Newport Beach: Champagne and Brunch Buffet City Cruise

This champagne and brunch cruise in Newport Beach offers a delightful way to spend a couple of relaxing hours on the water. While I haven’t personally been aboard, reviews paint a picture of an experience that balances good food, beautiful scenery, and a lively atmosphere.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, the sumptuous brunch buffet prepared with seasonal ingredients; second, the unlimited champagne and sparkling cider that lets you toast without worry; and third, the stunning harbor views showcasing landmarks like Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile.

On the downside, some reviewers mention that the food can arrive lukewarm, and weather conditions might limit the experience, especially if wind or wind-driven waves prevent the boat from leaving the dock.

This cruise is well-suited for anyone seeking a laid-back, scenic outing—whether celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a unique day on the water in California. Now, let’s explore what you can really expect.

Good To Know

• Relaxing 2-hour cruise perfect for a midday escape
• Sumptuous brunch buffet with seasonal, chef-prepared dishes
• Unlimited champagne and sparkling cider included in the ticket price
• Breathtaking harbor views of Newport Beach’s iconic landmarks
• Live entertainment adds a lively, festive vibe
• Limited on-site parking — plan ahead or consider offsite options

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of What to Expect

The Newport Beach Champagne and Brunch Buffet City Cruise is designed for comfort and indulgence. Departing from Mariner’s Mile Marina, it’s a well-paced 2-hour trip that combines great food, scenic vistas, and a touch of luxury. The experience begins with boarding a stylish yacht, where you’ll find a reserved table awaiting you, ensuring a relaxed start without the hassle of crowded seating.

The brunch buffet features a variety of hot and cold dishes, from breakfast classics like scrambled eggs and smoked salmon to salads, pasta, and carved meats. The menu includes options for different dietary preferences, with vegetarian and gluten-free choices available. Reviewers note the food’s quality is generally high, though some mention it arrives lukewarm, so pacing your meal might enhance enjoyment.

The Dining Experience

The buffet is thoughtfully curated, offering both sweet and savory options. Early risers will appreciate items like pastries, muffins, danishes, and smoky Scottish salmon with accompaniments. The hearty section includes scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, and caramelized breakfast potatoes. For a sweet finish, whipped cream-topped French toast makes a perfect treat.

The lunch section brings salads like Caesar and Greek, along with pasta salads and baked orecchiette with fresh herbs. The carved tri-tip steak and oven-roasted salmon provide hearty, filling options. Kids aren’t forgotten either—chicken tenders and fries keep the little ones happy.

The dessert station is a highlight, featuring seasonal fresh fruit and a selection of individual desserts, providing a sweet ending to the meal. The live entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere, making this more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of good company and scenic bliss.

Sipping and Socializing

Included in your ticket is unlimited champagne and sparkling cider, perfect for toasting or simply enjoying throughout the cruise. Several reviews mention the quality of the drinks as a standout feature, with many appreciating the bottomless mimosa experience. For those seeking other beverages, drinks are available for purchase, offering options for non-drinkers or those wanting something different.

The friendly staff is often praised for their attentive service, making sure glasses are topped up and everyone feels comfortable. The live entertainment further enhances the experience, creating a lively yet relaxed environment suitable for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just a fun day out.

Harbor Highlights and Scenic Views

One of the main draws of this cruise is the spectacular harbor scenery. You’ll glide past landmarks like the Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile, with unobstructed views from the open-air roof deck or through the panoramic windows inside.

Guests consistently comment on how picturesque the harbor looks — boats of all sizes, scenic marinas, and the coastline’s natural beauty. It’s an ideal backdrop for photos, so bring your camera or smartphone. The captain and crew often share interesting tidbits about the sights, adding an educational touch to your scenic journey.

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Practical Aspects: Timing, Parking, and Tips

The cruise typically lasts 2 hours and usually departs in the morning, making it a perfect midday activity. Be sure to arrive early to allow ample time for parking and check-in. Parking is limited on-site, costing $10 cash, but nearby public lots and street parking can serve as alternatives, especially after 5 PM when prices rise to $15 or $20.

Dress code is upscale casual to business casual — think nice tops, dresses, or slacks, but avoid beachwear, flip-flops, or athletic attire. Weather can be unpredictable, so a light jacket or sunglasses are recommended.

For families, children 3 and under can join for free, but remember to select the child ticket online to ensure access. Large groups should make a single reservation to secure adjacent seating, as split bookings won’t guarantee seating together.

The Value and Considerations

At $141 per person, this brunch cruise offers good value for a scenic, leisurely experience. The combination of delicious buffet, bottomless champagne, and privileged harbor views makes for a relaxed, indulgent outing.

Reviewers have praised the quality of service and food, though a few noted that the food isn’t always piping hot. This is typical for buffet-style meals on boats, but knowing this upfront can help set expectations.

Weather can impact the experience—if wind or rough seas are prevalent, the boat might stay docked, and you’ll miss out on the water portion. That said, even at dock, travelers have enjoyed the ambiance and views.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for celebrating special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or even a casual get-together with friends. It’s also perfect if you’re seeking a scenic meal with a relaxed vibe without the fuss of a formal dinner.

If you appreciate a well-curated buffet, champagne to toast, and beautiful harbor scenery, this experience will likely delight. However, if you’re after a longer cruise or more adventurous activities, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Newport Beach Champagne and Brunch Buffet City Cruise offers a stylish, enjoyable way to experience the harbor’s charm. The friendly staff, delicious food, and breathtaking views combine to make a memorable outing. While there are minor hiccups like the lukewarm food sometimes reported, most guests leave with smiling faces and plenty of photos.

This cruise suits those looking to relax, indulge, and enjoy scenic vistas without breaking the bank. Whether celebrating a special day or simply wanting a scenic escape, you’ll find this experience offers a nice balance of comfort, fun, and flavor.

FAQs

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes the harbor cruise, a buffet brunch, unlimited champagne and sparkling cider, and live entertainment.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, typically in the morning.

Is parking available on-site?
Yes, but parking is limited to $10 cash per car. Offsite parking lots and street parking are good alternatives, especially after 5 PM when the fee increases.

What should I wear?
The recommended dress code is upscale casual to business casual. Avoid beachwear, flip-flops, or athletic clothing for a more polished look.

Can children join?
Yes, children 3 and under can attend for free — just be sure to select the free child ticket when booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If wind or stormy conditions prevent the boat from leaving the dock, the cruise may be canceled or modified. Some reviews mention that the boat stayed docked due to weather, but the experience remained enjoyable thanks to the views and ambiance.

Are drinks other than champagne available?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase onboard if you want something different from the included sparkling cider and champagne.

Is this cruise suitable for large groups?
To guarantee seating together, make one reservation for your entire party. Separate bookings may not get you seats next to each other.

In all, this brunch cruise is a lovely way to savor a scenic morning or early afternoon in Newport Beach. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a chance to enjoy good food, bubbly, and stunning views in a relaxed setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: