Quick answer
Arrive 30 minutes early, have your boarding photo taken and check in for your assigned table. The buffet opens as you board and stays out for about 30 minutes after sailing; then the DJ opens the dance floor. Dessert, coffee and tea are set out separately, and the bar is cashless.
If you've never been on a Gateway Clipper dinner cruise, here's what makes it such a special way to spend an evening on Pittsburgh's three rivers. Our crew welcomes and serves guests aboard every week, and we can tell you it's more than just dinner: it's a night you'll want to relive again and again.
Arrival and boarding
Plan to arrive at the Station Square dock about 30 minutes before departure (boats leave on time). As you head to the boat, our photo team will snap a boarding picture of your group: a great keepsake from your night on the water. You can buy it that evening, or pre-purchase it when you book.
When you check in, you'll get your assigned table, so you can settle in and enjoy the view as the boat gets ready to depart. Seating on dining cruises is assigned, and larger cruises may seat your party at a shared banquet table.
The buffet opens as you board
The buffet is available as soon as you board, with a tempting spread of entrées, sides and salads, all prepared by our culinary team and brought aboard. We always suggest grabbing a plate early so you can relax and savor your meal while the skyline begins to sparkle. Each cruise has its own menu; you'll find it on the cruise page, like the Captain's Dinner Dance Cruise or the Skyline Dinner Cruise.
Drinks from the bar
A full-service bar is on board, so your favorite cocktail, beer or glass of wine is never far away. Ask the bartenders about the weekly special. You must be 21+ with a valid photo ID to drink alcohol. We're a completely cashless operation on board: pay with a card, Apple Pay or Google Pay when you order. Coffee and hot tea come with dinner. (More in our drink menu guide.)
Then the dance floor opens
About 30 minutes into the cruise, our crew clears the buffet to make room for the dance floor. That's when the DJ turns up the music, the lights dim and the celebration kicks into high gear. Whether you're dancing with friends, clapping along at your table or just soaking in the atmosphere, it's hard not to join the fun.
Dessert at your own pace
Dessert is set out on a separate table for you to enjoy whenever you like. Grab a slice of cheesecake between songs, or take something sweet out on deck while the city glows around you. And don't forget to stop by our photo team to pick up the keepsake photo from the start of your evening.
A few tips before you go
- Dress code: dressy casual for dinner cruises. See what to wear on a Gateway Clipper cruise.
- Ages: the Captain's Dinner Dance Cruise is recommended for 18+; the Skyline Dinner Cruise welcomes all ages.
- Parking and arrival: see Plan Your Visit.
From the first click of the camera to the last song on the dance floor, every detail of a Gateway Clipper dinner cruise is designed to make your night smooth, delicious and unforgettable. Come aboard and see Pittsburgh from the best seat in the city: right on the water.
Frequently asked questions
When is dinner served on a Gateway Clipper dinner cruise?
The buffet is available as soon as you board. Food remains out for 30 minutes after sailing, so we suggest grabbing a plate early.
Do we get our own table?
Seating on dining cruises is assigned. We reserve the right to seat your party at a shared banquet table.
Can I pay cash for drinks on board?
No. Onboard purchases are cashless: major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay. Drinkers must be 21+ with a valid photo ID.
How early should I arrive?
Please arrive 30 minutes before departure. Boats leave on time and cannot return for late guests.
