Baltimore: Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise - Who Would Love This Cruise?

Baltimore: Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a scenic Baltimore lunch cruise featuring gourmet buffet, drinks, live music, and stunning waterfront views for a memorable holiday experience.

Planning a special way to give thanks this year? A Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise in Baltimore offers a lovely blend of scenic views, delicious food, and festive cheer. Set along the picturesque Patapsco River, this two-hour voyage aboard the Spirit of Baltimore promises to make your holiday memorable without leaving the dock too far behind. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a special someone, this cruise combines the spirit of Thanksgiving with the charm of Baltimore’s historic waterfront.

What we particularly love about this experience is the chef-prepared holiday buffet—it’s not just your average cruise meal. Add in live DJ entertainment, a fully stocked bar, and breathtaking city views, and you’ve got a holiday celebration that feels both elegant and relaxed. One potential consideration is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation, which isn’t unusual for a harbor cruise but is worth noting.

This cruise is well-suited for those who appreciate good food, beautiful scenery, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re seeking a fun, hassle-free way to celebrate Thanksgiving with a unique twist, this could be your ideal holiday outing. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and socializing in a cozy, festive setting.

Key Points

Baltimore: Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise - Key Points

  • Scenic Baltimore views: Enjoy the skyline, historic waterfront, and fall weather from indoor and outdoor decks.
  • Gourmet buffet: Savor chef-prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, perfect for a holiday feast.
  • Festive atmosphere: Live DJ and music create a lively, celebratory vibe.
  • Flexible seating: Guaranteed tables for your party size ensure a comfortable experience.
  • Drinks for purchase: Cocktails and full bar available to toast the holiday.
  • No hotel transfer included: Plan your transportation accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Baltimore: Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise - An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Sail for Thanksgiving

This Baltimore Thanksgiving lunch cruise is a straightforward yet charming way to mark the holiday. It lasts for about two hours—enough time to relax, eat, and take in the views without feeling rushed. The departure times vary, so checking availability for your preferred date is recommended.

The cruise departs from the Spirit of Baltimore, a well-known vessel on the Patapsco River. The ship features both climate-controlled interior spaces and open-air roof decks, giving you options to enjoy the crisp fall air or stay cozy inside with a view. The fact that the interior areas are non-smoking and equipped for comfortable sightseeing contributes to a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

The Food: More Than Just a Meal

Unlike many holiday events, this cruise’s chef-prepared buffet is a highlight. You can expect a variety of hot entrees, salads, and desserts—crafted specifically for the holiday occasion. Guests have noted that the menu can change, so it’s wise to inform your server about any allergies or dietary restrictions in advance.

Reviews mention that the buffet offers a satisfying mix of flavors—from traditional turkey and stuffing to fresh salads and tempting desserts. It’s a great way to indulge without the hassle of cooking or cleaning back home. The unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea add to the comfort, helping you relax and enjoy your meal.

Views and Atmosphere

As you cruise along the Patapsco River, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Baltimore’s impressive skyline and historic waterfront. Reviewers describe it as a “beautiful, picture-perfect setting”—especially during the fall when the city’s architecture contrasts beautifully with the changing leaves.

Some guests appreciated the climate-controlled interior, especially if the weather turns chilly, but the open-air decks are also a favorite for those wanting a more immersive experience with the fresh air. The lively music from the DJ and the festive ambiance elevate the mood, making it clear that this cruise is as much about celebration as it is about sightseeing.

Entertainment and Extras

The cruise includes live DJ entertainment, which adds energy and fun to the experience. Guests have mentioned that the music complements the scenic backdrop perfectly, making it a lively, holiday atmosphere. There’s also a fully stocked bar for purchasing cocktails and drinks—ideal for toasting or just unwinding as you take in the views.

Practical Details

  • Duration: 2 hours, making it a manageable holiday outing
  • Price: $88 per person, which offers good value considering the food, views, and entertainment
  • Included: Buffet lunch, scenic views, live DJ, guaranteed table, unlimited tea and coffee, local taxes, and fees
  • Not included: Hotel transportation, so plan accordingly

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One reviewer highlighted that “the views are stunning, and the buffet is surprisingly delicious for a cruise”, emphasizing the quality of the food and scenery. Others appreciated the “relaxed atmosphere” and the “spectacular city views, especially at sunset”—noting that the open decks allow for a more immersive experience.

A few reviews pointed out that making a single reservation for the whole group is crucial if you want to be seated together, as separate bookings might result in split tables—something to keep in mind for larger parties.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

Baltimore: Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise - Who Would Love This Cruise?

This Thanksgiving Lunch Cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a festive, scenic, and relaxing holiday outing. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to enjoy a special meal with a view without the fuss of preparing or cleaning up. The lively atmosphere, combined with beautiful sights, makes it a great choice for those who enjoy socializing and celebrating in style.

It’s also suitable for visitors unfamiliar with Baltimore, offering a quick yet comprehensive look at the city’s waterfront. If flexibility and a lively, inclusive environment appeal to you, this cruise offers a memorable way to mark Thanksgiving.

Final Thoughts

Baltimore: Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise - Final Thoughts

The Baltimore Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise offers a delightful mix of gourmet dining, scenic views, and lively entertainment—making it an appealing holiday outing for many travelers. The chef-prepared buffet ensures you won’t leave hungry, and the panoramic views of Baltimore’s skyline create a memorable backdrop for giving thanks.

While it lacks hotel transportation, the cruise’s convenience and festive spirit compensate for this. The overall value is strong, especially considering the included food, views, and entertainment. It’s a wonderful option for those who want to celebrate Thanksgiving with a touch of elegance, fun, and local charm.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and festive way to mark the holiday with loved ones, this cruise could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the meal, views, and music without feeling rushed.

Can I make a reservation for my entire group?
Yes, to ensure your entire party is seated together, it’s best to make one reservation for all members. Separate bookings may result in split tables.

Are children allowed?
Infants aged 0-2 are free, but you should select the free infant ticket option to ensure admittance.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is recommended, with flat, closed-toed shoes for safety. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to spend time on the open decks.

Are drinks included?
Drinks are available for purchase at the full bar. There are no included alcoholic beverages, but a variety of cocktails and beverages are offered.

Is the menu guaranteed?
The menu is subject to change, but it generally includes a variety of hot entrees, salads, and desserts suitable for a holiday celebration.

Can I accommodate dietary restrictions?
It’s advisable to inform your server of any food allergies or dietary needs when you arrive. The menu can be adjusted accordingly when possible.

Are interior spaces climate-controlled?
Yes, the interior areas of the ship are climate-controlled, providing a comfortable environment regardless of the weather.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The activity is conducted in English.

To sum it up, the Baltimore Thanksgiving Day Lunch Cruise is a well-rounded holiday experience, perfect for those who want to combine a scenic boat ride with a delicious meal and lively celebration. Its stunning views, gourmet buffet, and festive atmosphere make it a memorable way to give thanks in the Charm City.