day cruise washington dc

Sightseeing and Dining Cruises

City cruises.

City Cruises (formerly known as Hornblower Cruises & Events) offers water experiences beyond compare. Choose from a variety of cruises including: dinner cruises, brunch cruises, lunch cruises, cocktail cruises, sightseeing cruises, and holiday cruises. All of the vessels are conveniently docked at The Wharf, giving you the perfect launch point to explore the nation’s capital from the water.

Odyssey Savor delicious entrees and desserts as this glass-enclosed vessel drifts by the sights—accompanied by a relaxing atmosphere and live music.

Spirit of Washington Cruises A unique mix of dining, entertainment, and views, Spirit of Washington offers offers lunch, dinner, and holiday cruises, plus a variety of themed cruises.

Elite Private Yachts Host your own event or plan an unforgettable jaunt on the Potomac by chartering one of our two private yachts. Our sleek vessels are the perfect backdrop for weddings and other special occasions.

Water Taxi   Come to The Wharf’s Transit Pier to catch a ride on the Water Taxi to Georgetown in DC, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, or National Harbor in Maryland—and enjoy the scenic views of the nation’s capital from the Potomac. Sightseeing Cruises See the famous monuments of Washington, DC from an entirely new perspective on this narrated sightseeing cruise. You’ll travel along the Potomac River while taking in breathtaking views of the Washington monuments and famous landmarks.

Sightseeing cruises depart from Transit Pier (970 Wharf St SW). Dining cruises (all others) depart from Pier 4 ( 580 Water St SW ).

Learn about Getting to The Wharf , including metro and parking directions.

Get Your Fill at The Wharf

Fresh seafood is a given on the waterfront. But The Wharf offers more, including a wide selection of distinctive choices for food, drinks, and entertainment while you eat. Watch the chefs prepare your meal. Listen to music. Or just people-watch while you savor the flavors of The Wharf.

Do It All on the Waterfront

Whether you like to be on the Potomac or prefer the sparkling views from land, The Wharf offers ample things to do and ways to enjoy the water. Dine in one of our fabulous restaurants. Browse our shops. Or join us during one of our festivals. Take a look at our upcoming events to plan your next visit.

CAPITOL RIVER CRUISES

Celebrating over 30 years on the potomac, what we offer, our sightseeing tours are our most popular. cruise down the potomac river while enjoying historical narration on the landmarks, monuments and memorials. our vessels are also available for private charters great for any type of event, we've done it all.

Sightseeing Tours

Private Charters

Crab Feast Charters

(Only available for private charters)

Specialty Cruises

Our Gallery

Capitol River Cruises is a small family owned and operated Tour Boat Agency that has been cruising on the Potomac River in Washington, DC for 29 years!

We offer Sightseeing Boat Tours, Crab Feast Charters, Custom Private Charters and various types of Specialty Cruises. Our everyday Sightseeing Cruises are 45 minutes long. We depart every hour on the hour from Washington Harbor in Georgetown, cruise past the 14th St. Bridges and turn around near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. You'll learn all about the history of Washington, DC monuments, memorials, statues and the surrounding area. Our crab feast charters & custom private charters are perfect for company outings, birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, celebrations, etc. Any type of event really, we've done it all!

What our customers had to say!

Had an awesome time. Great way to let your feet rest from all the walking. We even got to bring our pup & he loved it. Had a nice glass of wine and enjoyed the breeze from the water. I recommend this tour it’s a different way to see the monuments and memorials without walking a million miles.

-Alexis Suarez

We had an amazing time! We scheduled the Crab Boat for a ladies day out on the Potomac. The crew was very friendly and funny. The Captain played great music. The crabs were delicious! Even the side dishes were good. The weather was perfect. We would definitely cruise with them again.

-S. Haskins

Sightseeing Guide

THE 10 BEST Washington DC Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in washington dc.

• Boat Rentals
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Speed Boats Tours
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Water Sports
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Gondola Cruises
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Swim with Dolphins
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Washington Monument
• Potomac River
• John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
• City Cruises Washington DC - Pier 4
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Potomac River Cruise, Entry Tickets

2. VIP Mount Vernon Day Trip & Potomac River Cruise

3. Washington: Potomac River Cruise & Guided Georgetown Walking Tour

4. Washington DC Signature Scenic Lunch Cruise

5. Potomac River Cruise & City Bus Tour with Optional Entry Tickets

6. Water Taxi from Wharf or Old Town Alexandria

7. Sight DC with 10+ Stops including Jefferson Memorial, White House

8. Washington DC Signature Dinner Cruise

9. Washington DC Premier Brunch Cruise

10. Private Yacht Tour along Washington DC Waterfront

11. Potomac River Cruise & City Bus Tour with Optional Entry Tickets

12. Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise

13. Sunset Cruise (Private) in Washington DC - Reflections DC

14. Private Luxury Yacht Tour of Washington DC Historic Sites

15. DC Combo: City Bus Tour, Seasonal Cruise, US Capitol Hill

16. Washington DC Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise

17. Washington DC 4th of July Plated Dinner Cruise

18. Washington DC Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise

19. Washington DC Father's Day Afternoon Buffet Brunch Cruise

20. Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise

21. Washington DC Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise

22. Washington DC New Year's Day Premier Brunch Cruise

23. Washington DC Christmas Eve Plated Dinner Cruise

24. Washington DC Christmas Eve Brunch Buffet Cruise

25. Washington DC 4th of July Dinner Buffet Cruise

What travelers are saying.

• Washington DC Signature Scenic Lunch Cruise
• DC in a Day: City Bus Tour, River Cruise, Optional Entry Tickets
• Sight DC with 10+ Stops including Jefferson Memorial, White House
• Potomac River Cruise & City Bus Tour with Optional Entry Tickets
• Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise
• VIP YACHTS CHARTERS USA
• #1 Washington(USA)-Tanzania | Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Hiking agency| BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS LTD
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Washington DC Sightseeing Cruises

Michael Lee / Getty Images

Washington, DC sightseeing cruises are a nice way to relax and capture great photographs of the nation’s capital along the Potomac River.  These boat tours are most fun during the warmer months of the year when you can get out on the deck to see panoramic views of some of the region’s most popular landmarks, such as the Kennedy Center , the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Navy Yard, and more. A variety of types of cruises are available and depart from Georgetown, the Southwest Waterfront , ​ Alexandria , Mount Vernon  and National Harbor .

Themed cruises and special promotions are available seasonally for Valentine’s Day, Cherry Blossom season, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, 4 th of July, New Year’s Eve and more. 

Riverboat Rides on the Potomac

Riverboat cruises are the most affordable excursions on the Potomac River and travel past some of the Washington DC area’s most famous landmarks. Cruises run several times a day, weather permitting.

Capitol River Cruises - Departing from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour, the cruise company offers 45-minute narrated boat rides as well as private charters and crab feast tours.

DC Cruises - Departing from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour, the cruises include Sunset/Happy Hour Tours, Monuments By Moonlight, DJ Nights, and special events like crab feasts, fall foliage cruises, and cherry blossom tours. Cruises run rain or shine. This company provides water taxi service between Georgetown and the National Mall and to Nationals Park throughout the baseball season.

Potomac Riverboat Company - Based in Alexandria, VA, the tour company has a fleet of unique boats including the authentic split sternwheeler The Cherry Blossom, the Admiral Tilp, The Matthew Hayes, the Miss Christin, and the Miss Mallory. Excursions include The Washington Monuments Cruise, Alexandria Seaport Cruise, Mount Vernon Cruise, Pirates Cruise, and Canine Cruise. This company also provides water taxi service between Alexandria, VA, the National Mall, and National Harbor, MD. Potomac Riverboat Company operates the Baseball Boat to provide transportation from Alexandria to Nationals Park during the baseball season.

Lunch and Dinner Cruises in Washington, DC

Lunch and dinner cruises include a gourmet meal and live entertainment aboard a luxury vessel. Passengers enjoy beautiful views of Washington, DC’s monuments and famous landmarks. Cruises depart from the Gangplank Marina at 6th and Water Streets or from National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Reservations are recommended. These two- or three-hour cruises provide popular venues for parties and corporate events. 

Odyssey Cruises - The glass-enclosed ship offers panoramic views and the most upscale experience of the region’s cruises. Dinners are a three-course seated meal (buffet for larger groups). A live band performs. Larger groups can reserve a private deck. The cruise departs from Southwest DC and can sail from National Harbor for an additional fee.  

Spirit Cruises - The cruise includes a buffet, DJ, dancing, and monumental views. Larger groups can reserve a private deck. The Spirit of Washington departs from Southwest DC and can sail from National Harbor for an additional fee. The Spirit of Mount Vernon provides round-trip transportation with a discounted admission to Mount Vernon. Boxed lunch is available for purchase. Private charter is also available (including buffet). 

DC Cruises - Crab Feasts - These excursions for groups of 25-75 people include bushels of crabs and shrimp picked up fresh at the seafood wharf just before the cruise. The ship departs from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour. Large groups may depart from SW Washington DC, Alexandria, and National Harbor for an extra charge. Public crab cruises are also available.

Schooner Sailing on the Potomac River

DC Sail -  Departing from the Gangplank Marina in SW Washington DC, DC Sail provides sailing opportunities on its 65-foot schooner, the American Spirit, including Cherry Blossom Cruises, sunset sails, Boating & Baseball Excursions, and July 4 th Fireworks Cruises. DC Sail also provides educational, recreational, and competitive sailing programs for all ages. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, DC Sail relies upon the proceeds from American Spirit programming to help support their youth scholarship program for at-risk children in the DC area.

Private Yacht Charters in Washington DC

A variety of private charter cruises are available in Washington, DC. You can customize your own excursion for a private party, wedding, or corporate event.

Elite Private Yachts - Charters for groups of 25 to 100 depart from Washington DC and National Harbor. The Capital Elite and the National Elite are luxury yachts that can accommodate large groups.

Potomac Riverboat Company - Based in Alexandria, VA, the tour company has a fleet of unique boats that are available for private charter: The Cherry Blossom, the Admiral Tilp, The Matthew Hayes, the Miss Christin, and the Miss Mallory.

American Spirit - The National Maritime Heritage Foundation offers sailboat charters along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers. Boats depart from the Gangplank Marina in SW Washington, DC.

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Cruises in Washington DC

Cruises are an incredibly popular form of entertainment travel nowadays, and you needn’t be living near a large ocean to take advantage of one. Washington DC cruises vary in design and destination, some lasting for just hours while others continue for weeks and carry their passengers across many thousands of miles of water. Most of these cruises include on board entertainment, such as live musical performances, stand-up comedy and skits, and art and crafting events, to keep passengers entertained the entire time.

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Washington DC Fall Foliage Day Cruise

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Washington DC in the fall is a sight to be seen. This relaxing fall foliage cruise takes you along the Potomac River past DC???s most famous monuments…

Washington DC Scenic Lunch Cruise

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Cherry Blossom Lunch Buffet Cruise in Washington DC

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Open 365 days a year, Mount Vernon is located just 15 miles south of Washington DC.

From the mansion to lush gardens and grounds, intriguing museum galleries, immersive programs, and the distillery and gristmill. Spend the day with us!

Discover what made Washington "first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen".

The Mount Vernon Ladies Association has been maintaining the Mount Vernon Estate since they acquired it from the Washington family in 1858.

Need primary and secondary sources, videos, or interactives? Explore our Education Pages!

The Washington Library is open to all researchers and scholars, by appointment only.

Visit Mount Vernon by Boat

Travel down the Potomac River by boat to Mount Vernon.

Take a three-hour round-trip cruise to George Washington's estate (one-way cruises also available).

Listen to a narrated riverfront tour as you pass historic and modern landmarks, including the Washington Monument and U.S. Capitol.

Departs from  Washington, D.C.

• Alexandria, VA
• National Harbor

Includes general admission to Mount Vernon. 

Learn More & Book a Cruise

Take a Historic Journey

Throughout the 19th century, the Potomac River teemed with ships bringing both local residents and out-of-town visitors to George Washington’s historic estate.

A Royal Dedication

In 1991, Queen Elizabeth II dedicated the newly restored Mount Vernon wharf.

Tour the Mansion

Entry to the Mansion requires a tour time.

To reserve a Mansion tour, call (703) 780-2000 in advance of your visit. There is a $2 fee per tour.

You can also request a tour time at the ticket office after your arrival. However, there are a limited number of Mansion tours available, and tour tickets sell out early in the day.

Advance reservations are strongly recommended.

"A Lovely Trip"

We had just the right amount of time to see everything.

A great day out and one to remember!

– TripAdvisor Review , July 2019

Cruise to Mount Vernon

From D.C., Alexandria or National Harbor

Cruises from Washington, D.C.

Take a three-hour round-trip cruise aboard the Spirit of Mount Vernon from Washington, D.C.

Depart from the SW Waterfront and listen to a narrated riverfront tour as you pass historic and modern landmarks, including Old Town Alexandria, Ronald Reagan airport, and Fort Washington.

Breakfast, lunch, and various treats and beverages are available while on board.

This tour includes general admission to Mount Vernon with a prearranged Mansion tour. One-way cruises are also available.

Take a three-hour round-trip cruise aboard the Spirit of Mount Vernon from Washington, D.C. Depart from the SW Waterfront and listen to a narrated riverfront tour as you pass historic and modern landmarks, including Old Town Alexandria, Ronald Reagan airport, and Fort Washington. Breakfast, lunch, and various treats and beverages are available while on board.

Cruising Schedule

Depart for mount vernon, depart for the wharf, sw waterfront, cruises from alexandria & national harbor.

Cruise down the Potomac from the Alexandria City Marina or National Harbor, MD, and take in spectacular views with onboard narration while on your way to Mount Vernon.

The three-hour round trip includes general admission to the estate, where you can spend four hours exploring the estate and enjoying a Mansion tour.

View highlights of Spirit of Mount Vernon Cruises

Already at Mount Vernon?

Take a 45-minute narrated cruise on the Potomac and experience George Washington's Mount Vernon from a different perspective.

Available seasonally.

• Wharf Policy
• Vessel Docking Agreement

Mount Vernon is located in northern Virginia, just a short drive from Washington, D.C.

For more information about things to do in Virginia, visit  Virginia.org , the official tourism website for the state of Virginia. You’ll find an overview of each region in Virginia, as well as information about cultural attractions, upcoming events, and where to stay. You can also purchase merchandise featuring the official Virginia slogan, “Virginia is for Lovers.”

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This 11-night Cruise Is the Only One in the World to Dock in Washington, D.C. — How to Get on Board

Meet American Cruise Line's American Revolution cruise.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

If you're looking to experience a little American history on your next vacation, look no further than American Cruise Lines' new American Revolution cruise. In 2018, the company became the first to dock in Washington, D.C. , in more than 60 years — and this year, it is upping its game. Now, it'll operate its 11-night itinerary round trip from Washington, D.C., instead of Baltimore.

Before embarking on the ship, guests sailing an American Revolutionary journey can stay at the Four Seasons Washington, D.C., for an overnight pre-trip. Then they'll board one of American Cruise Lines' new small ships American Constitution or American Glory for the voyage. The cruise will feature several of the company’s newest Coastal Cats catamarans sailing the itinerary in 2024-2025, each of which can sleep up to 100 passengers in 56 spacious cabins. (The cabins start at 300 square feet.)

After departing Washington, D.C. , guests will make three stops in Maryland, including one at Annapolis, where they can tour the U.S. Naval Academy on an excursion. Then it'll have a day at sea, followed by an overnight in Norfolk. (For excursions, guests can book a day trip to visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in North Carolina's Outer Banks or tour the MacArthur Memorial and Chrysler Museum of Art, among other options.)

Next up are visits to Virginia's “Historic Triangle,” including Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown. Finally, the ship will head for Mount Vernon, where guests can tour George Washington's famous home, before returning to Washington, D.C.

"American’s small U.S. ships offer guests opportunities to visit ports of call inaccessible by larger ships, plus itineraries that are the only cruises of their kind on the market; sailing fully in the U.S.A. throughout," Melissa Young, Director of Business Development at American Cruise Lines, said in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure . "The American Revolution cruises are a testament to what is only possible with American’s extraordinary fleet. And this itinerary also features a fabulous new option for the drive-to market, allowing many guests to skip flights and jump on board hassle-free."

Rates for the American Revolution Cruise start at $6,160; book your trip at americancruiselines.com .

Meet the only line that cruises from Washington, DC. Here’s where it’ll take you

Picture cruises from Washington, D.C., and you'll likely envision a behemoth like Royal Caribbean 's Icon of the Seas clogging up the Potomac River. Fortunately, that's not the case with the only ship to sail voyages from the U.S. capital.

American Cruise Lines — the largest river cruise line in the U.S., which operates small-ship voyages exclusively on U.S. rivers and coasts — has positioned two of its vessels, fittingly named American Constitution and American Glory, at The Wharf along D.C.'s southeast waterfront.

As the first ships in more than 60 years to sail round trip from that location, they take passengers along the Potomac and York rivers and into the Chesapeake Bay. Here's a rundown of when the cruises depart, how much they cost and where you'll stop along the way.

For more cruise guides, news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

When you can cruise from Washington, DC

These voyages, dubbed American Revolution itineraries, operate in the spring and fall, with the first voyage of 2024 setting sail on March 26, just in time for passengers to enjoy the area's famed cherry blossoms .

Sailings on both 100-passenger American Glory and 170-passenger ship American Constitution run on a regular 10-night rotation through early June and pick up again from early October to early November.

Where you can cruise from Washington, DC

If you're a history buff, you'll salivate over the places this itinerary will visit.

Your trip will begin with a pre-cruise package that includes a stay at the Four Seasons in Washington, D.C., where you can tour the Capitol Building and spend time at the Smithsonian museums.

After departing the capital, you'll stop in Annapolis, Maryland, home of the Naval Academy and a charming downtown area. Follow that up with highlights in Norfolk, Williamsburg and Yorktown, Virginia, where the Revolutionary War came to an end.

Finish off the trip with a call on Alexandria, Virginia, where you can spend a day exploring the historic old town, and a visit to Mount Vernon, the former home of George Washington.

How much are cruises from Washington, DC?

Prices start from $5,275 per person for a cabin with a window as part of a promotion the line is running, which includes fare discounts and free round-trip airfare if you're not someone who lives within driving distance of The Wharf. You can check more prices on the American Cruise Lines website .

Other cruise ports to consider

If you'd prefer a sailing on a larger oceangoing ship, the closest big-ship embarkation ports within a reasonable driving distance are Baltimore and Bayonne, New Jersey.

A variety of ships depart from those locations, including Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Legend and Carnival Pride and Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas from Baltimore. Liberty of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, as well as Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Eclipse, depart from Bayonne.

Norfolk, Virginia, is also a drive-to port for the D.C. area, but no large ships are scheduled to depart from there in 2024. Look for cruises on Carnival Sunshine in 2025.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

BOOK A DAZZLING NIGHT TOUR

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SEE THE SIGHTS BY ELECTRIC CART

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EMBARK ON A GUIDED DAY TRIP

Insider’s tip: send your taste buds around the world.

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TAKE A DEEP DIVE INTO U.S. POLITICS

Insider’s tip: return to the national mall, historic georgetown architecture tour, insider’s tip: pick up some presidential bagels.

• Casual Dining

INSIDER’S TIP: LUXURY SHOPPING AT M STREET

Retrace the steps of civil rights heroes, insider’s tip: upscale seafood at fiola mare, insider’s tip: hunt for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, accommodation options.

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How to Explore Washington, D.C. Like Vice President Kamala Harris, 2021:

The Top 10 City Hotels in Washington, D.C., 2020:

Venture Beyond the National Mall to See Some of Washington D.C.'s Most Compelling Corners, 2019:

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Valentine’s Day 2024 on the Water in Washington DC

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Washington DC

Valentine’s Premier Dinner Cruise

Valentine’s Premier Brunch Cruise

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The nation’s capital is all about American history, politics, presidents, museums, architecture, and even romance. Yes, Washington DC has a romantic side, and you will want to make sure to spend a very romantic Valentine’s Day in the District of Columbia.

Washington DC has a lot going on, and it’s not surprising since it’s the US capital. There are also some tidbits you might not know. For instance, it was “only partly named for the first president,” according to Reader’s Digest . George Washington never even lived in the capital. While there are definitely some fun facts about DC, it’s home to people who love the city and is a destination for travelers from all over the world. When speaking of love, DC is a great place to spend Valentine’s Day, an occasion not to be missed in this great city.

Valentine’s Brunch on the Water in Washington DC

If you are celebrating Valentine’s Day in DC and brunch is your thing, take it to the water on City Cruises’ Washington DC Valentine’s Premier Brunch Cruise . The most romantic day of the year deserves something special, and this local brunch cruise fits the bill.

You and your loved one will be able to toast to your love as you cruise on the Potomac River. Enjoy a fun-loving 2-hour cruise together featuring chef-designed menus, delectable cocktails, and dancing to live DJ entertainment. From Scottish Smoked Salmon Display, Scrambled Eggs, and French Toast to Caesar Salad and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, the menu has something for just about everyone. Come dressed in semi-formal attire while you enjoy unlimited mimosas, free-flowing champagne, and sparkling cider, and take in the stunning views of the nation’s greatest landmarks. Creative cocktails, wine, and beer are available from the cash bar.

Make a Valentine’s Day Lunch Date with City Cruises

How about lunch on the water for Valentine’s Day? It is the most romantic day of the year, so bring your partner on City Cruises’ Washington DC Valentine’s Signature Lunch Cruise where a welcoming and hospitable staff will take care of all your needs.

If you have two hours and a semi-formal outfit, City Cruises has just the signature lunch for you on Valentine’s Day. You and your Valentine will enjoy a signature buffet featuring salads and a main course that includes Honey Sesame Chicken, Oven Roasted Whitefish, and Baked Ziti Pasta. A dessert station with cakes, brownies, and seasonal fruit is available for you to indulge. As you dine, you’ll take in the unparalleled views of Washington DC, while enjoying delicious cocktails, wine, and beer from the cash bar and dancing to a live DJ. You will also have a guaranteed table for your party.

Take a Romantic Dinner Cruise in Washington DC for Valentine’s 2024

If it’s a romantic dinner you are looking for, the Washington DC Valentine’s Signature Dinner Cruise is perfect for you and your partner. It’s 2.5 hours of romance, so come dressed in your best semi-formal attire and be ready for an evening you will never forget. You will be greeted by City Cruises’ warm staff for an adventurous outing on the Potomac River while you enjoy the breathtaking views.

A chef-prepared signature dinner buffet awaits and features Kale Quinoa Salad and Green Goddess Pasta Salad. Main entrées include Braised Beef Short Ribs and Baked Ziti Pasta with sides of Roasted Broccoli and Mashed Potatoes. Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are available. You can enjoy creative cocktails, wine, and beer from the cash bar and dance to the music by a live DJ. This special Valentine’s cruise offers additional upgrades for a more customized experience: Silver Package, Gold Package, and Platinum Package depending on how romantic you want to get for Valentine’s Day.

Enjoy a Premier Dinner Cruise on Valentine’s Day in DC

Step it up a notch and take the Washington DC Valentine’s Premier Dinner Cruise for an elegant night on the water as you set sail to celebrate Valentine’s Day. You and your loved one will have three hours to enjoy romance on the Potomac River with stunning views as the backdrop.

Make sure you are dressed in your best semi-formal attire for a night of delicious cocktails, chef-designed menus, and dancing to live DJ entertainment. Your menu will include Honeycrisp Apple Salad and Crab and Potato Chowder for starters. The main course features Pan-Seared Chicken Breast and Seasonal Potato Gnocchi. Delectable desserts include Chocolate Toffee Crunch Cake and Orange Olive Oil Cake.

Creative cocktails, wine, and beer are available from the cash bar. You can also make upgrades for an even more romantic dinner. Choose from the Silver Package, Gold Package, or Platinum Package.

More Fun in Washington DC for Valentine’s Day

Get creative with your partner and come out to Valentine’s Day Cardmaking – Date Night! Feb. 14, 2024, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. “Celebrate the ones you love by learning something new with them, or by surprising them with a homemade card!” according to VisArts . This cardmaking is for everyone to come out and create card designs with intaglio printmaking. It’s definitely a different way to spend Valentine’s Day, but it will be worth it.

Cozy up for romance with your partner in an Ornament Igloo at The Watergate Hotel . You can rent an igloo for 90 minutes per reservation. Each igloo seats up to six people and is heated but warm clothing is recommended for those especially cold nights, according to the website. Order food and drinks and snuggle up for a fun evening.

Book Your 2024 Valentine’s Day with City Cruises in Washington DC Today!

Washington, DC, has all the history and tourist attractions you can imagine. It’s even better for a little romance with your special someone on Valentine’s Day. Take your celebration to the water and book a City Cruises Valentine’s Day, brunch, lunch, or dinner. You and your partner will be happy you did.

FAQs – DC Valentine’s Day

What does City Cruises offer for Valentine’s Day in D.C. in 2024? City Cruises provides a memorable Valentine’s Day experience with brunch and dinner cruises along the Potomac River.

How does a Valentine’s Day cruise with City Cruises enhance the celebration? A cruise offers a unique setting with scenic views, fine dining, and live entertainment, making it a special way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

What are some romantic activities for Valentine’s Day in D.C.? Washington D.C. offers various romantic activities like visiting iconic landmarks, enjoying gourmet dining, and exploring museums or galleries.

Can couples experience a unique Valentine’s Day dinner in D.C.? Yes, D.C. has several fine dining restaurants offering special Valentine’s Day menus for a romantic dinner experience.

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March 26, 2024 - Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision

By Helen Regan , Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Rachel Ramirez , Elise Hammond , Aditi Sangal , Tori B. Powell , Piper Hudspeth Blackburn and Kathleen Magramo , CNN

Our live coverage of the Baltimore bridge collapse has moved here .

Crew member on DALI said everyone on board was safe hours after bridge collapse, official says

From CNN’s Amy Simonson

A crew member on the DALI cargo ship sent a message hours after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed Tuesday saying everybody on board was safe, according to Apostleship of the Sea director Andy Middleton.

Middleton, who spent time with the captain of the DALI Monday, told CNN’s Laura Coates he reached out to a crew member after hearing about the incident Tuesday morning. 

He said there were 22 members aboard the ship from India who were setting sail earlier Tuesday morning and were heading toward Sri Lanka.

“I was able to reach out to a crew member very early this morning around 5:30 (a.m. ET) or 6 (a.m. ET) and get a message to them asking if they were OK,” he said. “That crew member responded within just a few minutes advising that the crew was safe, and everybody that [was] on board was safe.”

Middleton was told by the ship's captain Monday that the vessel was going to take a longer route to avoid risks along the Yemen coast.

“When I was out with the captain yesterday, we were talking while we were driving, and he advised that they were sailing down and around the tip of South Africa in order to avoid the incidents that are going on off the Yemen coast, and it was a safer way to go,” he said.

Middleton said the  Apostleship of the Sea  is a ministry to seafarers with members that spend time in the port and on the vessels as a friendly face to the seafarers that visit the Port of Baltimore, “taking care of their needs to make sure that they're reminded of their God-given human dignity when they're here in Baltimore.”

Search operation ends in "heartbreaking conclusion," Maryland governor says. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning. The collapse came after a 984-foot cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore told reporters Tuesday evening it's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day."

Late Tuesday, it was discovered that two of the construction workers who went missing after the bridge collapsed were from Guatemala , the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said late Tuesday.

Here's what you should know to get up to speed:

• The victims: Eight people were on the bridge  when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and was later  discharged , fire official and the medical center said.
• The incident: Video shows the moment the entire bridge structure falls into the water, as the ship hits one of the bridge's pillars. CNN analysis shows that the  ships lights flickered  and it veered off course before it hit the bridge. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said the crew on the ship were able to issue a "mayday" before colliding into the bridge, which allowed the authorities to stop incoming traffic from going onto the bridge.
• Response efforts: Earlier, dive teams from various state and local agencies were brought in to assist in search-and-rescue operations, according to Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr.. The mission started with 50 personnel and continued to grow before the Coast Guard announced Tuesday evening that it was suspending its active search-and-rescue operation and transitioning to a "different phase."
• The investigation: Authorities are still working to establish exactly how the crash occurred. The National Transportation Safety Board will look into  how the bridge was built  and investigate the structure itself. It will "take time to dig through" whether the bridge had ever been  flagged for any safety deficiencies , NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said.
• Rebuilding the bridge: US Sen. Chris Van Hollen said the path to rebuilding the bridge will be "long and expensive." Senior White House adviser Tom Perez told reporters Tuesday “it’s too early” to tell how long it will take to rebuild the bridge. President Joe Biden said Tuesday he wants the federal government to bear the full cost of rebuilding the collapsed bridge, noting that it will not wait for the company who owns the container ship DALI to shoulder the costs. Funding could come from the Federal Highway Administration as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but it may require additional funding from Congress.

2 of the missing construction workers from bridge collapse were from Guatemala, foreign ministry says

From CNN’s Allison Gordon, Flora Charner and Amy Simonson

Two of the construction workers missing from the bridge collapse in Baltimore were from Guatemala, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement late Tuesday.

Those missing included a 26-year-old originally from San Luis, Petén. The other is a 35-year-old from Camotán, Chiquimula, the statement said.

The ministry said both were part of a work team “repairing the asphalt on the bridge at the time of the accident.”

The statement did not name the two people missing, but it said the country’s consul general in Maryland “went to the area where the families of those affected are located,” where he hopes to be able to meet with the brothers of both missing people.

The consulate   also issued a statement Tuesday saying its consul general in Maryland "remains in contact with local authorities," and also confirmed that two of those missing "were of Guatemalan origin.”

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning when a cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

State and federal officials have not released information about the identities of any of the six missing workers.

Underwater mapping of bridge collapse area to begin Wednesday, Baltimore fire chief says

From CNN's Jennifer Henderson

Search operations near the Key Bridge collapse have shut down for the night due to dangerous conditions, but the process of underwater mapping with many local, state and federal dive teams will begin Wednesday, Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace told CNN’s Anderson Cooper Tuesday night.

Wallace said the portion of the Patapsco River is “tidal influenced, so it goes through tide cycles just like the open waters of the Chesapeake Bay does.”

The water depths in the area under the bridge vary from 40 feet to more than 60 feet, Wallace said. The deeper the divers go, the colder the temperatures they encounter, and the visibility is zero, he added.

 Wallace said when crews arrived Tuesday morning, the surface water temperatures of the Patapsco River were about 47 degrees with an air temperature of 44-45 degrees.

Here's what you should know about the historic Francis Scott Key Bridge

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday after a massive container ship lost power and crashed into the iconic Baltimore bridge, sending people and vehicles into the frigid Patapsco River.

Six people, believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead and the Coast Guard has ended its active search and rescue mission.

Here's what you should know about the historic bridge:

• How old?: The Francis Scott Key Bridge, also referred to as just the Key Bridge, opened to traffic in March 1977 and is the final link in the Baltimore Beltway, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA.) It crosses over the 50-foot-deep Patapsco River, where former US attorney Francis Scott Key found inspiration to write the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner, the MDTA says.
• How long?: The bridge was 1.6 miles long when standing, MDTA reports.
• Traffic volume: More than 30,000 people commuted daily on the bridge, according to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.
• How much did it cost?: The bridge cost $60.3 million to build, MDTA says. Since its collapse, President Joe Biden said he’s committed to helping rebuild the bridge as soon as possible.
• About the port: Baltimore ranks as the ninth biggest US port for international cargo. It handled a record 52.3 million tons, valued at $80.8 billion, in 2023. According to the Maryland state government, the port supports 15,330 direct jobs and 139,180 jobs in related services.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. Dali is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The ship is about 984 feet long , according to MarineTraffic data. That’s the length of almost three football fields.

Baltimore woman says bridge collapse was "like a piece of family dissolved"

From CNN's Kit Maher

For longtime Baltimore resident, Ceely, who opted not to share her last name, seeing footage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse  Tuesday was deeply personal.

“I was very heavy-hearted,” Ceely told CNN. “Very tearful, thinking about the families whose loved ones may be in the water and just remembering when the bridge was constructed, and it was just like a piece of family dissolved.”

Ceely was at a prayer group Tuesday morning when she saw the news. She recalled being afraid when she first crossed the bridge while in Ford Maverick in 1975, but grew to like it because it saved time on the road.

“It was a main artery just like a blood line. It was a main artery to the other side of town. It was awesome. It beat going through the city all the time,” she said.

Elder Rashad A. Singletary , a senior pastor who led Tuesday night’s vigil at Mt. Olive Baptist Church told CNN that many church members watched the bridge's construction.

"It’s a part of the community. A lot of our individuals in our congregation drive that bridge to go to work, and so now it’s really a life changing moment,” he said.

"Heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," Maryland governor says as Coast Guard ended search operation

From CNN's Aditi Sangal

More than 18 hours after the collapse of the Baltimore bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said it was a heartbreaking conclusion after the Coast Guard ended the search-and-rescue operation for the six people who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

It's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," he said.

"We put every single asset possible — air, land and sea" to find the missing people, he told reporters on Tuesday evening. "While even though we're moving on now to a recovery mission, we're still fully committed to making sure that we're going to use every single asset to now bring a sense of closure to the families," the governor added.

6 people presumed dead after Baltimore bridge collapse, Coast Guard says. Here's what we know

As the sun sets in Baltimore, six people are presumed dead after a major bridge collapsed overnight Tuesday, according to the Coast Guard. The Francis Scott Key Bridge came down around 1:30 a.m. ET after a cargo ship collided with it.

The Coast Guard said it has ended its active search-and-rescue operation for the missing construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

• What we know: Eight people were on the bridge when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and has been discharged . The Coast Guard has been searching for six other people. But, around 7:30 p.m. ET, the Coast Guard said it has transitioned to a “different phase” of operation, now it did “not believe we are going to find any of these individuals alive,” Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. The vessel is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The US Embassy in Singapore has been in contact with the country’s Maritime and Port Authority, a State Department spokesperson said.
• The investigation: The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the collapse. A team of 24 experts will dig into nautical operations, vessel operations, safety history records, owners, operators, company policy and any safety management systems or programs, said NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. A voyage data recorder will be critical to the investigation, she added. 
• Vehicles on the bridge: Officials are also working to verify the numbers of how many cars and people were on the bridge, Homendy said. Gov. Wes Moore said the quick work of authorities in closing the bridge had saved lives . Radio traffic captured how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge seconds before the impact . Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. said there is a “ distinct possibility ” more vehicles were on the bridge, but authorities have not found any evidence to support that.
• Looking ahead: NTSB will look into how the bridge was built and investigate the structure itself, including if it was flagged for any safety deficiencies , Homendy said. The federal government has also directed its resources to help with search and rescue, to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge, Vice President Kamala Harris said . Earlier, President Joe Biden said t he federal government will pay to fix the bridge.
• The economy: Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned the collapse will have a serious impact on supply chains . Until the channel is reopened, ships will likely already be changing course for other East Coast ports. Ocean carriers are already being diverted from the Port of Baltimore, where the bridge collapsed, to the Port of Virginia to “keep trade moving."

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Six presumed dead after cargo ship crash levels Baltimore bridge

BALTIMORE — A major Baltimore bridge collapsed like a house of cards early Tuesday after it was struck by a container ship, sending six people to their deaths in the dark waters below, and closing one of the country’s busiest ports.

By nightfall, the desperate search for six people who were working on the bridge and vanished when it fell apart had become a grim search for bodies.

“We do not believe that we’re going to find any of these individuals still alive,” Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon N. Gilreath said.

Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, said earlier that one of his workers had survived. He did not release their names.

Up until then, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore had held out hope that the missing people might be found even as law enforcement warned that the frigid water and the fact that there had been no sign of them since 1:30 a.m. when the ship struck Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Moore expressed heartbreak after officials suspended the search for survivors.

"Our heart goes out to the families," he said. "I can’t imagine how painful today has been for these families, how painful these hours have been have been for these families."

It was a crushing blow to the loved ones of the missing men, who had waited for hours at a Royal Farms convenience store near the entrance of the bridge for word of their fate. 

Follow live updates on the Baltimore bridge collapse

The tragic chain of events began early Tuesday when the cargo ship Dali notified authorities that it had lost power and issued a mayday moments before the 984-foot vessel slammed into a bridge support at a speed of 8 knots, which is about 9 mph.

Moore declared a state of emergency while rescue crews using sonar detected at least five vehicles in the frigid 50-foot-deep water: three passenger cars, a cement truck and another vehicle of some kind. Authorities do not believe anyone was inside the vehicles.

Investigators quickly concluded that it was an accident and not an act of terrorism.

Ship was involved in another collision

Earlier, two people were rescued from the water, Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace said. One was in good condition and refused treatment, he said. The other was seriously injured and was being treated in a trauma center.

Moore said other drivers might have been in the water had it not been for those who, upon hearing the mayday, blocked off the bridge and kept other vehicles from crossing.

“These people are heroes,” Moore said. “They saved lives.”

Nearly eight years ago, the Dali was involved in an accident. In July 2016, it struck a quay at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium, damaging the quay.

The nautical commission investigated the accident, but the details of the inquiry were not immediately clear Tuesday.

The Dali is operated and managed by Synergy Group. In a statement, the company said that two port pilots were at the helm during Tuesday's crash and that all 22 crew members onboard were accounted for.

The Dali was chartered by the Danish shipping giant Maersk, which said it would have no choice but to send its ships to other nearby ports with the Port of Baltimore closed.

The bridge, which is about a mile and a half long and carries Interstate 695 over the Patapsco River southeast of Baltimore, was "fully up to code," Moore said.

National Transportation Safety Board Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy said that her agency will lead the investigation and that a data recorder on the ship could provide more information.

"But right now we're focusing on the people, on the families," she said. "The rest can wait."

President Joe Biden vowed to rebuild the bridge and send federal funds.

"This is going to take some time," the president warned. "The people of Baltimore can count on us though to stick with them, at every step of the way, till the port is reopened and the bridge is rebuilt."

Speaking in Baltimore, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg echoed the president's promise.

"This is no ordinary bridge," he said. "This is one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure."

But Buttigieg warned that replacing the bridge and reopening the port will take time and money and that it could affect supply chains.

The Port of Baltimore, the 11th largest in the U.S., is the busiest port for car imports and exports, handling more than 750,000 vehicles in 2023 alone, according to data from the Maryland Port Administration.

Writer David Simon, a champion of Baltimore who set his TV crime drama "The Wire" on the streets of the city he once covered as a reporter, warned online that the people who will suffer the most are those whose livelihoods depend on the port.

"Thinking first of the people on the bridge," Simon posted on X . "But the mind wanders to a port city strangling. All the people who rely on ships in and out."

Timeline of crash

Dramatic video captured the moment at 1:28 a.m. Tuesday when the Dali struck a support and sent the bridge tumbling into the water. A livestream showed cars and trucks on the bridge just before the strike. The ship did not sink, and its lights remained on.

Investigators said in a timeline that the Dali's lights suddenly shut off four minutes earlier before they came back on and that then, at 1:25 a.m. dark black smoke began billowing from the ship's chimney.

A minute later, at 1:26 a.m., the ship appeared to turn. And in the minutes before it slammed into the support, the lights flickered again.

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said the workers on the bridge were repairing concrete ducts when the ship crashed into the structure.

At least seven workers were pouring concrete to fix potholes on the roadway on the bridge directly above where the ship hit, said James Krutzfeldt, a foreman.

Earlier, the Coast Guard said it had received a report that a “motor vessel made impact with the bridge” and confirmed it was the Dali, a containership sailing under a Singaporean flag that was heading for Sri Lanka.

Bobby Haines, who lives in Dundalk in Baltimore County, said he felt the impact of the bridge collapse from his house nearby.

"I woke up at 1:30 this morning and my house shook, and I was freaking out," he said. "I thought it was an earthquake, and to find out it was a bridge is really, really scary."

Families of bridge workers wait for updates

Earlier in the day, relatives of the construction crew waited for updates on their loved ones.

Marian Del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo her husband, Miguel Luna, 49, was working on the bridge.

“They only tell us that we have to wait and that they can’t give us information,” she said.

Castellon said she was "devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we don’t know how they have been rescued yet. We are just waiting for the news."

Luna's co-worker Jesús Campos said he felt crushed, too.

“It hurts my heart to see what is happening. We are human beings, and they are my folks,” he said.

Campos told The Baltimore Banner that the missing men are from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico.

Active search and rescue ends

The Coast Guard said it was suspending the active search-and-rescue effort at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

"Coast Guard’s not going away, none of our partners are going away, but we’re just going to transition into a different phase," Gilreath said at a news conference.

Maryland State Police Superintendent Roland L. Butler, Jr., said it was moving to a recovery operation. Changing conditions have made it dangerous for divers, he said. 

Butler pledged to "do our very best to recover those six missing people," but the conditions are difficult.

"If we look at how challenging it is at a simple motor vehicle crash to extract an individual, I'm sure we can all imagine how much harder it is to do it in inclement weather, when it's cold, under the water, with very limited to no visibility," he said.

"There's a tremendous amount of debris in the water," which can include sharp metal and other hazards, and that could take time, Butler said.

'A long road in front of us'

Built in 1977 and referred to locally as the Key Bridge, the structure was later named after the author of the American national anthem.

The bridge is more than 8,500 feet long, or 1.6 miles. Its main section spans 1,200 feet, and it was one of the longest continuous truss bridges in the world upon its completion, according to the National Steel Bridge Alliance .

About 31,000 vehicles a day use the bridge, which equals 11.3 million vehicles per year, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority.

The river and the Port of Baltimore are both key to the shipping industry on the East Coast, generating more than $3.3 billion a year and directly employing more than 15,000 people.

Asked what people in Baltimore can expect going forward, the state's transportation secretary said it is too early to tell.

"Obviously we reached out to a number of engineering companies, so obviously we have a long road in front of us," Wiedefeld said.

Julia Jester reported from Baltimore, Patrick Smith from London, Corky Siemaszko from New York and Phil Helsel from Los Angeles.

Julia Jester is a producer for NBC News based in Washington, D.C.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.

Corky Siemaszko is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital.

Advertisement

How the Key Bridge Collapsed in Baltimore: Maps and Photos

By Weiyi Cai ,  Agnes Chang ,  Lauren Leatherby ,  Lazaro Gamio ,  Leanne Abraham and Scott Reinhard

On Tuesday, a major bridge in Baltimore collapsed into the water seconds after it was struck by a cargo ship, sending vehicles on the bridge into the river below. The ship lost power and issued a mayday call shortly before it hit the bridge.

The ship, a 948-foot-long cargo vessel called Dali, was about a half hour into its journey toward Colombo, Sri Lanka, when it hit a main pillar of the bridge. All crew members are safe, according to the ship’s owners.

Follow our live coverage .

A mayday call from the ship gave officials enough time to stop traffic at both ends of the bridge. The waters where the bridge collapsed are about 50 feet deep. By Tuesday morning, six construction workers who had been fixing potholes on the bridge remained missing as divers and other emergency workers on boats and helicopters continued to search for them. Two others had been rescued, and one was in the hospital.

Francis Scott

Patapsco River

The ship left the Port

of Baltimore around

1 a.m. on Tuesday.

Where impact occurred

Direction of the ship

The ship hit the

bridge at 1:28 a.m.

The ship hit the bridge at 1:28 a.m.

Where impact

Source: Spire Global

The New York Times; satellite image by Google Earth

The lights of the ship flickered on and off as it lost power in the minutes before the ship changed bearing and hit the bridge.

Ship approached from

the Port of Baltimore

Road repair crews

Ship changed heading

as it neared pillar

Ship hit pillar

Southern and central spans

of bridge began to collapse within

seconds of impact

Northern span began to

collapse seconds later

Within 30 seconds of impact,

the central part of bridge had

entirely collapsed.

Source: StreamTime Live via YouTube

Timestamps are from StreamTime Live video.

The New York Times

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was opened in 1977 and carried more than 12.4 million vehicles last year. The bridge was one of the three major ways to cross the Patapsco River and formed part of Baltimore’s beltway.

The Port of Baltimore is a major trade hub that handled a record amount of foreign cargo last year. It is an especially important destination — the nation’s largest by volume last year — for deliveries of cars and light trucks.

Ship impact

To Chesapeake Bay

Sources: Maryland Port Administration, OpenStreetMap, MarineTraffic

Note: Ship positions are as of 2:46 p.m. Eastern time.

Overall, Baltimore was the 17th biggest port in the United States in 2021, ranked by total tons, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The bridge collapse brought marine traffic there to a standstill, with seven cargo or tanker ships stranded in the harbor as of Tuesday afternoon.

Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency for Maryland and said that his office was in close communication with Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. transportation secretary. The White House issued a statement saying that President Biden had been briefed on the collapse.

Erin Schaff/The New York Times

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