Imagine cruising along Rainbow Harbor with the sun casting a warm glow over Long Beach’s iconic sights. For just $143 per person, you can enjoy a two-hour brunch experience that combines delicious food, unlimited drinks, and a front-row seat to the city’s most celebrated landmarks. This tour departs from Rainbow Harbor at Dock 6A, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and sightseeing.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, the buffet is notably well-reviewed, featuring freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts—a good sign that the food is more than just a side note. Second, the unlimited mimosas and sparkling cider turn a regular brunch into a festive, celebratory event. Plus, the live saxophone music adds a charming soundtrack that complements the scenic views.

A potential consideration for travelers is the need to arrive early—boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, and late arrivals might miss the boat entirely. This is typical for water-based tours but something to keep in mind if you’re unfamiliar with harbor cruising logistics.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy good food, scenic water views, and lively atmospheres—ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply savoring a leisurely morning with friends or family.

Key Points

Delicious buffet: Freshly made entrees, salads, and desserts serve as a highlight.
Unlimited drinks: Mimosas and sparkling cider elevate your brunch experience.
Stunning sights: View the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, and Long Beach Harbor from the water.
Live music: A saxophone player provides a relaxing musical backdrop.
Convenient location: Board at Rainbow Harbor, with parking validated nearby.
Time considerations: Arrive early to ensure you don’t miss the boat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Long Beach Mimosas & Brunch Cruise

Planning a relaxing Sunday morning in Long Beach? This City Cruises’ Sunday Premier Mimosa Brunch offers a wonderful way to enjoy the city’s shoreline and some of its most famous landmarks—all while indulging in a hearty breakfast and bottomless drinks.

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Where and When: The Basics

This cruise departs from Rainbow Harbor, at Dock 6A, making it easy to access from downtown Long Beach or the Aquarium of the Pacific. The tour typically lasts about two hours, usually in the morning, giving you plenty of time afterward to explore the city or relax for the rest of the day. The cruise operates with English-speaking hosts and offers flexible booking options—such as “reserve now, pay later”—which is perfect for travelers who want to keep plans loose.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Upon arrival, we found the boarding process straightforward but important to note: boarding begins half an hour before departure. Arriving early is recommended since latecomers may miss the boat—something that’s common with harbour tours.

Once aboard, the buffet immediately caught our attention. It’s not just a simple spread—this is a well-prepared meal with hot entrees like chicken, salmon, beef tri-tip, pastas, and breakfast favorites like bacon and eggs. The dessert table also received positive comments for its variety and flavor. The food is served in a buffet style, allowing guests to choose what they like and eat at their own pace.

Savoring the Drinks

The unlimited mimosas are a major draw, with guests raving about the well-refilled glasses and friendly staff ensuring everyone is taken care of. The drinks are complemented by sparkling cider, appealing to non-drinkers or those looking for a refreshing alternative. You can also upgrade your experience with creative cocktails, wine, and beer available for purchase at the cash bar—something to consider if you’re celebrating a special occasion or prefer a more diverse drinking selection.

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Scenic and Cultural Highlights

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Long Beach from the water, with highlights like the Queen Mary—the historic ocean liner now turned hotel and museum—and the Aquarium of the Pacific. These sights seem even more impressive when viewed from the harbor, especially with the calm water and gentle breeze.

The Lion Lighthouse is also in sight, adding to the maritime charm of the area. One guest noted that “Most are here to celebrate a birthday, anniversary etc.”, which speaks to the cruise’s popularity as a special occasion outing.

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Live Entertainment and Atmosphere

A standout feature of this cruise is the live saxophone player, providing a mellow soundtrack that perfectly complements the scenic surroundings. From the reviews, it’s clear that the music adds a relaxed, almost romantic vibe to the experience, making it a memorable occasion whether you’re with friends, family, or a partner.

Practical Details and Considerations

Parking at Rainbow Harbor costs about $8 with validation—make sure to get your parking ticket validated at the Aquarium Parking structure to avoid extra charges. Dress comfortably in casual attire, as this is a daytime event and the weather in Long Beach tends to be mild.

Keep in mind that the cruise duration may vary slightly, and it’s wise to arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding. The tour is suitable for most ages, and the relaxed pace makes it accessible for families, couples, and groups of friends alike.

What Real Travelers Say

One traveler praised “the whole crew was very nice,” emphasizing the friendly service.
Another mentioned, “most are here to celebrate a birthday, anniversary etc.”, highlighting the cruise’s appeal for special occasions.
The quality of food received consistent praise, with reviews noting “nothing to complain about”, and describing the dishes as satisfying and well-cooked.
The live music, particularly the saxophone, was described as “very nice”, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the scenery.

Why This Cruise Offers Good Value

At $143, this experience isn’t the cheapest way to spend two hours, but the value is clear when considering what’s included. You get a hearty buffet, unlimited champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider, entertainment, and gorgeous views—all in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. It’s an easy way to indulge in a leisurely, scenic activity that feels special without feeling overly formal or pricey.

Who Should Consider It?

This tour is ideal for celebrating milestones, such as birthdays or anniversaries, or for anyone wanting a relaxed, social morning with great food and views. It also suits those who appreciate live music and a touch of elegance in a casual setting. If you’re traveling with family or friends, this cruise offers a mix of sightseeing, good food, and fun drinks—perfect for a group outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code for the brunch cruise?
Casual attire is recommended. You can comfortably dress for the weather and enjoy the cruise at your own pace.

How early should I arrive?
Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, so arriving early ensures you won’t miss the boat. It’s best to plan for some extra time to park and check in.

Can I buy drinks other than mimosas during the cruise?
Yes, there is a cash bar offering creative cocktails, wine, and beer for purchase. Mimosas and sparkling cider are included in the ticket price.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
You’ll enjoy views of the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Lion Lighthouse, along with harbor scenery of Long Beach.

Is parking free?
Parking at the Aquarium Parking structure costs $8 with validation from City Cruises. Be sure to get your parking ticket validated to avoid extra charges.

How suitable is this tour for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the casual and family-friendly atmosphere suggests it’s suitable for most ages, especially if they enjoy scenic views and light entertainment.

What’s the process if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans or unforeseen circumstances.

Final Thoughts

This Sunday Premier Mimosa Brunch Cruise delivers a pleasant, well-rounded experience ideal for those looking to enjoy a leisurely morning in Long Beach with good food, drinks, and scenic views. The combination of delicious buffet, unlimited champagne, and live saxophone music creates a relaxed yet festive environment that’s perfect for celebrating or simply unwinding.

The cruise’s local charm and authentic ambiance make it more than just a sightseeing tour; it’s a social event where you can connect with friends or loved ones over a shared meal and stunning water vistas. While it’s a bit pricier than a typical brunch, the experience’s quality and atmosphere justify the cost for most travelers.

Overall, if you appreciate good food, scenic harbor views, and a lively, friendly environment, this cruise is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable for celebrating special occasions or for anyone wanting to turn a regular Sunday morning into something memorable. Just remember to arrive early, bring your best appetite, and be prepared to relax and enjoy.