Philadelphia: Thanksgiving Early Dinner Cruise

Planning a holiday celebration that combines the joy of tradition with a splash of something special? A cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia offers just that—a memorable way to gather loved ones, enjoy a delicious feast, and take in the city’s iconic sights from the Delaware River.

Whether you’re a local wanting to see Philadelphia from a new perspective or a visitor seeking an authentic, festive experience, this cruise could be a charming choice.

What we find particularly appealing about this experience is the all-inclusive 3-course buffet with classic Thanksgiving dishes and the outside rooftop lounge that offers a relaxed spot to soak up the views. Also, the live DJ adds a lively, celebratory atmosphere that can turn a simple dinner into a mini party on the water.

On the downside, the price of $137 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering beverages and gratuities are extra. Nevertheless, for those craving a festive, scenic meal with entertainment, this cruise hits many marks.

This experience suits families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a special way to celebrate Thanksgiving. It’s perfect if you enjoy good food, scenic views, and a lively atmosphere, all within a comfortable, climate-controlled setting—no need to worry about the weather spoiling your plans.

Just keep in mind that it’s a two-hour cruise, so if you’re expecting a leisurely, extended meal, you might want to consider that timing.

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

Key Points

• Festive 3-course buffet with all the traditional Thanksgiving trimmings
• Reserved private table in a climate-controlled dining room
• Live DJ entertainment with onboard games and a lively atmosphere
• Outdoor rooftop lounge for panoramic views
• Scenic views of Philadelphia landmarks including the Ben Franklin Bridge
• Pricing at $137 per person, with alcohol available for purchase

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience — A Deeper Look

A cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia is designed to make your holiday celebration both scenic and fun. You’ll start by boarding the ship, where a reserved, private table awaits your party in a climate-controlled dining room—crucial for comfort, especially in late November. The two-hour cruise on the Delaware River offers a chance to see Philadelphia’s skyline and landmarks from a unique vantage point, all while enjoying a generously prepared buffet.

The Dining Experience

The 3-course buffet features dishes that cover the classics—think turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and seasonal desserts. As one reviewer noted, the food is delicious and plentiful, making it a satisfying meal for all ages. The buffet setup ensures you don’t have to wait long for your plate, allowing more time to enjoy the views or hit the dance floor.

Unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water are included, but if you’re craving something stronger, you can purchase seasonal cocktails, wine pairings, or beer from the fully stocked bar. Many guests appreciate the variety of drinks and the ability to toast the holiday while overlooking the city.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The live DJ keeps the energy lively, spinning a mix of holiday tunes, popular hits, and dance classics. Throughout the cruise, you can participate in onboard games or simply enjoy the music from your reserved table or dance area. Several reviews mention how the DJ’s playlist beautifully complements the festive mood.

Views and Outdoor Space

One of the cruise’s highlights is the large outdoor open-air rooftop lounge. Here, you can savor the cool breeze and unobstructed views of Philadelphia’s famous skyline, including the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and historic landmarks. This is an ideal spot for photos or just a quiet moment away from the lively interior.

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The Landmarks

Cruising past Philadelphia’s iconic sights offers a different appreciation for the city. Passengers get a glimpse of the waterfront’s architectural and historical grandeur, making the experience more enriching than just a dinner.

Practical Details and Considerations

The cruise departs in the afternoon, making it a perfect spot for an early Thanksgiving dinner with a relaxed schedule. The reserved table guarantees your group stays together, which is great for families or groups trying to celebrate as a unit. Keep in mind, separate reservations may not be able to be seated together, so plan accordingly.

The price of $137 per person covers the cruise, buffet, and entertainment, but doesn’t include alcohol (which is available for purchase), gratuity, or souvenirs. For travelers who value good food and scenic views, the cost offers a lot of value—especially considering you’re enjoying a festive meal without the hassle of cooking or cleaning.

The dress code is casual, but comfortable shoes—preferably flat and closed-toed—are recommended for safety. Because interior areas are non-smoking, you’ll find designated outdoor decks for that purpose.

What Travelers Say

Feedback highlights the delicious food and tapas-style offerings and the excellent wine selection, adding a touch of sophistication to the celebration. One review states, “The food was plentiful and tasty, and the views from the rooftop were fantastic.” Others appreciate the lively atmosphere created by the DJ, making the cruise feel more like a holiday party than a formal dinner.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for those wanting a special Thanksgiving celebration on the water, especially if they enjoy good food, scenic city views, and lively entertainment. It suits families and groups who are comfortable with a two-hour experience and want to avoid the unpredictability of outdoor weather, thanks to the climate-controlled decks.

It’s also well-suited for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with a shared meal in a festive setting. However, if you’re looking for a serene, quiet, or extended dining experience, this might not be the best choice. Plus, those on a tight budget might find the $137 price point a bit high, considering extra costs for drinks and gratuity.

The Sum Up

Celebrating Thanksgiving aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia offers a delightful blend of scenic views, hearty food, and lively entertainment. It’s a practical way to enjoy a holiday meal without the stress of hosting, with the added bonus of seeing Philadelphia’s skyline from a unique perspective. The reserved seating, full buffet, and rooftop lounge make it stand out as a festive, fun option.

This cruise shines brightest for travelers who want a family-friendly, social atmosphere with plenty of photo opportunities and a touch of holiday flair. For those craving a more relaxed or prolonged celebration, other options might be better, but for a compact, lively, and scenic dining experience, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, infants (0-2 years) are free but must be included in your reservation with a free infant ticket option. The cruise’s family-friendly atmosphere and festive vibe make it a good choice for kids, especially if they enjoy music and group activities.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, typically in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the meal and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the bar. Unlimited coffee, tea, and water are included with your meal.

Can I choose a specific table?
Your guaranteed table is reserved for your party size, but you should only make one reservation for your entire group to ensure everyone is seated together.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is fine, but comfortable, flat, closed-toed shoes are recommended for safety and comfort onboard.

What is the cancellation policy?
This activity is non-refundable, so be sure of your plans before booking.

Is the event wheelchair accessible?
While not explicitly stated, most modern cruise ships aim to be accessible, but it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

In summary, this Thanksgiving cruise offers a lively, scenic, and satisfying way to celebrate the holiday. With excellent food, a fun atmosphere, and stunning views, it’s well worth considering for a festive, memorable experience in Philadelphia.

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