Baltimore: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

If you’re looking to combine the magic of the holidays with a scenic harbor cruise, the Baltimore Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise is a delightful option. For around $80 per person, you’ll spend 2 to 3 hours onboard, enjoying gourmet food, festive music, and panoramic views of Baltimore’s waterfront. Whether you prefer a luxurious buffet brunch with mimosas or a sophisticated three-course dinner, this cruise offers a unique way to celebrate Christmas Eve with loved ones and see Baltimore from a fresh perspective.

What we love most about this experience is how it perfectly balances elegant dining with scenic vistas. The boat is designed with excellent viewing in mind, so no matter where you sit, you’ll have a good chance to glimpse iconic landmarks and the shimmering skyline. Plus, the lively atmosphere created by the live DJ and outdoor decks makes it feel like a special holiday party on the water.

One potential consideration is the price point—but when you factor in the inclusions like unlimited mimosas (for brunch), fine wine, and the beautiful views, it’s generally good value for a special occasion. This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a festive, upscale experience with a touch of elegance and fun. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a romantic partner, this cruise offers a memorable way to mark Christmas Eve beyond the usual dinner at home.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: See Baltimore’s skyline and historic waterfront from the boat’s climate-controlled interior and open-air decks.
• Flexible Dining Options: Choose between a delicious buffet brunch with mimosas or a gourmet 3-course dinner served at your private table.
• Atmospheric Entertainment: Enjoy lively music from a live DJ and the option to sip drinks outdoors with spectacular city views.
• Family-Friendly & Sophisticated: The cruise is accessible for wheelchair users and encourages semi-formal attire for dinner.
• Authentic Holiday Experience: Perfect for those wanting a festive, scenic celebration with good food and company.
• Authentic Baltimore Sights: Capture the beauty of the city’s skyline and harbor, as highlighted by travelers who appreciated the photo opportunities and the renewal of Baltimore’s waterfront.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Cruise

The cruise begins at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, a lively area known for its historic charm and modern vibrancy. Once onboard, you’ll find a climate-controlled interior, making the experience comfortable regardless of weather, and open-air decks that allow for breathtaking views of Baltimore’s skyline lit up in holiday splendor. The boat is specifically designed to maximize scenery, which our reviewers say is a huge plus—”We loved the way the boat was designed for great viewing,” one traveler remarked.

As you settle into your private table, the dining begins. For the brunch option, a chef-prepared buffet features a variety of tasty offerings, complemented by unlimited mimosas—a nice touch to start your holiday celebration. The dinner cruise offers a 3-course plated meal, which adds an air of elegance to your evening. Many feel that the menu options are thoughtfully prepared, with excellent food quality that matches the sleek setting.

Throughout the cruise, the live DJ keeps the atmosphere lively and festive, with a playlist that encourages dancing or simply relaxing with a drink. The full bar offers a selection of wines and other beverages for purchase, and the outdoor decks provide a perfect spot for sipping drinks and soaking in the views. Several reviews highlight the stunning skyline and Baltimore’s revitalized harbor as a highlight—your camera will be busy capturing the sights you can’t see from land.

The cruise duration varies between 2 and 3 hours, typically in the afternoon or evening, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your meal, take photos, and dance if you wish. Since the cruise includes local taxes, fees, and service, it’s a straightforward experience without surprises on the bill. Keep in mind the dress code—semi-formal attire is encouraged for the dinner option, so slacks or dresses suit the occasion.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While most travelers found the cruise to be a charming and festive experience, there are a few critical notes to consider. One traveler in early 2025 expressed disappointment, mentioning that the event “did not match the advertisement,” with some feeling the dancing was inappropriate and that they were expecting organized games, which were not provided. They also felt the ending was abrupt, finishing 30 minutes early, which was a letdown given the premium price.

On the other hand, many guests left glowing reviews. One mentioned, “The ride allowed me to see how Baltimore has renewed the entire harbor with beautiful buildings and new sites to enjoy,” emphasizing the visual appeal of the city from the water. Another praised the excellent food and music, noting that the cruise is a wonderful way to see the city and enjoy a festive meal.

The contrast in reviews highlights the importance of managing expectations—this cruise leans toward an elegant, scenic celebration rather than a raucous party. If you’re seeking a lively dance floor, you might find the experience a bit subdued, but if you’re after beautiful views and quality food in a refined setting, you’ll likely be pleased.

The Breakdown: A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The cruise usually departs from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, a hub of activity and history. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted and shown to your private table—a setup that encourages relaxed conversation and enjoyments. The climate-controlled interior is designed for comfort, especially in winter months, with large windows allowing unobstructed views.

The scenic route takes you along the Patapsco River, offering a view of Baltimore’s famous landmarks, including the historic waterfront and modern skyline. The boat’s design means you don’t have to move around much to get good perspectives, though the open-air decks are great for those who want to breathe in the crisp winter air and get a full panoramic shot.

The meal service is central to the experience. The brunch buffet includes a range of options, and the unlimited mimosas are a highlight for many. The dinner service features a 3-course plated meal—past guests have appreciated the high-quality presentation and thoughtful menu.

Throughout the cruise, the live DJ provides a festive soundtrack, with music that complements the holiday spirit. The outdoor decks are popular for taking photos or simply enjoying the cool air, and the views of the shimmering cityscape are often described as “breathtaking.”

Analyzing the Value

At $80 per person, the cruise offers a generous package of food, entertainment, and vistas. The inclusion of unlimited mimosas (for brunch), wine, and local taxes means you’re getting a premium experience for the price. Considering the cost of a typical holiday dinner out plus the scenic value, many travelers find it a worthwhile splurge—especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

However, the price may seem high for some, particularly if you’re on a tight budget. But the combination of scenic views, gourmet dining, and a festive atmosphere makes it a memorable holiday outing, especially if you’re eager to avoid the hassles of land-based celebrations or crowded restaurants.

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Who Is This Experience Best For?

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic, scenic dinner, families wanting a special holiday outing, or groups of friends looking for a festive toast to Christmas Eve. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate good food and lively music but also want to enjoy Baltimore’s beautiful waterfront in a relaxed, upscale environment.

If your idea of holiday fun involves dancing, good conversation, and memorable views, this cruise fits well. However, if you’re expecting a party atmosphere, be aware that some reviews suggest the vibe leans more toward elegant and relaxed. It’s not designed as a wild dance party but rather an elegant celebration on the water, perfect for those wanting a beautiful, festive experience.

FAQs

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers a 2-hour brunch cruise or 3-hour dinner cruise, a delicious buffet or plated meal, unlimited mimosas (with brunch), coffee, tea, and iced tea, a live DJ, and all local taxes and fees.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
Mimosas are included only with the brunch option, but other alcoholic drinks are available for purchase throughout the cruise.

What should I wear?
For the dinner cruise, semi-formal attire is encouraged—think dressy separates, slacks, blouses, or dresses. The brunch is more casual but still neat and comfortable.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider states that the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

Can I make a reservation for a large group?
Yes, but make sure to book all tickets under one reservation to ensure your entire group can sit together. Separate reservations cannot be grouped.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

What is the duration of the cruise?
Expect 2 to 3 hours of scenic cruising, typically in the afternoon or evening, making it easy to fit into your holiday schedule.

Is there a dress code?
For dinner, semi-formal attire is recommended, but the brunch has a more relaxed dress code.

Final Thoughts

The Baltimore Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a charming way to celebrate the holiday, blending gourmet dining with spectacular waterfront views. It’s a sophisticated, festive experience that allows you to see Baltimore from the water while enjoying good food and lively music. The boat’s design ensures you won’t miss a sight, and the open decks are perfect for capturing holiday memories.

While the experience may not be for everyone—those seeking a wild party might find it a bit subdued—the overall quality, scenic setting, and thoughtful details make it a solid choice for travelers wanting something special. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value elegant environments, beautiful views, and festive atmospheres with a touch of class.

If you’re in Baltimore during Christmas and want to celebrate afloat, this cruise could be a memorable highlight of your holiday. Just remember to dress appropriately, arrive early, and savor the views—you’re in for a holiday treat on the water.

Happy cruising and Merry Christmas!

You can check availability for your dates here: