Philadelphia shines during the holiday season with its lively traditions, historic charm, and unique ways to celebrate Christmas.
Instead of just walking around the beautifully decorated streets, why not add a special touch with a festive cruise or a holiday dinner on the water? We particularly like the Philadelphia: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise for its lively atmosphere and stunning waterfront views, and the Christmas Day Dinner Cruise for those wanting to relax and soak in the city skyline from the Delaware River. Both offer a cozy, festive experience that’s perfect for making your holiday memorable.
If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Christmas on the water, these cruises combine great food, fun entertainment, and scenic vistas—what more could you ask for? Plus, they’re an excellent way to see Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks from a different perspective, especially when lit up for the season.
Whether you prefer a Christmas Eve brunch with all the trimmings or a relaxed Christmas Day dinner, these tours promise a joyful holiday experience.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we highlight two popular Christmas cruise experiences in Philadelphia. The first is the Philadelphia: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise, which features a festive buffet, a private table, and live DJ entertainment []. The second is the Philadelphia: Christmas Day Dinner Cruise, offering a relaxing dinner cruise with city views and onboard games [].
Both provide a unique way to celebrate the holiday season on the Delaware River, with options suited for different schedules and tastes.
1. Philadelphia: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
This two-hour cruise aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia is perfect for those who want to combine a festive meal with stunning waterfront views. For around $109 per person, you get to enjoy a seasonally inspired buffet, which includes a three-course meal with all the traditional holiday trimmings.
The ship offers a reserved private table in a climate-controlled dining room, making it cozy regardless of the weather outside.
The highlight is the onboard entertainment: a live DJ spins holiday tunes, and there are games and activities to keep the mood lively. As the boat glides past Philadelphia’s historic waterfront, you’ll see landmarks like the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Penn’s Landing lit up for the holidays.
The cruise also has an outside open-air rooftop lounge, giving guests a chance to take in the crisp winter air and city skyline.
This tour is perfect for those looking for a festive yet relaxing experience, especially if you enjoy good food, music, and scenic views. The price offers good value considering the buffet, entertainment, and exclusive waterfront vantage point. It’s best suited for anyone wanting a lively holiday celebration with friends or family.
Bottom Line: A lively, scenic, and delicious way to spend Christmas Eve in Philadelphia, ideal for those who want a festive atmosphere with a view.
2. Philadelphia: Christmas Day Dinner Cruise
This 2.5-hour Christmas Day Dinner Cruise offers a relaxed and scenic way to celebrate the holiday. For $109 per person, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet featuring a variety of options, from traditional holiday fare to more modern selections.
The cruise departs from the Delaware River, giving you the chance to take in breathtaking views of the Philadelphia skyline—a truly special backdrop on Christmas Day.
The boat has climate-controlled interior decks, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable while enjoying your meal and the festive ambiance. A live DJ provides holiday music, adding to the cheerful atmosphere. The cruise also includes games and activities, making it a fun, interactive experience suitable for families and couples alike.
Many reviewers appreciate the calm and cozy environment, with some mentioning that the view of the illuminated cityscape is especially striking at sunset. The meal quality and friendly service contribute to its appeal, making it a good value for a special holiday splurge.
This tour is especially suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed, scenic, and festive dinner on Christmas Day without the hustle of busy restaurants.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, scenic way to enjoy Christmas dinner with excellent views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two holiday cruises, consider your priorities: if you want an energetic celebration with dancing and a lively buffet, the Christmas Eve Gourmet Cruise is your pick. If you’re more interested in a relaxed, scenic dinner with beautiful city views, the Christmas Day Dinner Cruise fits the bill.
Both are excellent choices for experiencing Philadelphia’s waterfront during the holidays, but booking early is recommended since these popular cruises fill up quickly during the festive season.
Also, think about your schedule and company: families and couples often enjoy the more laid-back Christmas Day Dinner Cruise, while groups of friends or those wanting a lively party might prefer the Christmas Eve Gourmet Cruise. For a full experience, consider combining your cruise with a daytime stroll through the city’s holiday markets and decorated streets.
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia offers a variety of ways to celebrate Christmas, from traditional markets to spectacular light displays. But for a truly memorable holiday, a festive cruise on the Delaware River stands out.
The Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise provides a lively, scenic celebration, while the Christmas Day Dinner Cruise offers a relaxed, beautiful way to enjoy the city’s skyline. Both options give you a different but equally enjoyable holiday experience at a reasonable price.
If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, these tours are worth booking early—especially around Christmas, when spots tend to fill up fast. Whether you’re after a lively party or a peaceful dinner, Philadelphia’s holiday cruises are a special way to celebrate the season on the water.