Bateaux New York Thanksgiving Plated Dinner Cruise

When it comes to celebrating Thanksgiving in New York City, there are countless ways to make the holiday memorable. One standout option is the Bateaux New York Thanksgiving Plated Dinner Cruise, which offers a relaxed yet elegant way to enjoy the holiday while taking in some of the best views the city has to offer. This cruise combines gourmet dining, live music, and a spectacular water-level perspective of NYC’s iconic skyline—all in a comfortably timed 3-hour experience.

What we particularly love about this cruise is how it transforms a traditional holiday feast into an immersive, scenic adventure. Watching the Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey skylines glide by as you dine is a special way to see the city from a different angle. However, it’s worth noting that this experience requires semi-formal attire and is on the pricier side, so it may appeal more to travelers seeking an elegant, stress-free celebration rather than a casual gathering.

This cruise is perfect for those who want to combine fine dining with sightseeing, especially if you enjoy live entertainment and a touch of sophistication. Whether you’re visiting NYC for Thanksgiving or are a local looking for a special way to celebrate, this experience offers a memorable holiday setting — with the added bonus of panoramic views and a gourmet meal.

Key Points

• Scenic Waterway Views: Enjoy an unparalleled perspective of NYC’s skyline and landmarks from the water.
• Gourmet Three-Course Meal: Savor a chef-prepared holiday menu served on elegant plated dishes.
• Live Entertainment: Experience relaxing tunes with a live band, vocalist, and pianist providing the soundtrack.
• All-Inclusive Dining: Coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included; drinks from the bar are available for purchase.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Perfect for those celebrating a holiday, anniversary, or special night out with semi-formal dress code.
• Duration & Convenience: The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 7:00 pm, with easy access from Chelsea Piers.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting Point and Setting the Scene

The cruise begins at Chelsea Piers, a convenient location near major transportation options. Arriving around 7:00 pm, you’ll find the dock bustling with fellow guests, all dressed in their semi-formal best—think nice dresses, dress shirts, and dress shoes. The setting is designed to evoke elegance, with the sleek watercraft waiting to whisk guests away on a holiday adventure.

Boarding and Atmosphere

Once onboard, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and shown to your table, where a three-course plated dinner awaits. The ambiance is refined yet not overly stiff, with soft lighting and the gentle hum of live music filling the air. The size of the group is capped at around 250 travelers, striking a nice balance—large enough to feel lively, but intimate enough for conversation and a relaxed vibe.

The Meal: A Holiday Feast

The highlight for many will be the chef-prepared, three-course holiday menu. While specific dishes aren’t listed, the quality is notable, with reviews mentioning the food was lovely. The plating is elegant, making the meal feel special. Coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are complimentary, ensuring your palate stays refreshed throughout the cruise. For those wishing to indulge further, a fully stocked bar offers creative cocktails, wine, beer, and soda for purchase—perfect for toasting the holiday or simply relaxing.

Taking in the Views

As the boat glides through the water, you’ll have sweeping vistas of Manhattan’s skyline, including famous landmarks that define New York. The cruise also offers views of Brooklyn and New Jersey, providing a full-circle perspective of the city’s waterfront. The water-level vantage point offers a different appreciation for the city’s architecture and bustling waterfront activity, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Live Entertainment and Atmosphere

Throughout the cruise, a live band and vocalist provide a soothing soundtrack, elevating the experience. From lively tunes to relaxing melodies, the music complements the scenery and helps create a festive, celebratory mood. Reviewers mention that the entertainment was “great,” and the live music adds a layer of authenticity and charm to the evening.

End of the Cruise

At the conclusion of the 3-hour voyage, you’ll return to Chelsea Piers, with ample time to continue your holiday celebrations or head back with cherished memories of a unique Thanksgiving experience. The cruise is designed to be a seamless, enjoyable event that feels both special and effortless.

Why This Experience Might Be Worth the Price

At $291.64 per person, this cruise is an investment—particularly given the gourmet meal, live entertainment, and breathtaking views included. When you compare it to a typical dinner out, the experience offers much more than just a meal; it’s a three-hour scenic journey that elevates Thanksgiving into something truly memorable. The combination of good food, live music, and NYC’s skyline is hard to match.

However, it’s also important to recognize that it’s a more formal affair. The requirement for semi-formal attire and the lack of casual options mean it’s best suited for those wanting a refined experience rather than a casual gathering. The bar offers drinks for purchase, which can add to your evening if you wish to indulge.

Considerations

• The experience is non-refundable, so book with confidence when your plans are firm.
• Children under 6 are not permitted, making it more appropriate for older kids or adults.
• The cruise departs promptly at 7:00 pm, so timely arrival is advised.
• The limited cancellation policy means you’ll want to be certain about your plans.

Is it Worth It?

For those who value spectacular skyline views paired with a gourmet meal and live music, this cruise delivers on all fronts. The reviews highlight the quality of the food and entertainment, with one guest saying, “The food was lovely and the entertainment was great.” The emphasis on a festive, upscale atmosphere makes it ideal for celebrating Thanksgiving with loved ones in a style that feels both elegant and fun.

On the downside, the price point might be steep for travelers on a tight budget, and the formal dress code might not appeal to everyone. But if you’re the type of person who enjoys scenic dinners and appreciates a special occasion, this cruise offers a memorable way to celebrate the holiday.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This cruise is best suited for couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a sophisticated, all-inclusive celebration of Thanksgiving. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a slice of New York’s skyline while indulging in good food and live entertainment. If you’re celebrating a special milestone or simply want to see the city from a different perspective, the experience offers a lovely blend of scenic beauty and culinary delight.

Perfect for:

• Visitors wanting a memorable Thanksgiving dinner with scenic views
• Couples seeking a romantic, elegant evening
• Families with older children (over 6) looking for a unique holiday outing
• Groups celebrating a special occasion

FAQs

Will I receive confirmation after booking?
Yes, you’ll get confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Children under the age of 6 are not allowed onboard, making it more suitable for older kids and adults.

What should I wear?
Semi-formal attire is required—think dress pants, skirts, dresses, and dress shoes. Casual wear like jeans, t-shirts, shorts, or sandals aren’t permitted.

Are drinks included?
Complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included. Other drinks like cocktails, wine, and beer are available for purchase from the bar.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll get views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey skylines, with notable NYC landmarks visible from the water.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Bateaux New York Thanksgiving Plated Dinner Cruise offers a distinctive way to celebrate the holiday, combining the allure of NYC’s skyline with a gourmet meal and live entertainment. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an elegant, scenic, and festive experience that turns a traditional dinner into an unforgettable event. While it comes with a premium price tag, many find that the views, atmosphere, and quality of the experience justify the cost.

If you’re after a special way to mark Thanksgiving in the city that never sleeps, and enjoy a relaxed yet refined environment, this cruise provides a compelling option. Its focus on quality, scenic views, and a touch of luxury makes it well worth considering for your holiday plans.

Note: Always check current policies and availability before booking, especially during busy holiday periods.