Spending Christmas Eve in Philadelphia doesn’t have to mean staying grounded. Instead, why not experience the city’s historic waterfront from a unique vantage point – aboard a gourmet brunch or dinner cruise? With a festive 3-course buffet, unlimited mimosas, and panoramic views of iconic sites like the Ben Franklin Bridge, this holiday celebration promises a delightful atmosphere for all. But the real question is, how will you choose to set sail this Christmas Eve?
This experience made our article of Our 8 Favorite Philadelphia Cruises And Boat Tours.
Key Points
- The Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise in Philadelphia offers a festive 3-course buffet and entertainment on a climate-controlled yacht for $142 per person.
- The brunch cruise lasts 2 hours, while the dinner cruise is 2.5 hours, with unlimited mimosas available for brunch-goers.
- Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Philadelphia’s historic waterfront, including the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge, from the yacht’s large picture windows and open-air rooftop lounge.
- The cruise features lively DJ entertainment, onboard games, and seasonal cocktails, wine, and beer available for purchase to create a festive atmosphere.
- The event has a non-refundable cancellation policy, and reservations are recommended to ensure seating for the entire party.
Event Overview and Pricing
While the Spirit of Philadelphia offers a Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise, the pricing starts from $142.00 per person.
The duration varies, with the brunch cruise lasting 2 hours and the dinner cruise 2.5 hours. However, the cancellation policy is non-refundable.
The brunch cruise lasts 2 hours, the dinner cruise 2.5 hours, but the cancellation policy is non-refundable.
Guests can expect a festive 3-course buffet with seasonal favorites, along with unlimited mimosas for the brunch option.
Coffee, tea, iced tea, and water are included, and private tables in a climate-controlled dining room are reserved.
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Dining Experience
The festive 3-course buffet aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia cruise offers seasonal favorites to delight guests.
Brunch-goers can indulge in unlimited mimosas, while coffee, tea, iced tea, and water are included for all.
Diners can savor the holiday atmosphere in a reserved, climate-controlled dining room. The menu features a variety of dishes to suit different tastes, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy.
With the convenience of a private table and the freedom to explore the open-air rooftop lounge, guests can make the most of their Christmas Eve dining experience on the water.
Entertainment and Atmosphere
Guests aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia Christmas Eve cruise can enjoy lively DJ entertainment and onboard games, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Revelers can access the open-air rooftop lounge to take in the panoramic views of the historic waterfront and skyline.
Revelers can access the open-air rooftop lounge to take in the panoramic views of the historic waterfront and skyline.
For those looking to imbibe, seasonal cocktails, wine pairings, and beer are available for purchase.
The yachts are whimsically decorated with twinkling lights and snow-covered trees, creating a truly magical experience for all.
Views and Sightseeing
As passengers cruise along Philadelphia’s historic waterfront, they’ll be treated to panoramic views from the large picture windows and outdoor lounge.
They’ll see the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge and other notable sites along the city’s skyline.
The open-air rooftop lounge provides a unique vantage point to take in the sights and atmosphere.
Whether admiring the stunning views inside or out, guests will enjoy an unforgettable sightseeing experience as they celebrate the holiday season on the water.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking and Cancellation Policy
Although the Christmas Eve Brunch or Dinner Cruise is a non-refundable event, customers can make reservations for the entire party to ensure they’re seated together.
Reservations must be made in advance, as seating is limited. The cruise will depart from Penn’s Landing, and guests are advised to arrive early to avoid delays.
Casual attire, such as nice pants, button-ups, blouses, and khakis, is recommended. Customers should be aware that the cruise has a strict no-refund policy, so it’s essential to plan accordingly and arrive on time.
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Dress Code and Group Seating
The cruise recommends a casual attire, such as nice pants, button-ups, blouses, and khakis. This is to ensure guests feel comfortable while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
The cruise recommends casual attire like nice pants, button-ups, blouses, and khakis to ensure guests feel comfortable in the festive atmosphere.
When making reservations, it’s important to book for the entire party to ensure seating together. This allows the crew to accommodate group needs and provide a seamless dining experience.
Some key points to consider:
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Make one reservation for the entire party
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Ensure seating together
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Crew can accommodate group needs
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Provide a seamless dining experience
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews of the Philadelphia Christmas Eve Brunch or Dinner Cruise provide a mixed yet insightful perspective.
While some diners noted overcooked meats and lacked clarity on food ingredients, others praised the friendly staff.
The overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 suggests a generally positive experience, though areas for improvement remain.
Guests should be prepared for potential issues with food quality but can look forward to the festive atmosphere and scenic views.
Getting to the Cruise
One convenient meeting point for the Philadelphia Christmas Eve Brunch or Dinner Cruise is Penn’s Landing.
Located right along the Delaware River, Penn’s Landing provides easy access to the cruise departure point.
Guests can arrive via:
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Personal vehicle and utilize nearby parking garages
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Public transportation such as the SEPTA train or bus
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Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft
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Walking from nearby hotels or attractions in the area
With the cruise starting and ending at Penn’s Landing, guests can seamlessly board the Spirit of Philadelphia and enjoy their festive holiday dining experience on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Vegetarian/Vegan Menu Option Available?
The event doesn’t specifically mention vegetarian or vegan menu options. It’s best to contact the organizers directly to inquire about dietary accommodations, as they may be able to provide alternative meal choices upon request.
Do They Offer Any Kid-Friendly or Dietary-Restricted Menu Items?
The cruise offers dietary-restricted menu items, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, but doesn’t specify if they have a dedicated kid’s menu. Guests should inquire about accommodating special dietary needs when booking.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals for Larger Groups?
The company offers discounts for larger groups, though the details aren’t specified. They recommend making one reservation for the entire party to ensure seating together. It’s best to inquire about group pricing when booking.
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages Onboard?
No, you can’t bring your own alcoholic beverages onboard. The cruise offers a selection of seasonal cocktails, wine pairings, and beer which are available for purchase. Outside alcoholic drinks are not permitted.
Is There a Security Screening Process or Restrictions on Items Brought Onboard?
There’s a security screening process, and guests can’t bring their own alcoholic beverages onboard. Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, but you can purchase seasonal cocktails, wine, and beer during the cruise.
The Sum Up
Spend Christmas Eve in Philadelphia with a gourmet brunch or dinner cruise. Enjoy panoramic views, a festive 3-course buffet, and unlimited mimosas. The climate-controlled yachts feature lively DJ entertainment and a delightful atmosphere. Reservations are required, and a non-refundable policy applies, so be sure to plan ahead. This holiday celebration promises an unforgettable experience.
📍 This experience made our list of the 8 best Cruises And Boat Tours in Philadelphia
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