Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise

If you’re considering a night out in Norfolk that combines good food, interesting sights, and a lively atmosphere, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise might catch your eye. Based on numerous traveler reviews, this cruise offers a decent way to enjoy the city’s waterfront, Navy ships, and entertainment without breaking the bank. While we haven’t been on it ourselves, we’ve sifted through the details to help you decide whether it fits your plans.

One thing many appreciate about this experience is its spectacular views of the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet — a unique backdrop you won’t find just anywhere. Plus, the delicious buffet and music-filled ambiance stand out as major highlights. On the flip side, some reviews mention service issues and delivery delays that could impact your overall enjoyment. This cruise tends to suit those looking for a relaxed, fun evening with friends, family, or a partner, especially if you’re interested in Navy ships or just want a scenic dining experience.

Key Points

• Great views of Norfolk’s Navy ships and skyline from the deck.
• Tasty buffet with fresh entrees, salads, and desserts that satisfy most appetites.
• Lively onboard entertainment with DJ music and interactive games.
• Group-friendly experience ideal for celebrations or casual outings.
• Some reviews mention slow service and traffic issues affecting arrival times.
• Non-refundable booking—plan ahead to avoid losing your fee.
• Most travelers book about 18 days in advance, so it’s popular but not last-minute.
• Price point around $107 per person offers decent value considering the scenery and food.

An Overview of the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise Experience

This cruise, offered by City Cruises, runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes along the Elizabeth River. It’s a straightforward, relaxed outing that combines dining, sightseeing, and entertainment, making it a flexible choice whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy Norfolk from a different angle.

Pricing at around $106.88 per person is in line with other river cruises—certainly not the cheapest, but when you factor in the buffet, views, and entertainment, it feels like a reasonable deal. Booking is generally done about 18 days in advance, which suggests it’s quite popular but worth planning ahead if you’re keen on securing a spot.

The start point is centrally located at 173 Waterside Dr, easy to access via public transportation or by car. The cruise ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple. Keep in mind, the activity is limited to a maximum of 200 travelers, which keeps the vibe friendly and not overly crowded.

What You Can Expect During the Itinerary

The main “stop” on this tour is the Skyline deck, where you’ll get stunning views of Norfolk’s skyline, Navy ships, and submarines. This part of the experience is what most guests look forward to—standing on the deck, gazing at impressive naval vessels while enjoying your meal and a drink.

The buffet dinner is a highlight: travelers consistently mention that the food is delicious and freshly prepared. The menu includes entrees, salads, and desserts, with unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Some reviews note that drinks, especially mixed cocktails, sometimes lack alcohol or are served with issues, so if you’re after a particular beverage, you might want to bring your own or manage expectations.

Onboard entertainment features a DJ playing a mix of musical genres, which encourages dancing and adds energy to the evening. There are also interactive games and access to lounge areas, giving everyone options to relax or mingle.

The Real Experiences and Mixed Feedback

While many reviews are glowing, praising the friendly staff, wonderful music, and beautiful sunset views, some common issues do surface. A few travelers mention slow service, especially in getting drinks or food, with one reviewer calling out the staff as “nice but ineffective” due to being short-handed.

Traffic can also be a concern—at least for some—in terms of arriving on time. One reviewer shared that traffic was a nightmare, and despite trying to arrive early, they nearly missed the boat, which led to frustration especially when support was unhelpful. So, if you’re coming from afar or have a tight schedule, factor in extra travel time, and perhaps plan to arrive well ahead of your scheduled departure.

Despite these hiccups, the majority of guests seem to have a memorable experience with positive comments about the scenery, the food, and the overall atmosphere. Celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries come through clearly as popular occasions, with many guests noting that the cruise made their event extra special.

The Dinner Buffet: Food That Satisfies

The buffet is often praised as delicious and well-prepared. Guests mention that the variety of entrees, salads, and desserts provided plenty of options. One review describes the food as fabulous, and another highlights that everyone found something they liked.

However, not all feedback is perfect. A few guests found the spicy dishes a bit overwhelming, and some thought the potatoes were dry or cold, suggesting that if you prefer milder or more traditional fare, you might want to manage your expectations or eat earlier in the buffet line.

Views and Atmosphere: A Highlight for Most

The views on this cruise are its biggest draw. Watching Navy ships and submarines drift by from the deck creates a sense of connection to Norfolk’s maritime identity. The sunset scenes, especially if you’re lucky with the weather, are magical and often described as beautiful.

Guests also enjoy the lively atmosphere created by the music and the chance to dance or simply relax. The onboard lounge areas provide space to sit and chat, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter experience but still want to soak up the sights.

One testimonial said, “Enjoyed delicious food and wonderful music,” capturing the balance of good eatery and entertainment.

Customer Service and Its Variability

Several reviews highlight friendly staff and helpful service, which adds to the overall vibe. But a handful mention delays in service and poor communication, especially when trying to resolve issues or ask questions. One reviewer described an interaction with customer support as “rude and unprofessional,” which is worth considering if you’re booking last minute or have specific needs.

Another aspect that comes up is the non-refundable policy—if your plans change, you won’t be able to get a refund or reschedule, so it’s best to be confident in your booking.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience suits those looking for a relaxed, scenic evening with the opportunity to enjoy good food, lively music, and views of Norfolk’s Navy ships. It’s especially good for celebrations, small groups, or couples wanting a mix of entertainment and sightseeing.

If you’re someone who values smooth service and punctuality, or if you’re planning a last-minute trip, you might want to weigh these factors carefully. The cruise isn’t about high-end luxury but rather a fun, casual outing that offers decent value for the scenery and atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a solid value for your evening, especially if you’re interested in Navy ships and scenic water views. The buffet food is good, and the views are impressive, making it a memorable way to spend a few hours in Norfolk. While the service can sometimes be slow and traffic issues are worth considering, these are relatively minor hiccups in what’s otherwise a pleasant experience.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys good food, lively music, and waterfront scenery, this cruise is likely to satisfy. It’s especially fitting for those celebrating a special event or simply wanting to enjoy Norfolk’s maritime charm in a relaxed setting.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is the cruise suitable for large groups or parties?
Yes, the cruise can accommodate groups of all sizes, making it a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings.

How long does the experience last?
The cruise runs for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including time for boarding, dining, enjoying the scenery, and entertainment.

Can I book the cruise last minute?
It’s best to book about 18 days in advance to secure your spot, as it’s a popular activity.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the 2.5-hour cruise, buffet dinner, DJ entertainment, access to lounge spaces, interactive games, and unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.

Is there parking available?
While not explicitly detailed, the meeting point at Waterside Drive is centrally located and likely accessible by public transit or car.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted onboard.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is a safe choice. Bring layers if you plan to stay on the deck as it can get breezy.

Is the buffet suitable for dietary restrictions?
While the menu includes entrees and salads, specific dietary accommodations are not detailed, so it’s best to inquire ahead if you have special needs.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but there are no specific age restrictions mentioned.

Can I expect a professional, attentive staff?
Generally yes, but some reviews mention slow service, so your experience might vary depending on staffing levels on the day.

If you’re after a relaxed night with good food, great views, and lively entertainment, this cruise could be a solid choice. Just keep an eye on timing and book in advance to make the most of it.