San Diego’s stunning harbor, iconic landmarks, and mild climate make it an outstanding city for dinner cruises. With sparkling skyline views, historic ships, and a lively waterfront, this city offers a variety of ways to enjoy a meal on the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable evening, the options here deliver everything from gourmet cuisine to festive holiday events. Each cruise offers a different vibe—some focus on sightseeing, others on entertainment or seasonal cheer—and all provide a chance to see San Diego in a new light.
Unlike traditional restaurant dining, these dinner tours combine the pleasure of good food with stunning views and a little adventure. It’s a practical way to enjoy San Diego’s waterfront without the hassle of planning multiple outings. Here, we’ve rounded up the 13 best dinner tours in San Diego, from romantic sunset sails to holiday-themed cruises, helping you pick the perfect match for your style and budget.
1. San Diego: City Cruises Gourmet Dinner Cruise
At number 1, the San Diego: City Cruises Gourmet Dinner Cruise offers a well-rounded evening combining luxury, scenic views, and fantastic food. Priced at $133 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise departs from Grape Street Pier and features a full bar with cocktails, wine, and beer, alongside seasonal dishes prepared onboard. The highlight is the opportunity to enjoy San Diego’s sunset and see over 50 landmarks including the USS Midway and Hotel del Coronado, all while listening to live DJ entertainment. Reviewers praise the food, service, and atmosphere, with some noting the cruise felt surprisingly relaxed and intimate despite its elegance. Perfect for couples or anyone wanting a classic San Diego experience, the trip’s mix of beautiful scenery and top-notch cuisine makes it a memorable choice.
Bottom Line: A stylish, scenic cruise with quality food and entertainment—ideal for a romantic evening or special celebration.
2. San Diego Dinner Cruise: Gourmet Meal & Starlit Skyline Views
Ranking second, the San Diego Dinner Cruise: Gourmet Meal & Starlit Skyline Views offers a luxurious 2.5-hour experience for around $141.38. It features a gourmet 3-course meal served onboard a high-end yacht, with the city skyline as your backdrop. You’ll board at Grape Street Pier, then cruise past the Coronado Bay Bridge, USS Midway, and the Maritime Museum, all while enjoying panoramic views from the deck. Reviewers highlight the relaxing atmosphere, attentive staff, and the romantic setting, especially during sunset. The cruise is perfect for celebrating anniversaries or just treating yourself to a refined experience on the bay.
Bottom Line: An elegant cruise that balances gourmet dining with spectacular viewing—great for milestone celebrations.
3. San Diego: Thanksgiving Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Celebrating the holiday season, the Thanksgiving Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise is a rare holiday-specific option. With a 7-review rating and costing $141 per person, it provides a 2 to 2.5-hour cruise with buffet-style dishes including classic Thanksgiving fare. The cruise departs from Grape Street Pier and offers scenic views of the bay, especially during sunset. Reviewers simply call it an “amazing experience,” ideal for families wanting a relaxed holiday celebration on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a festive, family-friendly holiday cruise with hearty food and lovely views.
4. San Diego Buffet Dinner Cruise
Number 4, the San Diego Buffet Dinner Cruise is a popular choice at $154.72 per person. This 2.5 to 3-hour cruise features a chef-curated buffet with a variety of dishes, including options like chicken, salmon, beef, veggies, and garlic potatoes. Boarding from the same location, the cruise provides spectacular views of the downtown skyline, Coronado Bridge, and the Rady Shell. Reviewers note the friendly staff and good food, though some mention it being a bit chilly outside. The open-air decks combined with indoor comfort make this a flexible option suitable for different weather conditions.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly cruise with a diverse buffet and impressive city views—worth considering for a relaxed evening.
5. San Diego Christmas Day Dinner Buffet Cruise
Celebrating Christmas, the Christmas Day Dinner Buffet Cruise offers a 2.5-hour festive experience for $166.16. It features a delicious holiday buffet, scenic bay views, and the chance to enjoy Christmas music onboard. Priced slightly higher, but with glowing reviews and a 5-star rating, it’s ideal for families or groups seeking a holiday tradition on the water. The cruise takes you past landmarks like the USS Midway and Coronado Bridge, all decked out for the season.
Bottom Line: A festive, family-friendly cruise that combines holiday cheer with spectacular scenery.
6. San Diego: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
This Christmas Day option, the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise, priced at $141, offers both brunch and dinner options. It features a full buffet, unlimited mimosas during brunch, and scenic views of San Diego Bay. The cruise departs from the same convenient location and is well-suited for those wanting a relaxed holiday meal with gorgeous scenery and music entertainment. A reviewer mentioned it as an “enjoyable experience,” especially for families looking for a holiday outing.
Bottom Line: A flexible holiday cruise perfect for those wanting to combine good food, drinks, and views.
7. San Diego: New Year’s Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Welcoming 2023, the New Year’s Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a 2-hour celebration for $141. It features breathtaking waterfront views, a full bar, and a night of dancing and entertainment. Perfect for a romantic start or a lively send-off, this cruise is praised for its atmosphere and delicious food. Most travelers find it a fun, upscale way to toast the new year while enjoying San Diego’s skyline lit up at night.
Bottom Line: Ideal for celebrating New Year’s Eve with sparkling views and good food in a lively setting.
8. San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise
Number 8, the San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise, is the most reviewed, with over 1,000 ratings. For $125.70, you get a 2 hour 15-minute cruise with gourmet dinner, live entertainment, and spectacular views of the skyline, USS Midway, and Coronado Bridge. It’s a great value considering the length and inclusiveness, with many reviewers praising the quality of the food and friendly staff. The cruise offers an upgraded open bar, making it suitable for those wanting a bit of extra indulgence.
Bottom Line: A highly rated, versatile cruise that balances good food, entertainment, and scenic views.
9. San Diego New Year’s Eve Plated Dinner Cruise
The New Year’s Eve Plated Dinner Cruise is a more upscale, longer event at four hours, priced at $100. It promises a seated 4-course meal, fireworks, and dancing. While reviews are limited, the experience is tailored for those wanting a formal celebration with plenty of entertainment. It’s a more involved and festive way to ring in the new year, with sweeping views and a special holiday atmosphere.
Bottom Line: For a full-length, elegant New Year’s celebration, this cruise offers a memorable way to start the year.
10. Mother’s Day Plated Dinner Cruise San Diego
The Mother’s Day Plated Dinner Cruise is a newer offering, aiming to create lasting family memories. While it currently has no reviews, it promises a chef-inspired meal and wines, with options to enjoy indoor or outdoor decks. It’s perfect for those looking to combine a special meal with the scenic San Diego waterfront for a relaxed family outing.
Bottom Line: An ideal family celebration option, especially for honoring Mom with a scenic, delicious experience.
11. San Diego Father’s Day Plated Dinner Cruise
Similarly, the Father’s Day Plated Dinner Cruise offers a special outing for dad, with a chef-inspired meal and drinks. Priced at $200.63, it’s suited for families wanting to celebrate with good food and beautiful views of the bay, including the Coronado Bridge and USS Midway. Like the Mother’s Day cruise, it emphasizes personalized service and a memorable family experience.
Bottom Line: A thoughtful way to honor Dad, with relaxed dining and scenic photos.
12. San Diego: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
This Christmas Eve cruise offers a 2 to 2.5-hour experience similar to its Christmas Day sibling. Its festive decor and delicious buffet make it a popular holiday choice, with good reviews reflecting satisfaction. It’s an excellent way to combine holiday traditions with scenic views of landmarks like the USS Midway and Coronado Bridge.
Bottom Line: A festive, family-friendly cruise perfect for celebrating Christmas Eve in style.
13. San Diego Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise
Rounding out the list is the Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise, offering 2.5 hours of holiday cheer. With festive decor and a delicious buffet, it’s an inviting way to celebrate Christmas with friends and family, especially given the spectacular views of the San Diego Bay. While it’s a newer option, its affordable price and positive reviews make it a contender for holiday festivities.
Bottom Line: A cheerful, scenic way to enjoy Christmas with good food and memorable views.
How to Choose the Right Dinner Tour in San Diego
When picking the best dinner cruise for your trip, consider your budget, preferred dining style, and the type of experience you want. For instance, if you’re after a refined, romantic evening, the Gourmet Dinner Cruise or the Gourmet Meal & Skyline Views offer elegant options. Those celebrating holidays or special family occasions might prefer the holiday-themed cruises, like the Christmas Day Buffet or Thanksgiving Cruise.
Budget-wise, the Harbor Dinner Cruise provides a generous experience at a slightly lower price, with great reviews. Keep in mind seasonal cruises, like New Year’s Eve or Christmas, often sell out early, so booking in advance is wise.
Final Thoughts
San Diego’s dinner tours span from casual buffet cruises to luxurious gourmet experiences, with options suited for romantic evenings, family celebrations, or holiday festivities. If you’re seeking a romantic sunset cruise, the City Cruises Gourmet Dinner Cruise is a top pick. For a festive holiday celebration, the Christmas or New Year’s cruises offer a memorable way to mark the occasion.
No matter your preference, these dinner tours showcase the city’s best views and flavors. To secure your spot—especially during peak times like holidays—consider booking early. With such a variety of options, your perfect San Diego dinner cruise is just a reservation away.