Newport Beach shines during the holiday season, offering more than just sunny skies and sandy beaches. Its beautiful harbor, decorated yachts, and charming waterfront make it an ideal backdrop for Christmas tours and experiences.
We especially like the Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise because it combines delicious food, unlimited mimosas, and stunning coastal scenery—what’s not to love? The festive deck decor, lively music, and views of the Southern California coastline create a memorable holiday atmosphere on the water.
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas Day or Christmas Eve, these cruises transform an ordinary holiday into a unique maritime celebration.
Quick Overview
Our list features two standout Newport Beach Christmas cruises, both offering chef-prepared buffets, full bar service, and scenic harbor views. The first is the Christmas Day Cruise, perfect for those wanting to spend Christmas with loved ones while enjoying festive dining and unlimited mimosas.
The second is the Christmas Eve Cruise, which shares many of the same features but at a slightly higher price point and with a 2.5-hour duration.
Both options promise a relaxed, scenic, and joyful way to celebrate the holiday season—check out the detailed options below.
1. Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
This cruise is a popular choice for Christmas Day, offering a 2 to 2.5-hour harbor cruise combined with a chef-prepared buffet, full bar, and plenty of holiday cheer. At just $113 per person, it provides a good value for a festive experience on the water.
What makes this cruise stand out is its focus on holiday atmosphere—decked out in festive decor and accompanied by music entertainment that adds to the fun.
The meal options include a buffet with a variety of holiday favorites, and brunch guests can enjoy unlimited mimosas—a perfect way to toast the season. The scenery features exceptional views of Newport Beach, with boats, yachts, and the coastline illuminated by holiday lights during sunset, making for a picturesque backdrop.
Reviewers consistently praise the lively ambiance and friendly service, describing it as “an excellent way to spend Christmas with family.” The cruise’s shorter duration makes it ideal for families or those wanting a festive outing without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: For a lively, scenic Christmas celebration with good food and drinks, this cruise hits all the right notes and provides excellent value.
2. Newport Beach: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
The Christmas Eve cruise is a 2.5-hour journey that offers a similar festive experience as the Christmas Day version but with a slightly higher price tag of $168 per person. This cruise is perfect if you want to extend your holiday celebrations into the evening or prefer a dinner option.
The included chef-prepared buffet features holiday classics, and the full bar service ensures your glass stays full while you admire the harbor’s twinkling lights.
What makes this cruise unique is its timing—Christmas Eve often feels more intimate, and the evening sail allows you to enjoy the sunset and the city’s holiday lights reflecting on the water.
The festive decor and music enhance the merry atmosphere, and the scenic views of Newport Harbor provide a stunning setting for memorable holiday photos. Although reviews are limited, the consistent theme is one of a refined, yet fun holiday outing.
If you’re looking for a slightly more upscale experience or want to celebrate Christmas with a bit more evening sparkle, this cruise is an excellent choice.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a cozy yet lively Christmas Eve experience with scenic views and good food, this cruise offers a festive, elegant option.
How to Choose Between These Two Newport Beach Christmas Cruises
When deciding which cruise suits your holiday plans, consider your budget, preferred date, and how much time you want to spend on the water. The Christmas Day Cruise is ideal if you want a lively, shorter celebration with a focus on brunch or lunch. It’s perfect for families or travelers who want a festive meal without a late-night commitment.
Meanwhile, the Christmas Eve Cruise offers a slightly longer, more relaxed experience with a dinner option and the magic of evening harbor lights. If you’re celebrating with a romantic partner or a smaller group, this cruise’s evening ambiance might be more appealing.
Both cruises feature scenic views and holiday decor, but if you love being on the water during sunset, the Christmas Eve sail could be a highlight. For booking, it’s wise to reserve early, especially during the busy holiday season, to secure your preferred date and seating.
Final Thoughts
Newport Beach offers two wonderful ways to celebrate Christmas on the water—each providing festive cheer, scenic views, and delicious food. For a lively Christmas Day event, the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise delivers excellent value and a family-friendly atmosphere. On the other hand, the Christmas Eve Cruise provides a more romantic, evening celebration with stunning sunset views.
For travelers seeking a joyful holiday experience with scenic photo ops and good food, both options are worthy. If you’re planning ahead, booking early will help you secure a spot for these popular Christmas cruises. Enjoy your holiday by the water—Newport Beach’s festive cruises are a memorable way to celebrate Christmas in Southern California.