Newport Beach: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

Imagine spending Christmas Day floating along the serene waters of Newport Beach, surrounded by holiday cheer, stunning scenery, and delicious food. For about 2 to 2.5 hours, this cruise offers a relaxed way to enjoy the holiday without the fuss of cooking or traffic. With a chef-prepared buffet, full bar service, and festive décor, it’s a thoughtful way to celebrate with loved ones. Whether you choose brunch or dinner, this cruise promises a mix of scenic views, good company, and just enough holiday magic.

We particularly love the unlimited mimosas on brunch, which make the morning meal feel extra special, and the top-notch service that makes you feel like a cherished guest. The music entertainment enhances the festive mood, and the climate-controlled interior and open-air decks give you flexibility to soak in Newport Beach’s charm. One thing to keep in mind? If you’re not a fan of crowds during peak holiday times, booking in advance is advisable. This experience suits families, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed yet memorable holiday outing.

If you enjoy gorgeous harbor vistas, delicious holiday fare, and a festive atmosphere, this cruise could be just the ticket. It’s ideal for those who want a special way to celebrate Christmas without leaving California, and appreciate good food paired with spectacular views. Now, let’s dive into what makes this cruise a worthwhile pick and what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Scenic Newport Harbor views: The cruise offers beautiful, memorable sights of the waterfront.
• Variety of menus: Choose between a hearty brunch or a festive dinner buffet.
• All-inclusive drinks: Unlimited mimosas on brunch and a full bar service add to the celebratory feel.
• Family-friendly: The experience works well for families, couples, and groups.
• Festive ambiance: Holiday décor and music set the perfect Christmas mood.
• Duration: A manageable 2 to 2.5 hours, ideal for mixing sightseeing and dining.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

Setting Sail in Style and Comfort

From the moment you board, you’re greeted with a warm holiday atmosphere. The climate-controlled interior ensures comfort regardless of the weather, while the open-air rooftop decks let you breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy unobstructed views of Newport Beach’s sparkling waters. The size of the group seems well-managed, providing a cozy yet lively environment where conversation naturally flows.

The Feast: A Chef-Prepared Buffet

What truly elevates this cruise is the delicious buffet line-up. For brunch, you’ll find an assortment of breakfast pastries, Scottish smoked salmon, and scrambled eggs with cheddar. The breakfast selection is complemented by Applewood smoked bacon and pork sausage links, ensuring a hearty start. The French toast with whipped cream and maple syrup is a sweet touch, perfect for a festive brunch.

Moving into the lunch/dinner options, the buffet broadens with signature salads like Caesar and Greek, along with sun-dried tomato pasta salad and baked orecchiette — all prepared with fresh ingredients. The main courses include a roast salmon served with miso citrus soy sauce, tender oven-roasted turkey, and hand-carved tri-tip steak with caramelized onions and demi-glace. The buffet’s variety means everyone can find something to enjoy, whether they prefer seafood, poultry, or beef.

The Drinks and Atmosphere

On the brunch cruise, unlimited mimosas and sparkling cider are included, making it a festive and relaxing experience. The full bar is available on both options for those wanting something stronger, with attentive staff ready to keep your glass filled.

The music entertainment adds a cheerful backdrop, enhancing the holiday spirit. Whether it’s light jazz or holiday tunes, the music helps set a celebratory mood without overpowering conversations.

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The Scenery and Views

The highlight of this experience is undoubtedly the scenic views of Newport Harbor. We loved the way the boat slowly glides past impressive waterfront homes, bustling marinas, and natural beauty. The open decks allow for excellent photo opportunities, especially as the sun begins to set or during daylight hours. The awe-inspiring sights serve as a perfect backdrop to your meal and holiday cheer.

Children and Family Experience

The cruise includes a kid’s station featuring chicken tenders and French fries, making it family-friendly. Younger guests can enjoy familiar favorites while parents relax knowing the environment is engaging yet comfortable.

A Few Considerations

While the experience is quite enjoyable, a potential drawback is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. If you’re staying outside the immediate Newport Beach area, plan for additional transportation. Also, given the popularity of Christmas cruises, early booking is recommended to secure your preferred time slot and seating.

Why We Think This Experience Is Worth It

This cruise offers great value for its price, especially considering the all-inclusive buffet and unlimited drinks. The quality of the food, the friendly service, and the picturesque scenery make it a memorable way to spend Christmas. Plus, the festive décor and music transform the harbor into a holiday wonderland, which we think adds a special touch to the holiday celebration.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a relaxed, elegant experience that combines sightseeing with fine dining. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic holiday outing, families looking to create joyful memories, or groups wanting to celebrate together in a unique setting.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This Christmas Day cruise appeals to those who want to combine scenic beauty with great food in a comfortable setting. If you’re a fan of harbor views and enjoy festive atmospheres, you’ll find this cruise both fun and meaningful. It’s a wonderful way to avoid the hustle and bustle of busy holiday dinners and instead enjoy an intimate, scenic celebration.

Travelers who value convenience and a well-curated experience will appreciate the guaranteed table, the delicious chef-prepared menu, and the festive ambiance. It’s especially perfect if you’re staying in or near Newport Beach and want a special, no-stress way to celebrate Christmas.

However, those looking for a very interactive or activity-heavy experience might find this cruise a bit relaxed for their taste. Still, for a balanced mix of sights, flavors, and holiday spirit, it’s tough to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise includes a kid’s station with chicken tenders and fries, making it family-friendly.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers chef-prepared entrees, salads, desserts, unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water, and, on brunch, free-flowing champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider.

Can I find vegetarian options?
Yes, the buffet features vegetarian dishes like French toast, salads, and pasta, with options clearly marked for dietary preferences.

Is there entertainment on board?
Yes, music entertainment adds a festive touch, helping set the holiday mood without overpowering conversation.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the sights, meal, and atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Is there parking available?
While not explicitly mentioned, most Newport Beach cruises have nearby parking options, but it’s best to check in advance or arrive early.

To sum it up, this Christmas Day Buffet Cruise in Newport Beach offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to celebrate the holiday. It combines spectacular views, delicious food, and festive cheer in a setting that feels special but relaxed. Whether you’re a local or visiting California, it’s a memorable option for a holiday spent on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: