embark dc boat tours

Sightseeing and Dining Cruises

See DC Differently. Embark DC offers private boat tours from The Wharf to multiple marinas in DC, Maryland and Virginia. Their captained cruises are fully customizable and availble by the hour.

Experiences on the Washington waterways are countless and diverse: from urban to entirely natural, from historical to modern, from waterfront restaurants to grilling at sunset, from full speed ahead with the wind in your hair to relaxing on anchor without a care, you're guaranteed to enjoy your adventure.

Enjoy special DC events—such as Fourth of July fireworks, Nationals games, or The Wharf's Holiday Boat Parade—by boat, or celebrate your own special moments such as proposals, anniversarsies, birthdays, or graduation.

Bring up to six guests on each 25' Chaparral power boat. Have more friends? Add more boats! Dogs are allowed, too (dog life vests are provided). The boats have state-of-the-art sound systems, 3 coolers, table, sink, comfortable seating, onboard lavatory and option for barbecuing aboard. Your USCG-licensed captain can provide a tour narrative, if desired. Food and beverages may be brought aboard.

For questions, or to book your private cruise:

• Visit www.embarkdc.com
• Call 1 (888) 634-3335 or (202) 570-2410
• Email  [email protected]  

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.

Browse the Shops

Whether you’re looking for something specific or simply like to spend a few hours in our unique collection of stores, chances are you’ll find just what you’re looking for at our shops at The Wharf. And, of course, you can always treat yourself to a delicious dessert—or celebrate your shopping finds with a drink at one of our restaurants.

Embark - DC Boat Tours

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Embark - DC Boat Tours (Washington DC) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Embark - DC Boat Tours

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Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Embark - DC Boat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Review Highlights

“ My tour guide, Captain Denny was very accommodating throughout the tour on a gorgeous DC evening. ” in 8 reviews

“ We went out with Captain Ken on Sunday, June 26th and had a wonderful three-hour tour on the Potomac River . ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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600 Water St SW

Washington, DC 20024

Serving Washington, DC Area

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About the business.

Business owner information

Business Owner

Private, customized boat tours of the Washington DC area waterways, including Maryland and Virginia. Go near or far, fast or slow. See the sights or relax on anchor. Your captain provides a tour narrative, if desired. Food and beverages may be brought aboard. Up to 6 guests per boat. Have more friends? Add more boats! Dogs allowed on some boats (yes, we have life vests for dogs too). Our private cruises include a friendly USCG-licensed Embark captain. All cruises are fully customizable & available by the hour, departing from: WASHINGTON, DC docks: - District Wharf - Gangplank Marina - Georgetown - The Yards Marina (near Nationals Park) - James Creek Marina (near DC United/Audi Field) VIRGINIA docks: - Columbia Island Marina (near the Pentagon) - Alexandria Marina - Historic Mount Vernon MARYLAND docks: - National Harbor MD (near MGM & the Washington Wheel) - Gaylord Hotel (by permission of Gaylord only) Come join us! Your day. Your boat. Your way. …

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Price depends on the day of the week and length of time. It's well worth every dollar, you won't be disappointed!

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• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

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Overall rating

Couldn't have asked for a better afternoon on the water. Captain Denny (owner) was able to accommodate us same day and it was so worth it to be on our own private boat with Denny as our tour guide. The boat was very comfortable for the six of us and Denny had cold sodas and water for us. Denny took us to to some nooks and crannies that would not have been accessible by the bigger tour boats. And the historical knowledge that Denny bestowed upon us--so, so much fun! You can feel the passion Denny has for the city and the great pride he has in his business. We would definitely do this tour with Denny again when we come back next year! Thanks, Denny and Embark!

It was a nice break to go out there and ride on the river. Not very expensive but nice to be on the river. You don't get to see the landmarks very much but at least it's a boat ride.

We went out with Captain Ken on Sunday, June 26th and had a wonderful three-hour tour on the Potomac River. Captain Ken was very friendly and informative, and our family enjoyed it quite a bit! This was a recommendation from the Ritz Carlton DC Concierge! Captain Denny, who owns the company was very helpful with recommendations on what we should go do/see while in Washington DC. He spent over half an hour with me on my call when I booked the tour on giving helpful advice :) I would highly recommend Embark!

We had the best time with Captain Ken! He was super charismatic and had the most interesting info on our DC boat tour! They were also flexible with re-scheduling due to the weather - 100% recommend

A truly magical experience I chartered a sunset cruise with Captain Denny as the highlight of our 'DC getaway' anniversary celebration. We sailed from Georgetown to the DC Wharf seeing the sights along the Potomac - the monuments and memorials, the bridges and airport, the Pentagon and Anacostia, the parks and the DC shoreline. Captain Denny was extremely knowledgeable as well as the perfect host. I strongly recommend this unique way of experiencing DC.

Booked services for my husbands birthday. With my teenage boys in tow - off we went with Captain Denny. He exceeded my expectations starting with initial contact, the tour, the history - which was very impressive, the airplanes flying over us AND it was a beautiful day! Teenagers smiling and posting while hanging with parents . . . That almost NEVER happens. This experience was awesome, I look forward to working with them again in the near future!

These are lovely personalized tours boat along with Potomac river. The information that you learn from these tours is something you would not find anywhere else in DC. You get great views of the monuments, DC skyline, Georgetown and awesome up close experience at Reagan National airport. My tour guide, Captain Denny was very accommodating throughout the tour on a gorgeous DC evening. I would give this tour 6 stars if I could. Try it out next spring or summer! You can depart from the SW or DC waterfront.

We had so much fun. The boat tour last night was truly the best thing I've done in DC, and will definitely recommend to friends!!

I called Captain Denny interested in setting up a sunset boat tour to propose to my partner. His excitement on the phone was sweet, and he was immediately ready with advice and options - he said he had done quite a few proposals on the boats already. He helped me plan the perfect timing and backdrop, assured two captains would be on the boat to allow for positioning and photos. When the day came, he and Captain Art were personable, extremely accommodating, and made the entire evening truly magical. And she said yes! They even had a big sign that said "we're engaged!" That they held up to passing boats, and we got so many cheers from onlookers. They also had champagne for us on the boat, which was a nice touch. This was an incredibly romantic opportunity, but could also easily be a family experience or fun with a group of friends. They added interesting knowledge along the way of the sights we were seeing, but it was perfectly balanced with quiet alone time - totally tailorable to your desires. Thank you Captain Art and Captain Denny!!

We had such a lovely evening on Captain Denny's boat tour. He is super knowledgeable and has great facts and vignettes to share along the way. This is exactly what we were looking for for a fun and different experience, sightseeing and sipping wine out on the water. Watching the airplanes land at DCA from the channel was a definite highlight. Thanks Captain Denny!

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May Edition 2023

Embark DC – Leveraging private, captained cruises along Washington DC’s waterways

The Silicon Review

Founded in 2014, Embark DC’s concept was sparked by Captain Denny’s love for taking friends and family out on the Potomac. The passengers experienced the nation’s capital from a unique perspective and were fascinated by the history of the city, country and the founding fathers. The demand for cruises for friends quickly increased and it became clear this needed to be opened up to others. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a local experience like no other.

Embark DC is the only private boat tour operator in the Washington DC area with legal permission to operate out of effectively every dock and marina in the Washington DC area (including nearby Maryland and Virginia), from Georgetown to Mount Vernon, 20 miles to the south. No other boat operator in DC has the ability to dock at all of these locations. The firm provides private, customized boat cruises for small groups (up to 6 guests per boat), with a full narration on the history and sights, if you’d like. City cruises along the Potomac River and its tributaries can be aboard an open sport boat or multi-level cruiser with climate control. It also has access rights to all 11 docks in the Washington DC area (including nearby Maryland and Virginia), from Georgetown to Mt. Vernon, 20 miles to the south.

Embark goes to any sites the guests would like to visit—the distinct advantage of the tours from the commercial boat operators is that it can change direction at any time and aim at a sight you would like to see. Its larger boats (example here), are designed to provide a “yacht tour” of the nation’s capital with expansive space and the amenities of a home, including salon (living room), galley (kitchen), dining area, stand-up head (bathroom), and forward, aft, and bridge seating areas.

Comparing Boat Types

All cruises are private, firstly. They have a six passenger maximum, per boat. All cruises include a USCG-licensed captain, who can provide a live tour narrative, unless you’d like to just enjoy the views in silence. Beyond that, the experience is up to you, and has a variety of options to choose from. Most guests choose a tour in Washington, DC to visit local attractions including historic monuments (Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, etc.), important buildings (Kennedy Center, Pentagon, The White House, and more) and the cherry blossoms (early spring); some head further south to George Washington’s Mt. Vernon or beyond; some relax on anchor for the sunset, propose to their best friend, and then disembark in time for a nice dinner in the city; some use it as a water taxi to travel to baseball or soccer games or concerts; some book sightseeing cruises to see historical Washington, DC landmarks from a unique perspective.

Embark DC currently offers two boat types.

Open-Bow Boats: Their open-bow boats are an ideal platform for seeing DC from the water. It is small enough to get everywhere; big enough to comfortably accommodate your whole group. The open bow, instead of a forward cabin, provides extra seating. They can idle quietly past the sights, or accelerate to thrill-ride speeds (they also call them “sport boats”). Versatile, comfortable, and fully open, they do have partial overhead shade. They are best suitable for sightseeing, outdoor experiences, escaping screens, marriage proposals, celebrations, light meal cruises, casual hanging out, fireworks shows, BBQ meals, fishing, and rides to special events or stadiums.

Fully open air with partial or full shade available depending on time of day. Offer windshield protection from wind. Temperatures are typically cooler on the water than in the city. Dress as you would for the outdoors. Layers, hats, and sunglasses are advised. You can book online or contact us by phone to make your booking. They can chat about what you would like to see, your schedule, your preferred meet-up location, any special needs, etc. The process is flexible, but it’s usually helpful to chat early on.

Sedan Bridge Cruiser: Their larger, multi-level yacht is a completely different experience. Typically, these cruises are slow and steady. The climate-controlled interior on the main level provides a much more home-like feel, with many of the amenities you’d expect, including a full, standing-height bathroom. But, the aft deck, bow, and upper level provide a fresh-air experience for those perfect weather days. They have indoor, weather-protected events, better options for less able-bodied guests, additional privacy from the public, private. It is fully weather-protected and climate-controlled indoor salon, dinette & bathroom. (You can be warm & cozy on a breezy, cold day or cool & dry on a hot, humid day.) Rear deck is outdoors with partial shade. Bridge is open air, and mostly shaded. Bow loungers are fully open. However, they still recommend layers, hats & sunglasses so you can choose where you prefer to be. Professional meetings or executive retreats (including computer charging and broadband Wi-Fi), guests with conditions requiring stable temperatures, bigger meals aboard, etc.

Many go for the classic sunset tour for a couple hours. To see the full impact of the city lights and monuments at night, Embark recommends planning your cruise to last 30 to 60 minutes after sunset. To minimize the probability of thunderstorms in the summer, mid-morning is usually a better time. Washington has a long, warm, boating season, so spring and autumn cruises are usually wonderful, and they have blankets on board if needed.

Captain Denny Clifford | President and Founder

He has an extensive experience in finance, accounting, sales, marketing, and operations in both Fortune 150 companies as well as entrepreneurial enterprises, including founder of own company. Denny has a strong background in both aviation and boating industries and additional expertise in government and Department of Defense contracting worldwide.

"We’re proud to say that we do all we possibly can to provide a safe, enjoyable experience on the water."

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Embark DC Boat Tours

Embark dc private boat tours — see dc differently.

We offer private boat tours from Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia—our captained cruises are customized just for you. Our home port is at the Wharf Marina, but we operate throughout the area. All captains are USCG certified and trained in the local history and sites. CRUISE QUIETLY BY DC’S ICONIC LANDMARKS, SPEED DOWN THE POTOMAC RIVER TO HISTORIC MOUNT VERNON, OR LOWER THE ANCHOR AND LET THE AFTERNOON EBB AND FLOW. Whether, friends, family, or a professional group, there is no better way to see DC than from the water. It's your boat. Your day. Your way! • All Washington DC boat tours are fully customizable, hourly rentals. • Do some sightseeing, relax on anchor, or have fun in the sun! • Your captain provides a tour narrative if desired. • Food and beverages may be brought aboard. • Up to 6 people per boat. Have more friends? Add more boats! • Dogs allowed on open boats (yes, we have life vests for dogs too). — Yacht option is multi-level and climate-controlled. Call for details. — For standard boats: • Comfortable seating in bow, amidships & stern. • Bottled water, soft drinks, and ice included. • Bimini cover provides shade if desired. • Stereo: Bring your own playlist or enjoy ours. • Swim ladder in case you choose to get wet. • Life jackets provided (required • Dining table, coolers and grill available. • Private (small) toilet & sink. • Boat fuel included in all rates. Book online at https://www.embarkdc.com , or call us to discuss and book!

• Group Minimum
• Guided tours available
• Private Tour
• Veteran Owned

Additional Information

Distance to metro, distance to conv center, nearby landmarks.

National Mall

Group Maximum

Min to airport, metro station, payment options.

American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

650 Wharf Street, SW Washington , DC 20024 United States

(202) 570-2410, [email protected].

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Embark - DC Boat Tours

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Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Embark - DC Boat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Embark DC Boat Tours

Embark dc private boat tours — see dc differently.

We offer private boat tours from Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia—our captained cruises are customized just for you. Our home port is at the Wharf Marina, but we operate throughout the area. All captains are USCG certified and trained in the local history and sites. CRUISE QUIETLY BY DC’S ICONIC LANDMARKS, SPEED DOWN THE POTOMAC RIVER TO HISTORIC MOUNT VERNON, OR LOWER THE ANCHOR AND LET THE AFTERNOON EBB AND FLOW. Whether, friends, family, or a professional group, there is no better way to see DC than from the water. It's your boat. Your day. Your way! • All Washington DC boat tours are fully customizable, hourly rentals. • Do some sightseeing, relax on anchor, or have fun in the sun! • Your captain provides a tour narrative if desired. • Food and beverages may be brought aboard. • Up to 6 people per boat. Have more friends? Add more boats! • Dogs allowed on open boats (yes, we have life vests for dogs too). — Yacht option is multi-level and climate-controlled. Call for details. — For standard boats: • Comfortable seating in bow, amidships & stern. • Bottled water, soft drinks, and ice included. • Bimini cover provides shade if desired. • Stereo: Bring your own playlist or enjoy ours. • Swim ladder in case you choose to get wet. • Life jackets provided (required • Dining table, coolers and grill available. • Private (small) toilet & sink. • Boat fuel included in all rates. Book online at https://www.embarkdc.com , or call us to discuss and book!

• Group Minimum
• Guided tours available
• Private Tour
• Veteran Owned

Additional Information

Distance to metro, distance to conv center, nearby landmarks.

National Mall

Group Maximum

Min to airport, metro station, payment options.

American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

650 Wharf Street, SW Washington , DC 20024 United States

(202) 570-2410, [email protected].

View Gallery

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Embark DC Boat Tours

Embark DC Private Boat Tours — See DC Differently!

We offer private boat tours from Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia—our captained cruises are customized just for you. Our home port is at the Wharf Marina, but we operate throughout the area. All captains are USCG certified and trained in the local history and sites. CRUISE QUIETLY BY DC’S ICONIC LANDMARKS, SPEED DOWN THE POTOMAC RIVER TO HISTORIC MOUNT VERNON, OR LOWER THE ANCHOR AND LET THE AFTERNOON EBB AND FLOW. Whether, friends, family, or a professional group, there is no better way to see DC than from the water. It's your boat. Your day. Your way! • All Washington DC boat tours are fully customizable, hourly rentals. • Do some sightseeing, relax on anchor, or have fun in the sun! • Your captain provides a tour narrative if desired. • Food and beverages may be brought aboard. • Up to 6 people per boat. Have more friends? Add more boats! • Dogs allowed on open boats (yes, we have life vests for dogs too). — Yacht option is multi-level and climate-controlled. Call for details. — For standard boats: • Comfortable seating in bow, amidships and stern. • Bottled water, soft drinks, and ice included. • Bimini cover provides shade if desired. • Stereo: Bring your own playlist or enjoy ours. • Swim ladder in case you choose to get wet. • Life jackets provided (required • Dining table, coolers and grill available. • Private (small) toilet & sink. • Boat fuel included in all rates. Book online at https://www.embarkdc.com , or call us to discuss and book!

• Group Minimum
• Guided tours available
• Private Tour
• Veteran Owned

Additional Information

Distance to metro, distance to conv center, nearby landmarks.

National Mall

Group Maximum

Min to airport, metro station, payment options.

American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

650 Wharf Street, SW Washington , DC 20024 United States

(202) 570-2410, [email protected].

View Gallery

Nearby Favorites

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