Three-hour dinner cruises are timed to provide the best views of the sunset. In the month of February, cruises dock at 6:30 p.m. The website and ticket office maintain up-to-date information about cruise times throughout the year. Guests may observe seals, sea lions and dolphins year-round. Whales are a common sight during their migration period of December through April.
Hornblower operates several yachts, the largest of which is the Inspiration, accommodating up to 1,000 dinner guests. The dinner capacity of Lord Hornblower is 500 guests. Pacific Hornblower and High Spirits seat approximately 150 each, and the Emerald Hornblower serves up to 90. Each of the ships has an enclosed dining area and an outdoor deck.
Guests celebrating a special occasion, such as an anniversary, bar or bat mitzvah, or birthday, may purchase balloons, tableside champagne, specialty table linens, and unique desserts.
Upon boarding, cruisers receive a glass of champagne or sparkling cider to sip while watching the sunset. Dinner is served at a private table for each party. After dinner, guests dance to music provided by a DJ.
A typical dinner includes a fresh green salad, sirloin garnished with seasoned butter, roasted chicken breast with balsamic glaze, potatoes, mixed fresh vegetables and a roll. Guests may choose to purchase upgraded options, such as filet mignon or salmon. Appetizers, wine, beer and specialty cocktails, such as the Sunset Colada, are also available for purchase. Coffee and cheesecake are included. Guests may upgrade to crème brulee or a specialty chocolate creation.
Individuals may reserve one of the yachts, such as the Newport, which seats 80, or the Renown, accommodating 40 guests, for a private cruise with family and friends. The host may choose to serve dinner or appetizers and cocktails. Themed cruises, such as Viva Las Vegas and Murder Mystery, are popular. Hornblower will arrange for entertainers for private parties. Caricature artists, comedians and cabaret singers are some of the choices.
Hornblower offers special holiday dinner cruises. The Valentine's evening Romance Dinner Cruise features a decorated yacht and optional flowers, candy and balloons. Memorial Day is celebrated with a BBQ cruise. Cruisers enjoy a clear view of fireworks from the top deck of a yacht on Independence Day. In December, guests enjoy a buffet dinner while watching the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights on the bay. Other holidays, such as New Year's Day, Easter and Mother's Day, are celebrated with brunch cruises.
Hornblower Cruises Ticket Booth
1066 N. Harbor Dr.
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 686-8700
www.hornblower.com
