Norfolk Signature Lunch Cruise

Rating: Not available (0 reviews)
Price: $84.24 per person
Location: Norfolk, USA
Supplier: City Cruises
Phone: +1 888-345-6660
Email: [email protected]
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@Meta Description:

Join this 2-hour Norfolk lunch cruise for stunning Atlantic Fleet views, a delicious buffet, live narration, and lively onboard entertainment—perfect for families or friends.

Introduction

Our review of the Norfolk Signature Lunch Cruise is based on traveler feedback and detailed tour info, offering a taste of what this maritime experience offers. Think panoramic views of naval ships, a tasty buffet, and lively music—all in a relaxed setting that suits both families and colleagues.

What we love about this cruise: the scenic views of Norfolk’s naval yard, the quality and variety of the buffet, and the engaging narration that brings the sights to life. The lively onboard atmosphere, with a DJ spinning tunes and interactive games, elevates the cruise from a simple boat ride to a fun social outing.

A potential drawback? The non-refundable policy might be a concern for some travelers, especially if plans change unexpectedly. Plus, the cruise is about two hours long, which might feel short if you’re craving a more extensive exploration of Norfolk’s waterfront.

This experience works best for those seeking a family-friendly outing, a relaxed date idea, or an informal team-building event. If you enjoy scenic cruising with good food, lively music, and a bit of naval history, this cruise will likely hit the mark.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Get close-up sights of the Atlantic Fleet, Norfolk Naval Base, and iconic maritime landmarks.
• Delicious Buffet: Enjoy freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and dessert options—significant value for the price.
• Engaging Narration: Learn about Norfolk’s naval history and sights from onboard commentary, making the cruise educational as well as entertaining.
• Lively Atmosphere: Live DJ, interactive games, and open lounge spaces create a festive vibe.
• Family and Group Friendly: Casual dress code, capacity for up to 200 travelers, and entertainment suitable for all ages.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Starts at 173 Waterside Dr, close to public transportation and easy to access.

The Itinerary Breakdown

A Scenic Voyage Along the Elizabeth River

The cruise starts at 12:00 pm from 173 Waterside Drive. Once aboard, you’re whisked away into a two-hour journey that offers spectacular views of Norfolk’s naval might. As the boat cruises along, you’ll pass prominent sights like the Nauticus Maritime Museum, the USS Wisconsin battleship, and the Norfolk Naval Base.

These sights aren’t just for looks—they narrate Norfolk’s long-standing naval tradition. The onboard narration, delivered via live commentary, informs travelers about the significance of each site. For instance, the USS Wisconsin, built in the 1940s, is an Iowa-class battleship now serving as a museum ship, and many reviews highlight how close-up views of this ship make it feel like part of your sightseeing.

Nauticus Maritime Center and USS Wisconsin

The Nauticus Maritime Museum, located right on the waterfront, offers interactive exhibits and is a highlight for those interested in maritime history. While not part of the cruise’s guided tour, passing by this center adds context to Norfolk’s naval importance.

The USS Wisconsin, a former battleship turned floating museum, is a major visual highlight. Passengers comment on how incredible it is to see such a massive vessel up close, with some noting that “seeing the USS Wisconsin from the deck really makes the history tangible.” It’s a reminder of Norfolk’s strategic role in U.S. naval operations.

Norfolk Naval Base and Other Key Sites

Passing by the Norfolk Naval Base, the largest naval station in the U.S., adds a sense of awe. Travelers can glimpse the busy activity of the fleet and appreciate the scale of naval operations. The Hampton Roads Harbor and the Coal Terminal also come into view, adding to the industrial grandeur of the region.

Other sights include Tanner’s Point, the NORSHIPCO floating dock, and the historic Battle site of the Monitor and Merrimac—famous Civil War ironclads. These points of interest lend a historic and military flavor to the cruise, enriching the experience beyond simple sightseeing.

Interactive and Relaxed Atmosphere

Throughout the journey, a live DJ spins tunes, creating a lively backdrop. Passengers can dance, participate in games, or simply relax on the skyline deck with a drink from the full bar. Many reviews praise the balance of casual fun and educational content, noting that “the narration was surprisingly engaging without feeling like a lecture.”

The Food and Drink Experience

A major highlight of the Norfolk Signature Lunch Cruise is the delicious buffet. The menu includes freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and dessert options, with the flexibility to accommodate vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets—just inform your server beforehand.

Guests have described the buffet as “well-presented and tasty,” with some emphasizing the variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. The onboard unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are perfect for staying refreshed during the cruise, especially given the casual, social vibe.

The full bar offers cocktails, making this a relaxing midday escape. While alcohol isn’t included in the ticket price, the drinks menu is comprehensive, and many travelers find it adds a nice touch to the experience.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This cruise is a good fit for families looking for a scenic, engaging outing, or groups of friends and colleagues wanting a relaxed social experience. The casual dress code and lively atmosphere make it suitable for those seeking fun without formality.

It’s also ideal for those interested in naval history and maritime scenery, as the narration and sights provide a balance of education and entertainment. The three main selling points—stunning views, quality buffet, and lively onboard environment—appeal to a wide audience.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth or extended tour of Norfolk’s sights, this might feel brief. Also, travelers should be aware of the non-refundable policy, which requires some certainty in planning.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Norfolk Signature Lunch Cruise offers a value-packed experience that combines scenic beauty, tasty food, and lively entertainment. It provides a relaxed, social environment to appreciate Norfolk’s naval heritage, making it a memorable outing for a variety of travelers.

The $84.24 price point reflects the quality of the buffet, the views, and the entertainment. The cruise’s 2-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to relax and enjoy, yet not overly time-consuming.

If you’re visiting Norfolk and want a fun, casual way to see important sights, enjoy a meal, and listen to stories of naval history, this cruise is definitely worth considering. It’s a great way to add a maritime touch to your trip, with enough variety to keep everyone entertained.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly, and children can enjoy the sights, onboard games, and lively music. Just keep in mind the 2-hour duration and casual atmosphere.

Are tickets refundable?
No, this experience is non-refundable. It’s best to book with certainty, especially since it requires a minimum number of travelers and has a strict cancellation policy.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is recommended—comfortable clothes suitable for daytime outdoor activity. Layers are helpful in case it’s breezy on the water.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

Is there any mention of specific dietary options?
Yes, the cruise offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options—just inform your server beforehand.

Where does the cruise start and end?
The cruise departs and returns to 173 Waterside Drive in Norfolk.

How early should I arrive?
While not specified, arriving a few minutes early is advisable, especially if you want to settle in before departure at 12:00 pm.

Is public transportation accessible?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to access without a car.

To sum it up, the Norfolk Signature Lunch Cruise is an engaging and enjoyable way to see Norfolk’s naval sights from the water, indulge in a tasty buffet, and soak up some lively atmosphere. Perfect for groups, families, or anyone looking for a relaxed yet visually stimulating experience in this historic port city.