City Cruises Long Beach: Sunday Premier Mimosa Brunch Cruise

Planning a relaxing weekend activity in Long Beach? The City Cruises Long Beach Sunday Premier Mimosa Brunch Cruise offers a delightful blend of scenic views, good food, and lively entertainment—all on the water. If you’re seeking a laid-back way to enjoy the harbor, this 2-hour cruise might just be your ticket.

We love how this experience combines a scenic cruise with a leisurely brunch, giving you a chance to relax, indulge, and see some of Long Beach’s most iconic sights. The unlimited mimosas and live saxophone music add a festive and fun touch.

One thing to consider is that the price point of $143 per person is on the higher side, but many reviewers feel the quality of food, drinks, and the overall setting justify the cost. This cruise is especially well-suited for celebrating special occasions—birthdays, anniversaries—or anyone who appreciates a good view with their brunch.

If you enjoy water-based sightseeing combined with good food and lively atmosphere, this cruise checks all those boxes. It’s a great choice for couples, groups of friends, or even families looking for a memorable morning in Long Beach.

Key Points

• Scenic Long Beach views including the Queen Mary and Aquarium of the Pacific
• Buffet featuring fresh entrees and desserts with quality and variety
• Unlimited mimosas and sparkling cider for a festive mood
• Live entertainment, notably a saxophonist, enhances the cruise atmosphere
• Early boarding recommended to avoid missing the boat
• Parking validation at Aquarium structure makes parking more affordable

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Enjoyable Way to See Long Beach from the Water

This cruise offers an inviting way to get a different perspective on Long Beach’s waterfront. Instead of just strolling along the harbor, you’re on a boat, gently floating past the city’s most celebrated sights. It’s a bit like a moving postcard—perfect for snapping photos and absorbing the atmosphere.

The boarding process begins 30 minutes before departure**, giving you ample time to settle in and avoid rushing. The meeting point at Rainbow Harbor’s Dock 6A is straightforward, and the proximity to the Aquarium Parking structure makes parking somewhat convenient—$8 with validation from City Cruises. Just be aware, arriving early is wise, as latecomers might miss the boat entirely.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $143, you receive a generous brunch buffet with salads, entrees, and desserts—think chicken, salmon, beef tri-tip, pastas, bacon, and eggs, along with fresh salads and sweets. The unlimited mimosas and sparkling cider keep the drinks flowing, and unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water round out the beverage options.

A notable highlight is the live saxophone performance, which plays throughout the cruise, setting a relaxed, jazzy mood. This continuous music adds a layer of enjoyment, making the cruise feel more like a celebration than just a meal. Many reviews mention attentive staff who are quick to refill glasses and ensure guests are comfortable.

While the included drinks are plentiful, the cruise also features a well-stocked cash bar offering creative cocktails, wine, and beer—perfect if you’re looking to indulge a bit more. Remember, these are available for purchase, so plan accordingly if you want a more elaborate drink experience.

The Sights You’ll See

As you cruise, expect to enjoy views of Long Beach’s most iconic landmarks. The Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner turned hotel and museum, looms majestically along the waterfront. The Aquarium of the Pacific is another prominent sight, easily visible from the water, offering a unique perspective that you’d miss on land.

The Lion Lighthouse, a distinctive structure, also makes a striking appearance on the route. These sights aren’t just background—they contribute to the cruise’s charm, making it feel like a mini sightseeing tour as well as a brunch.

The Atmosphere and Experience

From the reviews, it’s clear that the atmosphere is lively yet relaxed. Guests range from young to old, often celebrating milestones like birthdays or anniversaries. One reviewer noted the cruise “starts exactly at 11am and comes back at 1pm,” fitting neatly into a morning outing.

The music from the saxophone adds a pleasant, jazzy touch. Most travelers find the live entertainment a big plus, making the cruise feel like an event rather than just a meal. The staff’s attentiveness also received high praise, with comments about how well they kept glasses topped up and checked on guests.

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Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Arrive early—boarding begins 30 minutes prior, and late arrivals risk missing the boat.
• Dress casually, but consider bringing layers in case it’s breezy on the water.
• Park at the Aquarium structure for convenient validation and $8 parking.
• Bring your camera or smartphone—the views are photogenic, especially with the historic Queen Mary and vibrant harbor surroundings.
• Book in advance especially on weekends, as this experience tends to fill up.
• If celebrating something special, consider arriving extra early to ensure a good spot and perhaps coordinate a toast or special request.

Value and Booking Considerations

At $143 per person, this cruise is priced to reflect the quality of the experience: fresh food, unlimited drinks, live music, and picturesque scenery. Many visitors feel the value is good, especially given the quality of food and the lively atmosphere. It’s not the cheapest way to see Long Beach, but for a special brunch with a view, it’s competitive.

Flexibility is a bonus—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking now allows you to reserve without immediate payment, providing peace of mind in planning your weekend.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This cruise appeals most to couples, friends, and families looking for a leisurely, celebratory morning. It’s perfect for those who enjoy good food, live music, and water views in a relaxed setting. If you’re seeking a lively brunch with a touch of elegance, this cruise delivers.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more casual, land-based activity, you might find this experience to be on the pricier side. Also, those sensitive to crowds should be aware that popular weekends can be quite busy.

The City Cruises Long Beach Sunday Premier Mimosa Brunch Cruise offers a spirited, scenic way to enjoy the city’s waterfront. Its combination of fresh buffet fare, unlimited mimosas, and live jazz creates a festive, memorable atmosphere. The views of iconic landmarks like the Queen Mary and Aquarium of the Pacific turn the cruise into a delightful mini sightseeing tour.

While it’s a little on the higher end of the price spectrum, many guests agree that the experience is well worth the expense—especially for special occasions. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate good food, lively music, and a relaxed vibe, all set against the stunning backdrop of Long Beach’s harbor.

If you’re looking for a morning activity that combines drinks, scenery, and a touch of celebration, this cruise is a solid choice. Just remember to arrive early, dress comfortably, and prepare for a memorable hour or two on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts for 2 hours, generally starting at 11am and returning around 1pm, making it a perfect morning activity.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
You’ll meet at Rainbow Harbor, Dock 6A in Long Beach. The closest address for parking is 310 S. Pine Ave, and boarding begins 30 minutes before departure.

Is there parking available?
Yes, parking is available at the Aquarium Parking structure. Parking costs $8 with validation from City Cruises.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is recommended. It’s wise to dress in layers, as it can be breezy on the water.

What drinks are included?
Guests enjoy unlimited mimosas and sparkling cider. Coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water are also available at no extra charge.

Can I buy additional drinks?
Yes, alcoholic cocktails, wine, and beer are available for purchase at the cash bar.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed and family-friendly vibe suggests it could be suitable for older children, especially if they enjoy music and scenic views. However, it’s primarily marketed as a brunch experience, often suited for adults celebrating special occasions.

In all, this cruise provides a charming blend of scenery, cuisine, and entertainment. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or simply want a memorable way to enjoy Long Beach’s harbor, it’s worth considering for your next weekend outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby