DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit

Cruising along the Potomac River aboard the Spirit offers an unforgettable dining experience for visitors to Washington, D.C. With prices starting at just $60.42 per person, guests can indulge in a delightful buffet-style brunch, lunch, or dinner while taking in stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument. The 2 to 2.5-hour journey features a diverse menu with salads, main courses, and a signature dessert station, all accompanied by live DJ music and onboard games. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a fun-filled outing with friends, this buffet cruise promises an experience that will leave you craving more.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Dinner Tours In Washington DC.

Key Points

• The Spirit of Washington DC offers buffet cruises for brunch, lunch, and dinner, with prices starting at $60.42 per person for 2-2.5 hour cruises.
• The cruises depart and return from City Cruises Washington DC – Pier 4 and Spirit of Mount Vernon, providing scenic views of the Potomac River and iconic landmarks.
• The buffet menu features a variety of salads, entrees, side dishes, and a signature dessert station, along with unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
• Onboard entertainment, such as a DJ, giant Jenga, and shuffleboard, enhances the cruise experience and creates a fun and competitive atmosphere.
• Comfortable and casually stylish attire is recommended, and smoking is only permitted on the outdoor decks, which offer panoramic views of the river and landmarks.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Spirit of Washington DC offers a variety of buffet cruises, including Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner options.

Prices start from $60.42 per person for the 2-2.5 hour cruises. Guests can choose from a 2-hour Lunch Buffet, a 2.5-hour Dinner Buffet, or a 2-hour Brunch Buffet.

The cruises depart from City Cruises Washington DC – Pier 4 and Spirit of Mount Vernon by Hornblower Cruises & Events, with the same locations for drop-off.

Passengers should note the cruises have a non-refundable cancellation policy.

Cruise Experience and Itinerary

On the buffet cruises, passengers can enjoy a scenic tour along the Potomac River, taking in views of iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument, National Harbor, and Old Town.

The experience offers three options:

1. 2-Hour Lunch Buffet Cruise
2. 2.5-Hour Dinner Buffet Cruise
3. 2-Hour Brunch Buffet Cruise

All cruises depart and return to the same starting locations at City Cruises Washington DC – Pier 4 or Spirit of Mount Vernon by Hornblower Cruises & Events.

The cruise provides a unique opportunity to indulge in a delectable buffet while admiring the picturesque surroundings of the nation’s capital.

Dining Options and Offerings

Savoring the buffet on the Spirit of Washington DC cruises, guests can indulge in a diverse spread of culinary delights.

The menu features a selection of salads, including a refreshing Field Green Salad, a hearty Kale Quinoa Salad, and a tantalizing Green Goddess Pasta Salad.

For the main course, diners can enjoy Honey Sesame Chicken, Oven Roasted Whitefish, Baked Ziti Pasta, and a comforting Root Vegetable Fricassee.

Complementing the entrees are Roasted Broccoli and Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

No meal is complete without a sweet finale, and the Signature Dessert Station offers an array of cakes, brownies, and seasonal fruit.

Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included, ensuring a thoroughly satisfying dining experience.

Entertainment and Onboard Activities

Passengers aboard the Spirit of Washington DC cruises can enjoy an array of onboard activities and entertainment.

The Spirit offers an engaging DJ who keeps the music flowing, allowing guests to dance the cruise away. Plus, passengers can challenge each other to a round of giant Jenga or shuffleboard, providing a fun and competitive atmosphere.

On top of that, the cruise staff captures souvenir photos throughout the journey, ensuring guests have memorable mementos from their experience.

With these varied entertainment options, the Spirit of Washington DC cruises provide an enjoyable and well-rounded experience for all passengers.

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Dress Code and Safety Considerations

When it comes to the Spirit of Washington DC cruises, guests are encouraged to wear comfortable and casually stylish attire.

Flat, closed-toed shoes are recommended for safety, as the decks can be slippery. Smoking is only permitted on the outdoor decks, so guests should dress accordingly.

The dress code is relaxed, allowing guests to enjoy the cruise experience without the need for formal wear.

However, it’s important to note that the cruise experience involves navigating stairs and walking on the boat, so appropriate footwear is essential for both comfort and safety.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers generally praise the Spirit of Washington DC cruises, awarding them an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 593 reviews.

Highlights of the customer feedback include:

1. Great food and accommodating staff, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
2. Guests appreciate the onboard entertainment like the DJ, dancing, and games.
3. Some critiques mention issues with food labeling and longer than expected service wait times.

Seating Arrangements and Group Reservations

For groups looking to enjoy the Spirit of Washington DC cruises together, advance planning is key.

The cruise operator recommends making one reservation for the entire group to ensure everyone is seated together. This allows the staff to accommodate special seating requests and facilitate a cohesive dining experience.

While individual bookings are accepted, guests may find themselves scattered across different tables if the cruise is at full capacity.

By securing a group reservation, you can guarantee your party will be seated together and enjoy the Spirit’s buffet and entertainment as a unified group.

This thoughtful approach elevates the overall enjoyment of the cruise.

Smoking Policy and Outdoor Decks

Smoking is only permitted on the outdoor decks of the Spirit of Washington DC cruises. This policy ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Here are three things to keep in mind regarding the outdoor decks:

1. The outdoor decks provide panoramic views of the Potomac River and surrounding landmarks, making them a popular spot for taking in the scenery.

2. Guests are encouraged to dress warmly and bring a light jacket, as the outdoor decks can be cooler than the indoor areas.

3. Access to the outdoor decks may be limited during inclement weather or rough water conditions, so guests should check with the crew for the latest updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

The cruise does not allow passengers to bring their own food or drinks onboard. Guests must purchase the buffet meal package offered by the cruise line. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Are There Any Dietary Accommodations Available?

The cruise offers a buffet with various dietary options like salads, vegetable dishes, and a dessert station. Guests can request specific dietary accommodations, such as gluten-free or vegan meals, by contacting the cruise operator in advance.

Is There an Age Requirement or Restrictions for Children?

There are no age requirements or restrictions for children on the cruise. Kids of all ages are welcome to join the buffet brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise experience.

Do I Need to Bring Any Supplies or Materials With Me?

No additional supplies or materials are needed for the cruise. Guests should wear comfortable, casually stylish attire and flat, closed-toed shoes for safety. The cruise provides all dining, entertainment, and amenities included in the ticket price.

Is There an Option to Upgrade or Add-On Extras to the Cruise?

Yes, guests can upgrade or add extras to their cruise experience. Options include premium beverage packages, private event spaces, and specialty dining experiences. Guests should check with the cruise line for available upgrades and pricing.

Recap

The Spirit cruise along the Potomac River offers a memorable dining experience with a delightful buffet, stunning views of iconic landmarks, and lively entertainment. Prices start at $60.42 per person for a 2 to 2.5-hour journey, catering to various preferences with brunch, lunch, or dinner options. Guests can look forward to a diverse menu, live music, and onboard activities, creating an unforgettable adventure on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: