City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise

Introduction

If you’re seeking a relaxing way to enjoy Norfolk’s waterfront with a bit of scenery, good food, and some lively music, the City Cruises buffet cruise might just be your ticket. It’s a popular way to combine sightseeing with a casual dining experience, offering options for brunch, lunch, or dinner—all aboard the spacious and recently renovated Spirit of Norfolk.

Two things we particularly like about this cruise are the stunning views of Norfolk’s skyline and Navy vessels, and the variety of freshly prepared buffet dishes. It’s a laid-back way to see the city’s waterfront from a different perspective, while indulging in a good meal. A potential consideration is the price point of $80 per person, which many find reasonable, but some guests note that drinks are sold separately and can be pricey.

This experience caters well to friends, families, or couples looking for a scenic, social outing that combines sightseeing with good food and entertainment. If you enjoy relaxed atmospheres with outdoor decks and the chance to see Navy ships up close, this cruise is likely a good fit.

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Key Points

• Beautiful waterfront views and a close-up look at Norfolk’s navy vessels
• Buffet meals prepared fresh, offering a variety of options
• Outdoor decks with the largest outdoor patio in the city for sun or star-gazing
• Music and DJ entertainment to enhance the relaxed vibe
• Flexible dining options for brunch, lunch, or dinner
• Approximate duration of 2 to 2.5 hours, ideal for a laid-back outing

An Overview of the Experience

The Spirit of Norfolk sets sail along the Elizabeth River, offering a scenic cruise that combines the charm of Norfolk’s skyline with the excitement of seeing Navy vessels and historic waterfront landmarks. This boat’s recent renovations mean a sleek, comfortable interior and ample outdoor space, which is great regardless of the weather—climate-controlled decks ensure comfort whether it’s sunny or rainy.

Once onboard, the crew will escort you to your table, and you’ll quickly get a sense of the cruise’s relaxed but lively atmosphere. Drinks can be ordered, and you’re encouraged to explore the ship’s decks. The pace is unhurried, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the views, mingle, or just settle in with your meal.

The Buffet Dining Experience

The heart of this cruise is the attended Grande Buffet, offering freshly prepared dishes suited for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The menu is thoughtfully curated, with salads, entrées, sides, and desserts that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.

For instance, the dinner menu features oven-roasted salmon, baked orecchiette pasta, and baked peach berry crisp for dessert—highlighting a good mix of hearty and lighter options. Salads like the Caesar and Greek provide refreshing starters, while the carved tri-tip steak and jerk braised pork offer substantial mains. Vegetarians and vegans will appreciate the vegetable medley, farro salad, and roasted vegetables.

Guests consistently praise the quality and freshness of the buffet. One reviewer mentioned, “There was enough of delicious food,” which highlights the generous portions and variety. The signature dessert station adds a fun touch, with seasonal fruits and individual sweets.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Music plays a key role in creating a lively, enjoyable experience. Depending on your cruise time, you might find a DJ spinning tunes or more subdued background music. Guests often highlight how the music enhances the relaxed, festive environment. One reviewer shared that the “DJ and dancing was fun to participate in and to watch,” making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

The outdoor decks are a highlight, especially the largest outdoor patio deck in Norfolk. Here, you can stroll under the stars, soak up the sun, or simply take in the panoramic views. Many reviews note how the scenery is breathtaking, with the skyline, navy ships, and passing boats creating an ever-changing backdrop.

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The Itinerary and Highlights

The cruise lasts roughly two to two and a half hours, making it a perfect length for a leisurely afternoon or early evening outing. The departure times are flexible, with options in the morning, afternoon, or evening to suit your plans.

Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, so arriving early is wise—especially since latecomers risk missing the boat, as noted in several reviews. The crew is praised for their attentiveness and friendliness, with many guests mentioning how they helped make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Once underway, the cruise offers an interactive and scenic journey. You’ll glide past Norfolk’s impressive skyline, featuring historic buildings and modern skyscrapers, while also getting close-up views of the impressive Navy fleet. Several reviews mention the up-close sightings of Navy vessels, which adds an element of awe and patriotism.

Dining and Drink Service

The buffet is the main feature, but drinks are available for purchase—though some guests note they are more expensive than typical bar prices. This is common on cruise ships, but it’s worth budgeting accordingly. Coffee, tea, and non-alcoholic beverages are included, which is a nice touch, especially during brunch or lunch cruises.

The Outdoor Experience

The outdoor decks are especially popular for sunset cruises or stargazing, thanks to their ample size and climate control. Guests often mention how strolling among the outdoor decks adds to the laid-back vibe, and some use the space for photos or simply relaxing with a drink.

Authentic Guest Feedback

Many reviewers describe their experience as “wonderful,” “delightful,” and “overall awesome,” often praising food quality, friendly staff, and scenic views. One guest celebrated their anniversary with the cruise and called it “excellent,” emphasizing the atmosphere, food, and DJ. Others appreciate the helpfulness of the crew, especially when accommodating special needs or helping with boarding.

A few constructive notes include food sometimes not being very hot, or the music being too loud for conversation at times, but these are minor compared to the overall positive sentiment.

Analyzing the Value

At $80 per person, this cruise offers a solid value considering the combination of scenic views, buffet dining, and entertainment. Guests frequently comment on the generous portions and good quality of the food, especially for the price. The outdoor patio and lively atmosphere add extra value for those wanting a more relaxed or festive experience.

However, drinks are not included, and some find them overpriced, so budget accordingly. For a two-hour cruise with a substantial buffet, lively music, and outdoor decks, many find this experience well worth the cost.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a laid-back, scenic outing. It’s especially well-suited for those interested in Norfolk’s naval presence or wanting a fun, social atmosphere. If you enjoy good food, outdoor spaces, and a touch of entertainment, this cruise hits the right notes.

It’s also a great choice for celebrating special occasions—like anniversaries or birthdays—thanks to the relaxed vibe and memorable setting. Those traveling with kids might want to consider the buffet variety and outdoor space, though note that the cruise recommends dressy casual attire and no shorts, which is something to keep in mind.

The Sum Up

The City Cruises Norfolk buffet cruise offers a wonderful way to combine sightseeing, dining, and entertainment in a relaxed, scenic environment. The stunning waterfront views, fresh buffet dishes, and lively atmosphere make it a popular choice for visitors wanting a memorable outing.

While drinks are extra and can be pricier than expected, the overall value of the experience—especially considering the spacious outdoor decks and friendly staff—is hard to beat for a casual day or evening on the water. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic cruise that balances good food and lively ambiance, this tour is likely to meet your expectations.

It’s a perfect outing for those who want to enjoy Norfolk’s waterfront in a relaxed style, with enough flexibility to suit brunch, lunch, or dinner plans. Just remember to arrive early, dress appropriately, and prepare for a memorable, scenic ride.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a perfect short outing that doesn’t overcommit your day.

What should I wear?
It’s recommended to dress in dressy-casual attire. No jeans, shorts, tank tops, halter-tops, T-shirts, gym shoes, or flip-flops are permitted onboard.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages and other drinks are available for purchase, and reviewers note they can be expensive compared to typical bar prices.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, the ship features the largest outdoor patio deck in Norfolk, where you can enjoy views, sun, or stars during your cruise.

Can I see Navy ships?
Absolutely. Many guests highlight the close-up views of Norfolk’s Navy vessels, which are a highlight for military enthusiasts or anyone interested in maritime activity.

What’s the food like?
The buffet offers a variety of freshly prepared salads, entrees, sides, and desserts. Reviewers frequently praise the quality and diversity of the dishes.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, and it’s best to arrive early. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which adds flexibility.

Are children allowed?
Infants are free, but it’s advisable to check the dress code and buffet options if traveling with kids, since some reviews mention the need for more child-friendly foods.

In essence, if you’re after a scenic, laid-back experience combining Norfolk’s waterfront views with good food and lively environment, this cruise is a solid choice—especially for those seeking a memorable but relaxed outing.

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