Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise

Thinking of spending a leisurely weekend morning in Toronto? The Obsession III Brunch Cruise offers a relaxing way to enjoy the city’s skyline, waterfront, and islands—all while indulging in a delicious brunch. For $87.93 per person, you get approximately 2.5 hours on the water, starting at noon, with a glass of champagne mimosa to kick things off. It’s a simple yet appealing idea: glide through Toronto Harbour, admire iconic landmarks like the CN Tower and Toronto Islands, all with jazz music softly playing in the background.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this cruise are its spectacular views and the brunch buffet. The large windows and retractable roof make it easy to take in the scenery whether the weather is bright or a bit cloudy. And the buffet offers enough variety to satisfy different tastes, making it a good option for groups or couples wanting a little bit of everything.

One aspect to consider is the timing and scheduling. The cruise schedule is only finalized at the end of March and bookings made before April 1st might be canceled if the cruise isn’t available. That’s a small hassle, but it’s worth noting if you’re planning your trip well in advance. This experience suits those looking for a relaxed, scenic outing with good food, especially if you love city views from the water or want an easy, enjoyable brunch in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Scenic waterway route: Cruise through Toronto Harbour with views of the skyline, CN Tower, and Toronto Islands.
• Relaxing atmosphere: Jazz music, a retractable roof, and a champagne mimosa create a laid-back vibe.
• Good value: The 2.5-hour cruise includes a buffet brunch and drinks for about $87, with some reviews noting the food could be more varied.
• Limited flexibility: The cruise schedule isn’t confirmed until late March, so plan accordingly.
• Suitable for: Couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a scenic, leisurely brunch with iconic city views.
• Size of group: Limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate.

A Detailed Look at the Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise

What to Expect at the Departure Point

The cruise departs from Queens Quay at Harbourfront West, an accessible area near Toronto’s downtown. Expect to arrive about 15 minutes early to avoid any confusion—reviews mention that arriving on time is key since boarding begins promptly at noon. The boat, Obsession III, is spacious, with large windows and a retractable roof, allowing unobstructed views in most weather conditions.

The Boarding Experience

As you step aboard, you’re greeted with a champagne mimosa, setting a celebratory tone for the morning. The staff are friendly and accommodating, ensuring everyone is settled comfortably. Some reviews mention that management was quick to resolve any mishaps, like seating confusion, which adds to a positive feeling of care.

The Itinerary – Relaxing and Scenic

Once underway, the boat slowly makes its way through the harbor, giving you a chance to soak in the panoramic views. The main draw here is the visual feast of Toronto’s skyline—the towering CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and the distant Toronto Islands. The large windows and open-air lookouts ensure everyone has a good vantage point.

During the cruise, you’re encouraged to explore the brunch buffet, which offers a variety of tasty items. While some reviews mention that the food could be more diverse, many appreciate the quality of the fruit and coffee. For those with dietary preferences, vegetarian options are available upon request.

The Music and Atmosphere

Jazz music plays softly in the background, adding a soothing, sophisticated layer to the experience. It’s the kind of soundtrack that quietly enhances the scenery without overpowering conversation or reflection. The relaxed environment makes it a perfect setting for couples or small groups seeking a tranquil escape.

Sights and Highlights During the Cruise

• Toronto Skyline: The perfect backdrop for photos and simply soaking in the city’s impressive architecture.
• CN Tower: An essential Toronto icon, visible from most vantage points.
• Toronto Islands: Large windows provide a clear view of the islands, which are often featured on postcards.
• Harbor lagoons: The cruise includes a peaceful passage through lagoons, adding a hint of nature to the water-based adventure.

Authentic Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Reviews give a balanced picture. One traveler noted, “Boat was spacious, and the crew were great. The trip was nice and also a good amount of time spent around the harbor.” Another mentioned, “We had a fantastic day even the rain could not spoil it,” highlighting that the experience can be enjoyable regardless of weather.

However, some reviews point out minor issues. For example, a reviewer lamented, “Reservations were made weeks in advance, but we weren’t sure where to sit,” which underscores the importance of arriving early and being flexible. Others found the food options limited, but generally, guests appreciated the scenic views and relaxed ambiance.

Pricing and Overall Value

At just under $90 per person, this cruise offers a good balance between cost and experience. It’s not a gourmet feast but rather a laid-back brunch with decent food, a scenic water tour, and live jazz—something that many travelers find worth the price for a memorable morning. The limited group size (maximum of 15 travelers) also adds a sense of intimacy and exclusivity.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive at least 15 minutes early to find your spot comfortably.
• Book well in advance, especially if you’re traveling in peak season, but be aware that the schedule isn’t finalized until late March.
• Remember that parking isn’t included, so plan for additional costs if driving.
• Vegetarian options are available—just mention your dietary needs when booking.
• Dress comfortably, and consider bringing a jacket or layers, especially if the weather is cool or windy.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for couples wanting a romantic morning, small groups of friends, or anyone seeking a leisurely, scenic way to start their weekend. If you love great views, relaxed atmospheres, and a touch of live music, this cruise hits all those notes. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in seeing Toronto from the water, but without the rigmarole of longer, more strenuous tours.

When Should You Consider It?

Because the schedule isn’t guaranteed until late March, it’s best to plan this for late spring or summer, when the weather is more predictable. Rain or wind could interfere with the experience, but most reviews agree that even with less-than-perfect weather, the views and ambiance remain enjoyable.

The Sum Up

The Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise offers a charming way to take in Toronto’s skyline and waterfront from a relaxed, water-based setting. While it may not satisfy everyone in search of a gourmet meal, the combination of good scenery, jazz music, and a laid-back brunch makes it a memorable outing. Its intimate group size and stunning vistas make it perfect for couples or small groups looking for a peaceful, scenic morning.

For travelers who appreciate the allure of city views from the water, combined with a leisurely meal and a charming atmosphere, this cruise represents a worthwhile, easy-to-book experience that adds a distinctive spark to your Toronto visit.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, offering enough time for a relaxed meal and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a brunch buffet, a champagne mimosa at boarding, and access to views of Toronto’s skyline and islands. Drinks are available for purchase.

Is there a dress code?
There’s no formal dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Consider layers in case of wind or cooler weather.

Can I book the cruise in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to book about 26 days in advance. However, note that the cruise schedule is only confirmed at the end of March, so early bookings before April 1st might be canceled if unavailable.

Are children allowed?
The tour is most suitable for adults, but service animals are permitted. Check with the provider if bringing children or specific needs.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Queens Quay at Harbourfront West in Toronto, an accessible and well-known location.

Is parking included?
No, parking fees are not included, so plan accordingly.

Will the cruise run in bad weather?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I do if I have dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian options are available; just advise the provider at the time of booking. Other dietary needs should be communicated in advance.

In summary, the Toronto Obsession III Brunch Cruise offers a pleasant, scenic escape on the water with good value for those wanting a relaxed start to their day. It’s best suited for those who prioritize views, a peaceful atmosphere, and a bit of live music, all served with a casual brunch.