Newport Beach: Champagne and Brunch Buffet City Cruise

If you’re considering a leisurely way to soak up the sights of Newport Beach, the Champagne and Brunch Buffet City Cruise offers a pretty appealing option. We haven’t been on this particular cruise ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed descriptions, it’s a good pick for anyone wanting a relaxed, enjoyable daytime outing on the water. Think fresh food, unlimited bubbly, and some of the best harbor views California has to offer—all from the comfort of a well-appointed yacht.

What immediately stands out about this experience is how well it combines a scenic cruise with a hearty, chef-prepared buffet, making it a simple but indulgent treat. Two things we especially like? The unlimited champagne and sparkling cider—a real highlight for those wanting a celebratory vibe—and the beautiful vistas of Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile that make for excellent photo ops. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that some visitors mention the food being lukewarm at times, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting top-tier cuisine. This cruise seems best suited for those who appreciate a relaxed, upscale atmosphere with great scenery, and who value good service and drinks in a charming setting.

Key Points

• Relaxing 2-hour cruise with scenic harbor views
• Sumptuous buffet featuring both savory and sweet options
• Unlimited champagne and sparkling cider for a toast or celebration
• Live entertainment sets a lively, enjoyable mood
• Admire landmarks like Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile
• Accessible for most with dress code upscale casual to business casual

You can check availability for your dates here:

An honest look at what this cruise offers

Imagine yourself aboard a comfortable yacht, floating gently through Newport Harbor, with a view that paints a picture of California’s coastal beauty. You’re greeted by friendly staff, settled into your reserved table, and greeted with a buffet that’s thoughtfully prepared from the freshest seasonal ingredients. The vibe is relaxed but upscale—no beachwear or athletic gear, so leave your flip-flops at home. This is about enjoying a special, yet laid-back outing, whether you’re celebrating something or just want a break from the usual.

The Cruise Itinerary and What to Expect

The cruise lasts around two hours, making it a perfect morning or early afternoon activity that fits well into a day of exploring Newport Beach. It departs from Mariner’s Mile Marina, a location that’s easy enough to reach with some planning, and offers stunning views from both open-air and enclosed decks.

Once onboard, the experience begins with the sights of the harbor as your backdrop. The cruise takes you past notable landmarks, including Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile, giving you a sense of the area’s maritime charm. These views alone make the ticket price worthwhile—especially if you’re into postcard-worthy photos or just appreciate a peaceful way to see the city from the water.

The Brunch Buffet: What’s on the Plate?

The buffet is thoughtfully curated with a mix of savory and sweet dishes. For early risers, there are breakfast pastries, muffins, danishes, and Scottish smoked salmon with cream cheese, capers, and bagels. For those who prefer breakfast mains, scrambled eggs with cheddar, applewood smoked bacon, sausage links, and breakfast potatoes are available, along with French toast topped with whipped cream and maple syrup.

Later in the buffet, you’ll find salads like Caesar and Greek, pasta salads, and oven-roasted salmon with seasonal vegetables. There’s also a kid’s station with chicken tenders and fries, making it family-friendly if you’re traveling with kids—though note that children 3 and under are free, but need to be listed correctly during booking.

The dessert station is a highlight, with seasonal fresh fruit and individual desserts that round out the meal. The selection is hearty enough to satisfy most appetites, especially when paired with the bottomless champagne and sparkling cider, which adds a celebratory touch.

The Drinks and Entertainment

The unlimited champagne and sparkling cider are the star drinks of the show. Reviews praise the top-notch service and the good quality of the drinks, which really elevate the experience. You can sip leisurely while enjoying the harbor views or capture memorable photos from the open-air roof deck—an ideal spot for panoramic shots of the coastline and passing boats.

Live entertainment is part of the cruise ambiance, adding a lively element without overpowering the relaxing environment. It’s suitable for those who want to unwind while enjoying some background music and the company of fellow travelers.

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The Views and Landmarks

You’ll love the views of Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile, especially if you’re into boating or coastal scenery. The open-air deck allows you to soak up the sun and take in the fresh sea air, whereas the indoor seating offers comfort if you’re sensitive to weather changes or prefer a quieter spot.

Multiple reviews highlight the stunning harbor vistas as a major plus—some mention that the photos taken during the cruise are among their favorites from the trip. These views also serve as a lovely backdrop for casual conversations or just zoning out with a drink in hand.

What the Reviews Say

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating from 82 reviews. Many travelers appreciate the friendly staff, clean and well-maintained boat, and delicious buffet. One reviewer mentioned, “The service, food and trip was great,” which sums up the general sentiment.

However, not all experiences are perfect. One guest shared that “the food wasn’t hot, just lukewarm,” which can be a letdown if you’re expecting freshly cooked dishes at their peak. Another review expressed disappointment because they didn’t get to board the yacht they booked, instead being on a smaller boat due to wind conditions, and felt that better communication or compensation would have been appreciated.

Pricing at $141 per person can seem on the higher side, but considering the all-you-can-drink champagne, the scenic cruise, and the buffet, many find it to be a fair value, especially if you’re celebrating or want something a little more upscale.

Practical Considerations

Getting to the marina is straightforward, but parking can cost $10 cash on-site or more during busy times, so plan ahead. The cruise is typically available in the morning, making it easy to incorporate into a full day of exploring Newport Beach.

Dress code-wise, it’s upscale casual—think nice pants or dresses, no flip-flops or athletic gear. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or even a special someone, this cruise makes for a relaxed yet special occasion. Keep in mind, if you’re booking for a larger group, reserve all together to ensure seats are together.

Children under 3 are free, but make sure to select the appropriate ticket. The cruise may not be ideal for very young children or those who prefer a more active or adventure-focused outing, as it’s primarily a relaxing harbor cruise with good food and drinks.

The Verdict: Is it worth it?

For those who enjoy a laid-back, scenic cruise with a good buffet and unlimited bubbly, this experience checks many boxes. The views are charming and the atmosphere is both lively and relaxed. The quality of the food and drinks generally receives praise, and the highlight—being on the water—can’t be beaten.

However, the experience might fall short if you’re expecting gourmet cuisine served hot or a highly interactive or adventurous activity. The lukewarm food complaints and the occasional boat change are things to consider. It’s definitely more about the vibe and the scenery than about a culinary or sightseeing extravaganza.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a leisurely morning, or just treating yourself to a different perspective of Newport Beach.

Who is this tour best for?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, enjoyable way to see Newport Harbor with a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or families with older children who appreciate good food, drinks, and scenic views. If you’re seeking a relaxed, upscale way to spend a couple of hours on the water, you’ll likely find this experience worth the price.

It might not be the best fit if you’re after a more adventurous or gourmet dining experience or if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Also, those needing a very strict schedule should plan accordingly, as parking, check-in, and boarding require some extra time.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Children under 3 are free, but you’ll need to select a free child ticket. The cruise is generally relaxed, but it’s more of a sit-down, scenic experience rather than a kid-focused activity.

What should I wear?
The dress code is upscale casual to business casual. Think nice pants, dresses, or smart casual attire. Avoid flip-flops, athletic wear, or beach attire for a more comfortable experience.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, making it a perfect morning or early afternoon activity.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you get unlimited champagne and sparkling cider included in the ticket price. Other drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Mariner’s Mile Marina at 2431 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach.

Is there parking available?
On-site parking is cash-only and costs $10, with limited spots. Alternative options include offsite public parking lots and metered street parking.

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

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the cruise, and if conditions are unsafe, the cruise could be canceled or modified. It’s good to check the forecast and be prepared with weather-appropriate clothing.

Is the buffet meal served hot?
Some guests have noted that the food was lukewarm at times, so don’t expect hot dishes to be served steaming hot. The focus is on fresh ingredients and good presentation.

In the end, this Newport Beach cruise offers a pleasant, visually stunning way to enjoy the harbor with a touch of elegance and fun. Whether celebrating something special or just wanting to unwind on the water, it’s a decent choice—especially if you’re a fan of good drinks, scenic views, and a laid-back atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: