Philadelphia: Thanksgiving Early Dinner Cruise

If you’re considering a unique way to spend Thanksgiving in Philadelphia, a dinner cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia might catch your eye. Though we haven’t experienced this particular cruise ourselves, the reviews and details paint a picture of an experience that’s both festive and relaxed. It’s a chance to enjoy good food, great views, and some lively entertainment—all without the hassle of cooking or the chaos of a traditional gathering.

What’s particularly appealing is the delicious 3-course buffet that promises traditional Thanksgiving fare with all the trimmings. Coupled with the live DJ entertainment and access to the open-air rooftop lounge, this cruise offers a balanced mix of comfort, fun, and scenic beauty. On the downside, it’s a relatively short experience—just two hours—and doesn’t include alcohol in the ticket price, which might be a consideration if you’re looking to indulge more freely.

This experience seems well-suited for those who want to enjoy a festive holiday with loved ones in a relaxed setting, especially if you appreciate scenic views and a lively atmosphere. It’s not geared specifically toward families with young children, but if you’re after a memorable, less conventional way to celebrate Thanksgiving in Philly, it could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Two-hour cruise with a festive holiday vibe
• All-ages welcome, but no specific family focus noted
• Includes a 3-course buffet with all traditional Thanksgiving dishes
• Open-air rooftop lounge for outside viewing and fresh air
• Live DJ music and onboard games add to the lively atmosphere
• Bar drinks and cocktails available for purchase, not included in the ticket price

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What You Can Expect from the Cruise

Imagine cruising along the Delaware River, with Philadelphia’s iconic skyline softly glowing in the background. The Spirit of Philadelphia offers a climate-controlled interior, so you stay cozy regardless of the weather, and your reserved table ensures you won’t be left scrambling for space. The buffet menu, which features entrees, salads, and desserts, is prepared fresh, and your party will be guaranteed a table, making the whole experience feel more intimate and less chaotic than a holiday dinner at a restaurant or home.

You’ll be able to enjoy the panoramic views from your table or from the outdoor rooftop lounge. Seeing landmarks like the Ben Franklin Bridge lit up against the night sky is a great way to mark the holiday. Plus, the live DJ keeps the energy high, with onboard games that add a bit of playful fun—perfect for breaking the ice or simply keeping everyone entertained.

The Food and Drink Experience

The buffet is a standout feature. We love the idea of a all-you-can-eat Thanksgiving meal with all the traditional trimmings—think turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and seasonal desserts. While the menu may change, the focus on quality and variety seems consistent. Plus, the unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water are included, which is a nice touch for those looking to stay refreshed.

For drinks, you’ll find a fully stocked bar available for purchase, offering seasonal cocktails, wine pairings, and beer. If you’re someone who enjoys a drink to toast the holiday, this setup works well—just remember it’s not included in your ticket price, so budget accordingly.

The Atmosphere and Entertainment

This cruise excels in creating a lively yet relaxed ambience. The live DJ music sets the tone for dancing or just relaxing with background tunes. It’s designed to make your holiday feel special, but not overly formal. The onboard games also add a fun element, making it a good choice if you want to mingle or keep things lighthearted.

We’ve read that the reserved table in the climate-controlled deck means you won’t have to battle crowds or worry about weather disruptions. And with access to the outside open-air rooftop lounge, you can step outside for fresh air or take photos of the Philadelphia skyline at sunset or after dark.

Navigating the Duration and Logistics

The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, which makes it a perfect fit for a Thanksgiving celebration—giving you plenty of time to relax afterward or continue your holiday plans. Remember, the experience is non-refundable and must be booked as a whole party, so coordinate your reservations to sit together.

Infants (0-2) are free—just be sure to select the free infant ticket so they’re admitted without issue. Casual attire is recommended, and flat, closed-toe shoes are best for comfort and safety. Since all interior areas are non-smoking, you’ll want to use the outdoor decks if you need a smoke break.

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Is It Worth the Price?

At $137 per person, this cruise offers a fairly good value for a holiday experience. It includes the buffet, entertainment, and guaranteed seating, which simplifies planning. The price might seem on the higher side compared to a typical restaurant dinner, but the scenic backdrop, entertainment, and the novelty of celebrating on the river add significant value.

Keep in mind that alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, and gratuities are extra. So if you’re planning to indulge, budget accordingly. But overall, for a memorable, hassle-free way to enjoy Thanksgiving in Philadelphia, the price is reasonable.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is particularly appealing to those who enjoy scenic views, lively music, and good food without the fuss of traditional holiday dining. It’s suitable for adults or groups looking for something different, especially if you’re keen on celebrating on the water with friends or loved ones. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children and teens might enjoy the entertainment and the beautiful cityscape.

If you’re after a cozy, sit-down dinner at a restaurant, this might not be your best bet, but if you want a lively, scenic, and festive outing, this cruise could be a highlight of your Thanksgiving.

Final Thoughts

In all, the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Early Dinner Cruise offers a fun, scenic way to celebrate the holiday. It blends good food, energetic entertainment, and striking views into a two-hour cruise that’s both relaxing and lively. With a guaranteed table, a festive buffet, and the chance to see Philadelphia from a different angle, it’s a solid choice for a holiday outing—especially if you love the idea of combining dining with a bit of sightseeing.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy casual fun, scenic moments, and a touch of holiday spirit on the water. If your group appreciates good food, lively music, and a beautiful cityscape backdrop, you’ll likely find this cruise a worthwhile, memorable way to give thanks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, infants (0-2) can attend for free if you select the free infant ticket option. Older children may enjoy the scenery and onboard entertainment, but the cruise is primarily geared toward adults.

Does the price include drinks?
No, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the bar. The ticket price includes a buffet and unlimited non-alcoholic drinks like coffee, tea, and water.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, making it a convenient option for a holiday celebration.

Do I need to make reservations for the whole group?
Yes, to ensure everyone can sit together, all reservations should be made in one booking. Separate reservations might not guarantee grouped seating.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is fine, but flat, closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to visit the outdoor decks.

Can I go outside during the cruise?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to step outside onto the open-air rooftop lounge or the decks at any point during the cruise.

Is this experience non-refundable?
Yes, the booking is non-refundable, so make sure your plans are firm before reserving.

What landmarks can I see from the cruise?
You’ll cruise past Philadelphia’s notable sites, including the Ben Franklin Bridge and other historic landmarks, all set against the city’s skyline.

In all, if you’re looking for an engaging, scenic way to celebrate Thanksgiving that combines good food, entertainment, and beautiful views, this cruise could be just what you need. It’s a relaxed but lively affair that offers a different take on the holiday, making it a memorable addition to your Philadelphia trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: