City Cruises Boston: Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise

Imagine gliding through Boston Harbor on the Spirit of Boston, with panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline, enjoying a freshly prepared buffet, all while listening to a lively DJ. This 2-3 hour cruise promises a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective, whether you choose lunch or dinner. The cost is $89 per person, which includes not only the meal but also the chance to dance, soak in the sights, and unwind on the water.

We love the 360-degree views from the outdoor decks, allowing you to truly appreciate Boston’s historic waterfront landmarks. The live DJ adds a fun, energetic vibe that keeps the atmosphere festive and sociable. Plus, the option to relax on the rooftop lounge gives a more laid-back experience when you want to enjoy the skyline in comfort.

One potential consideration is that outside areas of the ship don’t have shading, so on hot sunny days, it can get quite warm. Still, with plenty of seating and a climate-controlled interior, there’s a good balance of comfort and open-air freedom. This cruise appeals most to those who enjoy good food, scenic views, and a lively ambiance, making it perfect for couples celebrating special occasions, families, or friends out for a memorable day on Boston Harbor.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Boston’s skyline and historic landmarks.
• Delicious, chef-curated buffet with creative and fresh options.
• Relaxed outdoor and indoor spaces for enjoying the scenery and atmosphere.
• Live DJ and dancing, creating a lively cruise environment.
• Flexible timing in the afternoon or evening.
• Family-friendly and accessible for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the City Cruises Boston Harbor Buffet

When we think of sightseeing in Boston, we usually picture walking along the Freedom Trail or exploring historic neighborhoods. But taking a cruise on the Spirit of Boston adds an entirely different dimension—offering a relaxing, scenic, and fun way to appreciate the city’s maritime charm. For a reasonable price, you get good food, fantastic views, and a lively social atmosphere in a compact, well-organized package.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The cruise begins with a one-hour boarding window at Commonwealth Pier, right next to the World Trade Center in the Seaport District. During this time, you’re encouraged to explore the ship, snap photos, and get comfortable before departure. Once underway, the vessel glides past notable sights, including the Seaport District, the Zakim Bridge, and the North End, with the Boston skyline providing a stunning backdrop.

The buffet is served shortly after departure, with a variety of creative dishes prepared fresh daily. The menu includes a thoughtful mix of salads, roasted vegetables, pasta, seafood, meats, and desserts, catering to a range of tastes and dietary preferences. Past guests have praised the quality and timing of the food, noting that it remains hot and ready at departure, with many saying it was “extremely tasty” and well presented.

The outdoor decks are perfect for taking in the views, especially as the ship moves past landmarks like the USS Constitution and the Seaport. However, be aware that during peak sun hours, the outside spaces lack shade, so dressing appropriately for the weather is wise.

Entertainment and Ambiance

The real highlight is the live DJ, who spins a mix of genres—pop, Latin, classic hits, Haitian music, and more—keeping the energy lively. Reviewers frequently mention how much they enjoyed dancing, whether it was a spontaneous dance floor or just relaxing while listening to tunes. The onboard atmosphere is cheerful and convivial, making it suitable for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just a fun night out.

Food and Drinks

The buffet menu offers a variety of salads, roasted vegetables, pasta, and proteins. For example, past guests have enjoyed Citrus Herb Roasted Salmon with sautéed spinach and artichokes or Birria Style Chicken with fire-roasted peppers. The dessert station offers baked fruit crisps and seasonal treats, although some noted that desserts sometimes run out quickly.

Drinks are available for purchase—most noticeably alcoholic beverages—with prices around $20 each, so budgeting for drinks is recommended. Complimentary unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included, a nice touch for those who prefer non-alcoholic options or want to stay refreshed.

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The Experience: Pros and Cons

Many reviews highlight the friendly staff and smooth boarding process, with some mentioning the crew’s professionalism and attentiveness. For instance, one reviewer noted that “the staff, the food, the drinks were all excellent,” while another admired the knowledgeable guides who added to the experience.

The value for money is generally seen as fair, especially considering the included buffet, entertainment, and scenic experience. Several reviews mention that after a few hours of good food, dancing, and skyline views, the price feels justified.

However, a few reviewers felt the cost of additional items, like souvenir photos or drinks, could add up quickly. Also, some pointed out that boardings can be a bit chaotic, or that outside areas lack shade—important considerations for hot days.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy relaxed sightseeing combined with entertainment. It’s particularly appealing for families, couples celebrating special occasions, or friends wanting a fun, social outing. If you love good food, scenic water views, and a lively atmosphere, you’ll find this experience engaging and enjoyable. It also offers a nice balance of comfort and outdoor enjoyment, making it accessible and appealing for most travelers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Boarding and Pre-Departure

The cruise begins with an hour-long boarding period, giving you time to explore the climate-controlled interior, take photos on deck, and settle into your seat. Many reviewers appreciate having this extra time, describing staff as welcoming and helpful. The proximity to Boston’s Seaport makes it convenient for travelers staying downtown or in the waterfront area.

The Voyage and Sightseeing

Once underway, you’re treated to spectacular views of Boston’s skyline, including the historic North End, the Seaport District, and the Zakim Bridge. As the boat moves past these sights, you’ll feel a sense of the city’s maritime heritage, with the USS Constitution often visible from the decks.

Past guests have described the sunset cruise as especially memorable—the way the light hits the buildings as the sun dips over the water creates a photograph-worthy moment. The outdoor decks allow you to be fully immersed in this experience, with plenty of space for photos and relaxing.

The Buffet and Dining Experience

The buffet features a creative selection designed to cater to a variety of tastes. From Greek salads with feta to roasted summer vegetables, the offerings are fresh and well-prepared. Main courses include Citrus Herb Roasted Salmon, Spring Garlic Cream Pasta, and Hand Carved Tri Tip Sirloin—all served with generous sides.

One reviewer noted, “The food was great! Gianna was an awesome server because she was patient, polite, and checked on us regularly.” The timing of the buffet ensures that food remains hot and flavorful throughout the cruise, a significant advantage over some buffet-style experiences.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The live DJ plays a mix of music, keeping the mood upbeat and encouraging dancing. Guests frequently mention how much they enjoyed the music, with some praising the DJ for playing local Haitian tunes or spanning multiple genres. It’s a casual, lively atmosphere—perfect for relaxing and letting loose.

Post-Meal and Relaxation

After enjoying the buffet and music, many guests linger on the upper-deck rooftop lounge or outside decks, soaking in the views and catching a breeze. The panoramic vistas of Boston’s illuminated skyline at night are a highlight, especially if you’re on the dinner cruise.

Final Impressions from Reviewers

Multiple reviews praise the friendly staff, good value, and memorable views. One guest captured the sentiment well: “Everything from boarding to wait time was excellent. The staff, the food, the drinks were all excellent—definitely worth the money to bring your loved one or friends out.”

Others appreciated the variety of music, the quality of food, and the opportunity to dance and socialize. Several mentioned that it made for a perfect celebration, whether a birthday or anniversary, with some noting how well the cruise accommodated families and groups.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This harbor cruise shines as an entertaining, scenic escape that balances good food, lively music, and beautiful vistas. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging experience—families, friends, couples, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. The mix of outdoor decks and climate-controlled interiors makes it adaptable to various weather conditions.

If you love dancing to a DJ’s playlist and enjoying a good meal with a view, this cruise will satisfy. But if you prefer a quiet, educational experience or are seeking a more formal dining experience, you might want to consider other options. It’s also a great choice if you want to combine sightseeing with the fun of socializing on the water.

The City Cruises Boston Harbor Buffet offers a lively, well-organized, and memorable way to see Boston from the water—delivering good value for a memorable day or evening out.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise aboard the Spirit of Boston, a chef-curated buffet lunch or dinner, live DJ entertainment, dancing, unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and access to outdoor and indoor decks.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, with departures available in the afternoon or evening. Boarding begins one hour before departure.

Is the experience suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention that families, including children over a certain age, enjoy the cruise. Infants are free but should be counted in your reservation.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Yes. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, with most costing around $20 each. The cruise also offers unlimited coffee, tea, and iced tea at no extra charge.

Is the outdoor space shaded?
No, the outdoor decks do not have shading, so if you’re sensitive to the sun, bring hats, sunscreen, or plan around the sun’s position.

What should I wear?
Most guests opt for casual, comfortable clothing. For the evening dinner cruise, smart casual attire is common, and flat, closed-toed shoes are recommended for safety.

Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
The buffet menu includes vegetarian options like salads and vegetables, but if you have food allergies or special dietary needs, inform your server beforehand.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Commonwealth Pier next to the World Trade Center in Boston’s Seaport District.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your plans.

With its combination of scenic water views, tasty food, and lively music, this cruise offers a relaxed yet engaging way to enjoy Boston’s harbor. Whether you’re celebrating a special day, looking for a fun activity with friends, or simply want a different perspective on the city, the Spirit of Boston cruise is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: