As the country’s capital city, Washington is undeniably a remarkable attraction for travelers from around the globe. And while taking walking tours around the picturesque monuments and taking aesthetic shots of them are nice and fun, there are still a plethora of things to do in Washington that are ideal for both local and foreign travelers. If you haven’t heard of it yet, Washington is also famous for its exciting waterfront destinations. You might even find yourself surprised to know what’s in store for you beyond the city shoreline. One of the reasons tourists always come back is because of the cruise experiences the city provides them. And if water adventure is one of the things you wish to experience, there’s no better place than Washington. In case you decide to take a trip here, check out our list of the best boat tours in Washington D.C., USA.
1. Enjoy a lavish cruise ride along Gangplank Marina (from USD 125.0)
Enjoy a cruise ride along Washington’s breathtaking coastline and marvel at great scenes that shouldn’t be missed. Experience sailing from the charming Gangplank Marina while enjoying live jazz and savoring tasty food in a brunch buffet included in the tour. If you’re not a fan of big crowds, this tour might interest you since it’s a small group tour with only 19 travelers allowed. Get the most of the tour by choosing to dine on the deck where you’ll be able to bask under the warm sun while also savoring complimentary wine. The highlights of this tour are the spectacular views of attractions in the city including Jefferson Memorial, The Watergate Hotel, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Monument.
Washington DC Premier Brunch Cruise
Duration: 2 hours
2. Join lovely boat tour along the city coast (from USD 164.0)
Come aboard a delightful cruise along the coast of Washington and see the city like you never have before. From the striking waterfront of the Gangplank Marina to the coast of the Potomac River, a lot of historic sites and attractions will surely give you an amazing time. Some of the things to expect include a lavish dining experience with rooms offering fantastic river views, an open-air observation deck, and dance floors, which can get exciting, especially after dinner. The tour is approximately three hours, which gives you ample time to enjoy the views of Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial lit with millions of stars.
Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise
Duration: 3 hours
3. Indulge in a scenic lunch cruise (from USD 60.0)
Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, one of the things to experience while in Washington is a cruise trip. If you’re only in the city for a day and are looking for the best way to get the most out of your visit, you might consider joining this scenic lunch cruise. It’s a two-hour lunch cruise that sets sail along the Potomac River. One of the things you’ll get to enjoy, apart from seeing some of the famous destinations in the city including Alexandria, Washington Monument, and Woodrow Wilson Bridge, is the buffet prepared by a skilled chef. And if you’re someone who appreciates good music, then this cruise tour is perfect for you. Grab a drink at the on-site bar while breathing in all the beautiful scenes of Washington.
Spirit of Washington DC Scenic Lunch Cruise with Entertainment
Duration: 2 hours
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4. Witness striking views of sunset hues along the Chesapeake Bay (from USD 116.0)
Want to know when the real fun starts? Well, most tourists said that the best time to see Washington’s beauty is when the sun is just about to sink from the horizon. Imagine witnessing all the skyscrapers in the city illuminated with the sunset hues. With this sunset cruise on the Chesapeake Bay, you’ll surely get to see that. Some of the things you can expect to witness are buildings, bridges, and the coast twinkling with all the lights in the city. You can also enjoy fine dining and swaying to the music while drinking classic wines. Nothing is better than ending your day with a relaxing cruise tour.
Chesapeake Beach: Sunset Cruise on the Bay
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Washington Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more
Tours by Stephanie
Washington Tour Guide
Annie Leguennec
My name is Annie. I am a local Tour guide based in Philadelphia enjoying fully what the city has to offer with its deep history, street arts, murals, architecture, traditional food, black history, Farmer Markets, green space, a melting pot of neighborhoods and its great locals. I am looking for to welcome you and show you this incredible city where you will gain a better understanding of the ci... Read more
Tours by Annie
5. Take a luxurious day tour around the city's famous attractions (from USD 84.0)
Looking for the perfect tour that will give you insights into the city’s most beloved attractions? This luxurious day-tour of Washington is your best choice. The tour includes a hotel pick-up and drop-off, which makes it easier for guests to enjoy the trip. It’s a six-hour tour that will cover some of the best scenes and experiences in the city, such as the United States Capitol, The White House, and other major monuments. Cruising along the Potomac River, make sure to relish the fresh air while marveling at the city’s wonders.
Potomac River Cruise and Washington DC Sightseeing Coach Tour
Duration: 6 hours
6. Wine your way through the enchanting Potomac River (from USD 139.72)
Marvel at Washington DC’s marvelous monuments, including Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial on a cruise trip by The Odyssey. Dine and wine your way through the shoreline of the Potomac River in this three-hour cruise where you get to enjoy a three-course dinner while listening to a live band. As you enjoy indulging in the buffet’s different tasty dishes, make sure to take advantage of the views right outside the dining room windows and take a lot of pictures for keepsake. And if you’re feeling a little adventurous, take advantage of the dance floor and dance the night away.
Washington DC:Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey
Duration: 2.0 to 3.0 hour
7. Witness the natural wonders around Chesapeake Bay (from USD 96.0)
As you decide to take the trip ashore, prepare yourself to learn about the important sites and the history of the city that made it what it is as you cruise over the waters of Chesapeake Bay. And if luck is on your side, you’ll get to watch dolphins in their natural habitat. The best thing about this tour, apart from the sceneries that never seem to get old, is the exclusive feeling that travelers will experience during the trip. You’ll surely enjoy this cruise tour that’s perfect for you and your friends.
Chesapeake Bay Small-Group Yacht Sailing Tour
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
8. Surprise your special someone with a romantic sunset cruise tour (from USD 134.0)
If you’re looking for the perfect romantic surprise for your special someone while you’re in Washington, cruising along the stunning Potomac River might interest you. Breathe in the city skyline while watching the sun setting from the horizon. Indulging in a cruise tour has a lot of perks, including scrumptious food, dancing to upbeat songs, and stunning views of famous landmarks such as Washington Monument. It’s an ideal activity, especially if you’re new to the city. And if you love capturing every moment, there are a lot of charming Instagram-worthy scenes.
Washington DC Signature Dinner Cruise
Duration: 3 hours
9. Join an exciting cruise tour along the district's must-witness attractions (from USD 58.0)
Whether you’re a local or someone new in town, Mount Vernon offers a plethora of charming views and amazing activities to indulge in during your visit. George Washington’s plantation home is one of the people’s most beloved historic sites. To get the most of your visit to Washington, join a cruise tour along the Potomac River to Mount Vernon. That way, you’ll get to enjoy the breeze and the morning light while witnessing scenic views of the surrounding areas. Upon arriving at Mount Vernon, you can explore its beautiful gardens, historic museum, and the whole 21-room mansion.
Mount Vernon, Potomac River Cruise: George Washington Tour
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
10. Go on a romantic cruise (from USD 28.0)
How about enjoying a romantic night cruise with the moon shining brightly on the skyline? This tour offers travelers a moonlight cruise on the Washington Potomac River that will pass by some of the must-witness attractions in the city, including Georgetown and Lincoln Memorial. You can also enjoy freshly cooked dishes while sipping wines or cocktails at the bar. Some say that you’ll never truly appreciate the city until you witness its moonlit skyline. And if you want to experience something magical, a night cruise along the river can do the trick.
Washington DC by Moonlight Night Cruise
Duration: 1 hour
Sail through the stunning coasts of Washington D.C.
Prepare yourself for the adventure of a lifetime as you hop into one of the city’s stunning water vessels and discover a new side of the country’s capital city. Make sure to make the most of your trip to Washington by enjoying everything this wonderful place has to offer, including scenic views, glorious food, and thrills.
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