Philadelphia: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise

Taking a cruise on the Delaware River might not be the first idea that springs to mind when planning a trip to Philadelphia, but it’s a surprisingly delightful way to enjoy the city’s waterfront and skyline. This buffet cruise experience aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia offers a blend of good food, lively entertainment, and scenic views, all within a comfortable, well-equipped setting.

Whether you’re craving a lively brunch with bottomless mimosas, a leisurely lunch, or an elegant dinner, this cruise is designed to give you a different perspective of Philly—on the water.

We’re particularly fond of how this tour combines delicious Chef-prepared meals with easy access to outside decks for panoramic views. The onboard live DJ and games add a fun, relaxed vibe, making it a great choice for families, couples, or groups of friends.

That said, one thing to consider is that some reviewers have found the timing of certain cruises less ideal—if you’re hoping to enjoy the city at night, you might want to double-check the schedule.

This experience is ideal for those who want a more relaxed way of seeing Philadelphia—a blend of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment. It’s perfect for visitors who appreciate quality food and lively atmospheres, but perhaps less so if you’re seeking a purely historical or educational tour.

All in all, it offers a memorable blend of sights and flavors, especially for first-timers or those wanting to add a special touch to their Philly visit.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 5 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Philadelphia.

Key Points

• Beautiful river views and a chance to see Philadelphia from a different angle.
• Chef-prepared 3-course buffet including salads, entrees, and desserts.
• Bottomless mimosas included during the brunch cruise, plus a fully stocked bar for other drinks.
• Outdoor rooftop lounge for 360-degree city and river vistas.
• Live entertainment with onboard DJ and games for all ages.
• Climate-controlled dining room with reserved tables ensuring comfort and great sightlines.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Cruise Experience

The Departure Point and What to Expect

Your adventure begins at Penn’s Landing, right in the heart of Philadelphia’s waterfront. The Spirit of Philadelphia is an elegant vessel, spacious enough to comfortably host a variety of groups, from families to romantic couples. Boarding is straightforward, and the location is easily accessible, whether you’re arriving by car, public transport, or even walking from nearby hotels.

Once aboard, you’ll find a reserved, private table in the climate-controlled dining room. This means you won’t be jostling for a good view or fighting for space—your table is yours, set with a nice view of the city and water. If the weather’s agreeable, you’ll be encouraged to visit the outside open-air rooftop lounge, which offers a panoramic perspective of the river, bridges, and skyline. It’s a perfect spot for photos or simply taking in the scenery.

The Dining Experience

The highlight for many is the chef-prepared 3-course buffet, which features seasonal ingredients prepared fresh daily. The menu includes a variety of salads like organic greens, spinach, and kale, along with flavorful pasta salads and roasted vegetables. For entrees, options range from oven-baked Atlantic flounder to honey and sesame chicken and even Italian beef meatballs. The dinner offerings add braised beef short ribs, which many note as a highlight.

Desserts are equally tempting, with options like raspberry mousse, lemon pound cake with strawberries, and red velvet and chocolate chip brownies. The buffet’s focus on fresh, quality ingredients makes for a satisfying meal that doesn’t just feel mass-produced—something many reviewers appreciate.

If you’re on the brunch cruise, you’ll enjoy bottomless mimosas, which are included in the ticket price for those over 21. The fully stocked bar also offers wine, cocktails, beer, soda, and juice for purchase, providing options for everyone. Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea round out the beverage choices.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

As you dine, a live onboard DJ spins favorite hits, creating an upbeat, lively atmosphere that encourages dancing or just relaxing with friends. Games and activities add to the fun, making the cruise appealing to families and groups of friends alike.

The spacious decks are perfect for strolling and engaging with the scenic surroundings. The outdoor roof deck lounge offers 360-degree views, making it the perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the sights. Whether it’s the Ben Franklin Bridge, waterfront parks, or harborside landmarks, you’ll be treated to sights that are best experienced from the water.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Sights and Views

The cruise showcases Philadelphia’s historic waterfront and bridges, with particular attention to the Ben Franklin Bridge, which forms a stunning backdrop. The water level perspective offers a fresh appreciation for the city’s architecture and layout. While the cruise itself does not provide a guided commentary, the views speak for themselves, and sometimes the best moments come from just watching the city go by.

Passenger Experience and Review Insights

Based on reviews, many guests have enjoyed the friendly service and delicious food, with some praising the excellent wine selection and great atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “Great experience!!” which captures how many felt about their time aboard.

However, some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with aspects like scheduling—for instance, one review mentioned that the timing of the cruise didn’t align well with their desire to enjoy Philadelphia at night. Others experienced logistical hiccups, such as getting soaked in rain due to poor directions to the pier, highlighting the importance of checking the meeting point details carefully.

Pricing and Value

At $68 per person, the cruise offers a fair value considering the included food, drinks, entertainment, and scenic experience. The buffet-style dining means you’re not paying extra for multiple courses, and the bottomless mimosas during brunch add a festive touch. The experience is especially attractive for those wanting a leisurely, all-in-one way to see the city, eat well, and enjoy some entertainment.

It’s worth noting that extras like alcohol beyond the included mimosas, souvenir photos, or special event upgrades are available for purchase, providing options for personalized souvenirs or added indulgence.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs. Practical tips include bringing passport or ID, dressing warmly (especially if you plan to enjoy the outdoor decks), and wearing closed-toe shoes for safety aboard the boat.

Since smoking indoors isn’t allowed, you’ll want to plan for outdoor smoking areas if that’s relevant for your group. It’s also wise to book in advance and ensure your entire group makes a single reservation to guarantee seating together.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed way to experience the city from a different perspective. If you love good food, lively music, and spectacular river views, you’ll find this a charming outing. It’s especially suitable for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting to combine sightseeing with a leisurely meal.

However, if you’re after a deep dive into Philadelphia’s history or a nighttime city tour, you might prefer other experiences. This cruise leans more toward entertainment and scenic dining rather than educational commentary.

Final Thoughts

A Philadelphia cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia offers a distinctive way to see the city, combining gourmet food, live music, and stunning waterside vistas. The reserved tables and climate-controlled interior make it comfortable, while the open-air decks provide that perfect photo opportunity.

While the timing and logistical details might not suit everyone, the overall experience balances value and fun—especially if you enjoy delicious meals and lively atmospheres. It’s a great choice for those seeking a memorable, relaxed way to enjoy Philadelphia’s waterfront.

For first-time visitors or locals looking for a unique outing, this cruise provides a taste of Philadelphia’s scenic splendor with a side of good eats and music. It’s a fun, easy, and scenic way to add a splash of waterborne adventure to your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, families are welcome and children can join for free if they are infants. Just be sure to select the free infant ticket during booking.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, warm clothing if needed, and closed-toe shoes. A camera or smartphone for photos is a good idea, especially if you want to capture the city’s skyline from the open decks.

Can I purchase alcoholic drinks onboard?
Yes, alcoholic beverages, soda, and juice are available for purchase. During the brunch cruise, bottomless mimosas are included, but other drinks cost extra.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts between 2 and 2.5 hours, making it a manageable excursion that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience.

What’s the best time to go?
The experience is usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening. If you want to enjoy city views at sunset or night, check the schedule carefully.

What if it rains?
The interior dining room is climate-controlled, so you’ll stay comfortable regardless of the weather. Just be aware that outdoor decks may be less pleasant in rain.

In summary, this Philadelphia cruise combines scenic views, tasty food, and lively entertainment into a relaxing waterborne adventure. It’s a smart pick for those wanting a casual yet memorable way to enjoy the city’s waterfront—especially if good food and a cheerful atmosphere are your priorities.

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