Philadelphia, or Philly as it’s affectionately known, isn’t just the birthplace of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It’s a city brimming with vibrant parks, historic sites, fascinating museums, and of course delicious food (we are talking to you, cheesesteak lovers!). Whether you call this great city home or you’re in town for a visit, there’s never a shortage of incredible things to do in Philadelphia. With its ever-evolving waterfront, the Delaware River has become one of the most exciting places for amazing views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Penn’s Landing, and the City of Brotherly Love’s historic skyline. Come sail away with City Cruises this season as we proudly celebrate 40 years of cruising on the Spirit of Philadelphia, the city’s most unique and entertaining combination of dining, dancing, and spectacular scenery. In the “spirit” of celebrating, we’ve rounded up a Top 40 list of reasons why you should get on board for adventure, excitement, and unforgettable experiences. Philadelphia’s very own gal-about-town, Marisa Magnatta, WMMR radio producer shares her experience aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia.

 

Philadelphia at dusk with bridge and cityscape.

 

1 Explore Philadelphia’s Waterfront in Less Than 3 Hours

Dine, dance, and take in the amazing views of the Philadelphia skyline with a Signature Dinner Cruise. Relax and enjoy the historic waterfront with the company of old friends, family, and loved ones on the scenic Delaware River. 

 

2 Bottomless Mimosas Anyone?

Take a Signature Brunch Cruise and take in the city’s magnificent skyline with a delicious, chef-prepared buffet brunch as you marvel at famed landmarks while sipping on bottomless mimosas as we keep the spirits flowing. 

 

3 It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere

Embark on an adventure while dining, dancing, and sailing along the waterfront while indulging in delicious cocktails and awe-inspiring sights – all from cozy, interior spaces, or open-air roof decks. Come aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia for a brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise and toast to good times. 

 

4 All Aboard for Buffet Envy

Indulge in chef-curated delights as you cruise along the Delaware River with Philadelphia’s iconic backdrop and sail away into good times on a dining cruise. 

 

5 Dance the Night Away

Philadelphia yacht charterWhere else can you cut loose while taking in Philadelphia’s spectacular architecture and imbibing in cocktails and delicious dining on the water? 

 

6 Unmatched Views

Enjoy delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and famed city landmarks such as the Ben Franklin Bridge from cozy interior spaces or open-air roof decks. 

 

7 Entertainment Galore

Up the fun quotient with live music performances, DJ entertainment, and themed cruises as you let it all go on the dance-floor. 

 

8 Celebrate Milestones

Celebrate another year around the sun, an anniversary, or a promotion. No matter what the occasion, City Cruises Philadelphia will take you away from it all to have an amazing time. 

 

9 Family-Friendly Fun

Get your whole crew together where everyone can have a great time no matter what their age. There is something for everyone. Bring your family and we will bring the fun in a safe, kid-friendly environment. 

 

10 Sail With Your Dreamboat

Spend a day or evening on the Delaware River and reconnect as you enjoy the experience of sailing and dining on a luxury yacht, and toast to all good things. 

 

11 Comfort, Luxury, and Hospitality

Create memories with your favorite crew on the Delaware River with magnificent skyline views and unmatched hospitality by our attentive and friendly crew. 

 

Spirit of Philadelphia

 

12 Corporate Events Done Right

Step away from the office and onto the water. Whether you want to book a section of tables, a full deck, or a private charter, package options are available for all party sizes and budgets. 

 

13 Nautical and Nice Holiday Parties

Set the stage for a successful holiday party and an adventure all wrapped in one. We will take care of the details for you. 

 

14 “Shore” to Find Something Nearby

Departing from Penn’s Landing, the area along the Delaware River waterfront is home to year-round attractions you can enjoy before or after your cruise. 

 

15 Our Crew Is Here for You

philadelphia

Our knowledgeable and friendly staff will ensure that you have the best experience while onboard, going that extra mile so that you are free to enjoy. 

 

16 Personalize and Customize Your Event

Our professional and dedicated team will help you plan a successful event from conception to celebration – all with breathtaking scenery. 

 

17 Priceless Memories

City Cruises Philadelphia offers inclusive packages with delicious dining, entertainment, and views at competitive pricing. 

 

18 Our Reputation is Unmatched

Embark on an adventure where our exceptional guest experiences and reviews speak for themselves. 

 

19 Say “I Do” With a View This Season

Imagine exchanging vows along the Delaware River as your something blue. Create unforgettable moments with a wedding that you and your guests will treasure. 

 

20 Host Wedding-Related Events Like No Other

philadelphiaDreaming of an engagement party on the water? We can make it happen. Whether hosting a bridal shower, bachelor/bachelorette party, or rehearsal dinner; we will customize any wedding-related event to your liking. 

 

21 Build Your Team in an Epic Way

Get your team on the water to collaborate, communicate, and motivate with an event set against the backdrop of the Philadelphia skyline. 

 

22 Network in a Nautical Way

You and your team will revel in amazing views, chef-prepared cuisine, and lively entertainment giving you all you need for a successful networking event in Philadelphia. 

 

23 Elevated Spaces

Important events in the perfect venue from City Cruises will take your event to the next level. 

 

24 All Hands on Deck

Our dedicated event planners will work with you on your event for seamless coordination from beginning to end. 

 

25 In the Heart of the Dining Scene

City Cruises’ ideal location allows you to explore Philadelphia’s exciting food culture right in the middle of it all. 

 

26 From Elementary School to University Events

We offer student-friendly menu options, entertainment, and all-inclusive packages that can be customized to fit your budget. Show your students a new side of the city from the Delaware River. 

 

spirit of philadelphiaspirit of philadelphiaspirit of philadelphia

 

27 We Take the Helm in the Community

City Cruises Philadelphia offers experiences for the entire family and employment opportunities for local residents. We care about our crew and yours. 

 

28 Instagram-Worthy Opportunities

Not only will you enjoy a day or night out on the water surrounded by family, friends, and amazing views, but you can capture it all with the amazing backdrop of Philadelphia’s epic skyline as you sail along the Delaware River. 

 

29 Let the Graduation Celebration Begin

No matter what your graduation party size is, we can customize it to fit your budget. Your guests will love our distinctive hospitality, climate-controlled interiors, and open-air outdoor deck while you take in the picturesque city skyline and toast the new grad. 

 

30 LGBTQ+ Friendly Cruises

This season embark on a LGBTQ+ dining experience as you marvel at the spectacular skyline from the water before or after the city’s Pride March. 

 

Spirit of Philadelphia

 

31 It’s a Sail-A-Bration

City Cruises offers special promotions all summer long in support of the Spirit of Philadelphia’s 40th anniversary. 

 

32 Wave Goodbye to Stress

Embark on a stress-free journey where you will be treated to culinary excellence, lively entertainment, and showstopping views while enjoying those you love most on a dining cruise. 

 

33 Make a Splash as You Entertain Clients

Impress your clients with the city’s best sights, first-class service, and exceptional hospitality. Spirit of Philadelphia is equipped with private deck space for sensitive meeting topics as well. 

 

34 Grab Your Bestie

Thinking about taking in the city’s sights with your BFF? City Cruises has you covered with an epic dining cruise that will take you away from it all as you indulge in dining, dancing, and laughter while sharing cocktails onboard. 

 

35 Boys’ Night Out

Get out on the water for an epic boys’ night out, and kick back and relax while we keep the spirits flowing and the good times rolling in, allowing you to “cheers” to good times in Philadelphia. 

 

36 Single and Ready to Mingle

2 women talking during a bridal shower

Single and ready to mingle – Think outside the box and get aboard a City Cruises yacht and let yourself become open to possibilities. Take in the scenery, sip on a cocktail, and indulge your culinary senses as you welcome the good vibes. 

 

37 People Who Lunch

Revel in the city’s magnificent skyline on this casual afternoon out aboard a Signature Lunch Cruise. Enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet and gorgeous views of Philadelphia’s architecture. Let the good times roll with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ for a one-of-a-kind day. 

 

38 I Like Big Buses!

I like big buses! – Experience the unique history and beauty of Philly with this incredible one-day bus tour. Climb aboard and enjoy the history, cultural attractions, dining, and shopping along the route. 

 

39 Celebrate the Mom in Your Life

This Mother’s Day, celebrate with a one-of-a-kind celebration on the Delaware River with three options to choose from for your mom. Treat her to a lavish meal and sweeping views of Philadelphia’s most iconic landmarks as you make treasured memories on a Mother’s Day Signature Brunch Cruise, a Mother’s Day Signature Afternoon Brunch Cruise, or a Mother’s Day Dinner Cruise. You will not be disappointed, and neither will she. 

 

40 What Do You Get Dear Old Dad?

You are in luck with two options from which to choose for the father in your life. Embark on a Father’s Day Signature Brunch Cruise or a Father’s Day Signature Dinner Cruise and gather your crew in the perfect way to celebrate this year. Create family memories as you dine and dance on the Delaware River for much more than a meal. 

 

Spirit of Philadelphia aerial vessel

 

Set Sail Aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia This Season and Celebrate 40 Years  

The Spirit of Philadelphia is a three-level yacht-style dining vessel with interior climate-controlled dining decks and an exterior observation deck. Touted as the city’s most unique and entertaining vessel for decades, enjoy or host a function for up to 550 people as we celebrate 40 years of providing the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Breathtaking skyline views, delicious dining, and attentive service as well as entertainment will elevate any event or celebration. Join us for a birthday, anniversary, corporate meeting, or simply to enjoy a day or evening on the water as you savor Philly’s historic waterfront. We cannot wait to welcome you aboard! 

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