Baltimore: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

Planning something special for Christmas Eve can be a bit tricky—do you go the traditional route, or try something different? If you’re in Baltimore or nearby and looking for a festive way to mark the holiday, a scenic cruise on the Patapsco River might just be the answer. This particular experience offers both a gourmet brunch or dinner, served in a stylish boat setting with spectacular views of Baltimore’s skyline.

From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-rounded option with plenty of appealing features. We love how the cruise combines delicious food, impeccable service, and breathtaking vistas into a single package. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the reviews suggest it may not be perfect for everyone, especially if you’re expecting a highly lively or party-focused atmosphere. This experience feels more suited to those who enjoy a refined, scenic celebration or a relaxing holiday outing.

If you’re someone who appreciates fine dining combined with skyline views or simply wants a unique way to spend Christmas Eve, this cruise could be a good fit. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with a group that enjoys a more elegant, less chaotic holiday experience. Keep reading for all the details, including what to expect, the pros and cons, and whether this cruise is worth your holiday time.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll enjoy Baltimore’s city skyline and harbor landmarks from the water.
• Gourmet Dining: Options include a 3-course plated dinner or a buffet brunch with unlimited mimosas.
• Flexible Schedule: Cruises last between 2 to 3 hours, available in the afternoon or evening.
• Impeccable Service: The experience promises attentive staff, a live DJ, and a fully stocked bar.
• Price Point: At $80 per person, it’s generally good value considering the food, views, and entertainment.
• Accessibility: The boat is wheelchair accessible, and reservations can be flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

Starting with the setting, the cruise takes place on a boat designed specifically for optimal viewing of Baltimore’s sights. Unlike standard boat trips, this vessel offers both climate-controlled interiors and open-air roof decks, so you can choose your preferred vantage point. Whether you want to cozy inside or take in the crisp winter air, the views are a highlight.

The food and drinks are another strong point. For the brunch option, you’ll enjoy a chef-prepared buffet with unlimited mimosas—ideal for a relaxed, celebratory vibe. The dinner cruise features an elegant 3-course plated meal, which seems to elevate the evening into a fine dining event. Coffee, tea, and iced tea are included, and the bar is fully stocked for additional drinks, which can be purchased if you want something extra.

The entertainment is lively without being overwhelming. A live DJ provides background music to keep the mood festive, and there’s enough space for dancing if you’re inclined. The combination of good music, fine wine, and scenic views creates a relaxed but special atmosphere—perfect for making holiday memories.

What makes this cruise stand out is its visual appeal. Multiple travelers highlighted the magnificent skyline views and the chance to see Baltimore’s harbor from a new perspective. One reviewer mentioned, “The ride allowed me to see how Baltimore has renewed the entire harbor with beautiful buildings and new sites to enjoy. I took lots of beautiful pictures that could not be captured anywhere except from the cruise ship.” If you’re into photography or just want a different way to experience the city, this cruise delivers.

What to Expect During Your Cruise

Your experience begins with boarding a well-designed boat that emphasizes viewing comfort. The departure times are usually in the afternoon or evening, aligned with the Christmas Eve celebrations. The cruise lasts between 2 to 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the sights and indulge in the food and drinks without feeling rushed.

Once onboard, you’ll find your private table set up for either the buffet brunch or the plated dinner, depending on your selection. For those opting for the brunch, the unlimited mimosas make for a relaxed, celebratory start to the holiday. The dinner offers a more formal, sit-down experience that’s perfect if you want a more refined atmosphere.

As the boat glides along the Patapsco River, you’ll pass by iconic Baltimore landmarks and marvel at the illuminated city skyline. The climate-controlled interior makes it comfortable regardless of the weather, while the outdoor decks are great for taking photos or simply enjoying the winter air with a drink in hand.

The music and bar help set a lively but elegant tone. The DJ plays a mix of tunes that keep the energy up without overwhelming conversation. The fully stocked bar offers wine, cocktails, and other beverages you can buy throughout the cruise.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

One reviewer who experienced the cruise just after Christmas in late December 2024 was disappointed, noting that the “work party celebrating was very inappropriate” and felt like a “strip show” with “inappropriate dancing.” They also mentioned that the cruise ended 30 minutes early and expressed their dissatisfaction considering the price paid. This highlights that there may be some variability in the atmosphere, which could depend on the crowd or the event.

However, another traveler shared a very different impression, praising the stunning views and excellent food and music. They said, “The ride allowed me to see how Baltimore has renewed the entire harbor with beautiful buildings and new sites to enjoy. I took lots of beautiful pictures that could not be captured anywhere except from the cruise ship.” This suggests that, for many, the experience successfully offers visual delights and festive ambiance.

The reviews suggest that while the scenery and food are generally praised, the atmosphere can vary, so if you’re looking for a very lively or party-heavy vibe, you might want to clarify what to expect beforehand.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $80 per person, this cruise offers a considerable value when you factor in the food, drinks, sightseeing, and entertainment. The inclusion of unlimited mimosas during brunch and a 3-course meal makes it feel like a well-rounded holiday package. Think of it as a festive splurge—an experience that combines culinary delights with scenic views in a memorable setting.

That said, it’s worth noting that alcoholic beverages outside of the included mimosas are available for purchase, so if you’re a drinker, budget accordingly. Also, since it’s a 2 to 3-hour experience, it’s not overly long, making it suitable for those wanting a contained yet enriching holiday outing.

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Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is nicely suited for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a more refined, scenic celebration on Christmas Eve. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate good food, scenic views, and a relaxed, festive atmosphere rather than loud parties.

Travelers who enjoy photo opportunities and love the idea of seeing Baltimore from a different vantage point will find this especially rewarding. It’s also a good option for those wanting a safe, socially distanced celebration with plenty of room to spread out both inside and on the decks.

While it’s accessible for wheelchairs, it’s not explicitly family-oriented—it’s more of an adult experience. If you’re expecting something lively, with lots of games or family-friendly activities, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Baltimore Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a beautiful, elegant way to celebrate the holiday. For around $80, you get a blend of delicious food, stunning views, and festive music—a nice alternative to more traditional holiday plans. The experience really shines when the weather is clear, and the city is illuminated, giving you a memorable backdrop for your evening.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and festive outing that combines culinary delights with spectacular views, this cruise can hit the mark. Just keep in mind that the atmosphere may vary, and if you’re expecting a lively party, it’s worth checking in advance what kind of crowd usually attends.

All in all, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to enjoy the holiday spirit with a touch of class, especially if Baltimore’s harbor views appeal to you.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children? The tour is more adult-oriented, focusing on fine dining, drinks, and a sophisticated ambiance. If traveling with children, consider whether they’ll enjoy the quiet, upscale environment.

What should I wear? For the dinner cruise, semi-formal attire is encouraged—think dressy separates like slacks, button-ups, or dresses. The brunch is more casual but still neat.

Are drinks included? Unlimited mimosas are included with the brunch option. Other alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on the boat.

How long does the cruise last? The cruise duration is typically 2 to 3 hours, depending on the specific schedule.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to book ahead without stress.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, the experience provider states that the boat is wheelchair accessible.

What are the departure times? Cruises are offered in the afternoon and evening. Exact times may vary, so check your booking confirmation.

Do we need to make a reservation for the whole group? Yes, to ensure everyone sits together, you should reserve as a single party. Separate reservations may not be able to sit together.

Is this experience good value? Considering the food, drinks, views, and entertainment, most would agree it’s a fair deal, especially since it provides a memorable way to celebrate Christmas Eve.

Are there any dress code restrictions? For the dinner cruise, semi-formal attire is encouraged to match the setting’s elegance.

If you’re leaning toward a relaxed, scenic way to mark Christmas Eve with good food and beautiful views, this Baltimore cruise could be a lovely choice. Just remember to manage expectations about the atmosphere—some reviews point out variability—and enjoy the gorgeous harbor scenery and festive mood.

You can check availability for your dates here: