Newport Beach: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and holiday magic to your Christmas Eve, this cruise might be just the thing. Offering a chef-prepared buffet, full bar service, and festive décor, this experience promises an enjoyable way to celebrate while soaking in stunning views of Southern California’s harbor. Though it’s an organized tour, it’s designed to make the holiday feel special without the fuss of hosting at home.

What caught our eye? First, the delicious variety of food—both brunch and dinner options—that makes the experience feel like a proper celebration. Second, the scenic views of Newport Beach from the water are truly a highlight — you’ll get a different perspective on the coastal scenery and holiday lights. A possible consideration? The price point at $168 per person might seem high for some, especially as it’s a set menu with limited flexibility. Still, for a festive, all-in-one celebration, many will find it worth it.

This cruise is ideally suited for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a memorable holiday outing. It’s not explicitly tailored for families with young children, but it can work for those who enjoy a relaxed, refined holiday atmosphere on the water.

Key Points

• Festive setting with holiday décor and scenic harbor views
• All-inclusive buffet with multiple entrée, salad, and dessert options
• Unlimited champagne and mimosas available during brunch
• Relaxed, climate-controlled interior with open-air decks for the best views
• Music entertainment to set the holiday mood
• Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours duration makes for a comfortable outing without being overly long

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This cruise offers a balanced mix of holiday cheer, good food, and beautiful scenery. As we understand it, the experience lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, which is just right for a festive evening without feeling rushed. You’ll board in Newport Beach, where the view of the harbor is a major part of what makes the cruise special.

The buffet meals are thoughtfully curated, with options spanning breakfast favorites, salads, pastas, seafood, roasted meats, and hearty sides. For brunch, the menu features items like smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, French toast, and a variety of salads—plus a signature dessert station with seasonal treats and individual desserts. During dinner, the emphasis shifts toward hearty mains like roasted salmon, carved turkey, and tri-tip steak, complemented by several vegetable sides and potatoes.

The dining setup is all about comfort and convenience. You’re guaranteed a table for your party size, so no worries about losing your spot or fighting for a view. Plus, the all-you-can-drink option for mimosas during brunch and unlimited coffee, tea, and water add to the relaxed, celebratory vibe.

The Food: A Highlight of the Tour

One of the most appreciated aspects, based on feedback, is the quality and variety of the food. The brunch menu, in particular, delivers on both flavor and presentation. Think flaky pastries, perfectly smoked salmon, and a well-rounded mix of breakfast and lunch items. The signature dessert station is a favorite, with seasonal cakes, pastries, and fresh fruit—offering something sweet to round out the meal.

During dinner service, the focus is on hearty, satisfying options. The oven-roasted salmon and hand-carved turkey are prepared with care, and the tri-tip steak is a hit with meat lovers. Sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and stuffing round out the meal, providing plenty of comfort food in a festive setting.

Many reviewers agree that the food is delicious and makes the whole experience feel like a celebration. The buffet format means you can sample a variety of dishes without feeling pressured to stick to a single plate, which is perfect for trying a bit of everything.

The Views and Atmosphere

As you cruise, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Newport Harbor, especially as the sun sets and the holiday lights come to life. The climate-controlled interior offers a cozy spot if the weather turns cool, but the open-air decks are where you’ll want to be for the best sightseeing opportunities.

The festive décor helps set the holiday mood, with decorations, lighting, and music that evoke the spirit of Christmas. The music entertainment adds a lively, cheerful backdrop, though it’s not overly loud or distracting—just enough to enhance the mood.

Some reviews mention that the scenic views are truly memorable, with many commenting that the harbor looks spectacular lit up at night. It’s a different perspective from land-based celebrations and makes for some great photo opportunities.

The Drinks and Entertainment

Brunch guests will love the free-flowing champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider—a nice touch that elevates the holiday feel. For dinner, you’ll find a full bar service, allowing you to enjoy cocktails or perhaps a glass of wine with your meal.

Music entertainment on board is described as setting an upbeat, festive tone. It’s not a full-blown concert, but enough to keep the atmosphere lively and in the holiday spirit. Some reviews highlight that the music and décor combine well to create a memorable experience, especially for those wanting more than just a meal.

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Practical Details and Considerations

At $168 per person, this cruise is a premium experience. It includes a chef-prepared buffet, unlimited drinks during brunch, holiday décor, scenic views, and guaranteed seating—all of which add value. However, it’s worth noting that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the dock.

The cruise is wheelchair accessible and typically operated in the evening, making it suitable for most guests with mobility needs. Since the activity is non-refundable, ensure your plans are firm before booking.

The group size tends to be moderate, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere. It’s an experience that balances festive elegance with relaxed comfort—ideal for celebrating without the formality of a sit-down dinner in a restaurant.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is perfect if you want a special holiday celebration that combines good food, scenic views, and a festive environment. It’s great for couples or groups of friends looking for a memorable way to spend Christmas Eve. It might also appeal to those who enjoy a relaxed, yet elegant outing that’s easy to organize, with everything included.

It’s not specifically family-focused, but older children or teenagers could enjoy the scenic cruise and buffet. If you’re after a purely fun, informal holiday gathering, this might feel a bit refined. Still, for anyone wanting a dessert and drink-filled cruise with holiday cheer, it hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you value delicious food, scenic views, and a lively holiday atmosphere, this cruise offers a solid option for Christmas Eve. The buffet menus are carefully curated, with options that cater to different tastes, and the open-air decks give you a chance to enjoy Newport Harbor’s beauty at night. The drinks and music create a cheerful ambiance, making it feel like a special occasion.

On the flip side, the price point might be a barrier for some, especially if you’re not looking for an all-in holiday experience. If you prefer a more casual or low-key celebration, a quiet dinner at home or a different kind of outing might suit you better.

This cruise is well-suited to travelers who want a festive, memorable, and hassle-free way to celebrate Christmas Eve by the water. It offers a balance of delicious food, scenic views, and holiday spirit—making it a choice many will remember fondly.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for families, older children or teenagers who enjoy scenic boat rides and good food can enjoy the experience. The atmosphere is more refined, so very young children might not find it as engaging.

Does the cruise include hotel transportation?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the dock.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the buffet, unlimited drinks during brunch, holiday décor, scenic harbor views, and guaranteed seating. Beverages like champagne and mimosas are included during brunch, and there’s full bar service for dinner.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a manageable and comfortable festive outing.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
This activity is non-refundable, so be sure of your plans before booking.

If you’re after a holiday activity that combines scenic beauty, festive cheer, and a good meal in a relaxed environment, this Newport Beach Christmas Eve cruise could be a memorable way to celebrate the season. Just plan ahead, and you’ll be in for a lovely evening on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: