If you’re considering spending a couple of hours on Norfolk’s waterways, a buffet cruise with City Cruises might just be a good fit. It’s advertised as a mix of stunning river views, tasty food, and lively music—all wrapped into a 2 to 2.5-hour trip that promises a relaxing way to see the city’s waterfront.
What immediately catches the eye is the buffet dining options for brunch, lunch, or dinner—plus outdoor decks and a lively atmosphere. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out, along with some of the finer details that can help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.
One thing to keep in mind is that while the reviews are generally very positive, the experience isn’t perfect. Some reviews point out small issues like food temperature or the price of drinks, which can matter if you’re a more budget-conscious traveler. Though, this cruise seems best suited for those who want a laid-back, scenic outing with good food and a fun vibe, whether you’re celebrating something special or just wanting to enjoy Norfolk from a different perspective.
Key Points
- Stunning views of Norfolk’s skyline and Navy vessels make this a memorable scenic experience.
- Buffet dining with a variety of freshly prepared dishes offers a good range of options, from salads to hearty entrees and desserts.
- Outdoor decks and largest outdoor patio give you space to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
- Music and DJ entertainment add a lively touch, perfect for those who want a fun and festive setting.
- Flexible timing with options for brunch, lunch, or dinner, making it adaptable to your schedule.
- Price point of $80 per person is reasonable considering the combination of food, views, and entertainment.
An Honest Look at the Experience
When we talk about a cruise like this, the main draw is often the scenery. Norfolk’s Elizabeth River offers a beautiful backdrop, especially if you appreciate seeing the city’s skyline and the Navy’s impressive fleet. The views are praised frequently—many reviews mention how gorgeous the skyline looks, especially as the sun sets or during daylight hours, giving you that perfect photo opportunity.
What sets this cruise apart from a simple boat ride is the buffet dining experience. The menu features a variety of dishes, including salads, entrees like oven-roasted salmon, baked pasta, and even some more adventurous options like jerk chicken or carved tri-tip steak. Desserts include a baked peach berry crisp and seasonal fruit, which many reviews describe as delicious and plentiful. The fact that the food is freshly prepared is a plus—although, some reviews mention that the hot food isn’t always served hot, so that’s something to keep in mind.
The entertainment options are another highlight. Depending on your cruise, you might enjoy a relaxing background playlist or a lively DJ that gets everyone dancing. Several reviews rave about the fun atmosphere—people saying the music was “great,” “lively,” or that the DJ was “awesome.” It’s an experience that feels festive without being over-the-top.
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What to Expect on the Cruise
Starting with the boarding process, guests are advised to arrive 30 minutes early—boarding begins then, and late arrivals may miss the boat. The crew is described as attentive and friendly, helping you find your seat and making sure your experience starts smoothly.
Once aboard the Spirit of Norfolk, you’ll be shown to your table, where your buffet is ready to be enjoyed. The buffet includes a good mix of salads, vegetables, and hot entrees, all designed to cater to a variety of tastes. As you indulge, you can order drinks—alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but keep in mind they can be pricey, with some reviews mentioning the high cost for beverages.
The scenery is the main event—the views of the Norfolk skyline and Navy vessels are praised consistently. Many guests enjoy strolling on the outdoor decks or relaxing on the largest outdoor patio in the city, especially if the weather is pleasant. The climate-controlled decks mean you’re comfortable no matter the weather, which is a thoughtful touch.
Food and Drink: What’s on Offer?
The buffet is often described as “good,” “delicious,” and “enough,” with a decent variety of salads, vegetables, and hot entrees. The dinner menu features items like oven-roasted salmon, baked pasta, jerk chicken, carved tri-tip steak, and sides like roasted potatoes and summer vegetables. Desserts like peach berry crisp and seasonal fruit wrap up the meal nicely.
While most reviews agree the food is enjoyable, a few mention that some hot dishes weren’t very hot upon serving. This is common for buffets on moving ships, so don’t expect restaurant-level temperature consistency. Still, the quality is generally well-received, and many say they left satisfied.
Beverages are available but at a premium—reviewers note that drinks cost more than typical bars, which might be a consideration if you’re planning to indulge.
Entertainment and Atmosphere
The cruise typically offers background music or a DJ. Several guests highlight how much fun they had dancing or just enjoying the lively tunes. People enjoy the upbeat environment, especially in the evening cruises, which tend to be more festive.
The outdoor patio is a highlight, giving you space to breathe and take in the views, especially under the stars. It’s large enough to accommodate many guests comfortably, and the climate-controlled decks mean you’re protected from rain or wind, keeping the experience enjoyable regardless of weather.
More Great Tours NearbyDuration and Group Size
The cruise lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a manageable outing that feels neither rushed nor overly long. The group size can vary, but most reviews suggest a pleasant, well-organized experience with friendly staff who keep things moving smoothly.
Price and Value
At $80 per person, the cruise isn’t cheap, but considering the buffet, scenic views, and entertainment, many guests feel it’s a fair deal. The all-inclusive nature of the buffet and the chance to relax in a beautiful setting add to the perceived value. However, drinks can significantly increase the bill, so budget accordingly if you plan to sip throughout.
What Could Be Improved?
Some reviews mention that the hot food isn’t always hot, and desserts could be better. Others note that drink prices are high, which could put a damper on the experience for some. Plus, the dress code is dressy-casual, with critics saying some guests don’t adhere to the guidelines, which can affect the overall atmosphere.
Who Is This Cruise Best For?
This experience is perfect for those wanting a scenic escape with good food and lively entertainment. It’s well-suited for couples celebrating special occasions, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a relaxed outing on Norfolk’s water. While not specifically tailored for families, the cruise does seem to be a welcoming environment for all ages—just be aware of the dress code and the potential for high drink prices.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the City Cruises Norfolk buffet cruise offers a pleasant, scenic way to enjoy Norfolk’s waterfront with the added bonus of a tasty buffet and upbeat atmosphere. The views are genuinely stunning, the buffet is satisfying, and the lively music helps set a festive tone. Though it’s not a perfect experience—some dishes could be hotter, and drinks are pricey—it still delivers a memorable outing that many guests cherish.
If you’re after a relaxing, scenic cruise with good food and a fun vibe, this could be just right. Just plan to arrive early, dress nicely, and maybe set aside some extra for drinks. It’s a solid choice for an enjoyable few hours, especially if you love a good view and a lively crowd.
City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise
FAQ
Is there a dress code I need to follow?
Yes, the cruise recommends dressy-casual attire. No jeans, shorts, tank tops, or gym shoes are allowed onboard. Some guests don’t adhere strictly to this, but dressing up a bit will help you fit in and enjoy the atmosphere.
What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID card for check-in. The climate-controlled decks mean you don’t need to worry about weather, but comfortable shoes for walking on outdoor decks are a good idea.
How early should I arrive for boarding?
Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure. Arriving early ensures you won’t miss the boat, especially if you want to settle in and get comfy.
Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are purchased separately. Beverages, including alcohol, are available for sale but tend to be more expensive than at bars.
Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, infants are allowed free of charge. Consider whether your kids can sit through a 2 to 2.5-hour cruise with music and food.
Can I join the cruise if I make a last-minute reservation?
It’s better to book in advance, as late arrivals might miss the boat. The cruise also operates on a flexible reservation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What is included in the buffet?
The buffet features salads, hot entrees like salmon and carved steak, sides, and desserts. The menu offers enough variety for most tastes.
Is there parking nearby?
Parking details aren’t specified, but it’s safe to assume you can find options near the dock. Arriving early is always a good idea if parking is limited.
If you’re after a scenic, food-filled outing in Norfolk, this cruise offers a pleasant balance of views, eats, and fun. Just come prepared for a lively atmosphere and be ready to enjoy the water and cityscape from a new perspective.
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