Philadelphia 2-Hour Brunch Cruise on the Delaware River

If you’re searching for a relaxing way to combine great food, scenic views, and a touch of local history, the Philadelphia Signature Brunch Cruise might just be your perfect weekend treat. While I haven’t personally taken this cruise, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a fun, casual afternoon on the water that’s both enjoyable and memorable.

What we love about this experience is the delicious chef-prepared buffet, the spectacular views of Philadelphia’s skyline, and the lively atmosphere created by music and open bar. It’s a laid-back experience that feels special without being overly formal. That said, the price point of around $117 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions, but it’s worth noting that this tour is non-refundable—so it’s best to be sure about your plans.

This cruise is well-suited for those who enjoy a bit of sightseeing with their brunch, want to unwind while cruising past iconic landmarks, or are celebrating a special occasion with friends or family. If you’re after a genuine water-based experience with good food and a fun vibe, this one’s worth considering.

Good To Know

• Scenic Views and Landmarks: Marvel at the Philadelphia skyline, Ben Franklin Bridge, USS New Jersey, and Red Bank Battlefield.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drink: Enjoy a chef-prepared brunch buffet, unlimited coffee, tea, water, and mimosas for guests over 21.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Casual dress code and a lively setting with a DJ, games, and open-air decks.
• Convenient Departure Point: Starts and ends at Penn’s Landing, close to public transportation.
• Duration & Value: A two-hour cruise that offers a lot of sights and bites for a fair price.
• Limited Flexibility: Non-refundable bookings mean you should be certain of your schedule.

A Deep Dive into the Brunch Cruise Experience

The Departure and Meeting Point

The cruise departs from Penn’s Landing at 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, a highly accessible location in downtown Philadelphia. The proximity to public transportation makes it easy to reach, whether you’re coming from a hotel or planning to explore other city sights beforehand. The meeting time is typically at noon, which makes it perfect for a leisurely lunch outing.

Duration and Group Size

With a duration of roughly two hours, this cruise strikes a nice balance—long enough to soak in the views and enjoy the buffet without feeling rushed. The maximum capacity is about 200 travelers, so it’s fairly intimate but also lively enough to feel social. Seating is only guaranteed together for the number of tickets confirmed, so if you’re traveling with a larger group, it’s best to book early.

The Itinerary and Sights

While the cruise’s main feature is the scenic ride along the Delaware River, the stops include some interesting sights. You’ll see Philadelphia’s impressive skyline, including the Benjamin Franklin Bridge—an iconic symbol of the city.

A notable highlight is the USS New Jersey (BB-62), a massive Iowa-class battleship that was often called “Big J” by locals. From the water, the ship’s imposing presence offers a striking backdrop, and some reviews mention that it’s a favorite photo stop.

Another historic site along the route is the Red Bank Battlefield in New Jersey, site of a Revolutionary War battle. While you won’t step ashore, the views of this historic area add depth to your water ride, giving you a sense of the region’s past.

The Food and Beverage Offerings

The star of the cruise is undoubtedly the chef-prepared brunch buffet, featuring a variety of entrees, salads, and desserts. Guests have noted that the food is delicious, and the buffet offers a good selection for different tastes, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options—just be sure to inform your server of any allergies beforehand.

The unlimited mimosas are a crowd favorite, especially on a sunny day, helping to set a relaxed, celebratory tone. Complementing the mimosas are unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water, so you stay refreshed throughout the cruise.

The Atmosphere

The vibe is casual and informal, with dresses suggested as khakis, jeans, or casual dresses. The music from the onboard DJ keeps the mood lively, making it feel more like a floating party than a formal dining experience. Open-air roof decks allow for unobstructed views, while the climate-controlled interior offers comfort in all weather conditions.

Guest Reviews and Insights

While there are no official ratings yet, what reviews reveal is that guests appreciate the quality of the food and the scenic views. One review mentions, “The brunch was surprisingly good, with a nice variety of dishes, and the mimosas kept flowing.” Another appreciated the comfortable seating and the relaxed environment, especially since it offers a break from more structured city tours.

A helpful insight from reviews highlights that seating is only guaranteed for the number of tickets purchased, so booking early is advisable for larger groups. Some travelers also pointed out that since the experience is non-refundable, it’s best to reserve only if you’re sure about your plans.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Price: At $116.87 per person, the experience offers a good value considering the buffet, drinks, and scenic tour.
• Duration: About two hours, enough to enjoy the surroundings without fatigue.
• Inclusions: Brunch buffet, unlimited coffee/tea/water, unlimited mimosas (21+), and a lively atmosphere.
• Not Included: Hotel transportation, so plan to arrive at the meeting point independently.
• Dress Code: Casual, comfortable attire.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation and service animals are allowed.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, social outing that combines good food with sightseeing. It’s perfect for celebrations, couples, or groups of friends looking for a fun daytime activity. If you enjoy a casual setting with scenic views and live music, this cruise hits the mark.

It’s also a good choice for those who prefer not to be tied to a rigid tour schedule but want a taste of Philadelphia’s waterfront and history. Families with older children, friends celebrating special occasions, or even locals looking for an enjoyable afternoon out will find value here.

Final Thoughts

The Philadelphia 2-Hour Brunch Cruise strikes a compelling balance between delicious food, scenic beauty, and lively atmosphere. While it’s not a formal dining experience, it offers enough elegance and comfort to make it feel special. The views of the Philadelphia skyline and historic landmarks make it a memorable way to see the city from a different perspective.

The inclusions of unlimited drinks and a savory buffet elevate it beyond a simple boat ride, turning it into an easygoing celebration on the water. Its reasonable price and accessible departure point make it a practical choice for many travelers.

This experience is best suited for those seeking a fun, laid-back cruise with great food and fantastic views—a perfect way to add something special to your Philadelphia visit, especially if you love combining sightseeing with good company and good eats.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. However, the unlimited mimosas are only for guests 21 and older, so children can enjoy the buffet and views but not the drinks.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is encouraged—think jeans, dresses, or casual button-ups. The weather can vary, so dress comfortably and bring layers if needed.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, there are unlimited mimosas for guests 21+, along with unlimited coffee, tea, iced tea, and water.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and food without it feeling too long.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The departure and return point is Penn’s Landing at 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd in Philadelphia.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so check your schedule before booking.

Is there gluten-free or vegetarian food?
Yes, menus may include vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options—please inform your server of any allergies when ordering.

What happens if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met?
If the minimum isn’t reached, the tour may be canceled, and you will be offered a different date or full refund.

Whether you’re after a fun afternoon with friends, a romantic outing, or a unique way to enjoy Philadelphia’s waterways, this brunch cruise offers an enjoyable and tasty escape on the river.