Lisbon: New Year’s Cruise with DJ, Open Bar, Snacks and Wine

Lisbon: New Year’s Cruise with DJ, Open Bar, Snacks and Wine — An Unforgettable Celebration on the Water

Hosting a New Year’s celebration on a boat might sound a little cliché, but this luxurious cruise on the Tagus River in Lisbon genuinely offers a special way to welcome the new year. The experience, offered by Ondas de Angelo, combines lively music, a premium open bar, and stunning views of Lisbon’s illuminated cityscape and fireworks — all from the comfort of a glass-enclosed boat. Whether you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or celebrating with family (over 18, of course), this excursion promises a memorable countdown on the water.

What we really love about this cruise is the thoughtful mix of atmosphere and practicality — the indoor space ensures you’re not caught out by weather, and the prime location puts you right under the fireworks show. Plus, the quality of the drinks and snacks makes this more than just a boat ride; it’s a full-fledged celebration. That said, it’s worth noting that the cruise doesn’t include dinner, so if you’re expecting a full meal, you’ll need to plan separately. This experience is perfect for those who want to celebrate in style while enjoying Lisbon’s spectacular nighttime scenery.

Key Points

• Ideal for New Year’s celebrations: rings in 2025 with style, music, and fireworks.
• Premium open bar with a wide selection of spirits, wine, and soft drinks.
• Glass-enclosed boat offers panoramic views regardless of weather—great for unpredictable Lisbon nights.
• Heated indoor areas provide comfort, especially in winter.
• Close proximity to fireworks for a spectacular midnight show.
• Small group size (up to 40 people) ensures intimacy and personalized service.

The Experience: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting Point and Arrival

The cruise departs from Gate #3 at Doca de Santo Amaro, directly in front of the “Rui dos Pregos” restaurant. We appreciate that the meeting point is fairly central and easy to locate, especially if you’re already exploring Lisbon’s riverfront. Arriving early is recommended to settle in before the boat departs on time — punctuality is noted as a plus by guests, with reviews mentioning the boat leaving promptly.

Setting Sail and Atmosphere

Once onboard, the ambiance is lively but polished. A professional crew, led by Ondas de Angelo, ensures smooth sailing and attentive service. The live DJ sets a festive tone, mixing upbeat tunes that keep everyone in a celebratory mood. The covered, glass-enclosed deck means you get uninterrupted views of Lisbon’s lights and the upcoming fireworks, no matter the weather.

The Open Bar: A Highlight

The premium bar is a major part of the appeal. Guests rave about the quality and variety, with options including gin, whisky, vodka, rum, sparkling wine, and more. Soft drinks, alcohol-free beer, and mixers are all included, making it easy to craft your favorite cocktails or simply enjoy a glass of bubbly for the midnight toast. Guests have highlighted the “good drinks” and the “spectacular wine,” making this a true highlight of the night.

Snacks and Refreshments

Beyond the drinks, you’ll find traditional sweets, savory snacks, and dried fruits offered throughout the cruise. Reviewers mention that the snacks are “lots of,” and complement the drinks well. It’s a thoughtful touch that prevents drinks from going straight to your head and keeps everyone energized for the celebration.

The Views and Fireworks

The main event is the fireworks display, which the boat is ideally positioned to watch. The boat’s location provides a privileged vantage point for the show, which is often cited as a highlight by guests. The nighttime views of Lisbon’s illuminated skyline are truly spectacular, and the panoramic, 360-degree windows ensure you won’t miss a moment, regardless of weather conditions.

Midnight Toast and Celebrations

As the clock strikes midnight, the crew raises the sparkling wine for a toast, marking the start of the New Year. Guests report a lively, joyous atmosphere, with music, cheers, and laughter filling the boat. The combination of glowing city lights and vibrant fireworks creates an unforgettable backdrop.

Return and Aftermath

After three hours, the cruise gently returns to Doca de Santo Amaro, with many guests feeling they’ve experienced something truly special. The small group size helps keep the crowd intimate and friendly, allowing for easy mingling and conversations. It’s worth noting that the tour does not include hotel transfers — so planning your transportation to and from the cruise is necessary.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $498 per person, this cruise isn’t cheap, but it offers a lot of value. You’re paying for a luxury experience that combines excellent drinks, snacks, entertainment, and prime fireworks views. The all-inclusive bar and the quality of the onboard service are often highlighted as worth the cost, especially as many other New Year’s options tend to be more mainstream or less intimate.

The 3-hour duration is just right — long enough to enjoy the atmosphere without feeling overstretched. Since there’s no dinner included, you might want to grab a meal beforehand or afterwards, but the snacks and drinks onboard suffice for most.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style without the hassle of crowded parties or city streets. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate great views, quality drinks, and a relaxed, intimate setting. If you’re a wine lover, you’ll especially enjoy the selection of premium wines and sparkling wine, making the toast even more special.

However, it’s not suitable for children, wheelchair users, or travelers prone to seasickness. Also, if you’re expecting a full dinner or prefer a more party-like atmosphere, this might not be the best fit. It’s best for adults looking for a refined, memorable experience with a small group.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a truly special way to ring in the New Year in Lisbon, this luxury cruise on the Tagus River ticks many boxes. The panoramic views, excellent drinks, and prime fireworks location make it a standout choice. The heated indoor areas ensure comfort, and the intimate group size means personalized service and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

While the price might seem steep, the overall experience — with its combination of scenic beauty, sophisticated drinks, and the thrill of fireworks overhead — offers good value for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed yet festive environment to welcome the new year in style.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for non-Portuguese speakers?
Yes, the tour is offered in both English and Portuguese, so language shouldn’t be a barrier. The crew is professional and attentive to all guests.

Are drinks included in the price?
Absolutely. The premium open bar includes a variety of spirits, wines, soft drinks, and mixers, making it easy to enjoy your favorite drinks throughout the cruise.

Can I see the fireworks from anywhere else in Lisbon?
While fireworks can be seen from many spots, the cruise offers a privileged vantage point right on the river, ensuring an unobstructed view of the display.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is recommended, especially for the outdoor deck, as it can get chilly at night. The indoor heated areas provide relief, but layers are advised.

Is dinner included?
No, dinner is not part of this experience. You might want to eat beforehand or plan to dine after the cruise.

What happens if the weather is severe?
In case of severe maritime conditions, the tour might be canceled for safety reasons. The company will contact you via WhatsApp or email if this occurs.

This New Year’s cruise in Lisbon offers a blend of elegance, fun, and spectacular views — a memorable way to greet 2025. Whether you’re in Lisbon for the holidays or a local looking for a special evening, this experience delivers an authentic and enjoyable celebration on the water.