Norfolk is a surprisingly good place for buffet experiences, especially if you enjoy dining with a view. Thanks to its location along the Elizabeth River, many tours combine impressive scenery with good food, making for memorable outings. From relaxed brunch cruises to a special 4th of July fireworks dinner, Norfolk offers options for different tastes and occasions.
We particularly like the City Cruises Norfolk for its outdoor decks and lively atmosphere, and the Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise for a fiery patriotic celebration.
Both provide stunning river views paired with well-prepared buffets, giving you more than just a meal—they’re half sightseeing, half celebration.
If you’re seeking a more casual, daytime experience, the City Cruises Norfolk offers a great way to enjoy freshly prepared dishes while cruising past Norfolk’s skyline and Navy vessels. For those interested in a special event, the 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise combines patriotic fireworks with a gourmet buffet and unlimited drinks, making it a memorable holiday outing.
For a more exclusive and festive experience, that holiday cruise is hard to beat, especially if you love fireworks and celebrations.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include three different buffet cruises that provide a range of experiences. The first is the City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise, which is ideal for a relaxing day on the water with good food and lively music.
The second, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise, is perfect for celebrating special occasions with a more upscale vibe, featuring a 2.5-hour cruise along the Elizabeth River with delicious food and views of Navy ships.
Lastly, the Norfolk: 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks offers a patriotic night out with a gourmet buffet, unlimited drinks, and front-row seats to fireworks. Check out the links for more details on each experience.
1. City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise
At number one, the City Cruises Norfolk offers a flexible dining experience with lunch, brunch, or dinner options. For around $80 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2 to 2.5-hour cruise along the Elizabeth River, with a buffet featuring freshly prepared dishes.
This tour is a favorite for its relaxed atmosphere, outdoor decks, and stunning views of Norfolk’s skyline and Navy vessels. The outdoor patio is the largest in the city, making it perfect for a sunny day or a gentle evening cruise.
What makes this cruise stand out is its casual, family-friendly vibe combined with the opportunity to enjoy music or a DJ onboard. It’s a good choice if you want a laid-back experience with plenty of photo opportunities of ships, bridges, and waterfront mansions.
Reviewers praise the fresh food and friendly crew, making it clear that this isn’t just a boat ride—it’s a delicious, scenic outing. The price is reasonable, considering the quality of the buffet and the view.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, lively cruise that combines good food with Norfolk’s waterfront charm, this is a top option. It works well for families, groups, or couples who want a relaxed yet scenic dining experience.
2. Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise
At number two, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers an elegant 2.5-hour experience along the Elizabeth River, costing around $106.88 per person. This cruise is designed for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting a more refined evening. It features a delicious dinner buffet with entrees, salads, and desserts, plus spectacular views of Navy ships and submarines from the skyline deck.
This cruise is notable for its upscale ambiance and the opportunity to dine, dance, and socialize in lounge areas. The reviews highlight the quality of the food and the beautiful sunset views as the sun dips behind naval vessels. It’s a good pick for couples celebrating Anniversaries or small groups seeking a more refined experience.
Some passengers mention that drinks (including mixed drinks) might not always have alcohol in them, but the overall experience is enjoyable and memorable.
The value here lies in combining a quality buffet with sightseeing and entertainment—a well-rounded experience that feels special without being overly formal. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed yet classy atmosphere.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a great balance of good food, scenic views, and entertainment, perfect for celebrating or impressing a date. It’s a bit pricier but delivers a more polished experience.
3. Norfolk: 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks
For a truly patriotic celebration, the Norfolk: 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks is the standout. This 2.5-hour cruise costs about $210 per person and offers front-row views of Norfolk’s famous fireworks display. It takes place on the Spirit of Norfolk, with a gourmet buffet, open bar, and lively music.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of festive fireworks with a high-quality buffet dinner. Guests can enjoy endless drinks, dance, and watch the fireworks light up the sky over the Elizabeth River. Many reviews mention the unbeatable vantage point and the spectacular display of lights synchronized with music. It’s a perfect outing for families, couples, or groups celebrating Independence Day.
The food quality and unlimited drinks make this experience feel like a celebration rather than just a meal. The cruise also offers unobstructed views of Norfolk’s skyline and navy vessels, adding a layer of maritime charm. Since tickets are limited and the cruise sells out quickly, early booking is highly recommended.
Bottom Line: If you want a patriotic night with fireworks, good food, and unlimited drinks, this cruise delivers a memorable July 4th experience. It’s ideal for those wanting a festive, all-out celebration.
How to Choose the Right Buffet Experience in Norfolk
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities. If you prefer a relaxed daytime cruise with outdoor decks and lively music, City Cruises Norfolk is a solid pick. For a more upscale, romantic dinner with views of naval ships, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers excellent value.
If you’re visiting during the summer and want to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, the fireworks cruise provides a festive, patriotic atmosphere with a gourmet buffet and unlimited drinks.
Consider your budget, timing, and what kind of experience you’re after. Book early for the July 4th cruise, especially if fireworks are essential to your plans. For casual dining with scenic views, the first cruise offers the best flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Norfolk’s buffet cruises offer a variety of experiences, from relaxing daytime outings to patriotic fireworks celebrations. The City Cruises Norfolk is our top pick for a casual, scenic day on the water with a great buffet.
For special occasions, the Buffet Dinner Cruise provides a more refined experience with excellent views of Navy vessels. And for July 4th, the fireworks cruise is unbeatable for patriotic fun.
No matter which you choose, these tours give you a chance to enjoy Norfolk’s waterfront in a delicious and memorable way. Be sure to book early—these popular cruises fill up quickly, especially during peak season.