Toronto Premier Brunch Cruise on Odyssey in Toronto Harbour

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to see Toronto from the water while enjoying a tasty brunch, this cruise might just be your perfect midday escape. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture—especially if you’re into scenic city views combined with good food and a lively atmosphere.

What really catches my eye are the breathtaking views of Toronto’s skyline and the delicious buffet options. Plus, the onboard entertainment, like the curated DJ music and Wi-Fi, adds a modern touch. That said, it’s worth noting that the experience relies heavily on good weather, and some reviews mention the need for better communication during boarding.

This cruise suits anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic experience without the hassle of city traffic or crowded sightseeing spots. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, just want a fun afternoon with friends, or are curious about Toronto from a different perspective, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Beautiful skyline views of Toronto, including landmarks like the CN Tower and Sugar Beach.
• Comfortable, newly renovated vessel with climate-controlled interiors and open-air rooftop decks.
• Delicious buffet offering sweet and savory options, with opportunities to upgrade drinks and menu items.
• Modern amenities like Wi-Fi and music curated by a DJ add to the relaxed vibe.
• Flexible and family-friendly (most travelers of all ages seem to enjoy it) but weather-dependent.
• Good value for what you get: around two hours on the water with food, music, and scenic sightseeing.

An Honest Look at the Brunch Cruise Experience

This 2-hour cruise in Toronto Harbour offers a chance to kick back and enjoy the city from a different angle. The vessel, called Odyssey, is described as luxurious and recently renovated, so you can expect a comfortable, clean environment. The interior decks are climate-controlled, making the experience pleasant whether it’s a chilly spring day or a hot summer afternoon. For those who love open-air views, the rooftop deck provides a great space to take photos and soak in the scenery.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

While there are no specific stops listed on this cruise, you’ll be cruising along Toronto’s harbourfront, passing by many of the city’s most iconic sights—like the CN Tower and Sugar Beach. The boat moves steadily, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights and snap photos. One reviewer mentioned that the cruise goes past “many sites” as promised but noted there’s no specific narration about what you’re viewing, which might be a missed opportunity for history buffs or first-time visitors.

The highlight of this experience is, of course, the buffet brunch. Expect a mix of sweet and savory options, with reviews praising the food’s quality and variety. The buffet has “a lot of options” and was described as “delicious” by satisfied guests. If you’re craving a glass of wine or a cocktail, you can upgrade your experience as drinks and additional menu items are available for purchase. Prices start at about $8.50 for drinks, so it’s not a budget-only affair but fair considering the overall experience.

Dining and Refreshments

The buffet is a key feature. Reviewers mention that the food is plentiful and tasty, with options suitable even for vegetarians. The fact that the buffet is well-organized, with “food kept fresh and the line moving,” is a plus for those who dislike long waits. Many guests appreciate the value—considering the price of around $47, it’s a reasonable cost for a scenic cruise with buffet and entertainment included.

If you’re into cocktails or wine, you’ll find plenty of choices for purchase, which can enhance your cruise. Some reviews note that drinks are a bit pricey but worth it for the overall experience. Coffee and tea are included, which is a nice touch for a leisurely brunch.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The onboard vibe is lively thanks to a DJ curating the music, creating a fun yet relaxed environment. Wi-Fi is available, so you can share snaps or even catch up on messages while enjoying the views. This makes the cruise suitable for social gatherings or even small celebrations—like anniversaries or birthdays—though it’s also just a nice way to spend a peaceful afternoon.

Guests seem to enjoy the atmosphere, with reviews highlighting the “gaity and fun,” especially when passing by Toronto’s landmarks. The music complements the scenery, making it easy to unwind and take in the moment.

Booking, Timing, and Practicalities

The cruise departs at 12:30 pm from 207 Queens Quay W, and the experience lasts approximately two hours. It’s a smart casual dress code, so think clean, comfortable, and slightly upscale. The activity is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are welcome.

Since the cruise takes place rain or shine, it’s best to be prepared for the weather—though severe conditions might cause cancellation. The maximum group size is about 200 passengers, which keeps things lively but not overcrowded.

The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Positives:
– Multiple reviewers mention the spectacular views of Toronto’s skyline—perfect for photos and sightseeing.
– The buffet has a good variety of food, often described as tasty, plentiful, and well-organized.
– The music and atmosphere are lively and add a lot to the overall experience.
– It offers great value for the price, including food, entertainment, and scenic cruising.
– The climate-controlled environment makes it comfortable regardless of weather.

Challenges:
– Some mention that boarding times can be confusing or start earlier than scheduled, causing slight delays.
– Drinks and additional menu items are available at extra cost, which can add up if you’re not mindful.
– The cruise relies on good weather—bad weather can lead to cancellations, which might disappoint last-minute planners.
– A few guests felt that narration or commentary on landmarks would improve the experience.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This brunch cruise is a solid pick for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience without the hassle of fighting city traffic or crowds. It’s especially suited for couples celebrating special occasions, like anniversaries, or groups looking for a fun, social outing. The food is good enough to satisfy most appetites, and the atmosphere makes it a memorable way to see Toronto from the water.

If you’re a food lover, you’ll appreciate the buffet options, and if you enjoy listening to music while sightseeing, the DJ-curated soundtrack will keep the mood lively. Families with older children might also enjoy this, especially if they love being on boats and taking photos of cityscapes.

However, if you’re looking for a detailed guided tour with commentary, this cruise might be a bit light on historical or landmark narration. Also, if weather is not ideal, be prepared for potential cancellations.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s a good experience for all ages, especially since kids enjoy the views and the deck atmosphere. Keep in mind, it’s a two-hour cruise, so younger children should be comfortable on a boat.

Can I upgrade my food or drinks?
Yes, you can purchase additional menu items starting from $14+ and drinks such as cocktails, wine, and beer starting at $8.50+. These upgrades are available for purchase during the cruise.

What should I wear?
The recommended dress code is smart casual. Light layers might be wise, especially if you want to spend time on the open-air deck. The environment is climate-controlled, so you won’t be uncomfortable inside.

What is included in the price?
For around $47.20 per person, you get the cruise itself, a buffet lunch, coffee/tea, Wi-Fi, restroom access, and music. Drinks and additional food items are extra.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, and cruises are weather-dependent.

How many people usually attend?
The maximum group size is about 200 travelers, making it lively but not overcrowded.

Final Thoughts

This Toronto brunch cruise offers a relaxing, scenic way to enjoy the city’s skyline and harborfront. The combination of delicious food, lively music, and comfortable amenities makes it a worthwhile outing for many visitors. It’s particularly well-suited for those celebrating special occasions or looking for a memorable way to see Toronto from the water without too much fuss.

While it’s not a detailed guided tour with commentary, the views and atmosphere more than make up for it. Just remember to check the weather forecast, plan ahead for drinks if you want to indulge, and arrive with a camera ready.

Overall, if you’re after a combination of good food, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed vibe, this cruise should be on your Toronto to-do list.