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Sunset Dinner Cruise - practical travel guide with honest advice.
This 2.5-hour evening cruise departs at dusk from Trent Bridge pier and follows the Trent as daylight fades and city lights come up. You'll enjoy a two-course meal (vegetarian options available) served in the cabin while the boat drifts past Nottingham Castle, illuminated bridges, and riverside buildings. Window tables offer the best views; book early for preferred seating. Fully licensed bar serves drinks at additional cost. Best for couples and special occasions. This is a easy activity lasting 2.5 hours. Group size: 2–60. You meet at Trent Bridge pier. Key highlights: Two-course meal included with city views from the water, Watch Nottingham Castle and landmarks transform as city lights come on, Fully licensed bar with beers, wines, and spirits available.
Price: £28
Duration: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: easy
Group size: 2–60
Minimum age: all ages
Best for: couples and special occasions
Best time: May to August for longest daylight and warmest evenings; book Friday or Saturday nights for best availability
Meeting point: Trent Bridge pier
Languages: English
Here is how the experience unfolds:
Arrival 30 min before departure Check in at Trent Bridge pier and find your allocated table - Staff direct you to your seating; window tables offer panoramic views as dusk approaches.
Departure (around 7pm–8pm, seasonal) Boat departs and cruise begins as the sun sets - Crew points out landmarks as natural light shifts to city illumination.
Minutes 15–45 First course served while passing Nottingham Castle - Castle is floodlit from 7pm onwards; views are best from starboard-side tables.
Minutes 45–90 Boat cruises through the city while second course is served - You'll pass illuminated Victorian warehouses, Trent Bridge lit up, and riverside regeneration areas.
Minutes 90–120 Dessert and coffee service; slower pace allows more time to enjoy the views - Bar remains open; order additional drinks at your table.
Final 30 min Boat returns to Trent Bridge pier as the evening winds down - Last chance to photograph the illuminated skyline before disembarkation.
The whole experience takes 2.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Trent Bridge pier.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Price | £28 |
| Duration | 2.5 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Group size | 2–60 |
| Minimum age | all ages |
| Meeting point | Trent Bridge pier |
| Languages | English |
| Cancellation | Free cancellation up to 7 days before departure; £10 fee for 3–7 day cancellations; non-refundable within 72 hours |
| Accessibility | Step-free entry to dining cabin. Wheelchair users can be accommodated with advance notice. Contact operator to confirm accessibility at your assigned table. |
What is included: 2.5-hour evening cruise, Two-course meal (vegetarian option available), Table service, Water during meal.
Not included: Alcoholic drinks (available at bar for additional cost), Soft drinks beyond water, Gratuities, Pre-dinner or post-dinner entertainment. You will need to arrange these yourself.
What to bring: Smart casual attire (jacket recommended for men, no trainers), Camera for evening photography, Cash or card for bar purchases, Any special dietary requirements confirmation. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.
Best time to go: May to August for longest daylight and warmest evenings; book Friday or Saturday nights for best availability.
Tip: Weekend evenings only
Tip: Book ahead for window tables
Accessibility: Step-free entry to dining cabin. Wheelchair users can be accommodated with advance notice. Contact operator to confirm accessibility at your assigned table..
Operator: Princess River Cruises
After this activity, these are within easy reach:
This activity is run by Princess River Cruises.
Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 7 days before departure; £10 fee for 3–7 day cancellations; non-refundable within 72 hours.
Accessibility: Step-free entry to dining cabin. Wheelchair users can be accommodated with advance notice. Contact operator to confirm accessibility at your assigned table..
Best time to go: May to August for longest daylight and warmest evenings; book Friday or Saturday nights for best availability.
Yes. Window tables are highly sought after. Request them when booking and confirm again 48 hours before departure. Early bookings increase your chances of getting starboard-side seating with the best castle views.
Two courses are included; typical menus feature fish, meat, and vegetarian mains with seasonal vegetables. Notify the operator of allergies, veganism, or religious dietary requirements at least 5 days in advance for accommodation.
Smart casual is expected. Jackets recommended for men; no trainers or beachwear. Women typically wear dresses, skirts, or smart trousers. The setting is more relaxed than fine dining, but neat appearance is appreciated.
Yes. Window tables are highly sought after. Request them when booking and confirm again 48 hours before departure. Early bookings increase your chances of getting starboard-side seating with the best castle views.
Two courses are included; typical menus feature fish, meat, and vegetarian mains with seasonal vegetables. Notify the operator of allergies, veganism, or religious dietary requirements at least 5 days in advance for accommodation.
Smart casual is expected. Jackets recommended for men; no trainers or beachwear. Women typically wear dresses, skirts, or smart trousers. The setting is more relaxed than fine dining, but neat appearance is appreciated.
Best for: families with children under 12
Best for: first-time visitors wanting city overview
Best for: history enthusiasts and canal boat fans
Best for: those interested in waterway engineering and nature
Live availability from our partner Viator