City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise in Washington DC, United States
Washington DC, United States

City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise

Outty Ranking 56 4.0 · 470 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $90
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

56/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.0/5

Based on 470 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise worth booking?

City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise is a 2-hour experience in Washington DC, United States, from $90 per person. It scores 56 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4/5 rating across 470 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
56 / 100
Rating
4/5 (470)
Duration
2 hours
From
$90 per person

With the sunshine reflecting off the Potomac River, there’s no better place to enjoy an afternoon in Washington, D.C. than aboard a City Cruises lunch cruise. Treat yourself to an onboard historical tour of some of the most iconic landmarks in the country like Old Town Alexandria, the National Harbor, and the Washington Monument, as you sample creative dishes from our lunch buffet menu. 2-hour cruise on the Potomac River Delicious lunch buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts The best views of the Washington Monument and other iconic Washington, D.C. sights Onboard entertainment with DJ music Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

What you get

    About this experience

    With the sunshine reflecting off the Potomac River, there’s no better place to enjoy an afternoon in Washington, D.C. than aboard a City Cruises lunch cruise. Treat yourself to an onboard historical tour of some of the most iconic landmarks in the country like Old Town Alexandria, the National Harbor, and the Washington Monument, as you sample creative dishes from our lunch buffet menu. 2-hour cruise on the Potomac River Delicious lunch buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts The best views of the Washington Monument and other iconic Washington, D.C. sights Onboard entertainment with DJ music Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

    What's included

    Included

    • Buffet menu
    • DJ Music
    • 2-hour lunch (or brunch) cruise
    • Tax and fees
    • Coffee and tea

    Not included

    • Other drinks (not listed in Inclusions)
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. City Experiences By Hornblower

      Step aboard the sleek cruise ship and get ready to be pampered and entertained on a 2-hour cruise along Washington DC’s Potomac River. Take in spectacular views of the city's downtown and enjoy a grand buffet with drinks served by the attentive wait staff. It's a great way enjoy all the highlights of Washington DC as you dine and dance the afternoon away!

      90 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Washington Monument

      Some highlights you will see along the way include the 555-foot (169-meter) Washington Monument, the world’s tallest free-standing stone sculpture. Pass by the Reagan National Airport, one of the busiest airports in the US with an average of one flight every 30 seconds during peak periods!

      10 minutes here

    3. Potomac River

      You'll also cruise by Alexandria, Virginia. Alexandria was first established in the 1600s by tobacco merchants from Scotland and England. Additionally, you’ll see the Torpedo Factory, pass by Admiral's Row, cruise under the famous Woodrow Wilson Bridge, view the US Naval Research Lab and more!

      10 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Washington DC

    Pier 4 • 580 Water Street SW • Washington, DC 20024 Please arrive at the meeting point early – boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Pier 4 • 580 Water Street SW • Washington, DC 20024 Please arrive at the meeting point early – boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 19 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    City Cruises

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Please Note: Although we offer children 3 years old and under free admission, please enter how many children are attending in the field provided, so that we can accommodate them on the cruise.
    • The ships feature cabaret-style seating. The majority of the tables accommodate 4 to 8 people and guests are sometimes seated with other parties. Please understand that we cannot guarantee specific seating on the deck
    • Seating is only guaranteed together for the number of tickets confirmed on this voucher. Reservations may not be combined.
    • A valid photo ID for all participating guests is required at check-in
    • Dress code: we encourage casual attire that is informal and comfortable (khakis, nice jeans, dresses, casual button-up shirts/blouses)
    • Boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure. Guests must arrive early, as late arrivals will likely miss the boat.

    Photos

    City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise in Washington DC, photo 2City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise in Washington DC, photo 3City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise in Washington DC, photo 4City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise in Washington DC, photo 5City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise in Washington DC, photo 6City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise in Washington DC, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 470 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Food and drink

    7 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Good for families

    2 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Traveler reviews

    470 verified traveler reviews for City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    255
    4 star
    74
    3 star
    58
    2 star
    35
    1 star
    48
    Sort
    Gale_P · September 2026

    Lunch outing

    I booked for people with my job, and all five of them stated they enjoyed themselves. I recommend the lunch cruise.

    via Viator

    Jan_W · September 2026

    Not with this company

    The food looked and tasted like slop. Lukewarm and no salt available. Charged for a Diet Coke. Felt like I was intruding on an all black party, and more than 70% were morbidly obese. The views of land from the boat were unimpressive and not pretty. The staff was kind and happy, the only redeeming factor. Sailing the Potomac is a must-do. Just not with this outfit.

    via Viator

    Darrell_W · September 2026

    Fun Great well worth it

    Great cruise glad we booked this experience I would do this again for sure. This by far is well worth it the whole experience was wonderful.

    via Viator

    happybermuda · September 2026

    Cruise was cancelled a week prior and no notification

    Never ever ever book this with TripAdvisor, call city cruises and book with them directly. It was our anniversary, 20 year anniversary no less. Showed up at the dock and the cruise had been cancelled the previous WEEK! No notification from TripAdvisor was ever received. They did give me a refund but also I was out $26 parking and a completely ruined anniversary. I talked with citycruises and they said it happens frequently with people booking through third party sites.

    via Tripadvisor

    Jillian_B · September 2026

    Awesome DC Cruise

    Great experience everyone seemed to have an amazing time!!! Great buffet , customer service was amazing! One recommendation: please have the staff serve the buffet…. It will minimize handling of the food especially since we are trying to avoid contamination. We so some adults and children mishandling the food. Thanks again for an amazing Brunch Cruise in DC.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Price range
    $90 to $117
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    165
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by City Cruises, who run 37 experiences we rank across 7 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 51.7.

    See everything City Cruises runs

    Why this scores 56

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)30
    Review evidence (18% weight)77
    Booking momentum (14% weight)74
    Value for money (12% weight)56
    Listing quality (10% weight)81
    Local standing (8% weight)0
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Washington DC.

    How much does City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise cost?

    +

    Prices start at $90 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Washington DC usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise take?

    +

    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Washington DC is not rushed.

    Is City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 56 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4/5 across 470 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Washington DC, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Around 165 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Washington DC can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Washington DC and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Washington DC within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Washington DC?

    +

    Washington is the rare city where the headline attractions cost nothing and the scarce resource is access. Timed entry to the Smithsonian museums, Capitol and White House tours, and the night monument runs by bike or bus are what fill up. Our ranking rewards operators who secure the passes themselves rather than telling you to sort it out at the door. On Outty we rank every Washington DC experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour, Arlington Cemetery Small-Group Tour & Changing of the Guards, Washington DC Small-Group Sightseeing Experience. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Washington DC?

    +

    Late March to April for cherry blossom, or September to November for cool museum weather. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Washington DC?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Included: Buffet menu; DJ Music; 2-hour lunch (or brunch) cruise; Tax and fees; and Coffee and tea. Not included: Other drinks (not listed in Inclusions); Hotel pickup and drop-off; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Pier 4 • 580 Water Street SW • Washington, DC 20024 Please arrive at the meeting point early – boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise?

    +

    Across 470 reviews averaging 4.0 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, good for families. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for City Cruises DC: Scenic Buffet Lunch Cruise.

    Pick your date