December Nights Dinner Cruise on San Diego Bay

If you’re considering a holiday outing on San Diego Bay, the December Nights Dinner Cruise offers an elegant way to enjoy the city’s sparkling skyline and festive spirit. While this cruise promises an evening filled with twinkling lights, scenic sights, and a warm holiday atmosphere, it’s worth looking beyond the glossy brochure to see if it truly delivers value for your dollar.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this experience are the stunning sights of San Diego’s iconic landmarks like the USS Midway Museum and Coronado Bridge, and the chance to enjoy a relaxing indoor dining setting. Whether celebrating a romantic occasion, a family get-together, or a company holiday party, the cruise’s ambiance offers a charming backdrop. However, a notable drawback is the questionable quality of the food, which has left some reviewers quite disappointed and questioning the value. This cruise might be best suited for those who prioritize the views and holiday vibe over gourmet dining.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of San Diego landmarks like USS Midway and Coronado Bridge
• Indoor dining provides comfort against chilly winter weather
• Limited food quality, with some reviewers describing it as poor or underwhelming
• Price of $138.75 per person may not be justified for all, given mixed reviews on food
• Includes unlimited bar option available at extra cost, with age restrictions
• Perfect for festive, relaxed holiday outings rather than gourmet dining experiences

An Overview of the Experience

The December Nights Dinner Cruise is run by Flagship Cruises & Events, a reputable operator in San Diego. The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the sights while enjoying your meal. The departure point is centrally located at 990 N Harbor Dr, making it accessible via public transportation or a short taxi ride.

The itinerary includes a slow cruise around San Diego Bay, with notable stops at the USS Midway Museum, the Coronado Bridge, and the San Diego Naval Fleet. As you glide past these landmarks, you’ll get a chance to see the city’s skyline illuminated in holiday splendor, which truly makes for some memorable photos.

What’s Included?

You’ll be treated to a dinner during your cruise, with a complimentary welcome drink to kick off the evening. Indoor dining ensures you stay warm and comfortable regardless of the weather, a significant plus during chilly December nights. If you select the open bar option, you’ll have access to unlimited drinks, though this comes at an additional $40 and is restricted to guests 21 and over.

What’s Not Included?

The package does not include hotel transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own pickup and drop-off. Souvenir photos are available for purchase at around $25, a typical price for cruise memorabilia but an added expense if you want to remember the evening.

The Meeting Point & Timing

Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure, so arriving early is a good idea. The cruise ends back at the same dock, making logistics straightforward. The experience’s duration suggests a relaxed pace, enough to enjoy the scenery and your meal without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise’s route is designed to maximize city views:
– Starting at San Diego’s downtown harbor, you’ll see the city skyline shimmering in the water.
– The USS Midway Museum looms nearby, a favorite for military history buffs and a striking backdrop for photos.
– The Coronado Bridge, with its swooping arc, offers a classic San Diego vista—ideal for romantic snapshots.
– The San Diego Naval Fleet adds a touch of maritime pride, especially at night when ships are lit up.

While the route is predictable, it’s the views of the city’s iconic landmarks that make it worthwhile. However, some reviews mention that the parade of lights was disappointing, with boats appearing farther away than expected and fewer vessels than anticipated.

The Food and Drinks — The Heart of the Matter

Here’s where opinions diverge sharply. The included dinner is described as average at best, with some reviewers calling it “terrible” or “undercooked”. The steak has been likened to a “shoe,” and the shrimp was underwhelming, rubbery, and lacked flavor, according to some guests. One reviewer summed it up as “very expensive for the quality of the food”.

On the flip side, those who enjoyed the meal appreciated a meat-and-potatoes approach that was hearty enough for a holiday occasion. But overall, the food quality appears to be a significant sticking point, and many might find it hard to justify the cost if dining is your primary focus.

The unlimited bar can be an attractive addition, especially if you’re looking to toast the season. However, it’s an extra expense and only available if you are 21 or older. The complimentary welcome drink is a nice touch, but don’t expect a gourmet experience.

Atmosphere and Group Size

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the cruise maintains a somewhat intimate ambiance, allowing for better socializing and less crowding. The smart casual dress code encourages a neat appearance, fitting for holiday celebrations but still comfortable enough for most travelers.

The indoor dining area ensures that you’re shielded from the wind and chilly weather, but some reviews note that restrooms may only be accessible up or down a flight of steps, which could be an issue for some guests.

Authentic Perspectives from Reviewers

While some reviews highlight the stunning views and festive atmosphere as highlights, others express disappointment over food quality and the parade of lights. One reviewer lamented, “the boats were off in the distance and not as many as I had thought,” hinting that expectations regarding the parade or boat displays might not be fully met.

It’s clear that this cruise’s main draw is the beautiful scenery, rather than the culinary experience. If you’re seeking a memorable night with spectacular views and a holiday vibe, this cruise can satisfy. But if you’re after fine dining or a lively parade, you might want to explore other options.

Pricing and Value

At $138.75 per person, this experience isn’t cheap. Given the mixed reviews on the quality of the food, some travelers may feel it doesn’t provide enough value for the money. The extra $40 for unlimited drinks can add up, especially if you’re not planning to indulge heavily.

However, if you’re looking for a cozy cruise with festive lights and beautiful cityscapes, the price covers the scenery and ambiance more than a gourmet meal. The inclusion of indoor dining ensures comfort, making it a decent choice for a December evening if views and atmosphere matter most.

Who It’s Best For

This cruise suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic holiday experience rather than a fine-dining event. It’s ideal for those who prioritize breathtaking views of San Diego’s landmarks and want a warm indoor setting. It’s also good for groups celebrating special occasions or those seeking an accessible, easy-to-join activity in the city’s harbor area.

However, if food quality is your top priority or you’re expecting a lively parade of lights, you may find this cruise lacking. Budget-conscious travelers might also question whether the price aligns with the experience, especially given some reviews of underwhelming meals.

Final Thoughts

The December Nights Dinner Cruise offers a scenic, festive way to enjoy San Diego’s harbor during the holiday season. Its views of landmarks like the USS Midway and the Coronado Bridge make it a visually appealing experience, especially from the comfort of the indoor dining area. However, the questionable quality of the food and the somewhat limited parade of lights are notable drawbacks.

This cruise excels as a relaxing, atmospheric holiday outing rather than a culinary pilgrimage. It’s a solid choice if you value spectacular scenery and a cozy environment above gourmet dining. For those seeking a memorable cityscape at night with friends or family, this could be a fun, festive option—just come with the right expectations.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, this cruise does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to arrange your own travel to the meeting point at 990 N Harbor Dr.

Can I cancel this experience if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel in time.

Is the bar included in the price?
No, the unlimited bar is an optional upgrade costing $40 and for guests 21 and older.

What should I wear?
The dress code is smart casual, which means neat but comfortable clothing suitable for a holiday evening.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the operator can accommodate most dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Please advise at the time of booking.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, this cruise offers a beautiful view of San Diego’s holiday lights and a cozy indoor setting, but it’s important to temper expectations about the food quality and parade of lights. For travelers who prioritize scenic vistas and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s worth considering. But if gourmet dining or a lively parade are your goals, look elsewhere.