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Norfolk: City Cruises Sunday Buffet Brunch River Cruise – A Relaxing Feast with a View
If you’re looking to combine a laid-back Sunday with beautiful harbor sights, delicious food, and some light entertainment, the Norfolk City Cruises Sunday Buffet Brunch might be just the thing. This 2-hour cruise offers a chance to unwind, indulge, and admire Norfolk’s skyline from the water, all while enjoying a hearty buffet and lively tunes.
What makes this cruise stand out is the freshly prepared buffet paired with stunning views of the Atlantic Fleet and Norfolk’s cityscape. The onboard DJ adds a fun, upbeat atmosphere, making it perfect for those who want a relaxed but lively experience.
However, some might find that the entertainment options are somewhat limited, and cocktails (besides mimosas) are available for purchase rather than included. This cruise suits travelers who appreciate good food, scenic cruising, and a casual, social vibe. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a leisurely Sunday outing, this experience offers solid value with its combination of sights, tastes, and sounds.
Key Points
- Scenic vistas of Norfolk’s skyline and Navy vessels from the water
- Hearty buffet featuring fresh, flavorful dishes for all tastes
- Relaxed, lively atmosphere with DJ entertainment and games
- All-inclusive beverages like coffee, hot tea, and up to 3 mimosas
- 2-hour duration ideal for a laid-back Sunday outing
- Affordable price point of $69 per person offers good value considering the buffet and cruise
The Experience in Detail
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Arriving and Boarding
Your cruise departs from Otter Berth, a convenient starting point in Norfolk. Once onboard, the crew welcomes you with friendly professionalism, guiding you to your assigned table. The decks are climate-controlled, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather—an especially thoughtful touch for those concerned about humidity or chill.
Boarding is smooth, and it’s worth arriving a little early to settle in and get your bearings. The ship is spacious enough to allow easy movement, with plenty of outdoor space to enjoy the fresh air once cruising begins.
The Buffet: A Culinary Highlight
The highlight of this cruise is undeniably the buffet. The menu features a wide variety of freshly prepared dishes, including salads, main courses, and desserts. You might start with a crisp Caesar Salad topped with Parmesan and herb croutons or a vibrant Summer Berry and Farro Salad. For those with specific dietary needs, there are vegetarian and vegan options like the Summer Vegetable Medley and the Mango Salsa Salad (V).
Main courses are hearty and flavorful, offering options like Oven-Roasted Salmon with miso citrus soy sauce, Baked Orecchiette Pasta with seasonal vegetables, and a flavorful Birria-Style Chicken with fire-roasted peppers. For meat lovers, the Hand Carved Tri Tip Steak with balsamic beef jus provides a satisfying choice.
Desserts include gluten-free Baked Peach Berry Crisps and a Signature Dessert Station with seasonal treats, perfect for ending your meal on a sweet note. The buffet is served at a leisurely pace, giving you ample time to enjoy your food without feeling rushed, all while catching the soothing background tunes.
Views and Route
As the vessel begins its journey, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Norfolk’s skyline—a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings—set against the backdrop of Navy vessels docked along the Elizabeth River. The route offers a unique perspective on the city’s naval presence, with several reviews noting the excitement of seeing impressive ships and vessels from the water.
The cruise also passes under bridges and along scenic stretches of water, giving you plenty of photo opportunities. The outdoor patio deck is the ideal spot to take in the views while sipping a drink or just soaking in the atmosphere. It’s the largest outdoor deck in the city, so there’s ample space to relax outdoors.
Entertainment and Atmosphere
Music plays a big role in setting the tone. The onboard DJ spins an energetic mix of current hits, creating a lively yet relaxed environment. Reviewers have mentioned that the music complemented the atmosphere perfectly, making the cruise feel like a fun Sunday gathering rather than a formal event.
Some guests noted that additional entertainment options, such as karaoke or games, could elevate the experience, but overall, the vibe remains friendly and lighthearted. The cruise is designed for socializing, so whether you’re with friends, family, or solo, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to chat and relax.
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Drinks and Additional Costs
While coffee, hot tea, and the first three mimosas are included, additional drinks such as cocktails, beer, and wine are available for purchase. This setup allows for flexibility but might be a consideration for those wanting a more inclusive experience.
The pricing of $69 per person provides good value, considering that it covers the buffet, cruise, beverages (up to 3 mimosas), and entertainment. The overall experience is designed to be about indulgence without breaking the bank.
Who Will Love This Cruise?
This cruise is ideal for food lovers, scenic seekers, and those wanting a casual social environment. It’s perfect for a relaxed Sunday outing, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a different perspective on Norfolk.
If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the combination of good food, upbeat music, and beautiful views makes for a memorable experience. It’s particularly suitable if you appreciate a laid-back atmosphere with a bit of lively entertainment.
However, if you’re seeking a more sophisticated dinner cruise with premium drinks or live entertainment like karaoke or a comedian, you might find this experience a bit simple. Still, for the price and the offering, it’s hard to beat a scenic, tasty, and fun cruise to spend your Sunday afternoon.
Final Thoughts
The Norfolk City Cruises Sunday Buffet Brunch offers a relaxed, enjoyable way to see the city from the water while satisfying your appetite with a varied, freshly prepared buffet. The combination of scenic views, friendly crew, lively music, and a generous buffet makes it a good-value option for those wanting to blend sightseeing with good food.
It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a casual, social atmosphere and aren’t expecting a formal or highly entertainment-focused experience. The cruise’s two-hour duration makes it manageable for a Sunday, and the outdoor decks allow for picturesque photo moments.
For anyone looking to explore Norfolk from a different angle, indulge in a tasty brunch, and enjoy some light-hearted fun, this cruise fits the bill quite well. It’s a straightforward, well-organized outing that balances sightseeing, dining, and entertainment without fuss or pretension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the river cruise, a buffet brunch, coffee, hot tea, and up to three mimosas. Service fees are also included.
Are drinks besides mimosas available?
Additional beverages like cocktails, beer, and wine are available for purchase during the cruise.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity for a Sunday.
Where does the cruise start and end?
It departs from Otter Berth and returns to the same location at the end of the cruise.
Is the outdoor deck climate-controlled?
The decks are climate-controlled, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather outside.
Can I sit with my group?
To guarantee your entire group can sit together, it’s best to make one reservation for everyone. Separate reservations may not ensure group seating.
What should I bring?
You should bring a passport or ID card for identification purposes.
Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the casual, family-friendly vibe suggests it could be suitable for children, especially those who enjoy scenic views and a buffet.
To sum it up, the Norfolk City Cruises Sunday Buffet Brunch offers a delightful blend of scenic waterway views, hearty food, and casual entertainment. It’s a fantastic way to spend a relaxing Sunday afternoon, especially if you’re keen on combining sightseeing with good eats and a bit of fun. It’s best suited for those who prioritize a relaxed, social atmosphere with a scenic backdrop—perfect for making some pleasant memories in Norfolk.
