San Diego: New Year’s Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

Planning how to ring in the New Year can be tricky—do you want an event that’s festive but relaxed, elegant but not stuffy? If you’ve been considering a special way to celebrate, the San Diego New Year’s Eve Gourmet Cruise offers a pretty appealing option. While I haven’t personally taken this cruise, I’ve looked into what makes it stand out and what to watch for, so you can decide if it fits your holiday plans.

What really caught my eye are the stunning waterfront views and the chance to enjoy delicious food and drinks in a sophisticated setting. Plus, the fact that infants under three cruise free can make it a family-friendly option if you’re traveling with little ones. On the flip side, keep in mind that the price sits at around $141 per person, and it’s a short, two-hour experience—so if you’re after something more extensive or a full night of partying, this might not be the best fit.

This cruise seems best suited for couples or small groups looking for a classy, scenic way to welcome the new year, especially if good food, wine, and views are high on your list. It’s also a great choice if you want an evening that’s memorable but doesn’t involve a full-night commitment or big crowds.

Key Points

• Scenic San Diego waterfront views make for a beautiful backdrop during the celebration.
• Gourmet cuisine, including a four-course dinner or brunch, elevates the experience beyond standard party fare.
• Top-shelf wine, cocktails, and bottomless champagne are included in the dinner option, adding a touch of luxury.
• Climate-controlled interior decks mean you stay comfortable regardless of weather.
• Infants under 3 cruise free, making it accessible for families with very young children.
• A short, 2-hour cruise suits those looking for a compact, elegant celebration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Cruise Experience

This cruise offers a well-rounded way to mark the start of 2024 with style and sophistication. The boat departs in the late afternoon or early evening, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the scenery before midnight. The views of San Diego’s waterfront are truly fantastic—cruise along the coast, watch the sunset, and take in the skyline lit up at night. It’s a setting that feels both special and relaxed.

The Dining Experience

The menu is designed to impress, especially if you’re a foodie. For brunch, you’ll find an almost riser selection with breakfast pastries, smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, and even French toast. The emphasis on fresh, flavorful ingredients makes this a satisfying start to your day or a lively way to kick off your holiday.

For dinner, you have your choice of a four-course holiday plated meal or a premier buffet brunch — depending on your ticket type. The plated dinner includes options like oven-roasted chicken with rosemary and thyme, pan-seared Atlantic cod with lemon beurre blanc, and an 8 oz USDA choice filet mignon with garlic mashed potatoes. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, such as a root vegetable fricassee, which is great if you’re mindful of dietary restrictions.

Drinks and Entertainment

On the dinner cruise, you’ll enjoy bottomless champagne and a top-shelf open bar, which adds a real touch of class. For brunch, there’s a sparkling wine toast (must be 21+), perfect for a celebratory morning. Live music and elegant décor further set the scene, making the whole evening feel like a special occasion.

The Atmosphere

The interior decks are climate-controlled, which means you can enjoy the views comfortably whether it’s chilly or warm outside. The environment is refined yet relaxed, perfect for an intimate celebration or a small group gathering. Many travelers note that the service is excellent, adding to the overall enjoyment—Hilda from the US mentioned “Excellent service. Delicious food… great views.”

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The Value of the Experience

At $141 per person, this cruise offers an all-in-one package—great food, drinks, scenic views, and live music—without the hassle of planning multiple outings. You’re paying for the experience of celebrating on the water, which feels a bit more exclusive but still accessible.

The inclusion of guaranteed table assignments and climate-controlled interiors means fewer worries about logistics or weather disruptions. Plus, infants cruise free, making it a considerate option for families with very young children who want a special night out.

Things to Keep in Mind

The activity is non-refundable, so if you’re set on this cruise, it’s advisable to book early. Also, hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the dock—something to plan for depending on your accommodations.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples or small groups seeking an elegant way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. It’s perfect if you love spectacular waterfront views combined with refined dining and drinks. If you’re traveling with very young children, it’s accommodating, but keep in mind that the focus is on a sophisticated, adult-oriented celebration, especially on the dinner cruise with alcohol.

If you’re after a full night of partying or a more lively, casual event, this cruise might not be the best choice. But if you’re looking for a relaxed, memorable way to welcome 2024 while enjoying San Diego’s lovely scenery, this cruise ticks a lot of boxes.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for families with young children?
Yes, infants under 3 cruise free, so it’s accessible for families, but keep in mind the atmosphere is more upscale and adult-oriented, especially with alcohol service.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers your meal—either a four-course dinner or brunch—unlimited coffee, tea, iced tea, and water, guaranteed table, climate-controlled decks, and in the dinner option, bottomless champagne and a top-shelf open bar.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The cruise states they do their best to accommodate dietary restrictions, and vegetarian options are available for some dishes. It’s worth informing the provider ahead of time.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a short but sweet celebration. It usually departs in the morning, which means it might function more like a brunch or early dinner experience.

Do I need to make reservations?
Yes, the activity is non-refundable once booked, so securing your spot early is recommended.

Is transportation to the dock included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your own transportation to and from the departure point.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating New Year’s Eve on this San Diego cruise could be just what you need if you’re after an experience that combines beautiful water views with delicious food and drinks. It’s a refined yet relaxed way to welcome 2024, especially if you appreciate wine, good company, and scenic surroundings.

For those who value quality over quantity, this cruise offers a memorable evening in a comfortable, elegant setting. It’s particularly appealing for couples or small groups who want to mark the occasion in style without sacrificing comfort or intimacy. The views, the food, and the live music make it a solid choice, provided you’re comfortable with the short duration and the price point.

If you’re looking for a cheerful, laid-back way to start the new year with a touch of luxury, this cruise could be a good fit. Just remember to book early, plan your transportation, and bring your holiday spirit—you’re in for a lovely night on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: