Norfolk offers a surprisingly vibrant dining scene, especially for those who love a scenic backdrop or a special celebration. The city’s location on the Elizabeth River makes it a natural setting for memorable dinner cruises. We particularly like the City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise for its versatility and stunning outdoor decks. It’s perfect for families or groups looking to combine good food with striking views of Norfolk’s skyline and Navy vessels. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a different way to dine, this cruise offers a relaxed, enjoyable experience with buffet dining and DJ entertainment.
While Norfolk has several good options, each offers a distinct vibe — from casual sightseeing to special holiday celebrations. So, whether you want a romantic sunset cruise, a lively party, or a patriotic fireworks display, there’s a dinner experience here that fits your plans. Let’s explore the top three options, each with its own unique appeal.
1. City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise
At number one is the City Cruises Norfolk, which earns a solid 4.4 out of 5 from over 340 reviews. For around $80 per person, this 2 to 2.5-hour cruise offers a flexible schedule with buffet dining options for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The buffet features freshly prepared dishes, giving you a chance to indulge while enjoying panoramic views of Norfolk’s skyline, Navy vessels, and passing ships.
What makes this cruise stand out is its outdoor patio deck, the largest in the city, perfect for catching a breeze or snapping photos of the waterfront. The onboard atmosphere is lively, with music or a DJ helping to set the mood. It’s an ideal choice for a relaxed afternoon with friends or family who appreciate good food amid scenic surroundings. The cruise balances quality food and fun, making it a good value at $80, especially considering the views and entertainment. Some reviews note that the buffet is plentiful, and the outdoor decks provide a memorable setting. However, keep in mind it might be more casual than some might prefer for a formal dinner.
Bottom line: This cruise offers a flexible, scenic, and lively dining experience, perfect for those who want a relaxed atmosphere with good buffet food and excellent views.
2. Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise
Coming in at number two is the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise, rated 4.0 out of 5 from 34 reviews. At roughly $107 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise is designed for celebrating special occasions, hosting groups, or an intimate date night. The cruise features a delicious dinner buffet with fresh entrees, salads, and desserts that cater to a range of tastes, along with spectacular views of the Navy’s ships and the lively Elizabeth River.
Unique to this cruise is its focus on providing a dining experience with options to dance and play games in lounge spaces onboard. It’s a more social atmosphere, ideal for those wanting to combine good food with entertainment. The reviews highlight the beautiful sunset vistas and the quality of the buffet, though some note that drinks at the bar are limited in alcohol content, which might bother some. Still, the overall experience is ideal for celebrating milestones or enjoying a romantic evening with a view.
Bottom line: The Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a well-rounded mix of dining and entertainment, suited for those looking to combine a good meal with a lively, festive environment.
3. Norfolk: 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise with Fireworks
Last on our list is the special July 4th celebration aboard the Spirit of Norfolk, rated 4 out of 5 from just 3 reviews. For around $210 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise offers a front-row seat to Norfolk’s spectacular fireworks display. The evening features an extensive chef-prepared holiday buffet, along with an open bar serving unlimited alcoholic beverages, making it a true celebration.
This cruise is distinctive because it combines a gourmet buffet with dazzling fireworks, all against the backdrop of the Navy’s powerful Atlantic Fleet. It’s perfect for patriotic families or anyone wanting to make Independence Day extra special. The views of the skyline lit up by fireworks are incredible, and the dining is more upscale, with a focus on holiday festivities. Some reviews mention the high price, but most agree that the experience’s uniqueness and the fireworks view make it worth it.
Bottom line: The July 4th cruise is a memorable way to celebrate America’s independence with gourmet food, unlimited drinks, and fireworks lighting up the sky.
How to Choose the Right Dinner Experience in Norfolk
Choosing between these experiences depends on your interests, budget, and the kind of atmosphere you crave. For a relaxed, flexible cruise with outdoor decks and buffet dining, the City Cruises Norfolk is hard to beat. If you’re celebrating a special occasion and want a more lively, entertainment-focused evening, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers good food and dancing in a friendly setting. For a once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience, the 4th of July Fireworks Cruise provides a magical backdrop of fireworks with gourmet dining.
Consider your budget, the type of atmosphere you prefer (casual vs. festive), and whether you want a special celebration or a regular night out. Booking early, especially for July 4th, is recommended to secure a spot.
Final Thoughts
Norfolk’s dinner cruises offer a range of memorable ways to enjoy the water, good food, and spectacular views. If you’re after a casual, scenic experience, the buffet cruise provides great value and fun. For something more upscale and festive, the July fireworks cruise is unbeatable, even at a higher price. And if you want an entertaining group event, the dinner cruise with dancing hits the mark.
No matter which you choose, these experiences make it clear Norfolk isn’t just about ships and Navy museums — it’s about making your dining memorable with views that stay with you long after dessert. Book early to enjoy the best seats and a smooth sailing experience.