Seattle: Mimosa Brunch Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to combine the beauty of Seattle’s lakes with a laid-back brunch experience, the Mimosa Brunch Cruise might be just the ticket. Offered by Waterways Cruises & Events, this 2-hour voyage on Lake Union and Lake Washington promises to serve up delicious food, refreshing drinks, and some of the best water-level views of Seattle’s skyline. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a unique way to start your weekend, this cruise is worth considering.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the opportunity to enjoy a full buffet of classic brunch favorites and the spectacular views of Seattle’s skyline from the water. Both make it a memorable outing. However, a possible downside is that the narration about sights can be drowned out by loud bar music, which was a complaint in some reviews. Still, for those who love a relaxed, scenic meal with drinks in hand, it’s hard to beat this setting. This experience suits travelers who enjoy good food, stunning vistas, and a leisurely atmosphere—perfect for couples, friends, or families wanting a window into Seattle’s lakeside charm with a touch of celebratory flair.

Key Points

• Beautiful Water Views: Cruise through Lake Union and Lake Washington with panoramic perspectives of Seattle’s iconic skyline.
• Delicious Brunch Buffet: Includes pastries, fruits, bacon, sausage, roasted potatoes, omelets, French toast bread pudding, parfaits, and smoked salmon.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Sip mimosas or sparkling cider while floating on the water, enjoying a laid-back experience.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve with ease, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with food allergies.
• Cost & Value: At $109 per person, it offers a good balance of scenic beauty and hearty brunch, though some may find the food not overly gourmet.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at the Experience

The Seattle Mimosa Brunch Cruise offers a well-rounded combination of scenery, food, and relaxed socializing. As we analyze the details, it’s clear this cruise is built around the idea of leisurely enjoyment. The two-hour duration makes it a perfect morning activity—long enough to unwind without dragging on—especially if you’re looking to incorporate it into a broader day of sightseeing.

Boarding and Setting the Scene

Boarding begins at 10:30 am, with departure at 11:00 am, and return around 1:00 pm. The boat provides a private table, giving you a sense of intimacy amid the bustling lakeside scenery. Upon boarding, you’re greeted with a champagne or sparkling cider toast, setting the tone for a festive, celebratory vibe.

The Buffet and Food Quality

The highlight for many is the brunch buffet, which features a variety of traditional breakfast and brunch favorites. Think flaky pastries, a vibrant fruit platter, crispy bacon, savory sausage, roasted red potatoes, and an omelet station for custom orders. There’s also French toast bread pudding—an indulgence—and parfait cups that add a touch of elegance. The inclusion of smoked salmon and bagels is a classic Seattle touch, appealing to local culinary sensibilities.

Some reviews mention that the food was warm and satisfying, though not particularly gourmet. One guest noted, “The food was warm and pleasant,” which suggests that the buffet’s strength lies in comfort rather than culinary innovation. The complimentary coffee and tea help round out the meal, ensuring you stay cozy during your cruise.

Drinks and Atmosphere

The cruise includes a champagne or sparkling cider toast at boarding, but the bar is not included in the price, meaning additional drinks must be purchased if you want more than the initial toast. This setup is typical for such cruises and encourages a celebratory mood without turning it into a wild bar crawl.

One reviewer expressed disappointment that the “mimosa brunch” wasn’t fully mimicked, as they had to pay extra for juice and make their own mimosas at the table. If a fully stocked bar with unlimited mimosa options is your priority, this might be a minor drawback.

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Scenic Highlights

From the water, the views of Seattle’s skyline are simply unbeatable. You’ll glide past floating homes, see the Space Needle from a new angle, and watch the city’s buildings light up against the water. The narration by the captain provides some context about sights along the way, though some guests found it hard to hear due to loud music—“I could not hear one word of the narration because of the loud bar music,” shared one review. For those interested in learning more about the local sights, bringing a headphone or simply enjoying the scenery might be the best approach.

The Experience and Social Vibe

The cruise leans toward a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s suited for groups celebrating birthdays, couples wanting a romantic start to their day, or families seeking a fun, scenic meal. The outdoor decks offer fresh air and panoramic views, but a light jacket or sweater is recommended, especially on cooler days.

Value and Price

At $109 per person, this cruise is priced competitively considering the scenic views, buffet, and drinks included. It’s not a gourmet dining experience but provides solid value for a memorable lakeside brunch. Additional costs, such as bar drinks, are extra, which is something to keep in mind if you plan to indulge.

Authentic Feedback and Considerations from Guests

The reviews paint a picture of a mixed but generally positive experience. Francisco A gave a perfect score, praising the atmosphere, food, and crew, though suggesting some background music could be jazzier or more subdued to enhance the experience. Rhonda’s less favorable review pointed out that the food was “not super tasty” and that the narration was drowned out by loud music—so if quiet storytelling and gourmet food are your priorities, this cruise might not be your ideal choice.

Despite some criticisms, the consensus is that the spectacular views and the chance to relax on the water make this cruise a worthwhile addition to a Seattle itinerary. It’s particularly appealing during good weather when outdoor decks are pleasant.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy scenic water-based activities combined with good food. It’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion, a leisurely weekend treat, or a unique way to see Seattle from the lakes. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a light, social outing, this cruise can deliver.

However, it may not be suitable for travelers requiring wheelchair access or those with food allergies—be sure to check if your needs align with the available amenities. Also, if you prefer a more lively atmosphere with loud music and unlimited bar options, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is the Seattle Mimosa Brunch Cruise Worth It?

For the value-conscious traveler, this cruise offers a delightful combination of good food, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere. The buffet is hearty and satisfying, and the views of Seattle’s skyline are unforgettable from the water. It’s a perfect choice for weekend mornings, celebrating a special day, or simply enjoying a different perspective on the city.

While the narration can be hard to hear and the food may not satisfy gourmet cravings, these are minor issues in an experience that’s about unwinding in beautiful surroundings. If you keep expectations grounded—expect tasty comfort food, scenic vistas, and a leisurely pace—you’ll likely find this cruise to be a charming addition to your Seattle trip.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Mimosa Brunch Cruise

Is there a full-service bar included in the price?
No, the cruise includes a toast of champagne or sparkling cider at boarding, but additional bar purchases are extra.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, a camera, and comfortable clothes. A sweater or light jacket is recommended for outdoor decks.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, the experience seems suitable for families, but check with the provider regarding age restrictions or food allergies.

Is this cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, usually scheduled in the morning.

What is included in the buffet?
The buffet features pastries, fruit, bacon, sausage, roasted potatoes, an omelet station, French toast bread pudding, parfaits, and smoked salmon with bagels.

Can I make my own mimosas?
You can, but you’ll need to purchase juice separately, as the initial toast is with sparkling cider or champagne.

Is the experience suitable for people with food allergies?
This isn’t specified, and allergies are not accommodated. It’s best to inquire beforehand.

What’s the best time of year for this cruise?
While not specified, good weather enhances outdoor enjoyment, so spring and summer are preferable.

In the end, the Seattle Mimosa Brunch Cruise offers a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy a hearty breakfast on the water. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate beautiful vistas and a casual social vibe, with some minor considerations about music and food quality. If you’re seeking a memorable lakeside experience in Seattle, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby