Budapest: New Years Eve Buffet Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Planning to ring in the New Year in Budapest? This all-inclusive buffet dinner cruise promises a memorable night on the Danube, with spectacular views, lively music, and unlimited drinks. While it’s not your typical party boat, it offers a refined way to welcome the new year with elegance and fun, especially suited for those who enjoy good food, scenic panoramas, and a sophisticated atmosphere.

What immediately stands out about this cruise is the combination of panoramic vistas of Budapest’s iconic landmarks and the generous open bar that keeps the celebration lively all night. Plus, the live DJ ensures the dance floor stays busy, making it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a party. The second thing we love is the wide-ranging buffet menu, which caters to many tastes and dietary needs, from vegetarian options to hearty mains and sweet desserts.

A potential consideration is that window seats are not guaranteed, and the cruise can get crowded during peak times. If you’re particular about your viewing spots, arriving early or choosing specific seating options might be worth considering. Also, children under 12 are not suitable for this experience, which makes it less ideal for family celebrations.

This cruise is best suited for adults looking for a refined yet lively way to celebrate NYE, especially if you’re keen on enjoying spectacular views and a good party atmosphere without worrying about arranging dinner or drinks separately.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with buffet dinner and unlimited drinks
• Stunning views of Budapest’s major sights along the Danube
• Celebratory atmosphere with a live DJ on board
• Flexible options for different seating preferences
• Great value for a luxurious NYE celebration
• Not suitable for children under 12

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Budapest NYE Buffet Cruise

If you’re considering spending your New Year’s Eve aboard a cruise in Budapest, this experience offers a well-rounded package. It combines the magic of the city’s illuminated skyline with the comfort of a seated dinner and the lively energy of a dance party. But as with any event, understanding what’s included and what to expect can help you decide if it’s the right fit.

Setting the Scene: The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

The cruise begins at 20:00, giving you a chance to settle in and soak up the atmosphere before the clock strikes midnight. You’ll board at either the Mahart PassNave or Mahart Cruises, both centrally located and easy to access. After boarding, the cruise heads into the Danube, offering a spectacular backdrop of Budapest’s most famous sights.

As you cruise, you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner featuring a variety of dishes, from starters like Tuscan cold cuts and tuna tartar to vegetarian options like beetroot carpaccio and salads. The mains are hearty and diverse, including options like chicken breast with truffle polenta, pulled pork, lamb chops with a red wine and fig sauce, and even a Hungarian fish stew. The dessert selection is tempting, with classics like New York cheesecake, pistachio crème brûlée, and chocolate ganache.

Midnight is marked by a special New Year’s Eve toast with complimentary champagne, adding a touch of celebration. The live DJ then kicks in to keep the energy high, whether you prefer to dance on the lower deck or enjoy the scenic views from the upper deck. Guests are free to move around, including visiting the open terrace for fresh air and a different perspective on the city lights.

The Views and Landmarks

You’ll pass key sights like the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Buda Castle, and the iconic Chain Bridge. The commentary isn’t explicitly mentioned, but with knowledgeable guides and scenic viewpoints, you’ll get an impressive overview of Budapest’s skyline. The cruise’s scenic routes and visual highlights help you see the city from a new angle, especially magical with the city lights at night.

The Food and Drinks

The buffet menu is notably broad, with dishes catering to different tastes and dietary restrictions. The inclusion of gluten-free pastries and vegetarian options shows attention to guest needs. You’ll also have access to a generous open bar, which includes water, soft drinks, beer, wine, spirits, and coffee. It’s an excellent value, especially since the drinks flow freely throughout the night, allowing everyone to toast to the new year without concern about extra costs.

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The Atmosphere and Entertainment

The live DJ is a highlight, keeping the atmosphere lively and upbeat. You can dance on the dance floor or enjoy the views from the upper deck. Guests seem to appreciate the friendly staff and the smooth flow of the evening. A few reviews mention that seats are not guaranteed by the window, so arriving early or choosing a preferred seating area might improve your experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for adults seeking a chic, festive way to celebrate NYE. It’s perfect if you want to combine sightseeing, dining, and dancing in one package, with the added bonus of breathtaking views. If you’re someone who values good food, unlimited drinks, and lively music in a comfortable setting, this experience hits the mark.

What Could Be Better?

One small downside is that seating is not guaranteed, which might matter if you’re particular about your view. Also, because it’s a ticketed event with a set schedule, it’s less suitable for those who prefer a more flexible or informal celebration. The cruise’s duration of 6 hours is quite generous, but if you want a shorter or less structured evening, this might not be the right pick.

Final Thoughts

This Budapest NYE buffet cruise offers a fine balance of luxury, fun, and scenic beauty. It’s a well-organized event that combines a delicious buffet, unlimited drinks, and the spectacle of Budapest illuminated at night. The lively vibe from the live DJ and the stunning views make it a memorable way to welcome the new year.

If you’re after a sophisticated celebration with a touch of elegance and a party atmosphere, this cruise is a strong contender. It’s particularly suitable for those who want everything taken care of in one ticket — food, drinks, entertainment — with the added charm of Budapest’s majestic skyline.

While it’s not designed to cater to families with young children, for grown-ups looking for a classy, fun way to start the year, this cruise ticks many boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, children under 12 years are not recommended for this experience, primarily because of the adult-focused atmosphere and the nature of the event.

What time does boarding start?
Boarding begins at 7:50 PM, and the cruise departs promptly at 8:00 PM.

Are seats guaranteed near the window?
Window seats are not guaranteed, so if that’s important to you, arriving early or choosing specific seating options might help.

What’s included in the drinks?
The open bar includes water, soft drinks, beer, wine, spirits, and coffee, available throughout the cruise.

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

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately six hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy dinner, sightseeing, dancing, and watching the city light up.

Is there any commentary or guide on the sights?
While not explicitly mentioned, you’ll enjoy scenic viewpoints of Budapest’s landmarks during the cruise, which is part of the overall experience.

This cruise offers a comfortable, enjoyable way to mark the start of a new year in Budapest. Whether you’re in it for the views, the food, or the lively crowd, it’s worth considering if you want a memorable, all-in-one celebration.

You can check availability for your dates here: