New York City is famous for its astonishing skyline, eclectic neighborhoods, and culinary diversity. When it comes to buffet experiences, the city offers a surprising variety of ways to indulge — whether on a boat, in a luxe restaurant, or during special holiday events. Many of these cruises and brunches combine the joy of a hearty meal with breathtaking views of NYC’s iconic landmarks. For example, the NYC Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise offers a festive way to celebrate the holidays while cruising past the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. The city’s harbor cruises are especially popular, providing a unique setting for a buffet with unmatched scenery.
What makes New York stand out is the variety and scale of these experiences. You can choose a dinner cruise on New Year’s Eve with fireworks, a brunch with unlimited mimosas on Father’s Day, or a holiday cruise filled with seasonal decor. Each offers a different vibe — from romantic to family-friendly — but all share the common feature of combining great food with spectacular views. To help you decide, I’ve rounded up the 12 best buffet experiences in NYC, comparing what each has to offer.
Quick Overview
This list includes harbor cruises, offering everything from festive holiday buffets to romantic dinner cruises, as well as daytime brunches and special occasion cruises like Father’s Day or New Year’s Eve. Many of these tours feature chef-prepared buffets with multiple courses, live entertainment, and scenic routes along the Hudson and East Rivers. Prices range from around $123 for a daytime brunch cruise to over $550 for premium New Year’s Eve celebrations. Some cruises, like the NYC: City Cruises Brunch Buffet Harbor Cruise, are perfect for budget-conscious travelers, while others, such as the NYC: New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Fireworks Harbor Cruise, cater to those celebrating a special occasion in style. Next, let’s explore each experience in detail.
1. NYC: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise
At number 1, this cruise combines festive cheer with scenic sightseeing. Cruising on the Spirit of New York, you’ll enjoy a seasonal chef-prepared buffet with all the holiday trimmings, whether for Christmas brunch or dinner. The cruise lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your choice, and includes reserved private tables in a climate-controlled dining room, so you stay comfortable while soaking in the views.
What elevates this experience is the live DJ and onboard games, making it lively and fun. The route offers up-close views of the Statue of Liberty perfect for holiday photos and cruising past icons like the Chrysler Building and One World Trade Center. Reviews highlight the friendly crew, the incredible food, and the perfect ambiance for a festive family celebration or romantic outing.
Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal for families or couples looking for a memorable Christmas with scenic views and great food, all wrapped in holiday decor.
2. NYC: New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Fireworks Harbor Cruise
For around $552, the New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Fireworks Harbor Cruise offers an unforgettable way to ring in 2025. This 3-hour cruise on the Spirit of New York features a chef-prepared 3-course buffet, an open bar, and a live DJ. The highlight is the view of NYC’s iconic skyline lit up at night, topped off with fireworks over the Hudson River — a true New Year’s spectacle.
The boat’s holiday-themed decor adds to the festive spirit, and the onboard entertainment keeps the energy high all night. Guests rave about the spectacular views, delicious food, and unobstructed fireworks display. The cruise is well-suited for those celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting to dance and toast the new year on the water.
Bottom Line: This cruise is best for couples and groups looking to combine a formal dinner with an electrifying view of New York’s fireworks display.
3. From New Jersey: New York City Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise
Starting from Weehawken, the New York City Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise offers a flexible option for those staying in New Jersey. This 2-3 hour cruise on the Spirit of New Jersey includes a chef-prepared 3-course buffet with salads, entrees, and desserts, and the chance to enjoy great skyline views of Manhattan.
What sets this tour apart is the itinerary—cruising past landmarks like the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge. The outdoor rooftop lounge is a highlight, giving you a breath of fresh air while taking in the sights. Guests share that the value for money is good, especially for a cruise that includes live entertainment and onboard games.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a scenic, relaxed cruise with a variety of views and a hearty buffet, especially if you’re coming from New Jersey.
4. NYC: Christmas Eve Buffet Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise
Celebrating Christmas Eve, this cruise offers a festive sightseeing experience on the Spirit of New York, with a 3-course plated meal and a seasonal buffet. The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, and you’ll enjoy up-close views of the Statue of Liberty and iconic NYC sights on the Hudson and East Rivers. The festive decor helps set the holiday mood, and the onboard live DJ keeps the energy lively.
Reviews mention the beautiful promenade and enjoyable dinner, though some note they’d appreciate an extra hour for the celebration. It’s a good option for those wanting to combine holiday sightseeing with a delicious meal in a relaxed, scenic setting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a cozy, festive cruise on Christmas Eve, with ample holiday decor and views.
5. New York Pier 15 New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise
This 4-hour cruise offers a comprehensive New Year’s Eve celebration on the Hudson River. For about $496.71, you get a buffet dinner, top-shelf drinks, and dancing to a live DJ. The cruise offers unobstructed views of NYC’s skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center, with fireworks lighting up the night sky.
Guests consistently comment on the excellent food, friendly staff, and the amazing atmosphere. The cruise is ideal for those who want a full night of dinner, dancing, and skyline views, making it a popular choice for New Year’s in the city.
Bottom Line: Perfect for party-goers and couples wanting a full night of entertainment and city views to welcome the new year.
6. New York Signature Dinner Cruise
Offering a more casual yet elegant experience, the New York Signature Dinner Cruise combines a delicious buffet dinner with stunning views of Manhattan’s landmarks. For about $159.71 per person, the cruise lasts around 2 hours 30 minutes and features both indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions.
You’ll enjoy sights like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building, all while indulging in a variety of buffet options. The onboard DJ keeps the atmosphere lively, and reviews highlight the quality of the food and the memorable skyline views. It’s a good option for travelers seeking a balance of good food and scenic cruising.
Bottom Line: Suitable for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, scenic dinner on the water with flexible indoor/outdoor options.
7. Bateaux New York Fathers Day Buffet Brunch Cruise
Celebrating Father’s Day, this European-style glass yacht offers a 3-course buffet brunch with live entertainment. At $205.95 per person, it’s a slightly more upscale experience that’s perfect for families wanting to celebrate dad in style. The cruise lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes and includes views of the NYC skyline, from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building.
The unique setting aboard a glass yacht makes for a special meal, and reviews note the fabulous atmosphere and fabulous photos with the skyline as a backdrop. It’s best suited for families looking for a memorable, luxurious brunch experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families celebrating Father’s Day who want a special meal with panoramic views in a refined setting.
8. Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise from Pier 15
This 2-hour brunch cruise from Pier 15 is designed for a relaxed Father’s Day outing, for about $145.68 per person. It features a chef-prepared buffet, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, and great city views. You can enjoy indoor comfort or step onto the outdoor decks for a more open experience.
Guests say it’s a great value, especially given the scenic views and family-friendly atmosphere. The cruise stops at major landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty, making it a fun, laid-back way to celebrate dad.
Bottom Line: Suitable for families seeking a budget-friendly, scenic brunch with flexible indoor and outdoor spaces.
9. New York Father’s Day Dinner Buffet Cruise
This dinner cruise offers a 3-course buffet dining experience on a European-style glass yacht. Priced at around $137.49 per person, it lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes and features live music and a DJ. You’ll pass landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Seaport District, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Guests mention the fabulous skyline views, and the guaranteed table for your party means no fuss about seating. It’s an excellent choice for families or couples wanting a more relaxed yet elegant way to honor dad.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want to combine a special meal with sightseeing in a friendly, upscale atmosphere.
10. Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise Pier 61
A popular family pick, this cruise offers an unlimited brunch buffet, live DJ entertainment, and stellar skyline views. For about $178.56, the cruise lasts around 2 hours and is perfect for those wanting flexibility with indoor and outdoor options. It cruises past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center.
Reviews highlight the fantastic views and delicious buffet, making it a top choice for family celebrations. The relaxed pace and scenic setting make it a good pick for all ages.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families wanting a fun, scenic brunch with plenty of space and good food.
11. NYC: City Cruises Brunch Buffet Harbor Cruise from Pier 15
The City Cruises Brunch is a well-rounded option for a mid-priced cruise at $123 per person. It offers a bottomless mimosa option, live entertainment, and a buffet with a variety of dishes. The cruise lasts 2 hours and provides stunning views of NYC’s skyline, including the Statue of Liberty.
Guests note the excellent scenery, friendly staff, and ample outdoor decks. It’s especially good for travelers wanting a casual yet scenic dining experience that feels relaxed but still special.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who want scenic views with a lively atmosphere.
How to Choose
When selecting the best buffet experience in New York City, consider your priorities. If you’re visiting during the holidays, the Christmas Day or Christmas Eve cruises or the Thanksgiving cruise offer festive atmospheres with seasonal decor. For a special celebration like New Year’s Eve, the fireworks cruise or the full-night party cruise are top picks.
If your focus is on value for money, the Pier 15 brunch cruise and the City Cruises brunch provide generous buffets at lower prices. For family celebrations or Father’s Day, the brunch cruises from Pier 61 or the European-style yacht offer memorable experiences. Lastly, if you prefer a romantic dinner with spectacular night views, the Signature Dinner Cruise will not disappoint.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially for holiday and New Year’s cruises, to ensure availability and secure the best spots.
Final Thoughts
New York’s buffet cruises and special occasion outings provide a wide array of options for every taste and budget. Whether you want a festive holiday experience, a romantic night, or a family-friendly brunch, the city’s waterside offerings won’t disappoint. For travelers seeking unforgettable views combined with hearty meals, these cruises are a perfect way to see the city from a different angle. If one catches your eye, I suggest booking early — these experiences fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Now, get ready to enjoy New York from the water and indulge in some of its best buffet experiences.