San Diego: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

If you’re looking to make your Christmas Eve extra special, a San Diego Christmas Eve cruise might just be the treat you need. This experience offers a chance to enjoy spectacular views of the bay, indulge in delicious holiday-themed buffet meals, and soak in the festive spirit with holiday decor and entertainment. While I haven’t personally taken this cruise, the reviews and experience details suggest it’s a warm, elegant way to celebrate the season with loved ones or friends.

What really catches our eye are the scenic vistas of the San Diego skyline, including sights like the USS Midway and Coronado Bridge, and the variety of buffet options, which seem to cater to a broad range of tastes. Plus, the unlimited mimosas during brunch add a nice touch of holiday cheer. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the experience is non-refundable, so it’s best to be sure about your plans before booking. This cruise suits those wanting a relaxed, festive outing—perfect for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a memorable way to mark Christmas Eve.

Key Points

• Scenic San Diego Bay views create a stunning holiday backdrop
• Delicious buffet options with both brunch and dinner menus
• Festive decor and holiday entertainment enhance the mood
• Unlimited drinks on the brunch cruise add to the celebration
• The experience lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a manageable outing
• Non-refundable policy, so plan carefully if you’re set on this cruise

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Cruise Experience

This Christmas Eve cruise by City Cruises California promises an elegant way to celebrate the holiday on the water. The main draw is the scenic cruise itself, a 2 to 2.5-hour ride around San Diego Bay that showcases some of the city’s most iconic sights. Whether you prefer the climate-controlled interior decks or the open-air rooftop, you’ll have a chance to soak in the views while staying comfortable regardless of the weather. Honestly, this flexibility is great, especially in winter when weather can be unpredictable.

What’s Included and How It Feels

For $95 per person, the experience includes a well-prepared buffet, unlimited coffee, tea, iced tea, and water, and the guarantee of a reserved table for your party size. The food caters to different tastes, from smoked salmon and breakfast pastries to a variety of salads, pasta, and hearty mains like carved turkey and tri-tip steak. For dessert, there’s a seasonal display of sweets and individual desserts. The food is a highlight, with many reviews mentioning how satisfying and tasty the buffet was—especially the delicious food and tapas, which some describe as a real treat.

The Atmosphere and Entertainment

The holiday decor truly sets the mood, with cheerful decorations that make the boat feel festive and cozy. The music and holiday carolers that welcome guests during boarding add a warm, celebratory vibe. The live music helps create an upbeat atmosphere, making it less formal but still refined. Many reviewers say that the mood was perfect for a Christmas Eve celebration—relaxed, joyful, and beautifully scenic.

Views and Sights

Your journey will include sights like the USS Midway Museum and the Coronado Bridge, which look especially stunning at sunset or with city lights twinkling in the evening. The open-air decks provide ample opportunity to snap photos, while the climate-controlled rooms are comfortable for those who prefer a cozy seat indoors. The views are consistently praised as a highlight, and many mention how memorable it is to see the San Diego skyline lit up at night.

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Food and Drinks: Worth the Price?

The buffet is a key selling point—and for good reason. The sample menu showcases a good mix of appetizers, salads, mains, and desserts, with options for different dietary preferences like vegetarian and gluten-free choices. The brunch version offers items like French toast and scrambled eggs, with unlimited mimosas—a fun touch that adds a celebratory feel.

The dinner buffet is equally substantial, featuring oven-roasted salmon, carved turkey, pasta salads, and hearty sides like garlic mashed potatoes and haricot verts. Many guests pointed out how satisfying the food was, with some saying it was a “delicious meal” that helped make their holiday memorable. The signature dessert station with seasonal sweets and fresh fruit caps off the meal nicely.

While the price might seem steep at $95, the all-you-can-eat buffet, drinks, entertainment, and scenic views combine to create a perceived good value—especially considering it’s a special holiday experience. Keep in mind, this isn’t an everyday meal but a special occasion outing designed to be both festive and relaxed.

The Overall Experience and Considerations

This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy relaxed, scenic celebrations with a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or families with older children who can appreciate the sights and the festive atmosphere. The non-refundable policy suggests you should be confident in your holiday plans before booking.

One thing to consider is that the cruise is not a traditional religious service or Santa visit—it’s more about the scenery, food, and holiday ambiance. If you’re after a formal, religious, or family-centric experience, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re looking for a memorable, picture-worthy, and cozy way to spend Christmas Eve, this cruise fits that bill.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a beautiful setting, excellent food, and festive cheer for their Christmas Eve, this San Diego cruise offers a compelling package. The scenery and decor elevate the experience, and many reviewers have raved about the delicious buffet and friendly atmosphere. The unlimited mimosas during brunch add a little extra sparkle, making it a fun, relaxed way to celebrate.

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of views, food, and holiday spirit makes it worthwhile for those wanting a special memory on Christmas Eve. Just remember to plan ahead, as it’s a non-refundable experience that’s best enjoyed by those who appreciate a scenic, festive cruise.

If you love the idea of celebrating the season surrounded by stunning views and good food, this cruise could be just perfect for you.

FAQ

Is there a specific dress code for the cruise?
While the provided info doesn’t specify a dress code, most guests tend to dress smart casual for a cruise experience, especially during a holiday event. Think neat but comfortable attire that’s suitable for a boat setting.

Does the cruise run in the evening or the afternoon?
The cruise is usually available in both the morning and evening, lasting about 2 to 2.5 hours. For Christmas Eve, you might find an evening option that’s perfect for enjoying the holiday lights.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited mimosas are included during the brunch cruise. Other beverages like coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water are also provided. Alcohol beyond mimosas and specialty drinks are typically not included.

Is this experience family-friendly?
The review data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the focus on scenic views, buffet, and entertainment, it could work for families with older children who enjoy boat rides. Check with the provider if you’re traveling with young kids.

What should I bring?
You’ll need to bring a passport or ID card for check-in. Dress comfortably, and consider bringing your camera for photos of the skyline and sights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
No, this activity is listed as non-refundable, so be sure about your schedule before booking.

This Christmas Eve cruise in San Diego offers a lovely blend of scenic beauty, festive atmosphere, and good food. It’s a well-rounded option for those wanting to add a special touch to their holiday celebrations, especially if you enjoy being on the water and taking in the city’s sparkling skyline at night.

You can check availability for your dates here: