Philadelphia Yacht Cruises with Ben Franklin Yacht - Philadelphia

Philadelphia Yacht Cruises with Ben Franklin Yacht

Philadelphiaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves minimal physical exertion and access is primarily flat with some stairs.

Overview

Step aboard the Ben Franklin Yacht for festive river cruises in Philadelphia, featuring brunches, holiday celebrations, and nightlife vibes on the Delaware River. Discover why these cruises have become a unique city waterfront experience.

Details

Philadelphia’s waterfront comes alive aboard the Ben Franklin Yacht, a standout vessel offering a suite of social cruises perfectly suited for both locals and visitors who want to experience the city from the Delaware River. Unlike a typical sightseeing boat, the Ben Franklin Yacht focuses on a curated mix of festive events—from Sunday Brunch Cruises and Happy Hour gatherings to special celebrations like the Mother’s Day Mimosa Brunch, Fourth of July Cruise, and lively New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruises.

Moored in the heart of Philadelphia, one of the nation’s most historic cities, this yacht serves up more than just scenic skyline views. The decks of the Ben Franklin Yacht immerse guests in a vibrant atmosphere where top-tier hospitality pairs with thoughtful entertainment, including live DJs and thematic music nights like Yacht Rock Live. Whether you’re in the mood to sip bottomless mimosas during a daytime cruise or soak up the golden hour glow winding down an afternoon on the water, these bookable experiences create a rich, engaging way to connect with the city’s evolving riverfront culture.

The yacht’s interior is designed for comfort, offering multiple decks to choose either a relaxed, quiet vibe or a livelier party setting. Buffet-style dining complements the experience with fresh-crafted offerings that earn particular praise during brunch services, though guests should expect a casual dining setup rather than a formal restaurant fare. The crew delivers attentive service, tailored to ensure smooth transitions between lively moments and chill downtime.

For Philadelphia’s outdoor enthusiasts and city lovers alike, Ben Franklin Yacht introduces a different kind of adventure—one that combines waterfront views, easy social access, and a dynamic calendar of cruises catering to celebrations of all kinds. It’s a distinct way to enjoy the Delaware River’s seasonal change and bring a waterfront gathering to life without leaving the city’s vibrant core.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Boarding

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and settle in before the cruise sets sail.

Dress for Waterfront Weather

Layers are key—river breezes can become cool even in summer evenings, so bring a light jacket or sweater.

Buffet Accessibility

Food stations are mainly on the lower deck; be prepared to move between levels for dining if seated upstairs.

Savor the Views

Choose a seat on the outer decks for unobstructed skyline and river views, ideal for photography and sunset watching.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The promenade near Penn’s Landing where local vendors often set up pop-ups during cruise events
  • Small coves along the Delaware River offering quiet reflections and birdwatching

Wildlife

  • Great blue herons
  • river otters occasionally spotted swimming nearby

History

Philadelphia’s waterfront has long been a center of commerce and culture, with Penn’s Landing named for William Penn’s historic arrival in 1682.

Conservation

The yacht operates with attention to minimizing waste and protecting river water quality during all cruises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
sunset
nighttime for city lights

Best Viewpoints

  • Upper deck rails facing Philadelphia skyline
  • Bow (front) of the yacht
  • Along the starboard side during sunset

What to Photograph

City skyline
river reflections
fireworks displays

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket

Essential

Spring evenings can cool quickly on the water, so a light jacket keeps you comfortable.

spring specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin during sunny daytime cruises while enjoying the city sights.

summer specific

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Capture stunning Philadelphia skyline views and dynamic moments from the decks.

Non-slip Shoes

Shoes with good grip are helpful for moving safely between decks and on potentially wet surfaces.

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