Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise

Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise: A Relaxed Night on the Water

If you’re visiting Norfolk and looking for a memorable way to combine good food, scenic views, and a bit of entertainment, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise might just fit the bill. For around $107 per person, you get approximately 2.5 hours of cruising along the Elizabeth River, with views of the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet ships and submarines. The cruise departs from 173 Waterside Drive, a lively waterfront area full of restaurants and entertainment options, making it easy to combine with other activities.

What we love about this cruise is the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to enjoy a delicious buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. The spectacular views of military ships add a unique touch, especially for Navy enthusiasts or anyone interested in maritime life. Plus, the onboard music and interactive games create a lively, engaging environment. On the downside, some reviews point out inconsistent service and issues with mixed drinks, so arriving with patience might serve you well. This cruise suits couples, families, or groups celebrating special occasions, especially if you appreciate scenic water views paired with casual dining and entertainment.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: Catch stunning sights of Norfolk’s Navy fleet and river landscapes from the skyline deck.
• Good Food: Enjoy a buffet with a variety of entrees, salads, and desserts, freshly prepared onboard.
• Entertainment & Atmosphere: Listen to DJ music, play interactive games, and relax in lounge spaces.
• Flexible for Celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or small group gatherings.
• Value for Price: For just over $100, you gain a scenic cruise, good food, and entertainment.
• Consideration: Service quality may vary, and mixed drinks sometimes lack alcohol.

An In-Depth Look at the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise

The Departure & Setting: Waterside Drive

The cruise begins at the 173 Waterside Drive dock, an area buzzing with activity and ready to host your evening. This part of Norfolk is known for its waterfront vibe, with plenty of nearby restaurants and entertainment venues. The initial impression is of a well-maintained, inviting vessel, decorated to reflect a festive spirit, and ready to host up to 200 travelers comfortably.

Travelers appreciate the convenience of near public transportation, making it accessible whether you’re coming from downtown Norfolk or nearby areas. However, one common concern is traffic congestion, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. Several reviews mention the importance of planning your route carefully—allow extra time to avoid missing the boat.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise offers a straightforward 2.5-hour journey along the Elizabeth River, with the highlight being the spectacular views of Navy ships and submarines. As you set sail, you’ll be able to see the impressive military fleet, which captures the imagination of many cruise-goers.

The main feature is the dining experience: a buffet of freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. While most reviews praise the quality of the food, some note that spicy dishes can be overpowering, and a few mention dry or cold potatoes. Still, the buffet offers a decent variety to suit different tastes.

Onboard Entertainment & Lounge Spaces

Once on board, the DJ music sets a lively tone, with many reviews describing the music as outstanding. It creates a fun, celebratory atmosphere, especially for parties or special occasions. The interactive games and lounge spaces give guests the chance to relax and socialize.

A number of travelers mention the friendly staff, who are eager to make your experience enjoyable, though a few note that service can be slow if the crew is short-handed. The unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea provide a nice touch, especially during the summer or after spending time on deck.

Views & Atmosphere

The top deck offers the best vantage point for viewing the ships and the waterfront scenery. One reviewer described a “beautiful sunset”, emphasizing how the natural beauty of Norfolk complements the nautical sights. The illuminated ships at night make for some memorable photographs and add a sense of grandeur.

Food & Drink

The buffet is generally enjoyed, with reviews highlighting the deliciousness of the food. Several mention the variety and quality of the offerings, making it a good value for the price. However, some guests found that mixed drinks lacked alcohol, which could be disappointing if you’re expecting a full bar experience. The unlimited tea and coffee are a nice perk if you want to prolong your evening.

Celebrations & Special Occasions

The cruise seems especially popular for birthday parties, anniversaries, and group gatherings. Many reviews mention celebrating milestones, with guests appreciating the festive atmosphere and friendly service. One traveler noted that although they enjoyed their experience, their anniversary was not acknowledged—a reminder that if you’re celebrating, it might be worth mentioning ahead of time.

Considerations & Tips

• Service Quality: While friendly, some reviews point out that service can be slow, especially if the crew is short-staffed. Patience is key.
• Traffic & Timing: Norfolk can be busy, so plan ahead to arrive on time; delays may cause you to miss the cruise.
• Drink Expectations: If you’re expecting full-strength cocktails, check if the mixed drinks meet your expectations—some reviews mention no alcohol in certain drinks.
• Group Size: The boat can host up to 200 guests, making it ideal for larger groups or celebrations but possibly less intimate for couples seeking quiet.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for those looking for a relaxed, scenic evening with good food and a lively atmosphere. It suits families, couples celebrating special milestones, or groups of friends who want to enjoy the waterfront views and Navy ships in a casual setting. If you enjoy entertainment, interactive experiences, and a bit of nautical charm, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you’re looking for a more refined or intimate experience, or are sensitive to inconsistent service, you might want to consider other options or prepare for some variability.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers genuine value—combining spectacular military vessel views, delicious food, and a lively, friendly environment. It’s a fun way to see Norfolk from the water, especially if you’re interested in the Navy’s presence or want a casual, festive evening.

The cruise is flexible enough to accommodate group celebrations or a romantic night out, and the scenic backdrop makes it memorable. Just remember to arrive early, manage expectations about service speed, and enjoy the unlimited tea and coffee while soaking in the views.

If you’re after a laid-back, enjoyable cruise with good food and entertainment, this experience is worth considering—and it might just become a highlight of your trip to Norfolk.

FAQ

How long does the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, food, and entertainment without feeling rushed.

Where does the cruise start?
The departure point is 173 Waterside Drive, Norfolk, VA 23510—a lively waterfront area with plenty of nearby parking and public transit options.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the scenic cruise, buffet dinner with freshly prepared entrees, salads, desserts, onboard entertainment with DJ music, access to lounge spaces, and unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.

Are there options for special occasions?
Yes, it’s well-suited for birthdays, anniversaries, or group celebrations, though you might want to mention your event in advance to ensure special touches.

What should I know about the food?
Most reviews praise the deliciousness and variety of the buffet, but some note that spicy dishes or dry potatoes can be a downside. The buffet offers plenty of choices for different tastes.

Is the cruise accessible for most travelers?
Yes, it’s near public transportation and can accommodate most travelers, with service animals allowed. Just be mindful of traffic delays when planning your arrival.

Can I expect a full bar or alcoholic drinks?
You can enjoy unlimited hot tea and iced tea, but some mixed drinks might not contain alcohol, so manage your expectations accordingly.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. If canceled due to minimum traveler requirements, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Whether you’re after a fun night with friends, a romantic evening, or a special celebration, the Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a straightforward, scenic, and enjoyable way to experience Norfolk’s waters and navy fleet from a different perspective.