December Nights Dinner Cruise on San Diego Bay

If you’re thinking about combining a love for ships, scenic views, and a festive atmosphere, the December Nights Dinner Cruise on San Diego Bay might catch your eye. For $138.75 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise promises a taste of holiday magic, with twinkling lights, elegant decor, and panoramic views of some of San Diego’s most iconic sights—like the USS Midway Museum, Coronado Bridge, and the bustling Naval Fleet. It’s a popular choice for romantic evenings, holiday family gatherings, or even small company parties looking for a memorable way to celebrate the season.

What we appreciate about this experience is the stunning backdrop of San Diego’s skyline and the chance to enjoy a complimentary welcome drink as you settle in. Plus, the indoor dining area means you can stay cozy regardless of weather or wind, which can be a real bonus during winter evenings. On the flip side, a potential downside is the mixed quality of the food and the overall value, which some past guests feel didn’t quite match the price.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who prioritize spectacular views and a festive setting over gourmet dining. If you’re prepared for a casual, slightly upscale ambiance with an emphasis on scenic beauty, then it’s worth considering. But if your main goal is top-notch cuisine or a highly polished party atmosphere, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Scenic views of San Diego’s skyline, USS Midway, and Coronado Bridge.
• Indoor dining provides comfort during chilly evenings.
• Limited time of 2.5 hours, ideal for a quick but memorable outing.
• Mixed reviews on food quality, with some guests disappointed.
• Great for festive atmospheres and special occasions.
• Price point may seem high relative to food quality and overall experience.

An Honest Look at the December Nights Dinner Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a holiday cruise filled with sparkling lights and scenic vistas, this experience offers a good dose of both. But let’s be clear: it’s not a gourmet dinner cruise. It’s about the setting, the views, and the holiday spirit more than the quality of the meal.

The Itinerary: What Does the Evening Look Like?

The cruise begins at 990 N Harbor Dr in San Diego, a convenient location near downtown and accessible by public transport. After boarding, which happens 30 minutes before departure, you’ll settle into your indoor seating area, where the decor is intended to evoke a festive, holiday vibe. The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the sights and mingle without feeling rushed.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll pass by some of San Diego’s most recognizable sights: the USS Midway Museum, a symbol of naval history and an impressive backdrop for photos; the Coronado Bridge, famously beautiful and often lit up at night; and the San Diego Naval Fleet, adding a touch of maritime grandeur to the scene.

The Experience on Deck and Inside

The interior dining area is designed for comfort, with a smart casual dress code recommended. You’ll be served a dinner included in the ticket price, along with a complimentary welcome drink to get you in the holiday mood. For those who opt for the unlimited bar (extra $40), you’ll have access to beverages throughout the cruise, including alcohol, which is only available if you’re 21 or older.

While the views are the star here, the real conversation starter — unfortunately — is the food. Past reviews reveal a lot of disappointment. One guest lamented, “The steak was like a shoe, the shrimp was undercooked,” highlighting a common theme of food that doesn’t quite meet expectations. Another mentioned, “Shrimp rubbery, no flavor,” indicating that the quality and cooking of the dishes can be inconsistent.

What We Love: The Highlights

Two things stand out positively. First, the views are undeniably beautiful. Watching the lights of San Diego ripple across the bay with iconic landmarks lit up at night makes for a memorable visual experience. Second, the indoor dining allows you to enjoy your evening comfortably, sheltered from wind or unexpected weather, which can be particularly appreciated during the cooler months.

A Possible Drawback: The Food and Value

The main concern expressed by reviewers is food quality. Given the price of $138.75 per person, many felt the meal did not justify the cost. One review summed it up perfectly: “Very expensive for the quality of the food.” This sentiment seems to resonate with several guests who expected more for the price paid.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits those who prioritize spectacular nighttime views and a festive holiday atmosphere over gourmet dining. If you enjoy taking photos of cityscapes, harbor lights, and ships, it’s hard to beat the scenery here. However, if your ideal experience is gourmet cuisine or a lively party atmosphere, this might not be the best fit.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Meeting Point: 990 N Harbor Dr, San Diego.
• Duration: Around 2.5 hours.
• Price: $138.75 per person, with optional unlimited bar for an extra $40.
• Includes: Dinner, welcome drink, indoor seating.
• Not Included: Hotel transfer, souvenir photos (~$25).
• Boarding: 30 minutes prior to departure.
• Dress Code: Smart casual.
• Age Restrictions: Open bar available only to those 21+.
• Accessibility: Service animals allowed; check with the operator for restroom location specifics.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

One reviewer simply called their experience “Unfortunate,” lamenting the poor quality of the food and expressing regret over the purchase. Conversely, another guest acknowledged the high cost but still appreciated the view of the parade of lights and the scenic backdrop, even if the boats were off in the distance and fewer than expected.

This range of opinions highlights that while the scenery can be stunning, the overall value may fall short if food and drinks are your main priority. The limited time frame and moderate group size (max 50 travelers) keep the experience intimate but also potentially rushed.

Final Thoughts

This December Nights Dinner Cruise offers a beautiful way to see San Diego’s skyline and holiday lights from the water, making it perfect for those seeking a romantic or festive atmosphere. The indoor setting is a real plus, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. However, the food’s inconsistency and the price point are the main sticking points.

If you’re after breathtaking views, festive cheer, and a relaxed environment, this cruise can be a memorable choice — just keep your expectations in check regarding the meal. It’s best suited for travelers who value scenic landscapes and holiday ambiance but are willing to overlook subpar cuisine.

FAQ

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the 2.5-hour dinner cruise, a complimentary welcome drink, and indoor dining. An unlimited bar is available for an extra fee.

Is the food served on the cruise good?
Based on reviews, the food quality is mixed at best, with some guests describing it as poor and underwhelming given the price.

Can I bring children?
The tour is open to most travelers, but the open bar is only for those 21 and over. It’s best suited for adults or older children.

What should I wear?
A smart casual dress code is recommended. Think neat, comfortable attire suitable for a semi-formal evening.

Is transportation provided?
No, the cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. It starts at the designated meeting point near downtown San Diego.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Are souvenirs available?
Yes, photos are available for purchase at roughly $25 each.

How many people will be on the cruise?
The group size is limited to 50 travelers, making it a relatively cozy experience.

To sum it up, if your priority is stunning nighttime scenery and holiday cheer over gourmet fare, the December Nights Dinner Cruise offers an enjoyable, festive outing. Be prepared for inconsistent food quality and consider whether the price aligns with your expectations. It’s a great choice for those wanting a romantic or family holiday experience but not for travelers seeking culinary excellence. With the right mindset, this cruise can become a lovely memory of San Diego’s holiday season.