Explore the vibrant heart of New York City from a unique vantage point – a scenic buffet river cruise. Whether you crave brunch, lunch, or dinner, this 2-3 hour journey offers an unforgettable dining experience. Indulge in a chef-prepared spread as you take in 360-degree views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline. With seasonal cocktails, onboard entertainment, and panoramic observation decks, it’s the perfect way to savor the sights and flavors of the Big Apple.
Key Points

- This 2-3 hour cruise from Chelsea Piers offers 360-degree views of Manhattan’s skyline and landmarks with an extensive chef-prepared buffet for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
- Prices start at $121.81 per person and include the cruise, buffet, and unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea, with souvenir photos available for purchase.
- Onboard entertainment features a DJ, games like giant Jenga and Connect Four, and seasonal cocktails, wine pairings, and beer available for purchase.
- The Winter Wonderland experience from December 3rd to January 1st offers a festive atmosphere with yachts decorated with twinkling lights and a themed menu.
- The cruise is wheelchair accessible and requires flat, closed-toed shoes for safety, with smoking permitted only on outdoor observation decks.
Overview of the Buffet River Cruise

The New York City Buffet River Cruise offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city’s iconic sights from the water.
This 2-3 hour cruise departs from Chelsea Piers, providing 360-degree views of Manhattan’s skyline and landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.
Theres some good an extensive chef-prepared buffet, with brunch, lunch, or dinner options available.
The experience also includes onboard entertainment, such as a DJ, games, and seasonal cocktails and wine.
With its non-refundable cancellation policy, this cruise is likely to sell out, making it a must-do for those visiting New York City.
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Pricing and Packages

One price option for the New York City Buffet River Cruise is from $121.81 per person.
The cruise lasts 2-3 hours and offers an extensive chef-prepared buffet for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The experience includes unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea, as well as onboard entertainment with a DJ and games.
Photos of the landmarks can be purchased as souvenirs. While the cruise is non-refundable, it’s likely to sell out, making it a popular choice.
Guests should dress in comfortable, casually stylish attire and wear flat, closed-toed shoes for safety.
Highlights of the Experience

Boarding the Spirit of New York from Chelsea Piers, guests embark on a tour of Manhattan’s iconic sights along the Hudson and East Rivers.
They can indulge in an extensive chef-prepared buffet, whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Panoramic views from the observation decks offer photo opportunities of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Brooklyn Bridge.
Onboard entertainment includes a DJ, games like giant Jenga and Connect Four, and seasonal cocktails, wine pairings, and beer available for purchase.
This all-inclusive experience provides an unforgettable day on the water in the heart of New York City.
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360-degree views from observation decks
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Dine on chef-prepared buffet
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Onboard entertainment and games
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Photo ops of NYC landmarks
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Seasonal cocktails, wine, and beer
Seasonal Events and Special Offerings

From December 3rd through January 1st, guests can join the Spirit of New York for a Winter Wonderland experience. The yachts are decorated with twinkling lights, creating a festive atmosphere. Themed cocktails and seasonal menus add to the celebration. Live entertainment keeps the mood lively throughout the cruise.
| Seasonal Offerings | Details |
| — | — |
| Holiday Decor | Twinkling lights, festive accents |
| Specialty Drinks | Themed cocktails, wine pairings |
| Seasonal Menu | Winter-inspired dishes |
| Live Entertainment | Music, games, and more |
| Additional Experiences | Photo opportunities, observation decks |
More Great Tours NearbyInclusions and Amenities

The New York City Buffet River Cruise includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience.
Guests can enjoy:
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An extensive chef-prepared buffet with brunch, lunch, or dinner options
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Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea to complement the meal
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Live DJ entertainment to set the mood
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Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service for easy transportation
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Souvenir photos available for purchase to capture memories of the cruise
These thoughtful inclusions ensure a well-rounded and enjoyable excursion along the Manhattan waterfront.
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Important Details and Customer Feedback

The cruise boards from Pier 61 at Chelsea Piers, located on West 23rd Street. Infants can ride for free with a complimentary infant ticket. Smoking is only permitted on the outdoor observation decks. Guests should inform their server of any food allergies. To ensure group seating, make a single reservation for the entire party. According to 321 reviews, the cruise has an overall rating of 4.3/5, with transportation rated 4.4/5 and value for money rated 4/5.
| Details | Ratings |
| — | — |
| Meeting Point | Pier 61 Chelsea Piers, West 23rd St. |
| Transportation | 4.4/5 |
| Value for Money | 4/5 |
| Overall | 4.3/5 |
Accessibility and Safety Considerations

Accessibility and safety are paramount for the New York City Buffet River Cruise.
The cruise offers the following amenities and considerations:
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Flat, closed-toed shoes are required for safety on the observation decks.
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The vessel is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available.
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Infants are welcome, with a free infant ticket option.
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Guests with food allergies are encouraged to inform the servers.
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Smoking is only permitted on the outdoor observation decks.
These measures ensure a comfortable and secure experience for all guests, allowing them to fully enjoy the stunning views and delightful buffet.
Reserving Your Buffet River Cruise

How can one reserve their spot on the New York City Buffet River Cruise? Guests can easily book their cruise online through the company’s website.
Reservations can be made for brunch, lunch, or dinner seatings. To ensure group seating, customers should make a single reservation for their entire party. Infants may attend for free with the selection of a free infant ticket.
The cruise has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so guests should plan accordingly. With limited availability, potential cruisers are advised to reserve their spot in advance to avoid disappointment, as the experience is likely to sell out.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity Included in the Ticket Price?
Gratuity is not included in the ticket price. Guests are expected to tip the staff for the service provided during the buffet cruise experience. The gratuity amount is at the discretion of the passengers.
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages Onboard?
No, guests cannot bring their own alcoholic beverages onboard. The cruise offers a selection of seasonal cocktails, wine pairings, and beer available for purchase to enjoy during the experience.
Is There a Dress Code for the Cruise?
Though there is no formal dress code, the cruise recommends "comfortable, casually stylish attire" and flat, closed-toed shoes for safety. Guests should avoid overly formal or revealing clothing to ensure they can fully enjoy the experience.
Can I Take a Guided Tour of the Ship?
No, there is no guided tour of the ship. Passengers are free to explore the observation decks on their own during the cruise to take in the views and snap photos of the city sights.
Are There Vegetarian/Gluten-Free Meal Options Available?
Yes, the buffet offers vegetarian and gluten-free meal options. Guests with food allergies should inform the servers to ensure their dietary needs are accommodated.
The Sum Up
The New York City buffet river cruise offers an unforgettable way to experience the city’s iconic skyline and vibrant energy. Theres some good a chef-prepared buffet while enjoying panoramic views, entertainment, and seasonal cocktails. With a variety of dining options and special events, this cruise is an ideal choice for those seeking a unique and memorable New York City experience.
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