NYC: Christmas Eve Buffet Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

Spending Christmas Eve in the Big Apple can be a magical experience. This year, why not enjoy the festive season with a harbor cruise that offers stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks? The Christmas Eve Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise departs from Pier 61 at Chelsea Piers, providing a unique opportunity to savor a delicious 3-course meal while taking in the breathtaking panoramas of the Manhattan skyline. With live music, interactive activities, and seasonal cocktails, it’s a memorable way to celebrate the holiday spirit.

This experience made our article of 11 Must-Try Buffet Experiences In New York City.

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Key Points

Enjoy a festive 3-course plated meal with buffet options during a 2.5-hour Christmas Eve harbor cruise in New York City.
Take in stunning views of iconic NYC landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building, while sailing on the water.
Enjoy the holiday atmosphere with live DJ music and opportunities to dance and participate in interactive activities.
Experience the Manhattan skyline from a unique perspective, with sights of the Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Center, and more.
Relax in a climate-controlled dining room with reserved private tables and have the option to purchase seasonal cocktails.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Cruise Overview

The event is a Christmas Eve Buffet Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise that lasts 2.5 hours.

It departs from Pier 61, Chelsea Piers in New York City. Priced from $198.45 per person, the cruise offers views of iconic NYC landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center.

Guests can enjoy a festive 3-course plated meal with buffet options while listening to live DJ music and sipping seasonal cocktails.

The experience highlights the city’s sights and skyline during the holiday season.

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Dining Experience

Guests aboard the Christmas Eve Buffet Cruise can indulge in a festive 3-course plated meal complemented by a variety of buffet options.

The menu features holiday-inspired dishes, allowing guests to customize their dining experience. The buffet offers both hot and cold selections, catering to diverse preferences.

Diners can savor seasonal cocktails while enjoying live DJ music and festive ambiance. The climate-controlled dining room provides a comfortable setting to relish the meal and take in the stunning views of New York City’s iconic landmarks along the harbor.

Entertainment and Activities

Along With the delectable dining experience, the Christmas Eve Buffet Cruise also offers an array of entertainment and activities to make the celebration truly memorable.

Guests can dance the night away to the tunes of a live DJ, sipping on festive cocktails as they take in the stunning views of the city skyline.

For a more interactive experience, the cruise provides fun games and activities that bring the holiday spirit to life.

With a combination of music, drinks, and entertainment, the cruise ensures a lively and joyous celebration on the water.

Sights and Views

As guests sail along the serene waters of New York Harbor, they’re treated to breathtaking views of the city’s iconic landmarks.

From the towering Statue of Liberty to the gleaming Empire State Building, the cruise offers a unique perspective of the Manhattan skyline. Passengers can also admire the sleek Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, the striking Vessel at Hudson Yards, and the majestic Chrysler Building.

Plus, the cruise provides stunning panoramas of the Brooklyn Bridge and One World Trade Center, making it an unforgettable way to experience the city’s most renowned sights.

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Amenities and Inclusions

The Christmas Eve Buffet Cruise in NYC provides a host of amenities and inclusions to ensure a memorable dining experience. Guests can enjoy:

Reserved private tables in a climate-controlled dining room for intimate celebration
Unlimited coffee, tea, and iced tea, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase
A commemorative photo opportunity to capture the occasion and stunning waterfront views

In addition, the cruise offers wheelchair accessibility, accommodations for infants, and a non-smoking policy throughout the interior areas, creating a comfortable and inclusive setting for all passengers.

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Cancellation and Accessibility

Cancellation of the Christmas Eve Buffet Cruise in NYC is non-refundable. This policy is clearly stated in the event details.

The cancellation of the Christmas Eve Buffet Cruise in NYC is non-refundable, as clearly stated in the event details.

However, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with mobility needs to fully participate in the holiday festivities.

Infants aged 0-2 years can attend for free, but a complimentary infant ticket must be selected during the booking process.

Smoking is prohibited inside the cruise ship, but guests can enjoy a cigarette on the outdoor decks.

Age and Smoking Policies

Infants aged 0-2 years can attend the Christmas Eve Buffet Cruise in NYC for free, but a complimentary infant ticket must be selected during the booking process.

The cruise has a strict no-smoking policy in all interior areas. However, smoking is permitted on the outdoor decks, providing a designated area for those who wish to indulge.

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all guests.

Guests are advised to review the non-refundable cancellation policy prior to booking.

Commemorative photos are available for purchase, capturing the memorable moments of the festive cruise.

Customer Feedback

Customers have generally expressed favorable experiences with the Christmas Eve Buffet Cruise in NYC, according to the reviews.

The cruise has an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 based on 25 reviews. The guide service received high praise, earning a 4.4 rating, and the transportation aspect was also well-received with a 4 out of 5 rating.

However, the value for money rating was slightly lower at 3.4. Reviewers noted positive experiences but suggested allowing more time for docking on Christmas Eve.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

No, outside food and drinks are not permitted on the cruise. The cruise provides a full dining experience with a festive 3-course plated meal, buffet options, and alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meals Available?

The cruise offers a festive 3-course plated meal with buffet options, so there are likely options to accommodate dietary restrictions or special meal requests. Guests should inquire with the cruise operator for specifics on available meal alternatives.

Is There a Dress Code for the Event?

There is no formal dress code for the event. Guests are encouraged to dress comfortably and festively, as it’s a casual celebration. Smart casual attire is recommended to match the holiday spirit of the cruise.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Cruise?

The cruise has a set duration of 2.5 hours and cannot be extended. However, customers can review the cancellation policy and make changes to their reservation if needed, though refunds may not be available.

Is There a Gratuity Included in the Ticket Price?

No, the ticket price does not include a gratuity. Guests are expected to tip the server and any other cruise staff for their service, typically around 18-20% of the total bill.

Final Words

This Christmas Eve harbor cruise in NYC offers a unique and festive way to celebrate the holiday season. Guests can enjoy a delicious 3-course plated meal with buffet options, take in stunning city views, and be entertained by live music. With reserved seating, activities, and convenient departures from Chelsea Piers, it’s a memorable experience for all. Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot on this popular holiday cruise.