Skip the VIP upgrade on Hornblower.

Only worth it if you’re a big group or really hate standing at a bar. Otherwise, the standard ticket gives you the same views, same boat, same cruise — just without the priority line.

The upgrade typically gets you early boarding (so you can grab a table) and a separate bar. That’s it. On a sightseeing cruise, everyone ends up on the same decks looking at the same skyline. The “dedicated” bar often has the same drinks at the same prices, just a shorter queue.

If you’re going on a sunset dinner cruise or a special event where seating matters and lines get long, the upgrade might feel nice. But for a standard harbor tour or cocktail cruise? The standard ticket works fine. Spend the extra cash on a better drink instead.