private boat cruise washington dc

• Search Experiences
• Manage Booking
• Phone # SMS #
• My Offers 5

Cherry Blossoms Season is Back! Book Now

City Cruises – Washington DC

Washington dc city cruises, 2024 water taxi pass.

Skip the traffic. All Season Long

Host Your Group Event on the Water

Potomac Water Taxi

Recommended Experiences in Washington DC

What people are saying, washington dc city cruises blog.

The Best Places for Team Building in Washington, DC

Work doesn’t always include fulfillment and excitement, but when it does, it certainly takes the passion for your job or career to another level, especially in the competitive work environment

Washington DC Is the Place to Be for Your Bridal Shower

Washington DC is celebrated as the capital of the United States, and many important dignitaries from around the globe have come to the city for a host of memorable events.

Plan Your Rehearsal Dinner in the Nation’s Capital, Washington DC

When thinking about everything that comes with your upcoming wedding, think Washington DC. The nation’s capital is not just any city. and your wedding is not just any wedding. Most

Valentine’s Day 2024 on the Water in Washington DC

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

Make a Birthday Wish for Washington, DC

Another trip around the sun! No matter the age, birthdays are a reminder of the journey we’ve taken, the milestones we’ve achieved, and the need to celebrate the joys and

How to Spend Christmas 2024 in Washington DC

Our nation’s capital, Washington DC, is known for many things: beautiful blooming cherry blossoms, our capitol building, a litany of monuments, and much more! But did you know it’s also

Ring in the New Year on the Water in Washington, DC: 2024

The capital city offers plenty of options to ring in the new year. From memorable family events to the hottest parties and restaurants, The District has something for everyone on

The Best Washington, DC Networking Event Venues

Booking a networking event venue in Washington DC is a great way to develop as a professional and further your career. As the capital of the United States, it’s home

Give Thanks on the Water in Washington, DC for Thanksgiving 2024

The nation’s capital comes alive for the holidays, and it all starts with Thanksgiving! It’s not just about getting stuffed and watching football. The entire district welcomes the holiday season

Capital Gathering: Washington, D.C.’s Premier Meeting Spaces and Venues

The Nation’s Capital is known as a place for movers and shakers, so naturally, plenty of meetings take place in the city. That means it’s a challenge to find spaces

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top cruises in washinton dc.

• Mount Vernon from DC Cruise
• DC Sightseeing Tours
• Washington DC Brunch Cruises
• DC Dinner Cruises

More about the best boat tours in Washinton DC?

Are private boat charters in washinton dc available.

• DC Boat Charters
• Washington DC Corporate Events
• Wedding Cruises around DC
• Washington DC Party Cruises

Which landmarks and famous sights can you see on a Washinton DC cruise?

Water & boat attractions in washington dc.

Mount Vernon from DC or Alexandria | Prix Fixe Dinner Cruise | Premier Lunch Cruise | Potomac Water Taxi | Water Taxi 2023 Pass | Water Taxi One Day Pass |   Washington D.C. Alive After Five Cruise | Signature Dinner Cruise | Premier Dinner Cruise | Premier Brunch Cruise | Signature Lunch Cruise

Things to do near Washington DC

Things to do in Alexandria | Things to do in Baltimore | Things to do in Jersey City | Things to do in Weehawken | Things to do in Niagara Falls | Things to do in Philadelphia | Things to do in Toronto | Things to do in Chicago | Things to do in Boston

Recommended for Washington DC

Washington DC: Big Bus – Classic Tour | Washington D.C. Alive After Five Cruise | Monuments Tour From The Wharf | Mount Vernon from DC | Monuments Sightseeing Tour From Alexandria and Georgetown

Trending Attractions

Sights & Sips Cruise | Gospel Lunch Cruise | Signature Lunch Cruise | Signature Dinner Cruise | Baltimore Brunch Cruise | Baltimore Harbor Tour | After Dark Dance Cruise | Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour | Toronto Sightseeing Harbour Tour | New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise |  Official NYC Downtown Experience – Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory

Holiday Experiences in Washington DC

4th of July Signature Lunch Cruise | Father’s Day Signature Brunch Cruise | Fireworks Cruise from The Wharf, DC | Fireworks Cruise from Alexandria | 4th of July Premier Dinner Cruise | 4th of July Signature Dinner Cruise | Father’s Day Premier Dinner Cruise | Father’s Day Premier Afternoon Brunch Cruise | New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner Cruise | New Year’s Eve Premier Dinner Cruise | New Year’s Day Premier Brunch Cruise | Christmas Eve Premier Brunch Cruise | Thanksgiving Day Afternoon Lunch Cruise | Holiday Boat Parade of Lights | Labor Day Premier Lunch Cruise | Potomac Water Taxi New Year’s Eve Cruise | Lunch with Santa Cruise

Be the first to get offers and news

Shopping cart.

Find Your Experience

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 .

Searching Availability...

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.

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. We also understand the importance of privacy, especially for celebrities looking for a private and peaceful excursion.

Client Testimonials

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

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

Upcoming Events

Boating of the chihuahuas.

May 04, 2024 - May 04, 2024

The 12th Annual "Running of the Chihuahuas" is almost here. Have you...

Nearby Favorites

Anacostia community museum.

Welcome to the Anacostia Community Museum

Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood & Crab

Escape the Ordinary

Embassy Suites Washington, DC-Convention Center

Steps from Washington Convention Center and more!

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.

Pirate Ship Cruise

Quick Details

• Users Ages: 21+
• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours

Join us on a Pirate Ship Cruise on the Potomac River !

Prepare to embark on our 21+ party cruise aboard the Boomerang Pirate Ship, where even the most landlocked souls will find their sea legs in no time!  Embrace the pirate spirit by swaggering between the starboard and portside, mingling with your fellow passengers, and having an absolute blast!  Cruise beneath the sun, gaze at the sunset, or dance under the moonlight, grog in hand.

While we delight in seeing our spirited guests come adorned in pirate attire, please know that dressing like a pirate is not a requirement. Your presence and enthusiasm are all that’s needed to make this journey unforgettable.

With your all-inclusive ticket, you’ll enjoy:

• A 2-hour cruise
• A premium open bar featuring our lively bartenders mixing a variety of delicious cocktails, along with an array of liquor options, beer, wine, High Noon seltzers, filtered water, sodas, juices, and pre-packaged snacks.
• A professional sound system boasting an extensive library of music to set the perfect mood for your voyage.
• The magnificent cityscape of Washington, D.C. from the vantage points of our two open-air decks.

Please note that this is an all-inclusive ticket, ensuring a hassle-free experience with no cash or credit card transactions during the cruise since everything is taken care of. The opportunity to show your appreciation to our bartenders will be available through cash (exact change only), Venmo, or CashApp. Thank you for choosing Boomerang Cruises!

Related Cruises

• 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.

• 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!

• Find A Cruise

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

Follow Eater DC online:

• Follow Eater DC on Twitter
• Follow Eater DC on Facebook
• Follow Eater DC on Youtube
• Follow Eater DC on Instagram

Site search

• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Philadelphia
• Portland, OR
• San Francisco
• Twin Cities
• Washington DC
• Neighborhoods

Filed under:

Where to Book Booze Cruises of All Kinds in D.C.

Seasonal offerings on the Potomac include tailgating excursions to Nats Park, sunset Champagne on the dock, and everything in between

Share this story

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: Where to Book Booze Cruises of All Kinds in D.C.

This spring, D.C. docks are home to a surge of drinking vessels designed for every occasion, vibe, and price point. A returning line of retro motor boats are apparently the ticket to getting engaged, with seven proposals out on the water last year. Want to watch dolphins give birth on the Chesapeake this summer? One hotel offers an excursion for that. And a fancy sailboat manned by a fine dining chef pairs tasting menus with French wines.

Soak up monumental views along the Potomac River, drink in tow, with this running list of bookable boats.

Sea Suite Cruises

Co-founders and Arlington natives Jack Walten and Jack Maher’s first BYOB paddle pub debuted in 2018. Six years later, their supersized fleet is made up of 13 boats bobbing around Mid-Atlantic waterways (in D.C., Baltimore, Annapolis, and Richmond), plus floating tiki bars. And a landlocked bar born in Clarendon is the muse for one of their hottest new bookings this season:

Whitlow’s on Water

Now the largest boat in Sea Suite Cruises’ fleet, the 48-passenger tiki tour is the product of a fun new partnership with Whitlow’s owner Jon Williams. His iconic Clarendon dive moved to Shaw, but its original tiki rooftop on Wilson is reincarnated as a floating bar. “Whitlow’s on Water has taken the [Potomac] by storm,” says Sea Suite’s Jack Walten, noting it’s pretty much sold out almost every Saturday through the summer. Diehard Whitlow’s regulars, which includes the “Jacks,” have a familiar face on board: a former bartender from its Clarendon days handles the liquid lineup. Standard mixed drinks join beers, wines, High Noon seltzers, orange crushes, and rum punches. There’s also a selection of pub grub (sandwiches, wings, etc.) sourced from Whitlow’s.

Two TVs air “whatever people want to watch,” he says, which has included everything from March Madness to the Bachelorette (bachelorette parties are popular bookings, after all). As are corporate teams, birthdays, Whitlow’s fans, and even 50-year wedding anniversaries. Individual tickets are also available, to “mix and mingle like you would in a normal bar,” he says. Sea Suite caters to Washington Nationals fans with a traffic-free cruise from Georgetown to the Yards Marina, docking just in time to walk over for the first pitch. “Tailgating on a tiki boat, it doesn’t get better than that,” he says.

Price: Ticket tiers start at $24 and up for daily options that include individual or group sightseeing tours, tiki taxis, private charters, or “Nats Sailgate” ( book online).

Where: Pick-ups and drop-offs in Georgetown in front of Fiola Mare ( 3100 K Street NW ) and Yards Marina by District Winery (1492 4th Street SE )

Retro Boat Rentals

Vintage runabout boats from Sinatra’s time were retro-fitted with electric motors, so having a romantic or intimate conversation is highly possible. It’s no wonder there were multiple (seven) proposals out on the water last year, reports Sea Suite. Each four-top fiberglass beauty sports a different color and name (Gladys, Bonnie, and Violet).

Price: $175-$225 for 1.5-hour tours; BYO drinks and food

Where: Wharf to the Washington Channel

Potomac Tiki Club

D.C.’s “first tiki cruise” lets patrons buy booze on board, or opt for an $8 corkage fee for wine and Champagne. BYO food or purchase small snacks.

Price: $45-$60 for parties of 8 to 18 out of Georgetown. A smaller thatched-roof sibling out of Navy Yard fits six and runs $350-$425. Both last 1.45 hours.

Paddle Club Cruises

Sea Suite Cruises’ fleet that started it all is a pontoon pedal boat outfitted with 10 cycle stations (or just let the motor power the party). BYOB (just no hard liquor) or purchase on-board beverages like canned Cutwater ($4-$8.50).

Price: $35-$55 for groups of 8 to 16 for 1.45-hour tours

Where: Docks from the Wharf, Navy Yard, and Georgetown

Sea Table DC Aboard Cru Classé

Chef and sommelier Troy Knapp makes Michelin-level menus on his luxury sailboat Cru Classé. Back at the Wharf for its third year , the detail-oriented captain brings fine dining to the dock with artfully plated courses, decadent floral arrangements, seafaring table settings, and French wines he pours himself. Knapp also mans other Wharf vessels for parties of six or more, partnering with Nautiste to offer dining excursions with his catering company Curated.

Choose from three different experiences this season (book via TOCK ):

• Cruise Experience (April through October): Set sail for up to three hours while enjoying four to six courses comprised of ingredients from local farms and fishermen. Complemented by prestigious wine pairings. Starting at $430 per guest
• Dockside Experience (April, May, September, and October): Savor four to six courses with sommelier-selected wines while docked at the Wharf’s marina for up to two hours. Starting at $180 per guest
• Oyster Sails (June, July, and August): Enjoy local bivalves, freshly shucked by an oyster expert on board, alongside specialty accompaniments. Paired with Champagne or prestige white wine. Starting at $225 per guest

Where: Docks at the Wharf ( 650 Wharf Street SW )

Pendry on the Potomac

The most baller option of the bunch by far, the Wharf’s luxe Pendry hotel offers guests a captain-chartered Aviara cruise that’s available to the public for the first time. Parked in its own slip right out front of the Southwest Waterfront hotel, onboard food and beverage offerings include Champagne and caviar service supplied by Pendry’s culinary team. Bar selections, beer or wine, and appetizers can be customized, depending on the parties’ preference. Excursions near and far include round trips to Nationals home games and an all-day adventure to the Chesapeake Bay to spot marine life. As it turns out, dolphins use the Potomac and Bay as a nursery to birth their calves — a rare event that happens from mid-June to mid-August when the water is warmest. Kicking it up at full speed (35-40 knots), hat-holding patrons will jet downstream through Old Town, Fort Washington, and Mt. Vernon and (hopefully) see the annual occurrence.

Price: $3,600 (3 hours); $4,600 (4 hours); $6,000 (6 hours); $7,800 (7 hours) for up to six; reserve here .

Where: Outside of the Pendry ( 655 Water Street SW ) at the Wharf Marina

Watergate Charter

Staycation alert: the historic Watergate Hotel offers guests 90-minute scenic tours of the Tidal Basin aboard a private power boat chartered by a captain. Upon check-in, guests get a welcome amenity and a Polaroid camera to capture their day on the Potomac. Bring your own beverages and snacks or order Watergate’s picnic basket for two stocked with cherry blossom-themed macarons, a charcuterie board, and a bottle of Veuve Clicquot. Available for stays through the summer (September 2).

Where: Docks from the Georgetown Harbor; view booking details here .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sea the City Hot Tub Boat Tours (@seathecityhottub)

Private Hot Tub Boat

Believe it or not, it’s now possible to bask in a bubbling hot tub with 10 friends, be a DJ, and soak up city sights out on the water — all at once. NYC-based Sea the City expanded its tricked-out party fleet on the Hudson down to the Potomac in March. No food is allowed, but 21-and-up passengers are permitted to bring alcohol (beer, wine, bubbly, or hard seltzers only) on board. The company provides complimentary ice, coolers, cups, and water. Up to 20 can fit on the boat at once, and the 10-person tub is outfitted with a Bluetooth-enabled sound system to create your own set list.

There’s a private room onboard for swimsuit costume changes (along with a separate bathroom). BYO towels or rent ones for $6-$8. Party favors include customized marquee boards, and the boat promises “attentive deckhands” at the ready.

Where: The Wharf Marina, 101 Market Square SW

Price: Starting at $359 for a two-hour experience

More From Eater DC

Sign up for the newsletter eater dc.

Sign up for our newsletter.

Thanks for signing up!

Check your inbox for a welcome email.

Oops. Something went wrong. Please enter a valid email and try again.

Dupont’s New Pizza Pad Curbs Cravings Until 3 a.m. — And More Openings

FLOTUS Favorite Radici Is Closing on Capitol Hill

The Hottest New Pop-Ups Around D.C.

Celebrity Chef Nobu Matsuhisa Is Having a Ball in D.C.

Rasa, D.C.’s Go-To Destination for Indian Bowls, Enters the Wraps Game

La Grande Boucherie Makes a Jaw-Dropping Entrance Into D.C.

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.

We're making it easier for you to find stories that matter with our new newsletter — The 4Front. Sign up here and get news that is important for you to your inbox.

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.

The most fun things to do and places to be in D.C., Maryland and Virginia

The Weekend Scene: Capitals in playoffs, GW Parkway run and French vibes around DC

DC gears up for Stanley Cup playoffs

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.

This article tagged under: