Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

Experience the Holiday Spirit Aboard a Newport Beach Christmas Day Cruise

Imagine celebrating Christmas in a way that combines the joy of good food, beautiful scenery, and a touch of luxury—all on the calm waters of Newport Harbor. The Newport Beach Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers just that, giving you the chance to enjoy a festive meal with spectacular ocean views, lively music, and holiday decor. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly outing or a romantic escape, this cruise provides a memorable way to mark the holiday.

One of the standout features is the chef-prepared buffet, which caters to both brunch and dinner options, along with unlimited mimosas at brunch and full bar service in the evening. The combination of scenic vistas and festive ambiance makes this experience especially appealing. However, keep in mind that this activity is priced at $141 per person, which is an investment in a special holiday event. This cruise is best suited for those who relish good food, beautiful surroundings, and a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.

Key Points

• Festive atmosphere with holiday décor, music, and scenic views of Newport Harbor
• Delicious buffet options for brunch or dinner, with a focus on fresh, chef-prepared dishes
• Unlimited drinks for brunch, including mimosas, coffee, tea, and sparkling cider
• Beautiful vistas of Southern California’s waters, perfect for holiday photos
• Accessible and comfortable climate-controlled interior plus open-air decks
• Family-friendly, with a kids’ station and options for all ages

An In-Depth Look at the Newport Beach Christmas Cruise Experience

The Setting and Decor

From the moment you step aboard, the holiday spirit is palpable. The cruise features festive décor that enhances the cheerful atmosphere—twinkling lights, seasonal centerpieces, and perhaps a touch of holiday music in the background. The boat’s design ensures everyone has a view, whether you’re inside in the climate-controlled area or outside on the open-air decks. This dual setup is perfect for those who want to enjoy the fresh air or stay cozy out of the wind.

The Itinerary and Duration

The cruise lasts between 2 and 2.5 hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling experience. Check availability for specific start times, but generally, you can expect the cruise to set sail either in the afternoon for the brunch or in the evening for dinner. The timing is flexible enough to work around holiday plans or other activities you may have.

The Food: A Chef-Prepared Feast

The buffet is designed to satisfy a variety of tastes, featuring both breakfast and lunch/dinner options. For brunch, you’ll find assorted muffins, danishes, Scottish smoked salmon with bagels, and classic scrambled eggs with cheddar. The breakfast meats include Applewood smoked bacon and pork sausage links, complemented by caramelized onions and sweet peppers on the side of breakfast potatoes.

For the main courses, the buffet offers signature salads like Caesar and Greek salads, along with pasta salads and baked pasta dishes. The highlight is the carved meats, such as tri-tip steak and oven-roasted salmon, providing hearty, flavorful options. Kids aren’t left out with a dedicated station offering chicken tenders and fries.

Dinner options elevate the experience further with main courses like oven-roasted turkey, salmon, and tri-tip steak, paired with seasonal sides and fresh salads. The dessert selection is equally appealing, with individual desserts, seasonal fruit, and a variety of cakes and pastries. The standout aspect here is the focus on fresh, flavorful dishes that are both visually appealing and satisfying.

Drinks and Entertainment

Brunch guests enjoy unlimited mimosas, sparkling cider, coffee, and tea, making for a lively, celebratory atmosphere. In the evening, full bar service is available, so you can toast to the holiday with wine, beer, or crafted cocktails.

Music adds a festive touch, with lively tunes setting the mood and ensuring everyone feels part of a joyful celebration. Reviewers appreciated the upbeat atmosphere, which made the cruise lively but still relaxed enough for conversation and taking in the views.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

As you cruise through Newport Harbor, you’ll see impressive sights of the coastline, marinas, and luxury yachts. Many reviews mention how the views are especially stunning at sunset, with the water reflecting the warm glow—perfect for holiday photos or just soaking in the scenery.

Accessibility and Comfort

The boat features climate-controlled interiors, which is a real plus for comfort, especially during winter months. The open-air decks provide fresh air and unobstructed views, but the interior ensures you stay warm and cozy if the weather turns chilly. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for all guests.

Authenticity and Value

While the price of $141 per person might seem high at first glance, it includes a multi-course, chef-prepared buffet, unlimited drinks during brunch, holiday décor, and an engaging holiday atmosphere. The limited duration means it’s a compact but well-rounded experience, perfect for a special holiday outing.

Guests have noted that the food quality and presentation are impressive, with one reviewer describing the buffet as “delicious and plentiful,” and highlighting the signature desserts as a delightful finish. The friendly service and well-organized seating also contribute to a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or friends looking to celebrate Christmas in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s perfect for those who value a festive atmosphere with good food and drinks but don’t want to spend hours in a crowded restaurant. The cruise’s lively music and holiday décor make it especially suitable for those wanting to feel immersed in the holiday spirit.

If you’re visiting Newport Beach and want a unique way to enjoy the holiday waters, this cruise provides a combination of beautiful scenery, delicious food, and joyful ambiance. It’s a memorable choice if you’re after a festive experience that balances comfort, celebration, and stunning views.

Final Thoughts: Why This Cruise Stands Out

The Newport Beach Christmas Day Buffet Cruise offers a refined yet fun way to celebrate. The combination of chef-made dishes, unlimited drinks, scenic views, and holiday décor creates an atmosphere that’s both relaxing and festive. The 2-2.5 hour duration makes it a manageable activity that fits comfortably into holiday plans.

While the price reflects the quality of food and the exclusive experience, it’s important to see it as a special occasion outing rather than a casual lunch. For travelers who prioritize atmosphere, scenery, and culinary delight, this cruise delivers on all fronts.

The family-friendly options and accessibility further widen its appeal, making it a top choice for those with children or special mobility needs. If you’re seeking a memorable way to spend Christmas in Newport Beach, this cruise offers a thoughtful blend of luxury, fun, and holiday cheer.

FAQs

• What is the duration of the cruise?
  The cruise lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the food, views, and festivities without feeling rushed.

• Are drinks included?
  Unlimited mimosas are included with the brunch, along with coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and sparkling cider. Full bar service is available for dinner.

• Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
  Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, ensuring all guests can enjoy the experience comfortably.

• Do I need to bring anything special?
  Bringing a passport or ID card is recommended for verification purposes, especially if you plan on enjoying alcohol.

• Can I choose between brunch and dinner?
  Yes, you can select either the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner cruise when booking, depending on your preference and schedule.

• Is this activity suitable for kids?
  Yes, the cruise features a kid’s station with chicken tenders and fries and offers a family-friendly atmosphere.

• What kind of scenery will I see?
  Expect lovely views of Newport Harbor, with yachts, coastlines, and possibly sunset reflections if you cruise in the evening.

• Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
  The buffet includes vegetarian options like salads and pasta, but it’s best to check in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

• What is the price of this cruise?
  The price is $141 per person, which includes the buffet, drinks (for brunch), décor, and entertainment.

• Are there any cancellation policies?
  Yes, this activity is non-refundable, so be sure to confirm your plans before booking.

This carefully curated holiday cruise is a wonderful option for those looking to add some sparkle to their Christmas Day, offering a blend of scenic beauty, delicious cuisine, and joyful celebration—all within a cozy, festive setting on the water.