It was Wednesday. Mid-fall. The kind of day that usually ends with takeout and scrolling. Until we swapped routine for cocktails, candlelight, and skyline views.
But instead, we found ourselves boarding the Toronto Odyssey, sipping cocktails under twinkling fairy lights, and dancing into the night with the skyline glowing behind us.
City Cruises’ Holiday Dinner Cruise is officially our new favourite way to kick off the festive season — and not just because it turned our regular Wednesday into an instant rom-com montage.
This floating dreamscape runs throughout the fall, with festive-themed cruises starting Nov. 28 through Dec. 21 and offers everything from killer views and vibes to dinner and dance. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out, a cozy hang with friends, or a fun team party that isn’t just awkward small talk over sliders, this cruise delivers.
Setting sail on the holiday vibe
As we stepped aboard, we were warmly greeted by the crew captain. The ship itself was decked out like a Pinterest board come to life with Christmas trees, glowing garlands, fairy lights — the works.
There were couples, friend groups, and a few corporate crews — proof that this isn’t just for lovebirds (though we won’t lie, it makes a pretty perfect date night).
Beats, bites, and big holiday energy
We started with dinner in the dining room, where the friendly crew helped us snag a cozy window-side table. You do have to pay an extra $25 for those, but trust us, the views are totally worth it! The menu offers classic seasonal fare with a twist, including vegetarian and vegan options that don’t taste like afterthoughts.
I went with the green salad, which was fresh and full of flavour, while my spouse ordered a butternut squash soup that tasted like autumn in a bowl. For mains, there was braised beef short rib, seared Atlantic salmon, honey-sesame chicken, and a vegetable coconut curry. I went veggie, he went chicken, both were delicious. We did consider licking the plates but chose dignity instead.
And yes, dessert absolutely came through with mini cheesecakes, chocolate truffle mousse cups, fresh fruits, and other sweet bites.
Blankets, brews and skyline views
With our bellies full, we explored the rest of the ship, which spans three levels. The second floor has a sleeker, more corporate dinner vibe (still great music, still great views). And the rooftop deck is where the magic happens.
Plush couches, soft lighting, and that stunning view of the Toronto skyline all lit up? Unreal. We snagged a spot on one of the outward-facing couches, wrapped ourselves in a borrowed blanket (yes, they have those!), and sipped on hot coffee like it was the final scene of a Netflix holiday special.
Also, major props to my spouse-slash-photographer for capturing all the best angles. The lifebuoy photo op is a must!
TL;DR: It’s a whole vibe
From the skyline views to the vibe-y music, cozy holiday décor, and surprisingly great food, this cruise wasn’t just about dinner — it was an entire experience. One that we didn’t want to end.
If you’re looking for a way to kickstart the holiday season in Toronto, this is it. And if you’re more of a sunshine-and-scrambled-eggs type, City Cruises Toronto also runs premium buffet brunches and lavish three-course lunch cruises, featuring buffet spreads, daytime skyline views, and the same top-tier vibes.
A 2.5-hour cruise around Toronto with a three-course dinner (or buffet brunch), live DJ entertainment, incredible skyline views and rooftop access starting as low as $85. Yes, it’s a steal, but here’s the kicker — you can use code HOLIDAY20 to get 20% off all fall and winter dining cruises. Head over to the City Cruises website to set sail!
Just FYI, in case you’re looking for a next-level holiday party, you can book a single deck or even the entire vessel for a private celebration.
Kiran Kaur
Branded Content Manager
Kiran Kaur is an imaginative storyteller who can mix the perfect cocktail of words for any topic. With 14 years of writing and journalism experience, she’s always on the road to finding the next adventure. When not writing, she’s busy road-tripping, collecting novelty coffee mugs and acing arguments with her hubby.
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