Norfolk’s waterfront dining cruises deliver solid value and memorable views. Three main options stand out: The Mother’s Day cruise packs good food and entertainment into a efficient 1.5-hour journey. The longer Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise (2.5 hours) combines dining with dancing and excellent nighttime city views, though desserts need work. For summer visitors, the 4th of July cruise offers the best atmosphere with its DJ and extensive buffet spread.
I especially appreciate the regular evening buffet cruise for its mix of dining and sightseeing – it’s the sweet spot for both value and experience. The helpful crew and well-prepared main courses make up for any minor catering hiccups.
Let’s explore the top dinner cruises worth your time in Norfolk.
Key Points
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The Norfolk Mother’s Day Signature Dinner Cruise offers a 1.5-hour dining experience with a buffet, unlimited coffee/tea, and a maximum capacity of 150 travelers.
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The Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise is a 2.5-hour cruise along the Elizabeth River, featuring a buffet, dancing, stargazing, and views of the Norfolk skyline and Navy vessels.
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Norfolk buffet dinner cruises generally accommodate up to 200 travelers, with buffet menus, unlimited beverages, and onboard DJ entertainment, along with accessibility features.
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The Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a festive atmosphere for up to 200 travelers, with a buffet, live DJ entertainment, and a price of €175.80 per person.
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Guest reviews highlight the great food and friendly staff, but some issues with food quality and service during peak times, suggesting the importance of early arrival and awareness of additional costs and dietary preferences.
Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise
What better way to celebrate Mother’s Day in Norfolk than aboard the Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise? This 1.5-hour cruise offers a delightful dining experience with a magnificent view of the Norfolk skyline and the United States Navy’s Atlantic Fleet.
The cruise features a delicious buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, as well as unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, and guests can choose to dine indoors or enjoy the scenic views from the outdoor deck.
The cruise’s atmosphere is lively, with cabaret-style seating that encourages mingling, and an onboard DJ providing entertainment. The maximum capacity is 150 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
The cruise is also accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as accommodations for service animals and infant seats. While the overall reviews are positive, with highlights like great food and friendly staff, some guests have noted occasional issues with food quality and service during peak times.
Read our full review: Norfolk Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Norfolk: Buffet Dinner Cruise
The Norfolk: Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a unique dining experience, allowing guests to savor a delectable buffet while cruising along the picturesque Elizabeth River. Priced at $88.59 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
The experience highlights include dancing, stargazing on the largest outdoor patio deck in the city, and enjoying views of the Norfolk skyline and Navy vessels.
The buffet menu features a variety of salads, sides, and entrees, such as oven-roasted salmon, baked orecchiette pasta, and hand-carved tri-tip steak. Desserts include a baked peach berry crisp and a signature dessert station.
While the food receives high praise, some guests note the need for better dessert options. With an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on 176 reviews, the Norfolk: Buffet Dinner Cruise promises a memorable evening of dining, entertainment, and stunning scenery along the Elizabeth River.
Read our full review: Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise
This Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a delectable dining experience while taking in the picturesque views along the Elizabeth River. Priced from $88.59 per person, this cruise can accommodate up to 200 travelers.
The cruise departs from the Otter Berth at 173 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA 23510, returning to the same meeting point.
The dinner buffet features freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, complemented by unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Onboard entertainment includes DJ music, lounge access, and interactive games, providing a lively atmosphere.
The cruise is accessible for wheelchair users, stroller-pushing guests, and those with service animals.
While the cruise has an overall rating of 4.0 based on 25 reviews, some customers have reported concerns about food quality, service delays, and communication issues.
To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to arrive early, be aware of additional costs, and consider dietary preferences when selecting food.
Read our full review: Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise
Celebrating the Fourth of July in Norfolk takes on a new level of excitement with the Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise. This event offers a maximum capacity of 200 travelers, ensuring an intimate and enjoyable experience.
The buffet dinner features freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, accompanied by unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Gratuities are included, making for a hassle-free dining experience.
The cruise also features live DJ entertainment, adding to the festive atmosphere. Accessibility is a priority, with the event being wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Nearby public transportation and infant seats make it convenient for families and individuals to attend.
While the event is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations, the price of €175.80 per person provides a memorable Fourth of July celebration on the water.
Guests can look forward to an exceptional dining experience and entertainment in a picturesque setting.
Read our full review: Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Norfolk offers several dinner cruise options, including a Mothers Day Signature Cruise, a Buffet Dinner Cruise, and a 4th of July Buffet Cruise. These cruises provide a unique dining experience while offering scenic views of the city’s waterfront. Visitors can enjoy a variety of menu options, live entertainment, and an opportunity to explore the Norfolk harbor.