River Cruises In Washington DC, USA - Updated 2024

potomac river cruise in washington dc
Hardik
Hardik 
Updated
| 3 min read

The US capital Washington DC is popularly known for its impressive neoclassical monuments and buildings like the White House and the Capitol. Its culture and rich history define the city. The proud capital lies on the east coast of the nation. Along the banks of the Potomac River, the exciting waterfront destination pulls off many visitors all-round the year. You will be surprised to witness what’s waiting for you beyond DC’s shoreline. As the city is enormous, it is not easy to explore all areas in a short duration. One of the best ways to explore the city’s beauty is on a cruise tour. Plus, there is nothing like sailing around the beautiful rivers, soaking in the bright sun by day, and enjoying the glimpses of the moonlight flow by night. For a memorable vacation, scroll down and check out the best river cruises in Washington DC, USA

1. Indulge in a delicious meal aboard the Spirit (from USD 60.42)

potomac river cruise in washington dc | indulge in a delicious meal aboard the spirit

After strolling and admiring the city, enjoy an extensive buffet of delicious cuisine while cruising down the Potomac River. This river cruise will take you to see Washington DC’s famous landmarks like Washington Monument, National Harbor, and Old town Alexandria. Once you board the vessel, you will be greeted, and a photographer will capture your memory on a cruise before you are seated at your private table. While sightseeing, you can enjoy a two-hour lunch or a three-hour dinner with new options, freshly prepared, just for you. After your meal, you can play games like Giant Jenga and shuffleboard or bust out your moves on the tunes of the live DJ onboard.

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Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit

Duration: 2.0 to 2.5 hour

493 reviews

2. Explore the beauty of Washington (from USD 58.0)

Experience Washington in a unique way. Washington is loved for its historic sites and there is nothing better than cruising down the Potomac and enjoying the rich slice of history. You will learn about the notable landmarks during the restful river cruise. You will also get plenty of free time to explore the 45-acres (18.2 hectares) estate. The crew is ecstatic to serve its guests aboard and you will be offered the best of everything. Drink some wine and enjoy the music along with the marvelous view of the city.

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Mount Vernon, Potomac River Cruise: George Washington Tour

Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes

324 reviews

3. Enjoy delightful moments with Spirit Cruises

Cruise
Source: Pixabay

Dine and wine your way by sailing for about three hours. You get to check out the best views of the Washington monument, National Harbour, old town and other iconic DC sights while listening to the multilingual commentary. As you cruise through, you will get to savor a wide selection of salads like organic mixed field greens, organic spinach, and kale salad, vegetable, potatoes, and pasta, followed by entrees like oven-baked Atlantic flounder filet and honey and sesame chicken. You can relish amazing desserts on board like coconut vanilla cake and carrot cake. You can celebrate your special occasion, host a group event, or have a romantic date night.

Spirit Cruises by Hornblower

Address: 580 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Website: Spirit Cruises by Hornblower

Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)

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4. Have a lunch cruise with live music

River Cruise
Source: Pexels

Set off on this leisurely lunch cruise in comfort and style. Fancy the two-hour cruise while enjoying the DJ in the background. Just as the cruise navigates smoothly across numerous attractive locations, you can mesmerize the charming view of the city. Settle and embark on a memorable lunch experience with your loved ones as you enjoy a delicious buffet prepared from local seasonal ingredients while the sunshine reflects off the Potomac. You can taste the creatively prepared dishes that include salads like red beet salad, kidney bean, chickpea salad, etc. The baked ziti pasta, and entrees like Italian beef meatballs will make you lick your fingers. Complete your meal by adding a signature dessert like peach or raspberry flan pie.

Spirit Cruises Potomac River Sightseeing Lunch Cruise

Address: 580 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Website: Spirit Cruises Potomac River Sightseeing Lunch Cruise

Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)

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Washington Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

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

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. Embark on a majestic cruise with Odyssey

River Cruise
Source: Pexels

Adore Washington DC city as you take a cruise around the most stunning views in the region. While you are on board you will enjoy the vibrant ambiance and the outstanding music selection by Odyssey’s live band. As you move around the harbor you will get an opportunity to have a closer look at the city’s splendid landmarks including Jefferson Memorial and Georgetown waterfront. Apart from that, you can munch on a delicious buffet dinner prepared with love and indulge in creative games. If you wish to take this cruise about brunch or lunchtime, Odyssey will arrange it for you. If you are taking the cruise at brunch, you can indulge at the Odyssey’s signature dessert station that comprises of mini pastry cups, cakes, and pastries. If selected the lunch option, you are offered a three-course meal, to have at your own pace and luxury. Start by opting from a caesar salad or a lobster bisque followed by entrees like boiled fresh salmon filet. No meal is complete without signature desserts like a triple chocolate mud pie. You will savor an unforgettable experience on this cruise.

Odyssey Washington by Hornblower Cruises & Events

Address: 580 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Odyssey DC Dinner Cruises

Potomac River Monuments Lunch Cruises

Odyssey DC Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruises

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Explore Washington DC on a memorable cruise

One of the best ways to experience the city is to take part in one of the cruises that offer you delicious meals. While exploring the city’s iconic monuments make sure you take a moment to relax aboard.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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