City Cruises Boston: Premier Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your Boston trip, a harbor cruise aboard The Odyssey might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the reviews and features paint a picture of a lively, scenic, and delicious experience that many travelers find memorable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a different view of the city, this cruise offers a blend of fine dining, panoramic views, and a little dancing thrown in.

What we really appreciate about this cruise are the impressive skyline vistas—you’ll get sweeping views of Boston’s most iconic landmarks—and the gourmet food options, whether a three-course dinner or a buffet brunch. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the food quality can sometimes fall short of expectations, and the service might sometimes be a bit inconsistent. Still, for many, the overall experience remains a highlight, especially if you enjoy a lively atmosphere with music and dancing.

This experience is best suited for those who want a relaxed yet upscale outing, perfect for celebrating special moments or simply enjoying a romantic evening on the water. Keep in mind, the dress code leans toward smart-casual, with suggestions for jackets or cocktail attire on the dinner cruise. It’s less about a formal dinner and more about the ambiance and views—so if you love good food, great scenery, and a fun vibe, this cruise could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Stunning skyline views of Boston’s landmarks like Bunker Hill, USS Constitution, and Zakim Bridge
• Flexible dining options including a gourmet three-course dinner or buffet brunch
• Live DJ and dance floor add a lively, upbeat atmosphere
• Open-air observation decks for prime photo opportunities and fresh sea breezes
• Relaxed, smart-casual dress code, with recommendations for jackets for dinner
• Boarding at Boston Harbor Hotel with an hour to explore the ship before departure

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The main attraction of this cruise is the chance to see Boston from a different perspective—on the water, with the city’s skyline as your backdrop. The Odyssey, the ship used for this cruise, exudes a sense of class and comfort, with both indoor and outdoor spaces. You’ll start your journey with about an hour of boarding time, giving you a chance to wander the deck, snap some photos, and settle into your private table.

The Dining Options

Once onboard, you can choose between a buffet brunch or a 3-course plated dinner, depending on your ticket type. The menu for the dinner is quite varied, featuring appetizers like a strawberry arugula salad and local cheese and charcuterie. Main courses range from smoked chili-rubbed Atlantic salmon and pan-seared chicken breast to zatar flat iron steak and vegetarian gnocchi. Dessert options include cheesecake, chocolate toffee crunch cake, and pineapple upside-down cake.

The quality of the food seems to vary, according to reviews. One traveler mentioned the chicken was “so dry,” which suggests that not every dish hits the mark. The menu is subject to change, and service can sometimes be inconsistent—wait times for water refills, for instance, aren’t always prompt. That said, most people agree the overall dining experience is enjoyable, especially when paired with the fantastic views.

Atmosphere and Entertainment

The onboard live DJ amps up the energy, encouraging dancing and socializing. The cruise isn’t just about eating; it’s about soaking in the lively, celebratory atmosphere. Some reviews highlight the romantic setting, especially under the supermoon, making it a great choice for couples. Others have celebrated birthdays or special milestones, and the experience seems flexible enough for different kinds of gatherings.

The Views

From both open-air decks and climate-controlled indoors, you’ll have a panoramic view of Boston’s most famous sights. The landmark highlights include the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill, and the Zakim Bridge. The observation decks are perfect spots for photos, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights sparkle.

More Great Tours Nearby

Duration and Logistics

The cruise lasts about 2 hours, which makes it a manageable outing without feeling rushed. Boarding begins an hour before departure, and it’s recommended to arrive behind the Boston Harbor Hotel. The relaxed schedule and scenic route make this a comfortable, enjoyable experience.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a special and scenic evening or afternoon outing. It’s ideal for couples wanting a romantic setting, friends celebrating a birthday, or anyone who appreciates good food combined with stunning city views. The lively vibe with the DJ and dancing makes it less formal and more fun, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of entertainment along with their meal.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, infants can attend for free, and the experience might appeal to families with older children who enjoy scenic boat rides and dining. However, the focus on a smart-casual dress code and lively atmosphere suggests it’s more suited for adults.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Cost & Value: At $243 per person, this cruise isn’t exactly cheap, but it covers the cruise, dining, and entertainment. If you’re after a memorable night out with terrific views and good food, it can be money well spent. Just keep in mind that some reviews mention the food isn’t always “gourmet,” so temper expectations there.
• Dress Code: Smart-casual is recommended, with jackets suggested for the dinner cruise. Pack accordingly — no need for formal attire, but a neat look suits the vibe.
• Food & Drink: The menu offers variety, but if you have specific dietary restrictions or are particular about your food, mention allergies beforehand. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
• Timing: Evening cruises are usually available, offering a chance to see Boston’s skyline illuminated at sundown. Arrive an hour early for boarding.
• Weather & Season: The decks are climate-controlled, so you’ll be comfortable year-round. Still, dressing in layers is wise to handle the open-air decks.
• Group Reservations: To sit together, make one reservation for your entire group. Separate reservations might mean splitting up.

The Good, The Not-So-Good, and The Practical

What we loved is the panoramic views—the chance to see Boston’s famous skyline from the water is genuinely special. The live DJ and dancing elevate the experience from a simple dinner to a fun night out. The ample indoor and outdoor spaces mean you can find a cozy spot regardless of the weather or your preference.

On the flip side, some reviews point out that food quality can be inconsistent, and service might sometimes be slow—an important consideration if you’re expecting a high-level gourmet meal. Also, at $243, it’s an investment, so you’ll want to enjoy the entire experience.

This cruise offers a great way to celebrate or relax, especially if you’re partial to scenic dinners paired with lively atmospheres. It’s best for those who value stellar views and good ambiance over ultra-fine dining, but it’s a well-rounded experience that many find worthwhile.

FAQ

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
Yes, smart-casual attire is recommended, especially for the dinner cruise. Jackets are strongly suggested, but formal wear isn’t required.

Can I bring children?
Infants can attend for free, but the experience is primarily designed for adults. The lively atmosphere and dress code make it more suitable for older children or teenagers.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive one hour before departure at the meeting point behind the Boston Harbor Hotel to allow time for boarding and exploring the ship.

What does the cruise include?
Your ticket covers the cruise itself, private table, onboard entertainment, observation decks, and unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.

What are the dining options?
Choose between a buffet brunch or a three-course plated dinner. Menus include salads, soups, main courses, and desserts, but menu items are subject to change.

Is the cruise weather-dependent?
No, decks are climate-controlled, so you’ll stay comfortable in any weather. Still, layers are recommended for outdoor areas.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours.

Can I book just the cruise without dining?
This specific experience combines dining with the cruise, so you will need to purchase a ticket that includes food.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited coffee, tea, and iced tea are included. Alcoholic beverages are sold separately on board.

Final Thoughts

A harbor dinner or brunch cruise on The Odyssey offers a blend of scenic views, lively ambiance, and good food — ideal for celebrating special days or simply enjoying a unique perspective of Boston. The experience’s charm lies in the combination of stunning skyline vistas and a fun, upbeat environment. While some may find the food quality varies, most agree that the overall experience, especially with the views and music, makes it a memorable outing.

If you’re after a relaxed yet upscale experience that balances scenery and entertainment, this cruise is worth considering. It’s particularly suited for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a special night on the water without the formality of a traditional dinner event.

Enjoy your Boston adventure, and hopefully, this helps you decide if a harbor cruise is the right pick for you!

You can check availability for your dates here: