City Cruises Boston: Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise

Thinking about adding a scenic cruise to your Boston itinerary? We’ve looked into the City Cruises Boston Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise — an experience that promises good food, lively music, and the chance to see Boston’s iconic skyline from the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a relaxed way to enjoy the city, this cruise could be a fun choice.

What we particularly like about this experience is the delicious buffet menu that’s attended by servers, making it feel more like a sit-down meal than just grabbing snacks on the go. Plus, the live DJ and dancing on deck add a festive vibe, great for those who want to combine sightseeing with some fun. On the flip side, one potential downside is that outside decks can be hot and sun-exposed, so planning for weather is essential.

This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, social experience with scenic views and tasty food. It’s also ideal if you enjoy a lively atmosphere with music and dancing. Families, couples, groups of friends—this outing offers a relaxed but engaging way to spend a few hours on the water, soaking in Boston’s sights.

Key Points

• Great views of Boston’s skyline and landmarks like the Seaport District and USS Constitution.
• All-inclusive buffet with fresh, creative options, served directly at your table.
• Live DJ and dance floor for those wanting to groove as they cruise.
• Flexible timing with options for lunch or dinner, lasting 2-3 hours.
• Comfortable indoor climate-controlled areas and outdoor decks for outdoor viewing.
• Affordable price point with good value considering food, entertainment, and sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The Spirit of Boston sets sail from Commonwealth Pier next to the World Trade Center in Boston’s Seaport. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the ship’s welcoming atmosphere — friendly staff, a clean environment, and the promise of a relaxing cruise. The cruise duration typically runs between 2 and 3 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery, food, and music without feeling rushed.

You’re welcomed with about an hour of boarding time before departure, giving you a chance to explore the ship and settle into your table. The interiors are climate-controlled, so whether it’s a hot summer day or a cooler evening, you’ll stay comfortable. The outdoor decks are perfect for panoramic views, especially if you want to snap photos or simply breathe in the fresh harbor air.

The Buffet: A Highlight

The buffet menu is one of the most appreciated parts of this experience. It’s chef-curated and designed to include a variety of creative, freshly prepared dishes. Expect salads like Greek salad with feta and zaatar dressing, chickpea and tomato salad, and a summery berry and farro salad. The hot options cover pasta, salmon, chicken, pork, and a choice of carved meats like tri-tip sirloin.

Desserts are also thoughtfully included, with options like seasonal fruit, peach berry crisp, and individual desserts at the signature dessert station. Several reviews praised the food for being tasty, plentiful, and served hot and fresh, with a server attending to your needs.

The Atmosphere: Music and Dancing

A live DJ keeps the energy lively, playing a mix of genres that appeal to a broad crowd. Guests have raved about dancing on deck, with reviewers mentioning a variety of music styles from Haitian tunes to 90s hits. The atmosphere is relaxed but energetic, making it easy to unwind and enjoy your surroundings. Some reviews highlighted how much they loved the DJ playing different genres, creating a fun, inclusive vibe.

The Sights: What You’ll See

As we’ve gathered, the views are a key part of this cruise. You’ll pass by Boston’s iconic landmarks like the Seaport District, Zakim Bridge, and the historic USS Constitution. One reviewer noted that “the skyline and the sunset was amazing,” emphasizing how stunning the cityscape looks from the water, especially during golden hour.

The outdoor upper-deck lounge offers 360-degree views, perfect for snapping photos, catching a breeze, or just soaking it all in. Be aware, though, that on hot days, the outdoor decks can be exposed to the sun. Bringing sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses might be a smart move, especially if you want to stay comfortable during peak sunshine.

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Service and Value

Reviews consistently commend the friendly, attentive staff. Multiple reviewers mentioned their servers were polite, patient, and attentive. For example, one noted, “Gianna was an awesome server because she was patient, polite, and checked on us regularly.” The crew and staff seem committed to making sure guests are well taken care of, which really elevates the overall experience.

Price-wise, at $89 per person, many see this as a fair deal given what’s included — a buffet, live entertainment, scenic views, and a relaxing cruise environment. The experience offers good value, especially considering the quality of the food and the entertainment. You might find other cruises with similar price points, but this one stands out for the variety and the lively atmosphere.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some guests have pointed out areas for improvement. On hot days, the open decks without shade can become uncomfortable under the sun. Also, the dessert offerings, while tasty, sometimes ran out quickly, with some guests mentioning they didn’t get to enjoy the full range because replenish might not always keep up with demand.

Boarding can feel a little disorganized at times, especially if there are multiple ships docked nearby. It’s advisable to arrive early and follow instructions carefully. Also, drinks are available for purchase, and with some beverages around $20 each, it’s worth budgeting accordingly if you plan to indulge.

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise begins with boarding at Commonwealth Pier, where you get about an hour to explore the ship and settle into your seat. This is a good time to take photos and get a feel for the vessel’s layout. Once everyone is aboard, the ship departs, and the fun starts.

The first part of the cruise is the scenic passage through Boston Harbor, offering views of the city’s skyline and notable landmarks. The ship slowly glides past the Seaport District, which is lively and modern, perfect for those who appreciate a contemporary city vibe. Then, you’ll move by historic sites like the USS Constitution, giving you a sense of Boston’s maritime history.

Throughout the cruise, the buffet is available at your table, with crew members serving generous portions of hot dishes and fresh salads. Guests have noted that the food remains hot and replenished during the cruise, making it a stress-free dining experience. The desserts are a sweet finishing touch, although some mentioned they ran out too quickly.

After the meal, the DJ takes over, and the dance floor opens up. Guests can dance, socialize, or simply enjoy the views from the outdoor decks. Some reviews mentioned that the music played was diverse — Haitian, Spanish, 90s, and more — adding to the lively, inclusive atmosphere.

As the cruise wraps up, you’ll head back to the dock, with the skyline glowing at sunset if you’re lucky. The entire journey is a balance of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment, making it an engaging way to spend a few hours in Boston.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a casual, fun, and scenic way to experience Boston from the water. It’s perfect if you enjoy a lively, social atmosphere with music and dancing, rather than a quiet or historical tour. The food quality and variety make it especially appealing for those who appreciate good dining experiences combined with scenic views.

It’s also a good pick for celebrating special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries, given the festive environment. Families with older children or teens who enjoy music and social outings will find this cruise a relaxed, enjoyable activity.

On the flip side, if you’re seeking a more educational or in-depth historical tour, this might not be the best fit. Similarly, if you’re sensitive to sun exposure or prefer shaded outdoor spaces, you may want to plan accordingly or consider options with better shade coverage.

Is there an option for a buffet lunch or dinner on this cruise?
Yes, you can choose between a buffet lunch or dinner, both offered on separate departures. The buffet features a range of creative salads, hot dishes, and desserts, served at your table by the crew.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise generally lasts between 2 and 3 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy dining, sightseeing, and dancing without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The departure point is Commonwealth Pier next to the World Trade Center in Boston’s Seaport area.

Is there entertainment onboard?
Yes, there’s a live DJ providing music and a lively atmosphere for dancing and socializing during the cruise.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are available for purchase on board, with alcoholic beverages typically around $20 each. Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are complimentary.

Is the ship accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for guests with mobility needs to enjoy the experience.

Can I bring children?
While many reviews mention the cruise as a fun outing, it’s generally suited for older children and teens who can enjoy the music and outdoor decks. Infants are free but need to be included in the reservation.

What should I wear?
Most guests opt for casual, comfortable clothes that are stylish but relaxed. Flat, closed-toed shoes are recommended for safety and comfort on the decks.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The City Cruises Boston Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise offers a relaxed yet lively way to see Boston from a new perspective. The combination of scenic views, tasty buffet, and energetic music creates a memorable outing that suits those who enjoy social, scenic experiences. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a different way to enjoy the city, this cruise delivers a good mix of fun and relaxation.

While it’s not a formal sightseeing tour, its focus on good food, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a worthwhile choice. Just remember to bring sun protection if it’s a sunny day, and arrive early to beat any boarding chaos.

If you’re after a casual, enjoyable cruise with a touch of entertainment, this experience deserves consideration. It’s especially suited for groups, couples, or families with older kids looking for a laid-back maritime adventure that combines sightseeing, dining, and dancing all in one.

You can check availability for your dates here: