Jersey City is a prime spot for dinner tours that combine great food with unbeatable views of New York City. Its location along the Hudson River offers travelers a front-row seat to the iconic Manhattan skyline, making it a natural choice for memorable evening excursions. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, craving a scenic cruise, or just want to enjoy a unique dinner experience, Jersey City has options that suit a variety of tastes and budgets. Keep in mind that some tours include buffet dinners, fireworks, and live entertainment, so there’s ample variety depending on your preferences.
While Jersey City may not be as famous as Manhattan for its dinner cruises, it offers some distinctive experiences that often feature the city’s shimmering skyline as a backdrop. These tours focus on providing authentic, enjoyable nights out with sights, sounds, and flavors tailored to make your evening special. For a relaxing cruise with views of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, or an energetic New Year’s Eve party on the water, Jersey City has plenty to offer.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find three standout dinner tours in Jersey City:
- A scenic Skyline Dinner Cruise that highlights Manhattan’s famous landmarks with a chef-prepared buffet. Learn more here
- An exciting New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise featuring fireworks, dancing, and a top-shelf open bar. Details here
- A family-friendly Father’s Day Buffet Cruise on the rivers with outdoor decks and classic views of NYC. More info here
Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. NYC Skyline Dinner Cruise from New Jersey
At number 1, the NYC Skyline Dinner Cruise from New Jersey offers a two-and-a-half-hour trip along the Hudson River with breathtaking views of Manhattan’s skyline. Departing from Weehawken, this cruise is a great way to see landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Empire State Building from a fresh perspective.
The highlight is the chef-prepared buffet dinner, featuring freshly made entrees, salads, and desserts—perfect for those who want a sit-down meal with a view. During the cruise, you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities as the boat pauses at iconic spots like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. The boat’s open-air decks allow for unobstructed skyline views, especially at sunset when the city lights up.
This tour slightly scores a 3.5 out of 5 based on 10 reviews, with many praising the friendly staff and good food. One reviewer said, “The servers and captain were incredibly nice. I don’t have words to appreciate them,” highlighting the warm service. The price of $140.26 per person offers reasonable value given the scenic experience and included buffet.
Bottom Line: This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing evening with spectacular views and quality food, especially if you’re into photography or just want a different vantage point of NYC’s skyline.
2. New Jersey New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise
Next, the New Jersey New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise promises a lively night with dining, dancing, fireworks, and panoramic views. Priced at $650, it’s a splurge but ideal for those wanting a memorable New Year celebration on the water.
The cruise lasts about three hours and features a buffet dinner and a top-shelf open bar. This event is more than just a dinner; it’s a full-blown party. You’ll witness the fireworks over the Hudson River, with unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center. The atmosphere is festive, with a DJ providing entertainment through the night.
While the overall rating is 2.0 out of 5 based on a single review, the experience is tailored for those looking to celebrate in style. The inclusion of free admission to key sights like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty makes it a comprehensive experience, especially combined with the lively party vibe.
Bottom Line: This cruise is best suited for travelers wanting a festive, all-in-one NYE experience with food, drinks, and fireworks—be prepared for a premium price, but the celebration is unforgettable.
3. New Jersey Father’s Day Buffet Dinner Cruise
Finally, the Father’s Day Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a family-friendly outing on the water, perfect for celebrating dad or just enjoying quality time. Priced at $179.15 per person, this cruise lasts around 2 hours 30 minutes and features a chef-prepared buffet, classic cocktails, and great views of NYC.
What makes this tour stand out is its versatility—guests can enjoy the climate-controlled interior or soak in the surroundings on the outdoor decks. The itinerary includes stops at familiar sights like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building, providing a relaxed yet scenic experience suitable for all ages.
While reviews are currently absent, the focus on family-friendly amenities and scenic views make this a solid choice for those looking for a casual yet special way to spend Father’s Day or celebrate with loved ones. The price reflects the inclusive nature and the memorable views of the NYC skyline.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families and those celebrating special occasions with a relaxed cruise experience, it balances affordability with a fun, scenic outing.
How to Choose the Best Dinner Tour in Jersey City
When selecting your perfect dinner cruise, consider your budget, the kind of experience you want, and who you’ll be traveling with. For a romantic evening with photo opportunities, the NYC Skyline Dinner Cruise provides a lovely setting. If celebrating a special event like New Year’s, the New Year’s Eve Cruise offers an energetic, festive atmosphere with fireworks. For family outings, the Father’s Day Cruise combines scenic views with a relaxed vibe.
Practical tips include booking early—especially for popular holidays—and considering the duration of the cruise relative to your schedule. If you prefer a smaller, more intimate experience, check the reviews for insights on food quality and service. Budget-conscious travelers should weigh the value of included food and views against the ticket price.
To sum it up, Jersey City offers a variety of dinner cruises that showcase the skyline and provide memorable evenings on the water. Whether you opt for a scenic cruise with a buffet, a lively New Year’s celebration, or a family-friendly outing, each tour offers a distinctive experience. For most travelers, booking early guarantees a spot on these popular tours—so plan ahead and enjoy your evening out on the Hudson.