Baltimore: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

Baltimore: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise — A Detailed Review

If you’re looking to add a splash of elegance and adventure to your Christmas Eve in Baltimore, a cruise along the Patapsco River might be just the ticket. Offered by City Cruises, this experience combines the festive spirit with scenic views, fine dining, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you prefer a relaxed brunch or a more formal dinner, the cruise promises a memorable way to celebrate the holiday on the water, away from the typical holiday chaos.

What we particularly like about this cruise is how it balances sophistication with relaxed enjoyment. The opportunity to sip champagne or mimosas while gazing at Baltimore’s illuminated skyline creates a magical setting. Plus, the cruise’s design—featuring climate-controlled interiors and open-air decks—means you can enjoy the views regardless of the weather. That said, one consideration is the mixed reviews about the entertainment — some guests found the atmosphere less refined than expected, which is worth noting if your idea of a holiday cruise leans more towards elegance rather than party vibes.

This cruise seems best suited for families, couples, or friends seeking a unique, scenic celebration that combines good food, drinks, and views. It’s less about a wild party and more about enjoying the holiday in style. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what to expect and how to make the most of this Baltimore experience.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Cruise along the Patapsco River with spectacular views of Baltimore’s skyline and waterfront landmarks.
• Flexible Dining Options: Choose between a gourmet 3-course dinner or a buffet brunch, with alcohol options included in the brunch.
• Atmosphere: A sophisticated setting with live DJ music, perfect for a relaxed yet lively holiday celebration.
• Comfort & Accessibility: Climate-controlled interiors and outdoor decks make the experience comfortable regardless of weather; wheelchair accessible.
• Price & Value: $110 per person includes food, drinks, live entertainment, taxes, and service fees—generally good value for a memorable night.
• Potential Downsides: Some reviews mention early ending times and inconsistent entertainment quality, so manage expectations accordingly.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Cruise

Embarking on the Water: What’s the Itinerary Like?

The cruise generally lasts between 2 to 3 hours, with specific start times depending on your reservation. You’ll board at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, a lively area itself worth exploring before or after your cruise. The cruise boat is specifically designed for optimal viewing, with both climate-controlled interiors and open-air roof decks, giving you options to enjoy Baltimore’s scenic sights no matter the weather.

Once aboard, the experience begins with a warm welcome from the crew and a chance to settle into your seat at a private table—an aspect that adds a sense of intimacy and comfort. The food is prepared by professional chefs, offering either an elegant 3-course plated dinner or a buffet brunch, depending on your choice. The dinner option includes a selection of gourmet dishes served with refined presentation, while the brunch features a buffet spread with popular breakfast and lunch items, complemented by unlimited mimosas (if you opt for the brunch).

The Food and Drinks: Worth the Cost?

Guests generally find the food to be of high quality, with chef-prepared dishes that look as good as they taste. The brunch menu, which includes unlimited mimosas, is particularly appealing for those wanting a leisurely start to Christmas Eve. Coffee, tea, and iced tea are also available, helping you stay refreshed as you take in the views. The dinner cruise offers a more formal dining experience, perfect for a special holiday treat.

The bar on board is fully stocked, allowing you to purchase a variety of alcoholic beverages beyond the included mimosas. This offers an added layer of enjoyment for those who want to toast the holiday with a glass of wine or champagne. Keep in mind, some reviews point out that alcohol is available for purchase, which can mean additional costs if you’re looking to indulge beyond the included drinks.

The Music & Atmosphere: A Mix of Relaxation and Festive Fun

A live DJ provides lively background music throughout the cruise, enhancing the festive mood. For many passengers, this adds a lively backdrop whether you’re dining, chatting, or dancing. The setlist tends to feature a mix of holiday tunes, popular hits, and dance music, making the experience feel like a celebration. However, some reviews note that the entertainment can be inconsistent—one guest described feeling like the party was more of a “work celebration” with inappropriate dancing, which might be a concern if your ideal holiday cruise is more refined.

Scenic Highlights & Views

The primary draw is the stunning vistas of Baltimore’s cityscape. From the open-air decks, you’ll see the illuminated skyline, historic waterfront structures, and bridges that span the harbor. Many guests, including one who noted “beautiful buildings and new sites to enjoy,” appreciate how the cruise allows for unique photo opportunities unavailable from land.

Some guests also mention that the views of the city’s renewal efforts are impressive, with newly developed areas and a vibrant harbor scene. Whether you’re capturing photos or just soaking in the sights, this cruise offers a fresh perspective on Baltimore that’s often missed from street level.

Comfort & Accessibility

The boat is designed to accommodate guests comfortably, with climate-controlled interiors for when you prefer to stay inside and open-air decks for those who enjoy the breeze and panoramic views. Accessibility is also considered, as the cruise is wheelchair friendly, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Timing & Duration

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours for the brunch and up to 3 hours for the dinner, fitting nicely into an evening outing. You’ll want to check availability and start times when booking, as these can vary. The scheduled duration allows for ample time to enjoy your meal, take photos, and relax without feeling rushed.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $110 per person, the cruise offers a comprehensive experience that includes food, drinks, live music, taxes, and service fees. Compared to land-based holiday dinners, this price reflects a premium for the scenic setting and the overall atmosphere. Many reviewers agree that the value is decent given the scenic views, quality of food, and entertainment, especially if you’re looking to mark Christmas Eve with a special touch.

However, some note that the entertainment can feel inconsistent, and the early ending might be a drawback if you’re hoping for a late night. Still, for a memorable holiday outing that combines sightseeing with fine dining, this cruise is a solid choice.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise will appeal most to couples or families wanting a unique way to spend Christmas Eve. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic views, good food, and a lively but not overly wild atmosphere. Those seeking a more refined or quiet evening might find the party vibe a bit too energetic, especially if entertainment feels mismatched with expectations. It’s also great for photography enthusiasts, as the views of Baltimore’s waterfront are truly impressive.

Final Thoughts

This Baltimore Christmas Eve cruise offers a blend of scenic beauty, fine dining, and festive fun. While the experience might vary depending on the night and the entertainment, the views and quality of food generally meet high standards. It’s a convenient way to celebrate the holiday in style, with the added bonus of exploring Baltimore’s revitalized harbor area from the water.

For travelers prioritizing spectacular vistas and a special holiday meal, this cruise delivers on those fronts. If you’re after a lively party atmosphere or a more traditional, quiet dinner, you might want to explore other options. Overall, it’s a good value for the experience it provides and a fun, memorable way to mark Christmas Eve.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, the atmosphere tends to be more adult-oriented, especially with the live DJ and bar service. Check with the provider if you’re traveling with very young children.

What should I wear?
For the dinner cruise, semi-formal attire is encouraged, such as slacks and dresses. The brunch is more casual but still smart.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited mimosas are included with the brunch option. Other alcoholic beverages are available for purchase during both cruises.

How long does the cruise last?
The brunch cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, and the dinner cruise can last up to 3 hours.

Can I make a reservation for a large group?
Yes, but be sure to book all tickets under one reservation to stay seated together. Separate reservations might result in being placed apart.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

Can I purchase additional drinks on board?
Yes, a fully stocked bar offers alcoholic beverages for purchase beyond the included drinks.

What views will I see?
You’ll enjoy views of Baltimore’s skyline, waterfront landmarks, and bridges, especially beautiful when lit up for the holidays.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
The boat features climate-controlled interiors, so rain or cold won’t ruin the experience. However, outdoor decks can be enjoyed if weather permits.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a scenic, festive, and reasonably priced way to celebrate Christmas Eve, this Baltimore cruise offers a delightful combination of views, fine food, and holiday cheer. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate a lively atmosphere with a touch of elegance. Just keep in mind the mixed entertainment reviews and plan accordingly for your perfect holiday outing.