Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan

Imagine cruising across Lake Michigan on a bright summer afternoon, surrounded by Chicago’s stunning skyline, while enjoying a delicious brunch, good music, and the company of family. That’s exactly what the Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise offers — a chance to mark the occasion in style without the fuss of traditional dinners or overcrowded venues. This experience from City Cruises promises a relaxed, festive atmosphere with plenty of scenic photo ops and tasty food, making it a popular choice for families and friends celebrating Dad.

What makes this cruise stand out? We love the combination of spectacular panoramic views and a chef-crafted buffet that caters to diverse tastes. The relaxed setting on lake’s open decks or cozy, climate-controlled interiors makes it equally enjoyable whether you’re looking for a casual chat or a scenic sightseeing session. That said, the price of around $135 per person is reasonable considering the included amenities, especially with a guaranteed table and unlimited drinks.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the non-refundable policy — once booked, changes or cancellations aren’t allowed. For those who prefer flexible plans, this could be a drawback. Yet, for travelers who want a guaranteed, family-friendly way to celebrate, this cruise fits the bill perfectly. It’s best suited for those who love gorgeous skyline views, good food, and a lively, informal atmosphere for a memorable Father’s Day.

Key Points

• Beautiful skyline views from Lake Michigan, including landmarks like Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium.
• All-inclusive brunch featuring freshly prepared entrees, salads, desserts, and unlimited drinks.
• Family-friendly experience with guaranteed seating and a lively DJ, making it suitable for all ages.
• Flexible viewing options from climate-controlled interiors and open-air decks.
• Efficient schedule with a 2-hour duration, making it manageable even for busy days.
• Pre-booking essential since most travelers book about a month in advance.

The Cruise Experience: What to Expect

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure begins at Navy Pier, Chicago’s iconic waterfront hub, at 12:30 pm. Arriving a little earlier might give you time to find a good spot or soak in some of the Pier’s lively atmosphere before boarding. The departure time ensures you’ll enjoy a relaxing early afternoon with plenty of daylight for sightseeing and photos.

The Itinerary and Stops

Although this is primarily a cruise experience, it includes visual stops at some of Chicago’s most famous landmarks:

• Skydeck Chicago – Willis Tower: From the water, you’ll get a different perspective of the 1,300-foot-tall skyscraper. While you won’t go inside, the view from the lake offers a sweeping, impressive backdrop for photos.

• Adler Planetarium: Seen from the water, this iconic cultural institution adds to the scenic skyline, especially with the lake as a foreground.

• Navy Pier: The cruise’s starting point, Navy Pier itself is a hub of activity, and you’ll likely get a glimpse of its attractions and bustling atmosphere from the water.

Dining and Entertainment

The chef-prepared buffet is a key highlight. Expect a variety of entrees, salads, and desserts, with unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea included. Guests have reported that the food is fresh and plentiful, ideal for a casual, enjoyable meal.

The live DJ adds a lively vibe that gets everyone in a celebratory mood, with music filling the air as you cruise past the Chicago skyline. The fully stocked bar means you can order drinks to suit your mood — whether it’s a mimosa to toast Dad or a refreshing iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

With a maximum of 200 travelers, the cruise maintains a fun but intimate feel. You won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guaranteed table reservation ensures your family or group will sit together. The climate-controlled interior keeps you comfortable if the weather turns chilly or windy, but the open decks provide a great opportunity to breathe in the fresh lake air and snap photos.

What Past Travelers Say

While there are no formal reviews available, the detailed descriptions suggest that the cruise’s value lies in its scenic views and relaxed vibe. The included live entertainment and unlimited drinks make it an enjoyable, informal celebration. The fact that most travelers book about 33 days in advance indicates a high demand, especially for Father’s Day.

Analyzing the Value

At $135 per person, this cruise offers a lot for the price — scenic cruising, a buffet feast, entertainment, and a festive atmosphere. Given that it’s a two-hour experience, it’s a manageable length that doesn’t demand a full day but still delivers a memorable experience. For families or groups wanting to celebrate Dad in style without overdoing it, this cruise offers great value.

The non-refundable policy is worth noting, but it’s understandable given the popularity and planning involved. The convenience of mobile tickets and easy access from public transportation at Navy Pier also makes it a practical choice.

Who is This Cruise Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who want a relaxed yet scenic way to celebrate Father’s Day. It’s perfect for families, friends, or couples who appreciate stunning city views, good food, and lively music without the formality of a sit-down dinner. It suits travelers who prefer a casual, fun atmosphere and enjoy the outdoors or lakeside sights.

If you’re after a more formal dining or a longer sightseeing experience, you might want to explore other options. But for a quintessential Chicago experience with a celebratory twist, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQs

Is the meeting point at Navy Pier easy to access?
Yes, Navy Pier is well-connected by public transportation, and the activity starts right at 12:30 pm at 600 E Grand Ave. Most travelers find it convenient to arrive early and enjoy the surroundings.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity that isn’t overly long or rushed.

Are drinks included in the price?
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included. There is also a fully stocked bar available for additional drinks, which can be purchased onboard.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this cruise.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. If you plan to spend time on the open decks, consider bringing layers or a light jacket, especially if the weather is cool.

Is it suitable for children?
While the experience is family-friendly, it’s primarily geared toward celebrating with adults. Still, kids of all ages can enjoy the scenic views and music, and the relaxed setting makes it suitable for families.

Final Thoughts

The Father’s Day Buffet Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan offers a unique way to celebrate a special day in Chicago. Combining spectacular skyline views, delicious food, and lively entertainment, it crafts a fun, memorable experience for families and friends. The relaxed environment and beautiful backdrop make it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy Chicago from a different perspective without the fuss of a formal dinner.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, scenic outing that combines good food and fun vibes, this cruise delivers in spades. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a stress-free, festive atmosphere with plenty of photo opportunities and relaxing lake breezes. Just remember to book early, as it’s a popular choice for Father’s Day celebrations.

This cruise is a solid pick for anyone wanting to make Father’s Day special with a blend of sightseeing, good food, and good company — all on Lake Michigan.