potomac boat 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.

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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• United States
• Washington, D.C. Area
• District of Columbia
• Southwest Waterfront

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C.

• Good for special occasions
• Great for scenic views

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Additional information

• Dining style Casual Elegant
• Price $50 and over
• Cuisines Dinner Cruise, American
• Hours of operation Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 10:45am - 1:30pm Lunch: Monday - Friday: 11:15am - 2:00pm Dinner: Monday - Thursday: 6:00pm - 10:00pm Friday & Saturday: 7:00pm - 11:00pm Sunday: 5:00pm - 8:30pm
• Phone number (866) 306-2469
• Website http://www.odysseycruises.com/washington-dc
• Payment options AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
• Dress code Smart Casual
• Private party facilities Nothing compares to the dynamic, unique experience of a group event on the water. Delicious food and drinks, top entertainment and stunning views combine for an experience your guests won’t forget. From business meetings to special occasion celebrations, give your event a whole new energy.
• Private party contact Professional Event Planner: (855) 398-7088
• Location 600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024
• Neighborhood Southwest Waterfront
• Cross street 6th Street SW
• Parking details For Odyssey parking, turn into the Gangplank Marina Lot off of Water Street. Please allow extra time to park as there is limited parking space available at Gangplank Marina. A number of nearby lots and meters offer additional convenient parking within walking distance. Additional parking charges at these areas may apply.
• Public transit From the Metro: Exit the Waterfront SEU Station. Turn Right on M ST. which turns into Maine Ave. Turn Left onto 6th. Odyssey is located at Gangplank Marina, 6th and Water Street.
• Entertainment Cruises feature our band, Chane Link, playing softer standards on our Brunch and Lunch cruises and throughout the earlier part of our Dinner cruises. During the later part of our Dinner cruises, expect a shift to more high-energy dance music. No matter when you cruise, there is something for everyone to enjoy, from Motown to disco, from 80"s ballads to swing, and from Latin to jazz standards.
• Additional Banquet, Beer, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Shrimp Cocktail

Sriracha Cocktail Sauce. Available for an additional price

Seafood Tower

Maine Lobster | Alaskan King Crab | Jumbo Shrimp | Bay Scallop Ceviche | Sriracha Cocktail Sauce | Parsley Aioli. Avaialable for an additional price

First Course

Wedge salad.

Applewood Smoked Bacon | Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Chives & Italian Parsley | Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Lobster Soup

Brioche Croutons | Chives

Smoked Moulard Duck Breast

Cranberry, Cherry & Caramelized Shallot Compote | Pickled Cornichons & Pearl Onions

Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Sweet Corn, Red Bell Pepper & Thyme Succotash | Cajun Cream Sauce

Oven Baked Atlantic Salmon Filet

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Citrus Dill Sauce

Maple & Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast

Fingerling Potatoes & Chives | Haricot Verts | Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce

Braised Beef Short Rib

Idaho Potato & Horseradish Mash | Baby Carrots | Pearl Onions & English Peas | Cabernet Sauvignon Sauce

Greek Zucchini Fritters

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Spring Onion & Cucumber Tzatziki

Filet Mignon & Lobster Tail

Truffle Potatoes | Glazed Baby Carrots | Herb Butter. Available for an additional price

Duo of Sorbet

Seasonal Sorbet | Fresh Fruit

Granny Smith Apple Parfait

Cinnamon Spiced Apples | Almond & Oat Crumble | Candied Chili Bacon

Salted Caramel Cake

Dark Chocolate Ganache | Raspberry Sauce

Odyssey Signature Warm Butter Cake

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream | Blackberry Sauce

What 10 people are saying

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• 3.8 Service
• 3.9 Ambience

Noise • Moderate

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Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. is rated 4 stars by 10 OpenTable diners.

600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024

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Tour Details

Sightseeing Cruise Admission

Discover the Most Spectacular Views of Washington, DC from the Potomac River. 

Cruises are approximately 45 minutes with historical narration. Refreshments, snacks and Restrooms on board.

Sunset Sightseeing Cruise 

Sunset Cruise with the Most Spectacular Views of Washington, DC from the Potomac River.  Cruises are approximately 45 minutes with historical narration.  Don't forget to see your bartender for an ice cold drink!

DC Monuments by Moonlight Cruise

Our DC Monuments by Moonlight Cruise is a great way to take in the amazing views of the illuminated iconic monuments of Washington, DC from the Potomac River! Cruises are approximately 45 minutes. Refreshments, snacks and Restrooms on board.

Cherry Blossom Cruise

This cruise offers the same narration and sights as our Sightseeing Cruise with views of the Cherry Blossoms. Quality of views can change depending on how the temperatures play out in the lead-up to the bloom. Cruises are approximately 45 minutes. 

Daily Tour Details

Discover the Most Spectacular Views of Washington, DC from the Potomac River!  

Cruises are approximately 45 minutes with historical narration. 

Enjoy the Refreshment Bar (additional charge): Spirits, Beer & Wine, Sodas, and Snacks. 

Restrooms on-board.

​ ​ ​ Hours of Operation:  ​

Mid-March through Mid-April:

Mid-April through May:

7pm (Sunset Cruise)

May through Mid-August:

8pm (Sunset Cruise)

Mid-August through September: ​

8pm (DC Monuments by Moonlight Cruise)

October: 

6pm (Sunset Cruise)

November through Mid-March: (Closing and Opening Date Dependent on weather)

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

Disclaimer:

Tickets are Non-Refundable. If you are unable to use your ticket on the date/time you purchased due to certain circumstances, you may have the option to use your ticket on another date/time depending on availability.

Sites Seen:  

Kennedy Center, Key Bridge, Memorial Bridge, Roosevelt Island, Washington Monument, LBJ Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, US Capitol, The Watergate, Lincoln Memorial, Maritime Memorial and the Custis-Lee Mansion (Arlington House). During the Cherry Blossom season, you'll be able to see the blooms from the river.

Sightseeing Guide

Tour Departure Location

Washington Harbour Georgetown

3050 K Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20007

End of 31st St across from Fiola Mare on the dock

All Cruises and Charters

Party yacht & pirate ship cruises in washington dc.

• MOST POPULAR!
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Boomerang Yacht Cruise

Enjoy a 21+ cruise aboard the Boomerang Party Yacht which includes premium open bar, water, sodas, pre-packaged snacks, fun music, and amazing DC views.

Pirate Ship Cruise

Enjoy a 21+ cruise aboard the Boomerang Pirate Ship which includes premium open bar, water, sodas, pre-packaged snacks, fun music, and amazing DC views.

• Hour Glass 1 hour
• Users All ages

Family Fun Treasure Hunt Cruise

Ahoy there, young pirates! Get ready to embark on our interactive cruise, offering endless excitement and the perfect adventure for kids of all ages!

Private Boomerang Boat Charter

Our charters are perfect for any private party occasion like birthdays, work parties, engagement parties, graduation parties, wedding welcome parties, post wedding brunch cruises, corporate team building, and more!

Boomerang Sightseeing Cruise

Our one-hour sightseeing tour on the Potomac River promises to be an informative, entertaining, and visually captivating experience.

Boomerang Yacht Brunch Cruise

Embark on a captivating Brunch Cruise on the Potomac River with Boomerang Boat Tours! Indulge in a delicious brunch buffet catered by Northside Social, sip on cocktails from our premium open bar, and groove to tunes spun by our live DJ.

Our carefully designed Washington, D.C. cruises offer uninterrupted, awe-inspiring views of the city’s historic skyline, both during the day and under the moonlit sky. Step aboard one of our three unique vessels: a 100-passenger party yacht, an 80-passenger pirate ship, or a 60-passenger party boat. All three of our vessels are double-deckers equipped with a cutting-edge sound system, complete bars featuring a diverse and creative drink menu, 2-3 conveniently located bathrooms, a welcoming and friendly crew, and versatile indoor and outdoor spaces. We’ve thought of everything to ensure your comfort and enjoyment on board!

What You Can Experience

When you go boating in D.C. with Boomerang Boat Tours, you’ll experience a luxurious ride on yachts decked out with bars serving creative cocktails and a knowledgeable crew to keep you safe and informed. Whether you want a private boat charter for a wedding party or you’re going on a pirate ship cruise with the kids, our Potomac boat tours provide an excellent time for anyone on a Washington, D.C. excursion.

What You Will See

Our guides show you some of the most beautiful rivers in this country. Below are some of the sites you’ll see when you sign up with Boomerang Boat Tours in Washington, DC:

• Potomac River: Take a ride on the Potomac River, where you’ll get to view some of America’s proudest monuments. Our founding fathers built their dreams around this majestic river and clearly found a plethora of inspiration in the surrounding area. The Potomac produces a pleasant flowing current that will carry us along effortlessly so you can see America’s finest works, as well as a migrating dolphin if you’re really lucky!
• The Washington Monument: When on a Boomerang Boat Tour in Washington, DC you will definitely see the beacon of democracy that is the Washington Monument piercing the sky with all its might and grace. When it was built in 1884, it was the tallest building in the world and it still stands as a reminder that the United States is built on groundbreaking ideas that prove to the world anything is possible when freedom is the goal.
• The Lincoln Memorial: Our Washington, DC, boat tour will pass by the awe-striking Lincoln Memorial, a statue that has invoked epiphanic ideas among the people of this country since 1922 and will continue to do so for generations of Americans to come.
• Georgetown Waterfront: Georgetown waterfront is one of the oldest preserved places of commerce in the United States. It’s filled with shops and bars like Founding Farmers Fishers and Bakers or Fiola Mare, where you can get some exquisite cuisine while looking out over the Potomac River. From the river, you can see Hilltop, a famous part of the oldest catholic and Jesuit institute of higher education in America, Georgetown University.

Book With Boomerang Boat Tours

Schedule your exciting boat tour through Washington, D.C., with us. We always show our customers an amazing time with respect and fun.

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.

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Private Sight-Seeing Cruises of Washington D.C.

Cruising season has started, cruise with reflections dc.

Reflections DC is your gateway to exclusive and intimate boat tours of Washington DC. Our captivating tours allow you to explore the iconic landmarks and hidden gems of the nation’s capital in style and comfort.

What sets us apart is our commitment to creating unforgettable moments tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re seeking a romantic cruise for two, a family adventure, or a corporate event with a touch of elegance, we have the perfect charter options to suit your needs.

Our expert guides, with their in-depth knowledge of the city’s history and culture, add depth and insight to your journey. From the majestic monuments along the Potomac River to the charming waterfront views, every sightseeing experience with Reflections DC is a blend of beauty, education, and relaxation.

Departing from the beautiful newly developed Wharf Marina in the heart of Washington DC, you’ll be sure to create lasting unique memories! Whether you’re visiting from out of town or looking for a different way to enjoy your hometown of the Nation’s Capital .

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Why Choose Us?

Amazing captains.

What sets Reflections DC apart is our extensive experience and expertise. Our captains excel in narrating tours, seamlessly weaving historical facts with captivating stories, making every journey a memorable and educational experience. Their expertise and engaging delivery ensure that passengers are not just sightseeing but fully immersed in the rich narratives of the waterways.

Our captains are also fully licensed by the United States Coast Guard to operate commercially, ensuring top-notch safety standards.  

100% Unique

The charm of Reflections DC’s sightseeing cruises is uniquely different from other options in two distinct ways. Firstly, our narrated tours unfold with the same enchanting storytelling style as a classic Italian gondola cruise, where every anecdote and historical tidbit brings the journey to life. Secondly, our intimate boats ensure a cozy and personalized experience, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the sights and sounds of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks. With Reflections DC, each cruise is a captivating blend of narrative elegance and intimate luxury, promising a memorable adventure on the Potomac River.

Your Cruise, Your Way

At Reflections DC, we strive to  create a personalized and comfortable journey just for you. Your tour with us is all about catering to your preferences and ensuring you feel completely at ease throughout your adventure. 

Client Testimonials

Kayaking in DC: Where to paddle the Potomac and more

By sophia barnes • published april 24, 2024 • updated on april 24, 2024 at 1:28 pm.

It's official: Kayaking season has arrived in D.C.! And if you ask us, it's one of the best ways to see the city from a new angle.

Maybe you want to cruise by some iconic sights with out-of-town guests, or you're looking for a quick but nature-filled escape. You can find both at the various kayak rental outposts along the Potomac River.

Boating in DC is the main company renting out kayaking and canoeing gear in D.C. proper. Four Boating in DC locations are open now, renting out all your gear for an hour or two of scenic paddling.

Prices may vary by location but generally start at $21 for a one-hour rental of a single-person kayak. Double kayak or canoe rentals, which are a good option for families with children, are available at many locations. Those start at about $31.

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Rental prices include life jackets, paddles and cushions. Staff members will help guide you into and out of the water and can give you a few pointers before you take off.

Kids aged 7 and younger can float with an adult "as long as they can safely sit independently and fit securely" in a personal flotation device, while kids ages 8 to 15 can have their own boat but must be accompanied by a guardian, Boating in DC says.

If you're looking for an option in Maryland, check out Bladensburg Waterfront Park Boat Rentals offered by the Prince George's County parks department.

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What’s open now:.

Fletchers Boathouse is the most nature-filled location, letting you explore the C&O Canal and Potomac River. When rowing up the waterway, look to your left to try and find a hidden waterfall cove. You'll find the boathouse off Canal Road, south of the Chain Bridge.

• Pro tip: We advise driving (there is parking!) or taking a rideshare. Google Maps will tell you that there's technically a route for pedestrians. But at Canal Road, you'll be walking alongside fast-moving traffic for a bit, then going down an often-busy driveway.

Key Bridge Boathouse and Thompson Boat Center in Georgetown are both great launching points to see the Kennedy Center and Lincoln Memorial. You can walk to both locations from the nearest transit stops in fewer than 15 minutes. Thompson Boat Center, which is near all the restaurants of Washington Harbor, will put you closer to the monuments.

• Pro tip: Row to Teddy Roosevelt Island , park your kayak for a few minutes and stretch your legs.

The Wharf Boathouse is open Fridays to Sundays. It is one of two locations to offer hydrobikes.

Coming soon:

Ballpark Boathouse near Nats Park will be open on weekends starting Friday, May 3. It will also rent out hydrobikes.

The Washington Sailing Marina in Alexandria will open when the time is right in May.

Paddleboards: Rentals of stand-up paddleboards are expected to begin at all locations in May, once temperatures warm up.

Bonus: Paddle around submerged WWI-era ships

If you want an extra adventurous paddling experience, you must check out Mallows Bay in Charles County, Maryland.

The largest graveyard of abandoned naval ships in Western Hemisphere waters is now a vibrant nature preserve that can be experienced up close.

The ships are best seen during low tide. Tours are offered by Atlantic Kayak ($65-$85), REI ($120+) and occasionally the Potomac Riverkeepers.

Want to know what's up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene , our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

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Washington DC Group Events

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Experience the city’s most unique floating event venue! City Cruises offers all-inclusive packages, chef-prepared menus, full bar options, and entertainment customized to fit your needs—all with picturesque views from our climate-controlled interior and open-air outdoor decks. From  corporate events ,  social events ,  weddings , and  educational outings , it’s better on the water!

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Washington DC Birthday Party Boat Rentals

• Family Friendly Cruises , Georgetown , Navy Yard , Party Boat Rentals , The Wharf , Washington DC

Get ready for an unforgettable journey along the lively waterways of Washington DC with our highly-rated birthday party boat rentals. Earning an average Google rating of 4.8 stars , we proudly provide several party boat options in the DC area . Whether you’re a local ready to explore the city from a new perspective or visiting for a special celebration, our fleet offers a mix of excitement and relaxation for an unforgettable birthday bash.

“Our group was celebrating a birthday and had an amazing time on the water with Jack and Charlie. The crew was fun, professional, accommodating, and treated our group very well. The drinks were delicious and the vibes were great! We will definitely be back. Couldn’t recommend it enough!” Elisa Mobley

$45-70/person | 4-48 People | Bartended, BYOB & BYOF | 1 hr 45 mins

Celebrate with a Birthday Party Boat Cruise in DC

Elevate your birthday festivities with a cruise experience like no other. We offer various boating options including Paddle Boats , Tiki Boats , Retro Boats , and Whitlow’s on Water ! From intimate gatherings to grand soirees, our cruises cater to birthday parties of any size and style.

“Rented a tiki boat for my birthday and it was honestly unforgettable! The boat crew was really nice, letting us blast music and bring drinks and food on board. Lovely way to enjoy a sunny afternoon on the water.” Sybil Bullock

Sip, Snack, and Celebrate on a Private Party Cruise

We offer flexible drink policies on our private birthday party boat rentals. Some cruises are BYOB , allowing you to bring your choice of champagne, wine, seltzer, or craft beers . Some offer a selection of beverages for purchase if you’d prefer not to deal with supplying the drinks. Others allow for both options for maximum flexibility!

All cruises are BYO Food , so you’re invited to pair your favorite beverages with the foods you love most. Set the vibe with music to get the party going, we’ve got you covered with Bluetooth speakers on board. Eat, drink, sing, and dance as you sail against the scenic backdrop of the Potomac.

Perfect for All Ages and Group Sizes

From 21st birthdays to 50 year celebrations of life, our cruises offer a unique experience for parties of all ages . Our boats can accommodate groups ranging from small gatherings of 4 close friends to larger parties of up to 48 people , ensuring comfort and satisfaction for every guest aboard.

Experience DC from the Potomac River

Discover the capital’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems from an unparalleled vantage point. Our routes take you past historic Georgetown , along The Wharf , or through the lively Navy Yard area. Each location offers its own unique flavor and experiences, promising a birthday celebration filled with discovery and delight. Trying to plan a full day or weekend of birthday activities in DC ? Kick them off or cap them off with a birthday cruise you won’t forget!

Explore Birthday Party Boat Rentals in DC

Each of our DC locations offers a distinctive experience, ensuring your birthday party is as unique as you are. Select from our unique suite of boating options to find the perfect fit for the size and vibe of your birthday festivities.

“Having drinks with friends for our friend’s birthday was the perfect way to kick off the summer season. Plenty of room on the boat, drinks were available to purchase, and you can bring on your own food and drinks. Lots of shade — but you can hang out in the sun too.” Julie Vianello

Georgetown Boat Rentals

Set sail from Georgetown and immerse yourself in the elegance and history of Washington Harbour . Our Georgetown cruises offer a blend of scenic beauty and historic charm, providing a unique venue for your birthday celebration. Experience a unique sightseeing excursion on the Potomac River with picturesque views of the Lincoln Memorial , Washington Monument , Jefferson Memorial , Watergate Hotel, and the Pentagon in Arlington!

The Wharf BYOB Cruises

Embark on a vibrant journey from The Wharf , DC’s premier waterfront destination. With stunning views of the Potomac, luxury dining, and entertainment options, The Wharf is the perfect launchpad for a birthday party that balances sophistication with festive fun. Explore some of the best restaurants and live music venues in DC like The Anthem , Pearl Street Warehouse , Union Stage , and District Pier .

Navy Yard Party Boats

Kick off your celebration at the Navy Yard , where the energy of DC’s nightlife meets the serenity of riverside views. Our Navy Yard cruises are ideal for those looking to combine their love of sports, music, and waterfront vibes into one epic birthday bash. With Nationals Park and Audi Field nearby, this area is the ultimate sports hub. Going to the game for your birthday? Picture being dropped off by water at the stadium’s doorstep, just in time for the game or hopping aboard after a big win for a victory cruise down the Potomac. 

Rent Your DC Birthday Party Boat

Don’t wait to make your birthday celebration extraordinary. Our team is committed to providing an unmatched party experience with superior customer service and a picturesque setting that will leave you and your guests with memories to last a lifetime. Book your Washington DC birthday party boat rental today and set sail for an adventure that will be the highlight of your year!

“I celebrated my birthday on the tiki boat cruise with all of my friends and we had the best time! We had so much fun, that we are already planning another friend’s birthday party on the boat! Charlie and Luke both contributed to making the experience amazing!” Kim Nguyen