Prague: All Inclusive NewYear’sEve Cruise with Dinner&Drinks

If you’re dreaming of ringing in the New Year with a scenic and festive celebration on Prague’s Vltava River, this all-inclusive cruise might catch your eye. It promises a glamorous evening of buffet dining, unlimited drinks, live music, and a front-row seat to Prague’s iconic fireworks at midnight. At $331 per person, it’s certainly a splurge, but for those seeking a special way to welcome 2024, it could be worth the price—if expectations are managed.

One of the things we really like about this experience is the stunning vantage point it offers of Prague’s illuminated skyline. From the water, landmarks like Prague Castle and Charles Bridge glow beautifully, creating a magical backdrop for a memorable night. The inclusion of a traditional Czech meal, particularly roasted pork knuckle, is a bonus for food lovers craving local flavors. Plus, the live music adds a lively, danceable atmosphere that enhances the celebration.

However, there are some considerations. Several reviews point out that the experience can feel cramped inside, especially if you’re expecting a spacious, relaxed setting. Plus, the quality of the food and drinks seems to vary—some guests found the included wine undrinkable, and others thought the buffet was underwhelming. With a duration of five hours, some guests felt the cruise was a bit long, leading to moments of boredom or feeling confined.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a convenient, all-in-one celebration with good views and a lively vibe, rather than those seeking a high-end, quiet dining experience or a deep dive into Prague’s history. If you’re after a party atmosphere combined with the spectacle of fireworks over the city, it could be just right.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Prague’s illuminated landmarks from the water
• Includes a buffet dinner featuring Czech specialties like roasted pork knuckle
• Unlimited drinks and a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine at midnight
• Live music to keep the energy high all evening
• Potential cramped space inside the boat may limit movement
• Mixed reviews on food and drink quality, with some guests expressing disappointment
• Duration of 5 hours might feel too long for some travelers
• No hotel pickup or drop-off, so you need to arrange your own transportation to the pier

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary and Setting

The cruise departs from pier number 17 aboard the boat called Classic River. Your evening begins with a warm welcome, a glass of your included drink, as you step aboard. From here, the magic begins—the boat slowly sets sail on the Vltava River, offering your first glimpses of Prague’s fairy-tale skyline lit up at night.

The initial moments are perfect for taking photos and soaking in the panoramic views. You’ll see Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, both aglow with festive lights. The boat’s inside seating options are split between the upper and lower decks, with tables for four or six people, depending on your ticket choice (Classic River or Boat Natal options). Reviewers mention that staff are attentive in seating guests, which helps reduce chaos.

Dining and Drinks

The buffet-style dinner is a key part of this experience. You’ll find warm and cold Czech dishes, with roasted pork knuckle being a highlight for many. Some reviews note the food is decent but not extraordinary—the quality depending, perhaps, on the chef on the night. If you’re after authentic Czech cuisine, this is a convenient way to indulge without leaving the boat.

Unlimited drinks include a range of options: light and dark beers, wine by the glass (Pinot Grigio and Cabernet Sauvignon), soft drinks, sparkling and still water, fruit juices, and mulled wine. Coffee and tea are also available. However, some guests have reported that the free wine was not very drinkable, leading to extra costs for better options—so don’t be surprised if you find yourself opting for the more premium wines at your own expense.

The Festivities

As the evening unfolds, live music keeps the vibe upbeat and danceable. Several reviews appreciated the music but noted that the entertainment was somewhat generic. Still, it’s a lively environment, perfect for celebrating with friends or a partner.

Around midnight, everyone heads up to the upper deck for the fireworks display. The view from the water provides a unique perspective of Prague’s pyrotechnic show, which many find spectacular. It’s a highlight that makes the whole experience feel special.

The Length and Comfort Level

While five hours sounds appealing for a New Year’s celebration, some guests found it a bit too long, especially if confined inside with limited space to move around. One reviewer mentioned that the boat felt “very tight inside” and that there was “no place for moving,” which could dampen the comfort for some, especially if the crowd is large.

Authenticity and Value

Several reviews indicate that the value for money is debatable. The price includes a buffet dinner, unlimited drinks, and a spectacular fireworks view, but some guests felt the overall experience didn’t match the cost. Food quality and space constraints seem to be the main points of criticism, while others appreciated the convenience and lively atmosphere.

It’s worth noting that this experience does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so planning your own transportation to the pier is necessary. The meeting point is straightforward but requires some foresight to arrive on time, especially on a busy New Year’s Eve.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a celebratory, festive environment with great views of Prague at midnight. It’s well-suited for those who don’t mind being inside a somewhat crowded boat and are mainly interested in the fireworks, drinks, and lively atmosphere.

If you’re after a luxurious, quiet dinner or a deep cultural experience, this might not be the best choice. The mixed reviews about food quality and space suggest it’s better suited to those prioritizing a fun, social event over gourmet dining or spacious comfort.

The Sum Up: Is this Cruise Worth It?

This New Year’s Eve cruise offers a unique way to welcome the new year, especially if stunning cityscape views and fireworks are high on your list. The included buffet and unlimited drinks make it a convenient, all-in-one package, while the lively music and festive atmosphere keep spirits high.

However, the experience can feel cramped, and the quality of the food and drinks isn’t consistent across reviews. It’s a good pick for those who want to celebrate in a lively, social setting with a beautiful backdrop—just be prepared for the possibility of crowding and variable dining quality.

If you love the idea of celebrating on the water, enjoying a traditional Czech meal, and catching Prague’s fireworks up close, this cruise could be a memorable, no-fuss option for ringing in the New Year.

FAQs

Is transportation included? No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to pier 17 on your own.

What is the meeting point? The meeting point is at the boat called Classic River on pier number 17.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, starting from your boarding time in the evening until after midnight.

What does the dinner include? The buffet features warm and cold Czech dishes, notably roasted pork knuckle, along with various side dishes. The quality might vary, but it offers a taste of local cuisine.

Are drinks unlimited? Yes, guests can enjoy unlimited soft drinks, beers, wine by the glass, and mulled wine during the cruise.

Can I choose seating? Yes, depending on the ticket option—Classic River or Boat Natal—seats are pre-assigned but are generally on the inside upper or lower decks, with tables for four or six.

Is the fireworks view good from the boat? Absolutely. Many guests praise the fireworks view from the upper deck as one of the highlights.

What is the price? The experience costs about $331 per person, which includes dinner, drinks, and the fireworks view, but some reviews suggest that value for money can depend on personal expectations.

Is there live entertainment? Yes, there is live music on board, aimed at creating a lively, dance-friendly atmosphere.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

In the end, this cruise offers a lively, festive way to see in the New Year in Prague, especially for those who value views, drinks, and a celebratory vibe over luxury or refined dining. Whether it’s worth the price depends on your expectations—if you’re after an energetic night with a beautiful backdrop, it might just be the right choice.