From New Jersey: New York City Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise

Imagine cruising along the water with New York City’s skyline stretching out on all sides—lit up at night or glowing in the daytime—while you enjoy a freshly prepared meal and some relaxing entertainment. That’s exactly what this Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise from Weehawken offers.

It’s a popular way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights from a different perspective, all while indulging in good food and lively company.

Two things we especially like about this cruise are the panoramic views of Manhattan’s skyline, including famous landmarks like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, and the well-thought-out dining experience with a chef-prepared, multi-course buffet.

However, a potential drawback is that passengers might miss some landmark passing announcements, as noted by a few reviews, especially when busy at the buffet or enjoying the outdoor decks.

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing with the convenience of departing just across the river from New York City. Families, couples, or groups celebrating special occasions will find it particularly appealing—especially if they love good food and a lively atmosphere.

This experience made our article of The 8 Top Buffet Experiences In New York City: Which Is Best?.

Key Points

• Stunning views of NYC skyline from multiple vantage points.
• Comfortable, climate-controlled indoor dining with a reserved table.
• Chef-prepared 3-course buffet featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Lively onboard entertainment with DJ music and games.
• Access to outdoor open-air decks for unobstructed sightseeing.
• Departure from Weehawken’s Lincoln Harbor Marina offers easy access from New Jersey.
• Option for evening or afternoon cruises with flexible scheduling.
• Includes unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea for a relaxing meal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

Boarding the Spirit of New Jersey at Lincoln Harbor Marina is straightforward—staff greet you warmly and direct you to your reserved private table in the climate-controlled dining room. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of Manhattan’s skyline through large windows, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. For those who want a breath of fresh air, the outdoor decks and open-air rooftop lounge provide panoramic vistas and a fresh breeze.

Once underway, the cruise routes past many of NYC’s most recognizable landmarks. We loved the way the boat glides along the water, with the city’s skyscrapers like the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and One World Trade Center rising dramatically on the horizon. The route also takes you past the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty, giving you a comprehensive view of the city’s iconic waterfront.

The buffet is a highlight—chef-prepared, seasonally inspired dishes served in three courses. Expect salads, hot entrees, and tempting desserts, all prepared with fresh ingredients. Reviewers frequently mention the food as being delicious, with one noting the “great atmosphere” paired with “great food.” You can enjoy your meal with drinks from the bar—though alcohol is available only for purchase, so bringing your own is not allowed.

While dining, you’ll enjoy onboard entertainment from a DJ, with music that encourages you to relax or dance. Games and a lively atmosphere keep the mood upbeat, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion. Passengers appreciate the attention to detail—some mention excellent service from staff like Abbi and Angel, who make the experience feel personalized and welcoming.

Many travelers have expressed delight at the spectacular views of NYC’s bridges and skyline, especially at night when the city lights sparkle. However, some reviewers have pointed out that landmark passing announcements aren’t always made, so if you’re eager to learn about each sight as you pass it, you might need to stay alert or do a bit of homework beforehand.

The cruise lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours—just enough time to enjoy a leisurely meal, take plenty of photos, and soak in the atmosphere. The timing usually accommodates both afternoon and evening options, making it flexible for different plans.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

The cruise is straightforward but packed with visual highlights. After boarding at Lincoln Harbor Marina, the boat departs smoothly, and within minutes, you’ll be gliding past the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building—two of NYC’s art deco icons. As the boat moves further south, you’ll see the Intrepid Museum and the Vessel at Hudson Yards—modern architectural marvels that showcase NYC’s blend of history and innovation.

The route takes you past Battery Park and South Street Seaport, where you’ll get views of the Statue of Liberty, a must-see symbol of freedom. For many, this is the highlight of the cruise. From the outdoor decks, you can get close enough for great photos, especially if you’re lucky with the weather.

Further along, the skyline is punctuated by the One World Trade Center, a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience. You’ll also cruise past the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and Williamsburg Bridge, all illuminated at night or standing majestically during the day. The boat’s large open-air decks are ideal for viewing these bridges as they pass underneath.

The cruise circuit generally loops back to the marina, giving passengers a full 2-hour experience, with the option to extend to 2.5 hours depending on the schedule.

Authentic Experiences and Passenger Feedback

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the food and the lively atmosphere. One traveler called the music “spectacular,” while another praised the staff, especially mentioning the welcoming attitude of servers like Abbi and Angel. The overall vibe is described as fun and upbeat, making it a good option for celebrating a special event or just enjoying a relaxing evening.

On the downside, some cruisers mentioned that landmark notifications aren’t always announced, which could be disappointing if you’re eager to identify each site as it passes. However, this seems to be a minor issue in a generally well-received experience.

The majority of visitors find this cruise to be a great value—offering impressive views, tasty food, and lively entertainment at a reasonable price point ($88 per person). The fact that children under a certain age are free, and that parking can be validated, adds to its appeal for families and groups.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Arrive early at Lincoln Harbor Marina to ensure smooth boarding—look for the City Cruises ticket booth.
• Remember to bring your passport or ID, especially if you are using the parking validation.
• While coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included, alcoholic beverages are sold separately—consider bringing your own if you prefer.
• To sit together, book all tickets in one reservation—separate bookings don’t guarantee group seating.
• Wear comfortable clothes, especially if you plan to visit the outdoor decks, which can be breezy.
• If you’re interested in holiday cruises, note that from December 3rd to January 1st, the boats are decorated for a Winter Wonderland experience, with themed cocktails and seasonal decor.
• The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

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The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This New York City buffet cruise from New Jersey is a solid choice for those wanting a relaxed, scenic way to see NYC’s most famous landmarks. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate great skyline views, good food, and lively entertainment, all without the hassle of navigating the city. Families, couples, and groups celebrating special occasions will find it especially enjoyable.

While it may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a narrated tour or detailed commentaries, the balance of beautiful scenery, delicious food, and friendly atmosphere makes it a worthwhile outing. If you’re after an authentic New York experience with a relaxed vibe and memorable views, this cruise is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, infants are free, but make sure to select the free infant ticket option when booking. It’s a family-friendly activity that offers fun for all ages.

Can I bring alcohol on board?
Alcoholic beverages are not included but are available for purchase at the bar. Bringing your own isn’t allowed, so plan to buy drinks there if desired.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery, food, and entertainment without feeling rushed.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Lincoln Harbor Marina at 1500 Harbor Blvd, Weehawken. Look for the City Cruises ticket booth to check in.

Is parking available?
Yes, validated free parking is available at nearby lots—1450 Harbor Blvd on weekdays and Sheraton Hotel at 500 Harbor Blvd on weekends. Parking validation policies are subject to change.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise provider states that it is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, cash for extras, and comfortable clothes. If you want to take photos, don’t forget your camera or smartphone.

This cruise combines the best of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment along New York City’s scenic waterways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable way to see Manhattan, it offers good value and a chance to experience the city from a fresh perspective.

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