Philadelphia: Thanksgiving Early Dinner Cruise

Imagine celebrating Thanksgiving with a backdrop of Philadelphia’s iconic skyline, its historic bridges, and landmarks—all while enjoying a delicious meal and lively entertainment. At $137 per person for a two-hour voyage on the Spirit of Philadelphia, this cruise promises a memorable holiday experience. The cruise features a festive 3-course buffet, a private reserved table, live DJ entertainment, and access to both cozy indoor decks and a spacious outdoor rooftop lounge. It’s a wonderful way to combine sightseeing, socializing, and celebrating with loved ones in a relaxed, scenic setting.

What we love about this cruise is how it balances the festive spirit with genuine comfort. The climate-controlled dining rooms ensure you stay warm regardless of the weather, while the outside rooftop offers panoramic views of Philadelphia’s skyline, including the impressive Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Plus, the lively DJ and onboard games add a fun, interactive element that makes the cruise suitable for families and groups of friends alike.

One consideration is that alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, so if you’re hoping for included drinks, you’ll need to budget for that. Also, since this is a non-refundable activity, planning ahead is key—make sure to reserve the right number of seats for your group. This cruise is best suited for those who want a relaxed, festive way to enjoy Thanksgiving, especially if you appreciate easy access to impressive city views and lively entertainment.

If you’re someone who enjoys good food, scenic views, and a lively atmosphere with a touch of holiday cheer, this cruise could be just the ticket for a different kind of Thanksgiving celebration. It’s perfect for travelers looking to combine a bit of Philadelphia’s charm with a fun, social event on the water.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Philadelphia’s skyline and landmarks from the Delaware River.
• All-ages friendly with onboard games, music, and a festive atmosphere.
• Comfortable dining experience with climate-controlled decks and outdoor options.
• Quality food featuring a 3-course buffet with traditional Thanksgiving trimmings.
• Flexible entertainment with a live DJ and open-air rooftop lounge.
• Inclusive reservation guarantees a table for your party size, making it easy for groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise

Setting the Scene: Philadelphia’s Historic Skyline from the Water

Starting with the location, this cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia offers a fresh perspective on the city’s famous landmarks and historic bridges. As you glide along the Delaware River, you’ll see sights such as the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, which is especially photogenic at sunset or under evening lights. The ship’s reserved private tables mean you don’t have to fight for a good view or stand among strangers, which can be a real plus during a holiday cruise.

The Itinerary and Atmosphere

The cruise generally lasts around 2 hours, usually in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your meal and the views without feeling rushed. The fully enclosed decks provide shelter from any unexpected weather—important in late November—while the outdoor rooftop lounge offers a more open-air experience, perfect for taking photos or just soaking in the views, especially if the weather permits.

The Food and Drink

Food is a major highlight. The festive 3-course buffet features classic Thanksgiving fare, served with all the traditional trimmings—think turkey, stuffing, and seasonal desserts. A reviewer noted the delicious food and tapas, which helped make the experience feel special. The buffet is freshly prepared, and the menu is subject to change, so it’s good to mention any food allergies upfront.

The bar is fully stocked, with seasonal cocktails, wines, and beers available for purchase. While drinks aren’t included in the price, the selection is extensive enough to satisfy most preferences, and you can sip your beverage while enjoying the live DJ music or walking deck to deck. The onboard games and entertainment keep the energy upbeat, making it more than just a meal—it’s a fun, social event.

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Entertainment and Atmosphere

The live DJ adds a lively soundtrack, perfect for dancing or just relaxing with a drink in hand. Guests have raved about the upbeat vibe and the opportunity to stroll around the decks, taking in the city lights. The games onboard foster a communal, festive spirit that can make Thanksgiving feel more like a lively gathering than a routine dinner.

Practicalities and Considerations

To ensure everyone in your group can sit together, it’s important to book as a single reservation. The guaranteed table system helps, but separate bookings might mean being split up. The cruise is non-refundable, so be sure you’re committed before booking.

Children are welcome—infants (0-2) can attend free of charge, but it’s crucial to select the correct ticket option for them. The casual attire and closed-toed shoes recommendation keep things comfortable and safe. Remember, all interior spaces are non-smoking, with outdoor smoking only permitted on the observation decks.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This cruise is a wonderful option for those who want to enjoy Thanksgiving on the water without the hassle of hosting or traveling far. It’s ideal for families, friends, or couples looking for a relaxed, scenic holiday celebration. If you love good food, live music, and city views, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Why Choose This Cruise?

Compared to land-based tours or static restaurant dinners, this cruise offers a unique perspective on Philadelphia, combining sightseeing with the festive atmosphere of Thanksgiving. The two-hour duration makes it a manageable outing, especially if you’re traveling with children or prefer shorter experiences. Plus, the inclusive reservation system means less stress and more time to enjoy the views and company.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Thanksgiving Early Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia delivers a combination of scenic beauty, hearty food, and lively entertainment. It’s a thoughtful way to spend part of the holiday, especially if you appreciate being on the water and want to take in Philadelphia’s historic skyline from a different vantage point.

For travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed, yet fun holiday experience, this cruise ticks many boxes. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy good food, vibrant atmosphere, and the comfort of climate-controlled indoor spaces. Whether celebrating with family, friends, or a special someone, this cruise offers a memorable twist on Thanksgiving that you’ll likely cherish long after the holiday is over.

FAQ

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
Casual attire is recommended, and flat, closed-toed shoes are suggested for safety and comfort.

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

Can I reserve a table for my whole group?
Yes, the reservation guarantees a table for your party size, but make sure to book all at once to avoid being seated separately.

Are children allowed on the cruise?
Yes, infants ages 0-2 can attend free of charge, but you must select the free infant ticket during booking.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, usually in the afternoon, providing ample time for food, sightseeing, and entertainment.

Is there outdoor space to walk around?
Yes, guests can enjoy the outdoor open-air rooftop lounge, as well as walk around the spacious decks while listening to the music.

What if the weather is bad?
All interior areas are climate-controlled and fully enclosed, so you can enjoy the cruise regardless of weather conditions.

This thoughtfully curated cruise offers a lively, scenic, and delicious way to celebrate Thanksgiving in Philadelphia—perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a festive meal on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: