Norfolk’s waterfront location makes it a prime spot for memorable dining experiences that combine great food with fantastic views. Unlike many places where your options are limited to a restaurant or casual eatery, Norfolk offers buffet cruises that turn a meal into a mini-adventure on the water. These cruises allow you to enjoy freshly prepared dishes while soaking in views of the Atlantic Fleet, historic skyline, and vibrant river scenes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a novel way to dine, Norfolk’s buffet cruises deliver both flavor and scenery.
What sets Norfolk apart is the way these experiences blend culinary delight with sightseeing. The city’s naval significance and scenic waterways make for a unique backdrop, especially during sunset or evening cruises. Many of these tours include live narration, entertainment, and themed events—not just a meal—adding to the overall experience. Plus, the variety of options—from brunch to dinner cruises—means you can tailor your visit to your schedule, budget, and mood.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best buffet experiences in Norfolk includes everything from daytime lunchtime cruises to elegant dinner and special holiday events. Each offers a different flavor of Norfolk’s waterfront, with options like Norfolk: City Cruises Elizabeth River Buffet Lunch Cruise for a relaxed daytime outing, or Norfolk: City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise for a lively evening on the water. Fine-tuned for different tastes and occasions, these tours provide a practical and enjoyable way to experience Norfolk from the water.
Below, we explore each of these top buffet cruises in detail, helping you decide which fits your plans best.
1. Norfolk: City Cruises Elizabeth River Buffet Lunch Cruise
At number one on our list is the Norfolk: City Cruises Elizabeth River Buffet Lunch Cruise. For around $69 per person, this 2-hour cruise offers a straightforward yet charming way to enjoy Norfolk’s scenic waterways. The cruise departs from the city and features a buffet lunch, DJ entertainment, and a knowledgeable narration focusing on Norfolk’s naval and historic sights.
The buffet is a highlight, with a variety of freshly prepared dishes. You’ll have the chance to stroll outside on the decks, taking in views of the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet and the city skyline. Passengers praise the friendly staff and great food, with some noting the cruise’s lively atmosphere and entertainment as particular standouts. The captain’s detailed narration about Navy ships adds an educational twist, making it appealing for those interested in maritime history.
Because the cruise also features games and music, it’s perfect for families or groups looking for a relaxed, fun outing. The only caveat is that the availability and start times vary, so checking ahead is advised. This cruise offers excellent value for its combination of scenery, food, and entertainment.
Bottom Line: A good choice for a daytime outing with decent food, light entertainment, and the chance to enjoy Norfolk’s waters in a casual setting.
2. Norfolk: City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise
For about $111 per person, the Norfolk: City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise provides a more refined evening experience aboard the Spirit of Norfolk. This 2.5-hour cruise is designed for those who want dinner, dancing, and scenic views in one package.
The dinner buffet is described as delicious, with a variety of entrees, salads, and desserts. Passengers often commend the friendly crew and lively atmosphere, making it suitable for couples, friends, or families celebrating special occasions. The cruise provides spectacular views of Norfolk’s skyline as the city lights up during sunset, especially appealing on clear nights.
Guests note that drinks can be overpriced, but the overall experience compensates with quality food and engaging entertainment. The crew’s helpfulness, especially with those who have disabilities, adds practical value. This cruise is ideal if you want a more upscale dining experience combined with a scenic tour of Norfolk’s waterways.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a special night out with good food, lively atmosphere, and exceptional views—though be prepared for extra costs on drinks.
3. Norfolk: City Cruises Sunday Buffet Brunch River Cruise
The Norfolk: City Cruises Sunday Buffet Brunch River Cruise offers a relaxed way to enjoy a scenic Sunday. Priced at $69 per person, this 2-hour cruise features a brunch buffet with freshly prepared dishes, making it perfect for late risers or those wanting a leisurely meal.
Passengers rave about the variety of brunch options and the live DJ entertainment. You’ll get sweeping views of Norfolk’s skyline and naval ships, with a bit of live narration to keep you informed about local sights. The casual, festive atmosphere makes it popular with families and groups celebrating weekends. The cruise’s easygoing nature encourages relaxing, with some reviews mentioning that it’s an ideal way to start a Sunday.
This experience is best suited for those who want a combination of good food and sightseeing without the formality of dinner cruises. It’s also a great way to participate in a scenic, weekend activity with minimal fuss.
Bottom Line: An excellent Sunday option for brunch lovers who want to combine food and scenery in a lively, family-friendly setting.
4. Norfolk: Buffet Brunch Cruise
The Norfolk: Buffet Brunch Cruise offers another 2-hour scenic outing at $84 per person. This cruise is tailored for those wanting a weekend brunch with spectacular views of the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet.
Guests consistently praise the delicious brunch menu, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dessert options. The skyline deck offers amazing views of Norfolk’s ships and submarines, complemented by engaging narration onboard. Entertainment includes DJ music, and the cruise features access to lounge spaces and interactive games, making it suitable for families, couples, and groups celebrating special moments.
Reviews highlight the well-organized service and the overall festive atmosphere. The cruise’s value lies in its combination of diverse menu options, scenic viewing, and entertainment. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a semi-formal brunch with the added bonus of maritime sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Offers a good balance of variety, scenery, and entertainment—best for brunch fans and those celebrating special days.
5. Norfolk: Buffet Dinner Cruise
The Norfolk: Buffet Dinner Cruise costs around $106.88 for an approximate 2.5-hour evening experience. This cruise combines dining and dancing with views of ships and submarines in the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet.
The dinner features a buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. Critics mention the good quality of food and spectacular views of the Norfolk skyline at sunset. The cruise is well-suited for group celebrations or an intimate night out. The atmosphere is described as festive, with onboard entertainment and lounge spaces.
A noteworthy detail is the mixed reviews on drinks, with some noting they are overpriced. However, the overall value is considered good for a scenic, evening dining experience. This cruise is best suited for those seeking an elegant dinner with views and a lively environment.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for an evening of dining and dancing, especially if you want to enjoy Norfolk’s maritime skyline.
6. Norfolk: 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise
The Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise is a patriotic, once-a-year event priced at $181.55. It offers a 2.5-hour cruise with chef-prepared menus, fireworks viewing, and special holiday entertainment.
This cruise is designed to be a memorable way to celebrate Independence Day. You’ll enjoy delicious food, themed cocktails, and Norfolk’s landmarks from the water. After dinner, the highlight is the fireworks display over the river, which can be spectacular. The cruise includes climate-controlled interiors and outdoor decks, giving you flexibility in viewing conditions.
With only one review indicating a lower rating, it suggests that this event may vary year to year, but for those wanting a unique patriotic experience, it offers a memorable way to celebrate the Fourth of July from the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for patriotic travelers and families wanting to combine a meal with fireworks — but plan early and check for availability.
7. Norfolk: Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise
The Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise offers a relaxed, family-friendly celebration for about $138.83 per person. It’s a 2-hour cruise that combines chef-prepared brunch dishes with scenic views of Norfolk’s skyline and ships.
Although it currently has no reviews, the description highlights the delicious buffet, including breakfast favorites and seafood, and the chance to dine and dance with the whole family. The climate-controlled interior provides comfort, and the view of ships and submarines from the deck makes for great photo opportunities.
Perfect for families wanting to celebrate with a casual, scenic brunch, this cruise emphasizes creating memories and offers a laid-back atmosphere suitable for all ages.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for family celebrations, especially if you want to enjoy a relaxed meal with water views.
8. Norfolk: Father’s Day Buffet Dinner Cruise
The Norfolk: Father’s Day Buffet Dinner Cruise at about $139.22 offers a 2.5-hour evening event. It’s designed as a special celebration for dads, combining dinner, dancing, and beautiful skyline views.
Guests can expect a chef-prepared buffet and the chance to marvel at ships and submarines while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Even without reviews, the cruise’s description suggests a relaxed, family-oriented environment that makes for a memorable Father’s Day outing.
This cruise is best suited for families or groups celebrating the occasion, offering a comfortable way to combine a special meal with scenic sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A practical option for a family celebration that mixes good food with Norfolk’s waterfront charm.
How to Choose the Best Buffet Experience in Norfolk
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, preferred time of day, and the kind of experience you’re after. If you’re looking for a casual daytime outing, the Lunch Cruise offers great scenery and a relaxed vibe. For a more festive evening, the Dinner Cruise provides dining and dancing onboard.
For weekend brunch lovers, the Sunday Buffet Brunch combines good food with live DJ entertainment. If a special occasion like 4th of July or Father’s Day calls, the respective special cruises are designed to make those days memorable.
Booking early is recommended, especially for holiday events, and always check the availability and start times in advance. Keep in mind your budget for drinks and extras, as some cruises mention these can be costly.
Final Thoughts
Norfolk’s buffet cruises offer a wide range of options for dining on water, whether you prefer a quick lunch, an elegant dinner, or a festive holiday cruise. For those seeking relaxing scenery combined with good food, the City Cruises Elizabeth River Buffet Lunch Cruise is a solid pick. If you want a dinner with entertainment and skyline views, the Buffet Dinner Cruise delivers a lively evening.
Families and brunch lovers will find the Sunday Buffet Brunch appealing, while those celebrating special holidays like the Fourth of July will appreciate the themed cruises. Whatever your preference, Norfolk’s waterfront offers unique dining adventures that are well worth considering for your next trip.
Start planning early, check availability, and enjoy the waterside ambiance that only Norfolk can provide.