San Diego: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

A Friendly Look at the San Diego Christmas Day Buffet Cruise

Thinking about celebrating Christmas in a memorable way? A Christmas Day cruise in San Diego offers a lovely blend of scenic views, good food, and holiday spirit—all on the water. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, we’ve gathered enough insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect. If you’re into enjoying the ocean breeze, savoring chef-prepared meals, and taking in San Diego’s iconic sights, this could be just the holiday experience you’re after.

One thing we really love about this cruise is the opportunity to see famous sights like the USS Midway and the Coronado Bridge while relaxing on the open-air decks. The second standout is the delicious buffet, which features a mix of breakfast and dinner options, designed to cater to a variety of tastes. However, a potential consideration is that the food choices may not always match expectations, according to some reviews, and the entertainment might be a bit sparse, especially if you’re craving lively holiday music.

This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy a tranquil, scenic celebration with good food and a touch of sophistication. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed way to spend Christmas Day, especially if you prefer to combine holiday cheer with beautiful water views. Keep in mind, it’s less about high-energy entertainment and more about enjoying the moment, the scenery, and a quality meal.

Key Points

• Scenic San Diego views include the USS Midway and Coronado Bridge.
• Buffet meals are chef-prepared, offering both brunch and dinner options.
• Open-air decks provide excellent opportunities to enjoy the breeze and scenery.
• Unlimited drinks including coffee, tea, iced tea, and mimosas (if you choose brunch).
• Boarding is straightforward at Pier 1, with guaranteed seating for your party.
• The experience is about relaxing with good food and views, not high-energy entertainment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Cruise

Imagine boarding a well-organized boat at Pier 1, stepping into a festive, holiday-decorated space. You’ll find a guaranteed table for your party, so no worries about scrambling for seats. The cruise lasts around 2 to 3 hours—just enough time to soak in the sights, sip some drinks, and indulge in a hearty buffet.

The setting is quite special. You can choose to stay indoors, where the atmosphere is cozy and elegant, or head out onto the open-air rooftop decks. These decks are perfect for feeling the ocean breeze and snapping photos of the city skyline, including the towering Coronado Bridge. The music, provided to set a festive mood, complements the experience, although some reviews mention that the playlist could be more lively or holiday-themed.

Sights and Views

While cruising around San Diego Bay, you’ll pass notable landmarks like the USS Midway, which is impressive at any angle. Travelers often comment on how striking the ship looks from a distance, and it’s a great photo opportunity. The boat’s route also offers views of the city skyline, the Coronado Bridge, and possibly some other floating sights that make for memorable pictures.

Food and Beverage

The buffet is the core of the experience. For breakfast or brunch, you’ll find an array of options like assorted pastries, smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, and French toast. The dinner buffet leans more towards hearty, traditional fare, with oven-roasted salmon, carved turkey and tri-tip steak, salads, and sides like mashed potatoes and vegetables. All menus come with fancy desserts such as apple crisp and assorted cakes.

One reviewer noted that the food sometimes doesn’t quite match the online menu description, which can be a little disappointing if you’re expecting specific dishes. That said, most people agree the quality is decent and satisfying, especially when paired with the lovely setting.

Drinks and Atmosphere

You can enjoy unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea, making it easy to stay refreshed. The brunch option also includes unlimited mimosas, adding a bit of bubbly cheer to your morning. The bar service is available throughout, so you can order cocktails or other drinks to enhance your celebration.

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Entertainment and Decor

Though music helps set a festive mood, some reviews say it could be more lively or holiday-themed. The decorating touches on board add a holiday feel, with Christmas decor and photo opportunities like boarding photos with Santa. The overall vibe is relaxed and elegant, making this a comfortable setting for a family gathering or a romantic holiday outing.

The Practical Side: Pricing, Duration & Accessibility

At $95 per person, the cruise offers a decent value considering the included food, drinks, entertainment, and scenic experience. Since it lasts around 2 to 3 hours, it’s a manageable outing that won’t feel overly long or rushed.

Boarding is at Pier 1, and the process is smooth. The boat is wheelchair accessible, although some outer decks require stairs, so if mobility is a concern, it’s worth planning accordingly. Keep in mind, the activity is non-refundable, so be sure about your plans before booking.

Who Should Consider This?

If you’re someone who loves relaxing water-based celebrations and appreciates good food with a view, you’ll likely enjoy this cruise. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want a peaceful, yet festive experience. It might not be the best choice if you’re seeking lively entertainment or a highly interactive holiday event, but if scenery and good eats are your priorities, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego Christmas Day Buffet Cruise offers a unique way to celebrate the holiday—on the water, with spectacular views, and delicious food. While it might not be packed with holiday music or nonstop entertainment, its charm lies in the peaceful setting and the quality of the meal. If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic Christmas experience, this cruise is worth considering.

It’s especially recommended for those who value a combination of visual beauty and good eats, without the fuss of crowded events. Just remember, the experience’s success hinges on your expectations—it’s more about enjoying the moment than a highly energetic holiday party.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify, the setting is generally family-friendly, especially since it’s a scenic daytime or evening cruise. However, keep in mind that the activity involves a sit-down meal and some outdoor walking, so consider your child’s comfort level.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the round-trip cruise, chef-prepared entrees, salads, desserts, and unlimited beverages like coffee, tea, iced tea, and mimosas if you choose brunch. The experience also includes holiday decor, boarding photos with Santa, and music entertainment.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, the buffet includes vegetarian choices like salads, pasta, and vegetables, though specific details might vary based on the menu. It’s best to ask at booking or on the day if you have special dietary needs.

Can I make a reservation for a large group?
Yes, guaranteed seating is provided for your party size, but to ensure you all sit together, it’s recommended to make a single reservation for your entire group.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, the suggested dress code is upscale casual to business casual, so think neat, comfortable attire suitable for a classy holiday celebration.

What if I want to see the newer ship?
Some reviews mention that the cruise might not feature the newest vessel, and staff may not always clarify this upfront. If a newer ship is important to you, check directly with the provider.

Is parking available nearby?
The review doesn’t specify, but Pier 1 is a central location, so you might find parking options or public transit nearby. It’s worth planning your arrival in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
This activity is non-refundable, so be sure about your reservation before booking to avoid surprises.

If a scenic, relaxed holiday celebration on the water sounds appealing, this cruise delivers a peaceful yet festive experience. Just keep your expectations aligned—it’s more about enjoying the views and good food than high-energy entertainment. For anyone looking to combine a little luxury with classic San Diego sights, it’s a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: