Spirit Cruises operates dinner and sightseeing boats in several U.S. cities
Spirit Cruises is a company that runs passenger boats offering dinner cruises, lunch cruises, and sightseeing tours in cities including Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. The boats are designed for groups and individual passengers, with dining, live entertainment, and views of each city's waterfront. You book directly through their website or by phone, and the company handles the boat, food service, and entertainment as part of a single package price.
Unlike some dinner cruise operators that rent space on a boat, Spirit owns and operates its own fleet. This means the company controls the menu, entertainment schedule, and passenger experience from start to finish. Each city's Spirit Cruises location operates independently, so the boat size, dining options, and entertainment differ by location.
Key Takeaways
- Spirit Cruises operates in Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and a few other cities, with each location running its own boat and schedule.
- Dinner cruises typically include a meal, entertainment, and a set sailing time; you book in advance and arrive at the dock 30 to 45 minutes early.
- Pricing varies by city, cruise length, and day of the week, with weekend and holiday cruises costing more than weekday sailings.
- The company's cancellation and refund policies differ by location and cruise type, so you should review the specific terms for your city before booking.
- Spirit Cruises accepts groups and offers private charter options, though these require separate booking and pricing.
How to book a Spirit Cruises dinner cruise
You can book through the Spirit Cruises website by selecting your city, choosing a cruise date and time, and selecting the number of passengers and ticket type. The website shows available dates, departure times, and the price per person. You enter passenger names, contact information, and payment details to complete the booking. Most cruises require you to book at least a few days in advance, though same-day bookings may be available depending on capacity.
After booking, you receive a confirmation email with your booking reference number, sailing time, and instructions for where to arrive at the dock. You should arrive 30 to 45 minutes before departure to check in, receive your boarding pass, and board the boat. Bring a valid photo ID; some cruises may require it for security or age verification if alcohol is included.
What to expect on a Spirit Cruises dinner cruise
A typical dinner cruise lasts two to three hours and includes a multi-course meal, non-alcoholic beverages, and live entertainment such as a DJ, band, or comedy show. The boat departs from a downtown dock and travels along the city's waterfront or river, giving passengers views of landmarks and the skyline. You are seated at a table with other passengers unless you book a private group, and the meal is served course by course during the cruise.
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at a cash or card bar. The entertainment runs throughout the cruise, and you can move around the boat's public areas between courses. The boat returns to the original dock at the end of the cruise, and you disembark with other passengers. The entire experience is designed as an all-in-one outing, so you do not need to arrange separate transportation, dining, or entertainment.
Pricing and what is included
Spirit Cruises pricing varies by city, cruise type, and day of the week. A dinner cruise in Washington D.C. or New York typically ranges from $60 to $150 per person depending on whether it is a weekday or weekend sailing and the season. Lunch cruises and sightseeing cruises cost less than dinner cruises. Holiday cruises, New Year's Eve cruises, and special-event cruises command higher prices.
The ticket price includes the meal, non-alcoholic beverages, and entertainment. Alcoholic drinks, gratuity, and any add-ons such as premium seating or a champagne package are separate charges. Some cruises offer a "premium" or "VIP" ticket tier that includes reserved seating, a better view, or additional food and beverage options at a higher price. Check the specific cruise listing on the website to see what is included in each ticket type.
Cancellation and refund policies
Spirit Cruises' cancellation policy varies by location and cruise type. Most locations allow you to cancel or modify your booking up to a certain number of days before the cruise (often 7 to 14 days) for a full refund or credit. Cancellations made closer to the departure date may receive a partial refund or credit only. If the cruise is cancelled due to weather or mechanical issues, the company typically offers a full refund or the option to rebook on a future cruise.
You should review the specific cancellation terms for your city and cruise type before booking, as they are posted on the booking page or in the confirmation email. If you need to cancel or modify your booking, contact Spirit Cruises customer service by phone or through the website as soon as possible. The company's customer service team can explain your options and process changes or cancellations.
Group bookings and private charters
Spirit Cruises accepts group bookings for parties of 15 or more passengers. Groups receive a discounted per-person rate and can often choose a dedicated cruise time or date. To book a group, you contact the company directly by phone or through a group booking form on the website. A group coordinator will work with you to confirm the date, number of passengers, menu options (if available), and any special requests.
Private charter options are also available, allowing you to rent the entire boat for your group. Private charters are priced differently than group bookings and require a minimum number of passengers. The company can customize the menu, entertainment, and itinerary for a private charter. Contact Spirit Cruises directly to discuss private charter availability, pricing, and options for your city.
What to bring and how to prepare
Bring a valid photo ID for check-in. Dress code varies by cruise type and city; dinner cruises typically call for business casual or cocktail attire, while lunch and sightseeing cruises are more casual. Check your confirmation email or the website for the specific dress code for your cruise. Comfortable shoes are a good idea since you may walk around the boat during the cruise.
Arrive at the dock 30 to 45 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding. If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before boarding, as the boat will be moving on the water. The boat operates in most weather conditions, but heavy rain or high winds may cause cancellations or delays. Check the weather forecast before your cruise and contact the company if you have concerns about whether the cruise will operate as scheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food or drinks on a Spirit Cruises boat?
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted on Spirit Cruises boats. The meal and non-alcoholic beverages are included in your ticket price, and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at the bar. This policy is standard for dinner cruises and helps the company manage food safety and service.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my cruise?
Spirit Cruises monitors weather conditions and may cancel or reschedule a cruise if conditions are unsafe. If your cruise is cancelled, you will be notified by email or phone and offered a full refund or the option to rebook on another date. Check your confirmation email for the company's weather policy and contact information in case you need to reach them about your specific cruise.
Are children allowed on Spirit Cruises dinner cruises?
Yes, children are typically allowed on daytime cruises and some evening cruises, though age restrictions may explore to certain cruises marketed as adult-only events. Check the cruise listing on the website or contact the company to confirm whether children are permitted on your chosen cruise and whether a children's menu is available.
Do I need to purchase tickets in advance or can I buy them at the dock?
Advance booking through the website is strongly recommended and is required for most cruises. Same-day tickets at the dock may be available if the cruise is not sold out, but availability is not may provide. Booking in advance ensures you have a seat and allows the company to plan seating and food quantities.
Is gratuity included in the ticket price?
No, gratuity is not included in the ticket price and is not automatically added to your bill. You can tip your server and other crew members directly in cash or add a tip to your bar tab if you purchase drinks. The standard gratuity range is 15 to 20 percent of your food and beverage charges.