NYC: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

If you’re looking to add a touch of holiday magic to your NYC Christmas, the Spirit of New York cruise offers a lively and scenic way to do it. This experience combines a delightful seasonal buffet with unbeatable views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline, all while cruising around the harbor. From the bright lights of the city to the shimmering waters, it’s a festive outing that many find memorable—but it’s not without a few things to consider.

We really appreciate how this cruise captures the holiday spirit with decorations, a seasonal menu, and lively music. The fact that you get a reserved private table makes it feel special and comfortable, especially during a busy holiday. Plus, the up-close views of the Statue of Liberty are pretty spectacular and perfect for holiday photos. That said, the experience can be a bit crowded, and some reviews mention that the food and sightline details could be improved. Overall, it’s a fun, family-friendly option that works well for those wanting a festive mingle with stunning views, but it might not be for everyone seeking a more in-depth sightseeing tour.

Key Points

• Festive atmosphere with holiday décor, seasonal cocktails, and music
• Great views of NYC’s skyline and famous landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty
• All-you-can-eat buffet featuring seasonal favorites—sometimes with variable quality
• Reserved seating in a climate-controlled dining room
• Live DJ entertainment and onboard games add fun to the cruise
• Duration is around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it an engaging but not overly long experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Christmas Harbor Cruise

Imagine stepping aboard the Spirit of New York at Chelsea Piers, where the holiday décor immediately sets a festive mood. Twinkling lights, snow-covered-themed decorations, and cheerful music make for an atmosphere that’s both lively and cozy. Once onboard, you’ll be shown to your reserved private table in the climate-controlled dining room, designed to give you a comfortable spot to enjoy the event regardless of the weather outside.

The Dining Experience

The highlight is the seasonal three-course buffet—think traditional holiday favorites, along with an array of other dishes that appeal to a variety of tastes. If you opt for the brunch version, you’ll also find unlimited mimosas, which add a celebratory touch. For dinner, the focus shifts to hearty seasonal fare with options that may vary but are generally designed to evoke holiday cheer.

From the reviews, we know that the food quality can vary—one guest mentioned that many options were gone by the time their table was called, and others pointed out that the food wasn’t always exceptional. However, most agree that the buffet offers plenty to enjoy, especially considering the atmosphere and views. If you have specific food allergies or preferences, it’s wise to inform your server beforehand since the menu may change.

The Entertainment and Atmosphere

The live DJ keeps the energy high with music suited to the holiday spirit, and onboard games add a playful element for groups or families. It’s a lively scene with guests chatting, dancing, and taking photos of the skyline. You’ll find ample space to stroll around on the decks—both indoor and outdoor—allowing you to take in the views from different angles. The outdoor rooftop lounge is perfect for those crisp winter breezes and panoramic photos.

Sights and Photo Opportunities

Cruising past landmarks like the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, and Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll get a pretty spectacular backdrop for holiday photos. The close-up view of the Statue of Liberty is a highlight, especially with the festive lights and the sparkling water. Many reviews highlight the ample space for photos, which makes this a hit for travelers who love capturing scenic moments.

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The Route and Duration

The cruise generally lasts 2 to 2.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy your meal, dance, and gaze at the sights without feeling rushed. It departs from Chelsea Piers, making it conveniently accessible. The cruise takes you along the Hudson and East Rivers, offering a comprehensive view of the city’s skyline, especially stunning at night.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $146 per person, this cruise is a bit of an investment, but it’s important to consider what you’re getting. The combination of delicious seasonal food, lively entertainment, and unbeatable views makes it a unique holiday experience. Keep in mind that alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, and the included extras are limited—if you’re keen on drinks or photos, expect to spend more.

Some guests feel the value matches the cost, especially those who enjoy the festive atmosphere and scenic sightseeing. Others, however, note that food options can run out quickly and sightseeing commentary is minimal, which might be disappointing if you’re hoping for detailed city insights.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The majority of guests seem satisfied, with a 4.4/5 rating based on 29 reviews, highlighting the stunning skyline views and lively ambiance. One guest from the UK loved the “wonderful” experience, calling it “truly unique,” while another pointed out some issues with crowding and food availability. A visitor noted that the music could be more appropriate—Christmas tunes would have fit better than ’90s hits—so if music atmosphere matters to you, you might want to bring some playlist ideas.

Some criticisms focus on cold weather and lack of heaters while waiting in line, so dressing warmly is a good idea. Others mention bathroom capacity issues, which is typical on large boats. These minor inconveniences are worth considering if you’re sensitive to comfort during a winter cruise.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This cruise works particularly well for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a festive way to celebrate Christmas in NYC. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed yet lively atmosphere with spectacular views and good food. It’s less suited for those craving detailed sightseeing or immersive city tours, as the focus is more on dining, entertainment, and scenery.

If you enjoy dinner cruises with a celebratory vibe and are okay with the possibility of a crowded environment, this could be a memorable holiday outing. Just remember that comfort and punctuality are key—arrive early, dress warmly, and have your camera ready.

Final Thoughts

The NYC Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise offers a fun, scenic way to celebrate the holiday, especially if you’re after a lively atmosphere, good food, and stunning views. While the buffet may not always be top-tier, the combination of city lights, iconic sights, and festive décor makes it a worthwhile experience for many travelers. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a bit of entertainment, socializing, and capturing holiday moments against the backdrop of Manhattan’s glittering skyline.

If you’re looking for a holiday event that mixes scenic cruising with a cheerful party vibe, this cruise might just be the highlight of your NYC Christmas. Just plan for the weather, book in advance, and enjoy the unique blend of celebration and sightseeing.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention family-friendliness, children are welcome, and infants under 2 can join for free with a reservation. Flat, closed-toed shoes are recommended for safety, and the lively music and festive environment can be enjoyable for older kids.

What should I wear?
Most guests dress in casual to casually stylish attire. Since it’s winter, layers and warm clothing are advisable, especially if you want to spend time outside on the decks.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, drinks like wine, beer, and cocktails are available for purchase at the bar. The brunch includes unlimited mimosas if you select that option.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, offering enough time to enjoy the meal, sights, and entertainment without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The departure point is Pier 61 at Chelsea Piers, West 23rd and 12th Ave, NYC. Arrive early to find your group and settle in comfortably.

Can I get a photo of the Statue of Liberty?
Yes, the cruise offers an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty, perfect for photos, especially with the holiday lighting and water reflections.

Is the meal gluten-free or vegetarian?
Menu details are subject to change, and special dietary requests should be communicated to the staff beforehand.

What is the cancellation policy?
This activity is non-refundable, so be sure of your plans before booking.

If you’re after a memorable, picture-perfect, holiday experience in NYC, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for—scenic, festive, and fun, with a touch of holiday magic on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: