Philadelphia: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise

If you’re considering a cruise on the Delaware River, the Philadelphia Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise offered by City Cruises might catch your eye. While I haven’t been on this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered enough reviews, details, and insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This experience combines good food, lively entertainment, and unbeatable views, making it a solid choice for a laid-back day exploring Philadelphia from a different angle.

What I like about this cruise is the chef-prepared buffet that covers salads, mains, and desserts, plus the bottomless mimosas on the brunch cruise—a nice touch for those who want a relaxed, celebratory vibe. The panoramic water views of Philly’s waterfront and landmarks like the Ben Franklin Bridge also stand out as a highlight. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention issues with app navigation and entry, so planning ahead is key. This cruise seems well-suited for those looking to enjoy good food, drinks, and the city’s sights without too much fuss.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a unique way to sightsee, or just want to unwind with friends or family, this experience offers something for many. Now, let’s walk through all the details so you can decide if this cruise fits your travel style.

Key Points

• Scenic Waterway Views: Glide past Philadelphia’s historic waterfront and iconic landmarks like the Ben Franklin Bridge.
• Quality Food & Drinks: Chef-prepared 3-course buffet with seasonal ingredients, including salads, entrees, and desserts.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Reserved tables in a climate-controlled room, live DJ, and open-air rooftop lounge.
• Inclusive Options: Bottomless mimosas on the brunch cruise and unlimited tea and coffee.
• Flexible Timing: Cruises are available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, lasting about 2 to 2.5 hours.
• Family-Friendly Elements: While mainly geared toward adults, the open decks and relaxed pace might appeal to families with older children.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Boarding and Views
Your journey starts at Penn’s Landing on South Columbus Blvd. As you step aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia, you’ll immediately notice the spacious decks and the inviting interior. The cruise typically lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery and a good meal without feeling rushed. You’ll be able to take in views of the Philadelphia skyline, the Delaware River, and the historic waterfront—each snapshot perfect for photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.

Dining Experience
The highlight for many travelers is the chef-prepared buffet. It features a nice selection of salads, seasonal vegetables, pasta, and hearty entrees. The food is said to be fresh, with seasonal ingredients, and the variety tends to satisfy many tastes. Desserts are also enticing, with options like raspberry mousse, lemon pound cake, and even seasonal fruit—finishing the meal on a sweet note.

If you choose the brunch option, you’ll enjoy bottomless mimosas, which adds a relaxed, celebratory vibe. For lunch or dinner, you’ll find a different selection of drinks available for purchase, including wine, beer, and cocktails, plus unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.

Entertainment & Atmosphere
A live onboard DJ spins tunes that keep the energy lively, and there are games to add to the fun. The decks are spacious enough for strolling, and the open-air rooftop lounge offers a fantastic vantage point for panoramic city views—perfect for snapping photos or just relaxing in the breeze.

Accessibility & Comfort
The climate-controlled dining room ensures comfort regardless of weather, and the cruise is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus. The reserved tables mean you’ll have a dedicated spot to relax and enjoy your meal, which is a thoughtful touch.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Good value considering the all-inclusive food and drinks (especially the bottomless mimosas on brunch).
– The scenic views are second to none—perfect for sightseeing without the hassle of city traffic.
– The dining experience is well-organized, with a variety of delicious options.
– The lively entertainment with a DJ and open decks makes for a fun, social atmosphere.
– Accessibility features and the option to choose different meal times provide flexibility.

Cons:
– Some reviews highlight logistical issues, such as the app directing attendees to the wrong pier side during bad weather, which could cause delays or frustration.
– The food, while good, might not be exceptional enough to justify the price if you’re expecting a gourmet meal.
– The experience is more about the scenery and social atmosphere than deep historical insight or guided commentary.
– Non-brunch options lack the bottomless drinks, so if you’re a heavy drinker, be prepared to purchase extras.

Who is This Cruise Best For?

This experience is ideal if you enjoy relaxed sightseeing combined with good food and lively ambiance. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or just wanting to experience Philadelphia from the water in a casual setting. It works well for couples, groups of friends, or even families with older children who can appreciate the open decks and scenic views.

However, if you’re seeking a highly educational tour or a quiet, intimate dinner, this might not be the best fit. The focus is on enjoyment, socializing, and taking in the sights rather than detailed commentary or historical storytelling.

The Itinerary in a Nutshell

• Check-in at Penn’s Landing
  Arrive ahead of your schedule; boarding typically involves reserved seating in a climate-controlled room, with opportunities to explore the decks and rooftop lounge.

• Departure & Scenic Cruising
  As you cruise along the Delaware River, you’ll pass various waterfront landmarks with excellent photo ops. The boat’s large windows and outdoor decks ensure you won’t miss the views.

• Meal Service
  Your designated table will be served a buffet of salads, entrees, and desserts. On brunch cruises, enjoy bottomless mimosas, while lunch and dinner options include a full bar for purchase.

• Entertainment & Relaxation
  The onboard DJ sets the mood, and you can dance, play games, or just relax while enjoying the cityscape. The open rooftop lounge offers unobstructed views, making it a favorite spot for many guests.

• Return & Disembarkation
  The cruise wraps up after about 2 to 2.5 hours, leaving you with lasting memories of Philadelphia from a fresh perspective.

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Final Thoughts

This cruise offers a nice blend of sightseeing, good food, and casual fun. The bottomless mimosas on brunch make it particularly appealing if you’re in the mood for a leisurely, celebratory vibe. The scenic views of the city, combined with the lively atmosphere, create a memorable experience without overwhelming details or complicated schedules.

It’s best suited for travelers who value a relaxed environment and want to enjoy Philadelphia’s waterfront without the formality of a fine dining experience. The value for money is fair, especially if you enjoy the included drinks, and the experience can be a highlight of your trip if you’re in town for a few days.

Just keep in mind the logistical hiccups mentioned in reviews and plan accordingly—arrive early, follow instructions carefully, and enjoy the ride!

FAQ

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
There’s no strict dress code, but smart casual is recommended to enjoy the experience comfortably.

Can I bring children on this cruise?
While not explicitly stated, the experience seems adult-oriented due to the drink options, but older children might enjoy the views and decks.

Are there vegetarian options?
The buffet menu includes salads and vegetables, so vegetarians should find plenty to enjoy, though specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

How long does the cruise last?
Expect about 2 to 2.5 hours, which is a good length for a relaxed experience.

Can I purchase additional drinks?
Yes, alcoholic beverages, soda, and juice are available for purchase onboard.

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially since you want to ensure your entire group can sit together.

Is the bottomless mimosa only on brunch?
Correct, bottomless mimosas are offered only on the brunch cruise.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, warm clothing, and closed-toe shoes. No smoking indoors is allowed.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, giving you some flexibility in your planning.

This cruise is a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Philadelphia from a different vantage point, with the bonus of good food and drinks. If you’re after a relaxed, social outing that combines sightseeing with a touch of indulgence, it’s worth considering for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: