DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise

Imagine floating along the Potomac River, sipping a mimosa or enjoying a multi-course meal, all while taking in some of the most iconic monuments of Washington, DC. That’s what you get with the City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise aboard the luxurious vessel, The Odyssey. This experience combines the pleasure of a fine meal with the beauty of DC’s skyline, making it a popular choice for visitors and locals alike.

What sets this cruise apart? For starters, we love the chance to see DC’s most famous landmarks from the water, offering a perspective you simply can’t get from the sidewalks. Plus, the gourmet meals prepared by an onboard executive chef elevate the experience beyond your average sightseeing boat. But it’s worth noting that some guests find the price a little steep for what’s included, especially if you’re expecting all drinks to be included or a lively dance floor.

This cruise is best suited for those celebrating special occasions, couples looking for a romantic outing, or anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, upscale dining experience. If you’re after a casual boat ride or a budget-friendly tour, this might not be your best bet, but for a memorable, scenic meal on the water, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: 360° vistas of DC’s most famous monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.
• Gourmet Dining: A carefully curated 3-course meal, with options for brunch or dinner, prepared fresh onboard.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Private tables, background music, and climate-controlled decks create a comfortable setting.
• Flexible Options: Brunch with mimosas or a more formal three-course dinner, depending on your preference.
• Authentic Experience: The ship’s photographer offers keepsake photos, and the cruise provides a chance to enjoy the city from a different angle.
• Moderate Price: At $71 per person, it offers good value considering the views, food, and ambiance, but drinks (except brunch mimosas) are an extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Cruising aboard The Odyssey offers a smooth, comfortable ride along the Potomac River, with the opportunity to see some of Washington DC’s most recognizable landmarks. The ship itself is designed for elegance, with three climate-controlled decks that allow you to enjoy the scenery regardless of the weather.

Boarding begins about an hour before departure, so arriving early is key. Guests are encouraged to dress smart-casual, avoiding jeans, shorts, or athletic wear, to match the upscale vibe. The cruise is typically 2 to 3 hours, making it a perfect length for a leisurely meal and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Once aboard, you’ll likely be greeted with a welcoming atmosphere. The ship’s staff are noted for their attentiveness—several reviews mention excellent service, especially the servers who are described as friendly, accommodating, and professional. For example, Ashley from the US praised her server Luther for being attentive and making the experience memorable.

Dining Experience and Menus

The gourmet meal is a highlight. For brunch, you’ll find a selection of breakfast pastries, smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, and breakfast meats, alongside French toast—perfect for a late morning treat. The menu also offers salads, pasta, and kid-friendly options, with desserts like individual sweets and seasonal fruits.

Dinner options are equally appealing, featuring starter salads, lobster soup, and main courses like ravioli, roasted chicken, salmon, short ribs, or cod. Dessert choices include classic favorites like New York-style cheesecake, triple chocolate mud pie, and a signature warm butter cake. Meals are prepared fresh daily, and reviews suggest the food is generally good, with some pointing out that the quality varies—some found it excellent, others thought it could be hotter or more flavorful.

The Views and Atmosphere

The real star of this cruise is the panoramic 360° views of Washington’s skyline. As you glide past the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Jefferson Memorial, you’ll be snapping photos and soaking in the scenery. Several reviews mention how magnificent the views are, especially during sunset or at night when DC’s monuments are beautifully lit.

The background music adds to the ambiance, whether it’s a DJ spinning tunes or soft instrumental melodies. Many guests find the atmosphere relaxed and pleasant, perfect for a romantic date or a small celebration. The ship also offers photo opportunities with a professional photographer onboard, which is a lovely touch for special occasions.

Comfort and Convenience

The cruise provides a climate-controlled environment, so even if it’s a hot summer day or a chilly evening, you’ll remain comfortable. The observation decks are outdoor and smoking is only permitted on these balconies—so plan accordingly if you’re a smoker.

Getting on board requires early arrival, as latecomers risk missing the boat. It’s also advisable to make only one reservation for your entire group to ensure everyone can sit together, as reviews mention that separate bookings might not guarantee this.

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Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Positive feedback often highlights the breathtaking views, good food, and attentive staff. Guests also appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy a scenic meal without the hustle of city streets. Many mention how the cruise turned into a memorable experience, sometimes even part of larger celebrations like weddings or family gatherings.

On the flip side, some reviewers point out that food quality can vary, with some dishes being too salty or not hot enough. The price is considered high by some, especially since drinks other than the included mimosas (brunch only) are extra. Others note that the music volume can sometimes be too high or lacking bass, which might hinder conversation or dancing. Plus, a few mention that the service can be slow during busy times, and that the entertainment options are somewhat limited.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re looking for a special outing that combines sightseeing with excellent food and a refined ambiance, this cruise hits the mark. It’s ideal for romantic dates, celebrating milestones, or impressing out-of-towners with a unique perspective of DC. Families with kids who enjoy scenic views and a nice meal will also find it suitable, especially given the kid-friendly menu options.

However, if you prefer a more casual, lively atmosphere or are on a tight budget, this might feel a bit over the top. For those wanting an energetic dance party or all-inclusive drinks, the extra costs and quieter vibe may be less appealing.

The Sum Up

The DC City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise offers a memorable way to see Washington DC from the water, paired with high-quality food and a serene environment. The panoramic views of iconic monuments make it a standout experience, especially for those celebrating something special or simply wanting a relaxing escape.

While the price might seem high to some, the combination of scenery, gourmet dining, and comfort makes it a strong value for a special occasion. The mixture of positive reviews about the scenery and food, along with a few critiques about food temperature and price, suggests that this cruise is best enjoyed with the right expectations—namely, as a leisurely, upscale experience rather than a casual or budget-friendly outing.

If you’re after a romantic, scenic, and delicious way to spend a few hours in DC, this cruise is worth considering. Just remember to arrive early, dress smart-casual, and be prepared to pay a bit extra for drinks if you want more than just mimosas on brunch.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a good length for a relaxed meal and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What meals are offered?
Guests can choose between a plated brunch or a three-course dinner. The brunch includes pastries, smoked salmon, eggs, breakfast meats, and French toast. Dinner menus feature starters, main courses like ravioli or salmon, and desserts such as cheesecake or mud pie.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited coffee, tea, and iced tea are included, and brunch guests can enjoy unlimited mimosas. Other alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, but not included in the ticket price.

What is the dress code?
Smart-casual attire is recommended. Avoid jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or athletic wear to match the upscale atmosphere.

Can I bring my group all at once?
To ensure everyone is seated together, it’s best to make a single reservation for your entire party. Multiple bookings might not guarantee group seating.

Is there a dress code or special attire?
Yes, smart-casual is preferred. Think neat, comfortable, and slightly dressy for a relaxed but refined environment.

Can I smoke during the cruise?
Smoking is only permitted on the outdoor observation decks; all interior areas are non-smoking.

What should I know about boarding?
Boarding begins about an hour before departure. Arriving early is advised, as late arrivals may miss the boat.

In essence, this cruise provides a delightful mix of scenic beauty, gourmet food, and relaxed elegance—perfect for a memorable day or evening in Washington, DC.

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