Norfolk’s waterfront dining cruises offer excellent value and memorable experiences on the Elizabeth River. The standout 1.5-hour dinner cruise and 3-hour brunch cruise (complete with bottomless mimosas) make for perfect special occasions. We especially love the evening buffet cruise for its fresh local seafood and capacity to handle large groups of up to 200 people, while the daytime brunch cruise provides the best photo opportunities of the harbor. Holiday-themed cruises for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Fourth of July add extra charm with seasonal menus and festivities. Let’s explore the best boat tours Norfolk has to offer.
Key Points
- Norfolk offers a variety of scenic cruises, including Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and special event cruises, with capacities up to 200 guests.
- Cruises feature diverse dining options, such as buffet dinners and brunches, with unlimited beverages and entertainment like live DJs and dancing.
- Positive reviews highlight the food quality, staff friendliness, and memorable atmosphere, though some service and temperature issues have been reported.
- Cruises are wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.
- Pricing for cruises ranges from $78.53 to €174.75 per person, with some non-refundable tickets available for special events.
Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise
For a special Mother’s Day celebration, the Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise offers a delightful dining experience on the water.
This 1.5-hour cruise features a delicious dinner buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. Guests can enjoy unlimited coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages while taking in the scenic views of the Norfolk skyline and the US Navy’s Atlantic Fleet.
The cabaret-style seating encourages mingling, and an onboard DJ provides entertainment and opportunities to dance. The cruise is wheelchair accessible and offers infant seats.
While most reviews praise the food and atmosphere, some note issues with service. The Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise provides a memorable Mother’s Day celebration on the water.
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Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise
Aboard the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise, guests can indulge in a delectable array of freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts.
The onboard entertainment includes DJ music, lounge access, and interactive games, while unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included.
Accommodating up to 200 travelers, the cruise offers an overall rating of 4.0 based on 25 reviews.
While guests praise the food quality, service, and festive atmosphere, some criticize issues with food temperature and service delays.
The cruise is suitable for celebrations like birthdays and family gatherings, though concerns have been raised about parking arrangements and additional charges for photos and drinks.
Read our full review: Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
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Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise
A delightful Norfolk experience awaits guests aboard the Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise. Priced from $78.53 per person, this cruise accommodates up to 200 travelers and offers a delicious brunch buffet with unlimited coffee, tea, and up to 3 mimosas or soda/juice tickets per guest.
The cruise includes onboard DJ music, access to lounge spaces, and interactive games. Guests can enjoy the scenic views as they depart from the Otter Berth on Waterside Drive, with the cruise ending back at the same location.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and allows service animals. Positive reviews highlight the food quality, friendly staff, and memorable atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for celebrations and family outings.
Read our full review: Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise Review
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Norfolk Fathers Day Buffet Brunch Cruise
Celebrating Father’s Day in Norfolk takes on a special charm aboard the Fathers Day Buffet Brunch Cruise. Departing from the picturesque Waterside District, this 3-hour cruise offers a delicious buffet brunch with unlimited mimosas, coffee, and tea.
The menu features freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, catering to all tastes. Live DJ entertainment keeps the mood festive, while the boat’s accessibility features, including wheelchair and stroller access, ensure a comfortable experience for all.
With a maximum capacity of 200 travelers, this cruise provides a guaranteed table for your party and an unforgettable way to honor the dads in your life on their special day.
Read our full review: Norfolk Fathers Day Buffet Brunch Cruise Review
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Mothers Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk
The Mothers Day Signature Brunch Cruise in Norfolk provides a sophisticated setting to honor the mothers in one’s life.
This 3-hour cruise on the waters of Norfolk offers a delicious brunch buffet, bottomless mimosas for those 21 and over, and DJ entertainment.
The event has a maximum capacity of 200 travelers and is a non-smoking affair.
Guests must adhere to a dressy-casual dress code, with collared shirts required for gentlemen and dresses or dressy jeans acceptable for women.
Reservations are non-refundable, and seating is guaranteed only for confirmed tickets.
While the unlimited mimosas are a highlight, previous reviews note concerns over the definition of “unlimited.”
Read our full review: Mothers Day Signature Brunch Cruise Norfolk Review
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Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise
Norfolk’s 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise offers travelers a chance to celebrate the nation’s independence with a scenic voyage along the city’s waterways.
Departing from the Otter Berth, the cruise can accommodate up to 200 guests and features a bountiful buffet dinner with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, along with unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
The boat is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants can sit on laps. While non-refundable, the cruise is priced from €174.75 per person.
With just one review, the overall rating is 3.0 out of 5 stars. Guests can expect live DJ entertainment as they take in the sights of Norfolk on this 4th of July celebration.
Read our full review: Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
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Norfolk Fathers Day Buffet Dinner Cruise
Travelers looking to honor their fathers on the special day can join the Norfolk Fathers Day Buffet Dinner Cruise, which departs from the Otter Berth at 5:00 PM.
The cruise features a delicious buffet dinner with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, along with unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Live DJ entertainment provides the musical backdrop for the event.
With a maximum capacity of 200 travelers, the cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
The cruise returns to the meeting point at 333 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA 23510.
Tickets are priced from $133.59 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Norfolk Fathers Day Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
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Common Questions
What Are the Dress Code Requirements for the Cruises?
The dress code for most cruises is casual and comfortable. Guests are typically advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing, such as lightweight fabrics and comfortable shoes. Some cruises may have slight dress code requirements, so it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.
Are There Special Dietary Accommodations Available on the Cruises?
Most cruises offer special dietary accommodations for guests with allergies or dietary restrictions. Travelers should inquire about the available options when booking their cruise to ensure their needs are met during the journey.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Cruises?
Most cruises don’t allow passengers to bring their own alcohol on board. Guests should check the cruise line’s policies beforehand, as some may offer bar services or allow a limited amount of personal alcohol. It’s best to inquire about the specific rules.
How Long Do the Cruises Typically Last?
The cruises typically last between 1-2 hours, though some may run for up to 3 hours. The duration depends on the specific tour or cruise, so it’s best to check the details beforehand. Many offer a variety of length options.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruises?
Most cruises don’t have age restrictions, though some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator to understand their policies before booking a cruise.
The Sum Up
Norfolk offers an array of boat tours and cruises to suit various occasions and preferences. From Mother’s Day and Father’s Day brunches to 4th of July dinner cruises, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re seeking a scenic sightseeing tour or a festive dining experience, Norfolk’s boat tours and cruises provide a unique and memorable way to explore the area.