City Cruises Boston: Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise

Planning a trip to Boston? If you’re after a laid-back yet memorable way to see the city’s waterfront, a buffet cruise aboard the Spirit of Boston might just be your answer. This experience combines scenic views with good food, lively music, and a touch of luxury, all within a manageable 2-3 hours.

What makes this cruise stand out? For starters, the 360-degree harbor views provide a stunning backdrop to your meal. The live DJ and dance floor turn the cruise into a lively party, whether you’re celebrating something special or just soaking in the sights. The fellow travelers and attentive staff make the experience comfortable, while the quality of the buffet keeps everyone happy.

One thing to keep in mind: the cost of drinks is not included, and desserts sometimes run out quickly, according to reviews. Still, for those who want a relaxing, scenic meal with entertainment in Boston, this cruise offers genuine value. It’s ideal for couples, groups, or families looking to combine sightseeing with a fun, social atmosphere.

Good To Know

• Spectacular Views: Enjoy 360-degree vistas of Boston’s skyline and iconic landmarks.
• Quality Food: Chef-curated buffets with fresh, creative dishes, including salads, mains, and desserts.
• Live Entertainment: A DJ provides energetic tunes for dancing and lively ambiance.
• Flexible Timing: Usually available in the afternoon or evening, lasting 2 to 3 hours.
• Inclusive Experience: Boarding, unlimited drinks (hot and cold), and a friendly crew.
• Value for Money: At $89, it offers a mix of scenic sightseeing, good food, and entertainment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Harbor Buffet Cruise

The Itinerary and Sights

The cruise begins at Commonwealth Pier, next to Boston’s World Trade Center in the Seaport District, with about an hour of boarding time. This short window before departure is perfect for exploring the ship and settling in. Once underway, the boat glides through Boston Harbor, offering views of the Seaport District, Zakim Bridge, and the North End.

You’ll have the chance to see Boston’s skyline from all angles, including outdoor decks that are perfect for photos. The cruise lasts about 2-3 hours, with most trips ending in the early evening or late afternoon, depending on the schedule.

The Food Experience

The buffet menu is thoughtfully curated, with options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Reviewers mention the salads, like Greek and chickpea, as well as hot dishes such as citrus-herb roasted salmon, birria-style chicken, and Caribbean jerk braised pork. The main courses are served with sides like roasted summer vegetables, roasted tri-color potatoes, and the pasta option, which combines fresh ingredients like asparagus and cremini mushrooms.

Desserts, including baked peach berry crisp and seasonal fruit, are pre-selected but tend to be well-received. Some reviews note desserts can run out quickly, especially on popular nights, so arriving early for the buffet might be wise.

The Atmosphere and Entertainment

The ambiance onboard is lively, thanks to the live DJ providing a mix of music genres, including Haitian tunes, 90s hits, and Spanish rhythms. Many guests mention how much they enjoyed dancing on the outdoor decks or the upper rooftop lounge. The music and entertainment create an inviting atmosphere that suits celebrations or casual outings alike.

Guests appreciate the friendly staff—some reviews highlight standout servers like Gianna, who was patient and attentive, and others mention crew members like Synthia, who went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a good time.

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The Views and Experience

Several reviewers emphasize how breathtaking the skyline views are, especially during sunset or at twilight. With the ship’s outdoor spaces unobstructed, you won’t miss a moment of Boston’s scenic beauty. The experience of watching the city’s landmarks slowly drift past, combined with the music and good food, makes for a memorable outing.

Pricing and Value

At $89 per person, this cruise offers a solid value considering the all-you-can-eat buffet, live entertainment, and scenic views included. Many reviews mention how the food quality exceeded expectations, and the staff’s professionalism maintained a high standard.

Additional purchases like alcoholic beverages are available, but these are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge. Some guests found the price a little steep for the experience, especially if not planning to purchase drinks or souvenirs. However, most agree that the experience is worth the cost, especially for special occasions.

Practical Details to Know

• Meeting Point: Commonwealth Pier, next to the World Trade Center in Boston’s Seaport.
• Duration: Usually 2-3 hours, primarily in the afternoon or evening.
• Boarding Time: Begins approximately 1 hour before departure.
• Accessibility: The ship is wheelchair accessible.
• Packing tips: Bring your ID or passport, dress comfortably but casually stylish, and wear flat, closed-toe shoes for safety.
• Food allergies: Make sure to inform your server beforehand.
• No smoking: All areas are non-smoking, including outdoor decks.
• Reservations: To ensure your entire group can sit together, book as one reservation. Infants are free but require a ticket.

What Reviewers Say

Many guests praise the smooth boarding process and friendly staff, with some mentioning the entertainment as a highlight. The food receives consistent praise, especially the fresh salmon, roast beef, and desserts. The views are repeatedly described as stunning, with a sunset cruise being a particular favorite.

Several reviewers mention the generous portions and the well-organized buffet, noting that food was replenished regularly and served hot. The DJ and dance floor are often highlighted as fun additions, with some guests dancing until late into the cruise.

A few constructive notes include the limited shade on outdoor decks, which can mean exposure to the sun, and desserts sometimes running out quickly. Boarding can sometimes be haphazard if multiple cruises depart from the same point, but staff generally handle these situations well.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic yet relaxed outing, families wanting a scenic day with good food, or groups celebrating special occasions. It offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment, making it suitable for those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.

If you’re after a quiet, contemplative cruise or an in-depth historical tour, this may not be the ideal choice. But if you want a fun, scenic, and tasty escape on Boston Harbor, this cruise hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The City Cruises Boston Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise offers a well-rounded experience that combines stunning skyline views, delicious food, and lively entertainment. The affordability, coupled with the friendly crew and scenic backdrop, makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting to enjoy Boston from the water without a hefty price tag.

It’s especially suited for those who value good value and authentic waterfront views while enjoying a relaxed, festive atmosphere. The buffet’s quality surprises many, and the outdoor decks ensure you won’t miss a moment of the city’s beauty.

Whether celebrating a birthday, enjoying a romantic evening, or just soaking in the sights with friends, this cruise provides a memorable experience that balances fun and scenery with practicality.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, infants can join for free with a ticket, and the cruise is generally family-friendly, especially since children can enjoy the scenic views, music, and buffet.

What should I wear?
Most guests dress casually and comfortably. Some opt for slightly dressier casual styles, but flat, closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety, especially on outdoor decks.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included, but alcoholic beverages are available for purchase separately.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the schedule and weather conditions.

Can I sit outside?
Yes, outdoor decks are available for panoramic views and fresh air, though note that there is limited shade, so sunscreen or hats are advised.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the ship is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning your trip.

In sum, this buffet cruise in Boston Harbor blends scenic beauty, good food, and engaging entertainment into a package that’s hard to beat for a relaxed, fun day on the water. Perfect for first-time visitors or locals looking to celebrate, it offers a genuine taste of Boston’s maritime charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: