City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise

Thinking of adding a splash of maritime charm and good food to your Norfolk visit? This buffet cruise along the Elizabeth River offers a relaxed way to see the city’s waterfront, enjoy fresh dishes, and soak in the lively atmosphere. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a mix of scenic views and tasty dining — all served up on a spacious, renovated vessel.

What we love about this experience is how it combines beautiful vistas of Norfolk’s skyline and naval vessels with a generous buffet that caters to different times of day. Plus, the onboard music and DJ entertainment keep the mood lively. A possible snag? The dress code leans toward dressy-casual, which might take some planning if you prefer more relaxed attire.

Still, this cruise is perfect for those wanting a memorable outing with friends or family in a comfortable, scenic setting.

If you enjoy waterfront scenery, good food, and a lively atmosphere, this cruise offers a balanced blend of all three. It’s especially well-suited for couples, groups celebrating special occasions, or families looking for a fun day on the water. Now, let’s take a closer look at what makes this experience tick, what you can expect, and how to get the most out of your time aboard.

This experience made our article of 4 Fantastic Boat Tours & Cruises In Norfolk.

Key Points

• Scenic waterways and Norfolk’s skyline provide memorable views.
• Buffet dining with fresh, well-prepared dishes for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
• Outdoor decks and the largest outdoor patio in the city offer plenty of space to relax.
• Music and DJ entertainment keep the atmosphere lively and engaging.
• Attentive crew and well-maintained vessel ensure a comfortable experience.
• Flexible scheduling with 2 to 2.5-hour cruises available morning, afternoon, or evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Norfolk’s Buffet Cruise Experience

If you’re looking for a way to see Norfolk from the water while enjoying a tasty meal, this City Cruises buffet tour might be just what you need. We’re talking about a 2-hour to 2.5-hour journey aboard the Spirit of Norfolk, a recently renovated vessel that promises comfort and style. It’s a straightforward way to combine sightseeing, dining, and entertainment — a balanced choice for those wanting to relax without fuss.

What makes this cruise stand out are the stunning views of Norfolk’s waterfront and the naval ships—a true highlight for lovers of maritime scenery. With three dining options—brunch, lunch, or dinner—you can choose what suits your schedule best. The buffet menu is hearty and diverse, featuring salads, entrées, and desserts that are freshly prepared. It’s a good value, especially considering the lively, friendly atmosphere onboard.

One thing travelers should consider is the dress code—smart-casual attire is recommended, so leaving the gym shoes and shorts at home might be wise. But if you’re after a nice, scenic outing with excellent food and music, this cruise offers a balanced, enjoyable experience, perfect for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a different perspective of Norfolk.

What Makes This Cruise Special

The Scenic Journey

The Elizabeth River is a lively waterway, lined with historical landmarks, modern buildings, and impressive naval vessels. As you cruise, you’ll love the way the city’s skyline and waterfront come into view, especially at sunset or during the day when the sun sparkles on the water. Many reviews praise the breathtaking vistas and the chance to see Norfolk’s naval fleet up close, which adds an element of interest and pride.

The Buffet Experience

The Grande Buffet features freshly prepared dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. The sample dinner menu includes salads like Caesar and Greek, hearty entrées such as oven-roasted salmon, braised chicken, and carved tri-tip steak, plus delectable desserts like baked peach berry crisp. Food is praised for its quality and variety, making this more than just a sightseeing cruise—it’s a dining experience.

Travelers comment on the generous portions and the delicious flavor. One reviewer describes the food as “wonderful,” with “enough of delicious food” to satisfy. The buffet setup also ensures you can go back for seconds if you wish, making the experience more relaxed and less rushed than a fixed menu.

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Entertainment and Atmosphere

Music sets the tone—either background melodies or lively DJ tunes depending on your cruise time. Many guests find the music lively enough to encourage dancing or at least create a fun, festive setting. Several reviews mention the friendly staff and enjoyable atmosphere, emphasizing that the crew is attentive and eager to make your time memorable.

Outdoor Decks and Space

The outdoor decks are a highlight—especially the largest outdoor patio in Norfolk. You can stroll under the stars, catch the breeze, or soak in the sunshine. The decks are climate-controlled, so you’ll be comfortable regardless of weather, which is a thoughtful touch.

The Itinerary and Experience

Boarding and Departure

The cruise begins with boarding approximately 30 minutes before departure. It’s important to arrive early—late arrivals risk missing the boat, as the doors close promptly. The vessel, Spirit of Norfolk, is modern and well-maintained, designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride.

Onboard Experience

Once aboard, you’ll be shown to your seat by friendly crew members. You can start ordering drinks—alcoholic beverages are available for purchase—while exploring the spacious decks. The interior is designed for comfort, with climate-controlled areas to escape the weather if needed.

The Scenic Cruise

As the ship sets sail, you’ll begin to take in the breathtaking views—the city skyline, the historic waterfront, and the impressive Navy vessels docked nearby. This perspective is particularly worth the trip, especially if you’ve never seen Norfolk’s naval fleet up close.

Dining and Entertainment

The buffet is usually the centerpiece, with a self-serve setup that allows you to sample a variety of dishes at your pace. Guests enjoy a delicious selection of salads, entrées, and desserts. One review noted, “The food was very good,” with a large variety.

Music from the onboard DJ keeps energy high, and dancing is encouraged. Several reviews mention the friendly staff, with one saying, “The crew was very helpful,” and another praising the knowledgeable captain.

Ending the Cruise

The cruise wraps up with the ship returning smoothly to the dock. Many guests leave with lasting memories of Norfolk’s waterfront, impressed by the combination of scenery, food, and entertainment.

The Value for Money

At $80 per person, this cruise offers a lot of value. You’re getting a scenic boat ride, buffet meal, beverages, and entertainment—all in one ticket. The reviews consistently praise the generous portions and the quality of the food. For a 2-2.5 hour outing that combines sightseeing and dining, most travelers find it to be a worthwhile expense.

However, some note that drinks are priced higher than typical bars, which is something to keep in mind if you plan on purchasing alcohol. The included beverages like coffee and tea are a nice touch, especially during brunch or lunch cruises.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Arrive early—boarding begins 30 minutes before departure.
• Wear dressy-casual attire—no shorts, tank tops, or gym shoes.
• Bring passport or ID for verification.
• Consider booking the entire group on one reservation to ensure seating together.
• The outdoor decks are climate-controlled, so you’re comfortable in all weather conditions.
• Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, so plan accordingly.
• If you’re celebrating a special occasion, this cruise provides a festive atmosphere that many find perfect for birthdays or anniversaries.

Authentic Experiences From Reviews

Many travelers appreciated friendly, knowledgeable staff and the excellent food quality. One said, “The staff was very helpful and the food was really good,” while another enjoyed the lively music and dancing. The views of Norfolk’s skyline and naval ships repeatedly drew praise, with comments like “The scenery was great, especially the ships,” highlighting how impactful the scenery can be.

Some noted small issues, like food not being hot enough or loud noise levels from the music, but these didn’t detract significantly from the overall positive experience. Several reviews also appreciated the cleanliness and comfort of the vessel, which adds value for a relaxed day on the water.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is an excellent choice for those wanting a scenic, leisurely outing with good food and entertainment. It’s perfect for couples celebrating special days, families seeking a fun activity, or groups of friends looking to enjoy Norfolk’s waterfront in a relaxed setting.

If you’re after a formal dining experience or an activity with lots of historical narration, this cruise might not be your best fit. But if you value beautiful scenery, fresh buffet food, and a festive, friendly environment, it’s a reliable, enjoyable option.

FAQ

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket includes the scenic cruise, buffet dining, coffee, tea, and other non-alcoholic beverages, and access to the outdoor decks.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase during the cruise.

How long does the cruise last?
Most cruises last between 2 and 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and meal.

When should I arrive for boarding?
Boarding begins about 30 minutes before departure, so plan to arrive early to avoid missing the boat.

What should I wear?
Smart-casual attire is recommended; avoid jeans, shorts, tank tops, halter-tops, T-shirts, gym shoes, or flip-flops.

Can I bring children?
Yes, infants are free, but you should select the free infant ticket to ensure admittance. The cruise is suitable for families, but note the dress code.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

Is there outdoor space?
Yes, the cruise features the largest outdoor patio in Norfolk, perfect for strolling or relaxing under the open sky.

Can I make a group reservation?
Yes, but to guarantee seating together, it’s best to make a single reservation for your entire group.

The Sum Up

The City Cruises Norfolk buffet cruise offers a well-rounded experience—combining scenic views, hearty, freshly prepared food, and lively music in a comfortable setting. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, enjoyable outing that showcases Norfolk’s waterfront and naval presence without a hefty price tag.

For those who appreciate good value, friendly service, and outdoor spaces, this cruise is a solid pick. It works wonderfully for celebrating special occasions, family outings, or simply enjoying a day on the water with good eats and good company. Just remember to dress smart-casual and arrive early to make the most of your journey.

If you’re looking for an activity that balances scenery, food, and fun, this buffet cruise is a memorable way to see Norfolk from a different perspective—without overcomplicating your day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby