Boston’s harbor lunch cruises offer outstanding value and memorable dining with a view. The 2-hour Signature Lunch Cruise stands out with its fresh buffet spread and harbor vistas – it’s my favorite for combining good food with postcard-perfect views of the skyline. The standard Buffet Cruise is another solid choice, especially for visitors with dietary restrictions, as they’re consistently accommodating with menu options.
I’m particularly fond of the Father’s Day special cruise. At three hours, it’s longer than most, features live music instead of recorded tracks, and maintains good accessibility standards – a thoughtful touch often overlooked on tourist boats.
Practical tip: Book at least a week ahead in all cases, especially during summer months.
Let’s look at the top harbor lunch cruises worth your time and money.
Key Points
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Cruise along Boston Harbor on the Boston Signature Lunch Cruise, offering a 2-hour dining adventure with scenic views, DJ entertainment, and a freshly prepared buffet lunch.
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Experience the Father’s Day Lunch Cruise, a 3-hour family-friendly event featuring live DJ entertainment, wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and infant seats for younger guests.
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Enjoy a variety of menu options on the Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise, with accommodations for dietary restrictions and the availability of alcoholic beverages.
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Receive generally positive reviews for the Boston Signature Lunch Cruise, with praise for friendly staff and special occasion accommodations, though some concerns about food quality.
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Prioritize accessibility with wheelchair-friendly cruises, 1-hour boarding time, and climate-controlled interiors to enhance the overall dining experience.
Boston Signature Lunch Cruise
The Boston Signature Lunch Cruise is a 2-hour experiential dining adventure along the historic Boston Harbor. With a maximum capacity of 350 travelers, the cruise offers guests a guaranteed table and an onboard DJ to set the mood.
Passengers can enjoy a freshly prepared lunch buffet, complete with entrees, salads, and desserts, as well as unlimited coffee, tea, and water. While the cruise doesn’t provide a narrative of historical landmarks, travelers can take in the scenic views of iconic sites like the World Trade Center, Boston Tea Party site, and the USS Constitution.
The cruise has received generally positive reviews, with guests praising the friendly staff and accommodations for special occasions. However, some have noted inconsistencies in food quality and difficulty finding the boarding location.
Priced from $69.16 per person, the cruise is a casual and convenient way to experience Boston’s harbor and cityscape. Advance booking is recommended, as the cruise is non-refundable, and dietary restrictions are accommodated where possible.
Read our full review: Boston Signature Lunch Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Boston: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor
For a delightful culinary experience on the waters of Boston Harbor, travelers can embark on a Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise. Priced from $116.62 per person, this 3-hour cruise offers a climate-controlled interior and outdoor decks with 360-degree views of the harbor and iconic landmarks.
The buffet menu features a variety of salads, entrees, and desserts. Dinner options include oven-roasted salmon, birria-style chicken, and Caribbean jerk braised pork, while lunch offers baked orecchiette pasta and oven-roasted salmon.
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible and includes 1 hour of boarding time prior to departure. Guests are advised to wear flat, closed-toed shoes and inform the server of any food allergies.
With an overall 4.5/5 rating based on 267 reviews, the Boston Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise is a popular choice for a memorable dining experience on the harbor.
Read our full review: Boston: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor Review
Book now: Check availability
Boston Fathers Day Lunch Cruise
A special Father’s Day Lunch Cruise offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy a delightful dining experience on the waters of Boston Harbor.
The 3-hour cruise departs from the South Boston Waterfront, providing stunning views of the city skyline and local landmarks. Passengers will indulge in a freshly prepared lunch buffet, featuring an array of entrees, salads, and desserts, accompanied by unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
The cruise boasts live DJ entertainment, ensuring a lively and festive atmosphere for the entire family.
Accessibility is a priority, with the vessel being wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals permitted. Infant seats are also available, making it a family-friendly outing.
Priced at $108.34 per person, the Father’s Day Lunch Cruise is a unique and memorable way to celebrate the special day with loved ones while taking in the beauty of Boston’s waterfront.
Read our full review: Boston Fathers Day Lunch Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Private Cruises Available for Special Occasions?
Private cruises are available for special occasions in Boston. These cruises offer a unique and memorable experience, allowing guests to enjoy the city’s stunning skyline and waterways in a more intimate setting.
Can I Bring My Own Beverages on the Cruise?
Passengers can typically bring their own beverages on private cruises. However, it’s best to check with the cruise operator, as some may have restrictions or charge a corkage fee for outside drinks.
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Cruise?
The dress code for the lunch cruise is typically casual and comfortable. Many guests opt for smart-casual attire, such as collared shirts and slacks for men, and blouses and skirts or pants for women. Avoid overly formal or beachwear.
Do the Cruises Offer Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options?
The lunch cruises do offer vegetarian and gluten-free options. Guests can request these dietary accommodations when booking their tickets, ensuring they can enjoy the cruise while meeting their dietary needs.
How Do I Book a Lunch Cruise for a Large Group?
To book a lunch cruise for a large group, you can contact the cruise company directly. They’ll help you coordinate the details, such as group size, dietary needs, and payment. Many cruises offer vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate all guests.
Recap
Boston offers a range of lunch experiences that allow you to enjoy the city’s scenic waterfront. From signature lunch cruises showcasing the harbor’s landmarks to buffet-style meals on the water, these options provide a unique dining experience. Whether it’s a special occasion like Father’s Day or a regular weekday, Boston’s lunch cruises offer a convenient and memorable way to savor the city’s beauty during the midday.