Lisbon: New Year’s Cruise with DJ, Open Bar, Snacks and Wine

Lisbon: New Year’s Cruise with DJ, Open Bar, Snacks and Wine — An Authentic Celebration on the Water

Imagine welcoming the new year aboard a sleek, glass-enclosed boat cruising along Lisbon’s iconic Tagus River. This New Year’s Eve cruise offers a blend of lively music, premium drinks, and spectacular city views, all wrapped into a 3-hour experience that promises both comfort and celebration. As someone who loves to find those special moments that make travel memorable, I’ve looked into this cruise to see if it’s worth marking your New Year in Lisbon.

What we like most about this experience is the combination of spectacular fireworks viewing, the quality and variety of drinks, and the chance to enjoy Lisbon’s illuminated skyline from a privileged vantage point. The glass-enclosed boat means you won’t miss a moment, regardless of weather, and the heated indoor areas ensure comfort if temperatures drop. One thing to keep in mind: this isn’t a full dinner cruise, so if you’re after a gourmet meal, you might want to plan additional dining before or after.

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a lively, stylish way to celebrate New Year’s with friends or family, especially those who appreciate a good drink and unforgettable views. It’s ideal for small groups who want a cozy, yet festive atmosphere on the water, but not for travelers with mobility challenges or young children. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience stand out — or fall short — in more detail.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Premium open bar with spirits, wine, beer, soft drinks, and sparkling wine for the midnight toast.
• Privileged position for Lisbon’s renowned fireworks display.
• Glass-enclosed boat providing panoramic city views, rain or shine.
• Heated indoor areas for comfort in cooler weather.
• Traditional snacks and sweet treats included.
• Limited group size (up to 40 people), creating an intimate atmosphere.
• Duration of 3 hours with flexible starting times (check availability).
• No dinner included, making it a perfect supplement to your pre-planned meal.

An In-Depth Look at the Lisbon New Year’s Cruise

The Itinerary and Experience

This 3-hour cruise begins at Doca de Santo Amaro, in front of the “Rui dos Pregos” restaurant, typically with a flexible start time depending on availability. Once onboard the luxurious Dom João, the atmosphere is upbeat from the start, thanks to a live DJ spinning tunes that keep the energy high. The music is a highlight, with one review stating the music was better than expected.

The boat itself is designed for comfort and style — glass-enclosed, offering panoramic views that are perfect for taking in Lisbon’s iconic skyline as it glows at night. As the boat glides along the river, you’ll get to see the city lit up in celebration, making this a fantastic photo opportunity. The interior’s heated areas mean you won’t have to worry about the winter chill, and the crew is professional, attentive, and eager to ensure your experience is smooth.

The Drinks and Snacks

One of the key attractions of this cruise is the premium open bar, which is all-inclusive. Expect gin, whiskey, vodka, rum, sparkling wine, as well as white and rosé wines, and premium beers. The mixers are available for custom cocktails, or you can simply enjoy your drinks neat. The sparkling wine for the midnight toast is also included, adding a special touch to the countdown.

Guests rave about the quality of the drinks, with one review stating, “The drinks were good, and the music better.” The traditional sweets and savory snacks, along with dried fruits, add to the festive vibe, making sure you’re fueled for dancing and celebrating. While this isn’t a full dinner cruise, the snacks are enough to keep you satisfied during the event.

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The Fireworks and City Views

This cruise offers a privileged spot for the famous Lisbon fireworks display, which many travelers consider one of the best ways to ring in the new year. Finding a vantage point like this — on a boat close to the action — means you’ll get a front-row seat to the fireworks illuminating the sky above the city’s historic skyline.

Guests have described the fireworks as spectacular, with one noting it as “the fireworks display was truly spectacular,” thanks to the ideal position of the boat. As Lisbon’s landmarks glow in the night, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the illuminated streets and bridges, all from the comfort of the boat.

Practical Details and Considerations

This experience lasts 3 hours, with the cruise typically departing in the early evening to give enough time for the countdown. It’s important to check availability for your preferred start time, as these events sell out quickly around New Year’s.

Group size is limited to 40 guests, creating a cozy and exclusive atmosphere. The tour is bilingual, accommodating both English and Portuguese-speaking guests, which helps foster a friendly environment.

Important notes include the need for warm clothing, as it can get chilly on the water, even with heated indoor spaces. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, children under 18, or those prone to seasickness. Also, no refunds are available within 24 hours of the event, so be sure your plans are firm.

Authentic Insights from Guests

Guests consistently praise the timeliness and smooth operation, with one reviewer noting, “Boat left on time, the drinks were good, the music…” The friendly crew helps keep the vibe lively and relaxed, an essential ingredient for an enjoyable celebration.

The quality of the drinks stands out, with many mentioning the premium selection. The snacks are described as both traditional and tasty, fueling the party atmosphere without the need for a full dinner.

Pricing and Value

At $498 per person, this cruise might seem pricey, but it’s important to see what’s included: 3 hours of entertainment, premium open bar, traditional snacks, and a prime fireworks viewing location. For travelers wanting a hassle-free, memorable way to celebrate New Year’s in Lisbon without worrying about logistics or crowds, it’s a solid choice.

Compared to the cost of dining out and securing a good spot for fireworks, this package offers both convenience and a festive atmosphere. The all-inclusive bar means you won’t be rushing to find drinks or pay extra, which adds to the value.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a luxurious, lively, and scenic way to welcome the new year, this cruise hits most marks. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy music, good drinks, and spectacular views. Keep in mind, it’s not a traditional dinner cruise, so if you’re looking for a full meal, plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for young adults, groups of friends, or couples looking to celebrate in style. Its cozy size and upbeat atmosphere make it less suitable for families with young children or travelers with mobility issues. If you’re seeking a stress-free, all-in-one celebration with a front-row seat to Lisbon’s fireworks, this cruise will deliver.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating New Year’s on a cruise along the Tagus River is a distinctive experience, blending scenic views, lively music, and excellent drinks into one package. The privileged fireworks viewing spot makes this a memorable way to mark the start of a new year in Lisbon.

While it’s not a full dinner experience, the inclusion of premium drinks and traditional snacks makes it a worthwhile option for those wanting to indulge and celebrate without fuss. The small group size and professional crew ensure a personal touch, making this cruise a standout choice for a festive, relaxed, and stylish New Year’s celebration.

If you’re after a unique, scenic, and lively way to welcome 2024, this cruise might just be your perfect match.

FAQs

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers a 3-hour cruise, premium open bar with spirits, wine, beer, soft drinks, and sparkling wine for the midnight toast, as well as traditional sweets and savory snacks.

What are the starting times?
Check availability for the specific start times, as they vary depending on the date. Generally, the cruise departs in the early evening to allow for the New Year countdown.

Can I bring children?
No, this experience is not suitable for children under 18. It’s designed for adults who want to enjoy drinks and celebration.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, dressing smart-casual is recommended. Warm clothes are advised due to potential cool weather on the water.

What if the weather is bad?
The boat is glass-enclosed, so you’ll still enjoy the views if it rains or is foggy. However, severe maritime weather may lead to cancellation.

Are refunds available?
No, refunds are not available within 24 hours of the cruise. Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

Is there a meal included?
No, this cruise does not include dinner, but traditional snacks and sweets are served onboard.

How many people will be on the cruise?
The boat accommodates up to 40 guests, providing an intimate atmosphere perfect for celebration.

This New Year’s cruise on the Tagus River offers a lively, scenic, and hassle-free way to welcome 2024 in Lisbon. With premium drinks, a fantastic fireworks view, and a fun-filled party atmosphere, it’s a memorable choice for those seeking celebration and comfort in one package.

You can check if your dates are available here: