S. shared, “Fue una actividad maravillosa la atención muy buena por parte de los meseros definitivamente, volvería para el próximo año,” highlighting the excellent service and the likelihood of returning.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Dress code: For the dinner cruise, semi-formal attire is encouraged—think slacks, dresses, or smart separates. Brunch is more relaxed but still stylish.
• Reservation tips: It’s best to make one reservation for your entire group to ensure everyone is seated together.
• Bring ID: A passport or ID is needed for check-in.
• Accessibility: The boat is wheelchair accessible, so everyone can join in the fun.
• Timing: Cruises are usually available in the afternoon, offering flexibility depending on your plans.
• No hotel transfers included: You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the dock.
• Weather considerations: The outdoor decks are a highlight, so dress accordingly if it’s chilly or rainy.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with an upscale dining experience. It’s perfect if you prefer a shorter, curated event that still feels special. Families with older children, couples celebrating a romantic holiday, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed but festive outing will find this cruise hits the right notes.

It’s not the best choice if you’re after a long, leisurely day or prefer activities with more physical engagement. Also, if you’re looking for a casual, low-key way to spend Christmas, this might feel a tad formal.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
While the experience is elegant and semi-formal, it’s generally best suited for adults or older children who can enjoy a more refined atmosphere. The cruise environment tends to be sophisticated, but younger kids are welcome if they are comfortable with the setting.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a 2-hour brunch or a 3-hour dinner cruise, the chosen meal (buffet or plated), unlimited mimosas (if brunch), coffee, tea, iced tea, live DJ, and all taxes and fees.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
Mimosas are included only with the brunch option. Other alcoholic drinks are available for purchase during the dinner cruise.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is there a dress code?
For the dinner cruise, semi-formal attire is recommended. Brunch is more casual but still stylish.

How long does the cruise last?
The brunch cruise lasts about 2 hours, while the dinner cruise is approximately 3 hours.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boat offers wheelchair accessibility.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Just your passport or ID. If planning to enjoy the outdoor decks, dress accordingly for the weather.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a special way to celebrate Christmas on the water, this Baltimore cruise certainly ticks many boxes. It combines stunning city views, delicious holiday food, and an elegant atmosphere into a compact but memorable experience. The reviews back up its quality—guests consistently praise the professional staff, great food, and festive mood.

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, upscale celebration that feels both festive and refined. It offers the kind of holiday memory that’s perfect for couples, friends, or even small family groups with older kids who enjoy a bit of elegance.

Just remember that it’s not a marathon—two or three hours of enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors of Baltimore from the water, making for a holiday outing that’s both luxurious and laid-back.

Happy holiday planning!

You can check availability for your dates here: