FAQS
What is the dress attire?
Dress to enjoy the vibrant, theatrical dining experience that is Spirit of Norfolk. Please see our recommended dress by cruise type below.
Dinner Cruises:
For men, appropriate attire includes slacks and a polo or button down shirt. For women, nice slacks, Capri pants or a sundress is recommended. We discourage jeans, sneakers and T-shirts.
All Other Cruises :
Casual Attire. Shirts and shoes are always required. No bathing suits.
What is the difference between “Boarding Time” & “Cruising Time”?
“Boarding Time” is the earliest you and your guests may board the ship. Our lunch cruises typically begin boarding one half hour prior to boarding and our dinner cruises an hour prior.
You are free to board anytime after that up until the “Cruise Time”. The ship will leave port at the “Cruise Time”. No boarding will be allowed once the ship has set sail.
May I bring my own camera or photographer on board?
Guests are more than welcome to bring their own camera for personal pictures aboard the ship. In addition, as you are boarding, the ship’s photographer records the moment for your entire party. These photos may be pre-purchased for your group or purchased independently upon departure. If your group has purchased a full deck or full ship charter you may bring your own photographer on board.
What is your cancellation policy?
All purchases are final and non-refundable. We cruise rain or shine throughout the year.
Are there any age requirements to cruise?
Children are welcome on most of our cruises. Children under 3 are complimentary and a discount is offered for children between the ages of 3 and 12 on select Brunch and Lunch Cruises. A discount is not available for our Dinner Cruises. No one under the age of 21 will be permitted on our Moonlight Cruises.
Is there a coat check available onboard the ship?
Coat Check Service is available for purchase for deck and ship charters.
Is the vessel Coast Guard certified?
The Spirit of Norfolk is Coast Guard certified and regularly maintained to adhere to strict safety regulations.
What is our cruise route?
Sailing routes may vary. Weather permitting, Spirit of Norfolk departs from Otter Berth at Town Point Park next to The Waterside Mall and generally cruises the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor past the Norfolk skyline and the Norfolk Naval Base where you can see the mighty ships and aircraft carriers of the Atlantic Fleet when they are in port.
What do you offer guests with special dietary needs?
The Spirit of Norfolk can accommodate various dietary needs such as Vegetarian and Kosher. However, these options must be served as a plated meal (rather than buffet), and therefore require advance notice: 48 hours for Vegetarian and two weeks for Kosher.
What type of Entertainment do you have?
Day or night, Spirit is alive with entertainment. While you relax on our vibrant decks, enjoy your meal and take in the endless stream of city sights, allow us to delight you with live performances. Our talented staff will engage you with wonderful renditions of your favorites. Once you've finished your plentiful buffet meal, the cruise kicks into high gear when the Spirit DJ spins your favorite Top-40 hits and you show off your latest moves on our dance floor.
Do you offer Gift Certificates?
Yes, Gift Certificates are available for purchase in increments of $50, $100, $250 and $500 or for any cruise type. Certificates for specific cruise types are not valid for holidays or special events.
What size groups can the Spirit of Norfolk accommodate?
Spirit of Norfolk can host up to 450 guests.
Is the vessel handicap accessible?
The Spirit of Norfolk is wheelchair accessible. Our 1st deck is acessible to wheelchair and provides handicap-accessible restrooms. It is important that you inform us in advance if you are bringing guests in wheelchairs or guests who may need special assistance in any way so that we can ensure seating on our 1st deck.
Can we bring wrapped gifts or packages onboard?
Yes, gifts are allowed onboard our vessel. However, WE DO NOT ALLOW WRAPPED PACKAGES to be carried onto the ship. This policy is in ordinance with Homeland Security Marine safety regulations. Therefore, please bring your giftunwrapped, in its original packaging, or use a gift bag that can
easily be searched.
Can you recommend a hotel in the area?
Yes, we recommend the Marriott Hotel: (757) 627.4200, the Sheraton Hotel: (757) 622.6664 and the Courtyard Marriott: (757) 963.6000. For more complete information, you can call the Norfolk Visitor's Bureau: (757) 664.6620.
Where and how much is parking?
There is convinient parking in the Waterside Garage, located one block from the ship, and also at the Town Point Garage, located at the intersection of Waterside Drive and Main Street. Fees range from $5 - $15 per car delpending on the day of the week and any special waterfront events.
When is my final passenger count due?
A final count is due 30 days prior to the cruise. This count may not be lowered after this point. However, counts may be increased up to 72 hours in advance based on our availability and must be paid in full at the time of service. Full-ship charters must submit final counts 60 days prior to cruising.
When are my deposits and final payments due?
A 25% deposit is required 48 hours after placing your reservation for your group. Final payments are due 30 days prior to the event. Full-ship charters must submit final payment 60 days prior to cruising. There are no refunds after final payments.
Is there a phone on board that receives calls? Will my cell phone work on the cruise?
The Spirit of Norfolk does not have a phone for use by guests. However, most cellular services are available on the water. For the comfort of other guests, we recommend cell phone use on the outside decks only.
How can I make reservations?
For parties of 20 or more, please contact our group sales department at 866.451.3866 or complete our group questionnaire.
Are there restrooms on board Spirit of Norfolk?
Yes, there are restrooms available on the ship.
Is seasickness ever a problem?
Seasickness is rarely a problem. The waterways where we sail are simply not that rough, and our ship is designed to ride smoothly. If you are VERY sensitive to seasickness, you may want to take the necessary precautions just to be on the safe side.
When does the season end?
Spirit of Norfolk cruises all year round! In fact, December is one of our most popular months due to the many Holiday Parties we have aboard. We also cruise for both New Year’s Eve and Valentines Day!
Can you tell me a little about the ship?
The Spirit of Norfolk is spaciously designed with two climate-controlled interior decks, outdoor strolling decks at the bow and stern, and the largest outdoor patio deck in Norfolk. It is a handicap accessible and Coast Guard approved vessel for up to 450passengers. Amenities include full service bars, two dance floors (or staging areas), spacious restrooms, flexible seating arrangements and huge panoramic windows.
Is smoking allowed on the cruise?
All interior areas of our ship are non-smoking. Guests who smoke may do so on the outdoor observation decks only.
When will I receive my tickets?
Tickets can be obtained 1½ hours prior to cruising at our Ticket Booth, which is located on the dock next to our ship. However, in certain circumstances, guests can sign-out their tickets ahead of time by coming to Spirit of Norfolk’s Sales Office during normal business hours.
Is a tip for the servers included in the ticket price?
Tip is only required on bar drinks that you purchase on the ship.
Do you sail in inclement weather? What if it rains or snows?
We sail in all types of weather. Our two climate-controlled indoor decks shield you from outdoor conditions. However, our Ticket Booth and Boarding areas are not sheltered, so please dress appropriately. In the event of severe storms, please contact our Sales Office to get up to the minute information.
