Many Washingtonians forget that we have access to the mighty Potomac River that flows next to our district every day.Maybe it’s because we’re busy or because it’s not the prettiest river in the world but it can be easy to forget we have a perfect water destination. If you want to experience the Potomac in a brand new way, then you need to take a ride on a riverboat cruise from Potomac Riverboat Company.
The Potomac Riverboat Company is based out of Alexandria but it takes several tours from Alexandria to National Harbor. Along the way you will enjoy amazing views of DC!
The Monuments tour will take you along the Potomac, offering only the best views of the most famous landmarks and monuments and you can depart from any of their four locations: the Gaylord, National Harbor, Alexandria or Georgetown.
The Mount Vernon tour will take you to Mount Vernon, George and Martha Washington’s home. You will have four hours to explore the estate before hopping back onto the boat to be taken home, if you choose. You can depart from either Alexandria, the Gaylord or National Harbor. It’s a 90 minute one way trip.
The Seaport Cruise is a 40 minute cruise that will take you along Old Town Alexandria. You will see sights such as Jones Point Lighthouse and Founders Park. It’s a 40 minute narrated cruise.
They also offer water taxi cruises from Alexandria to Georgetown or Alexandria to National Harbor. You can also take a water taxi from either Alexandria or National Harbor to the National Mall. And for baseball fans, you can take the Baseball Boat to Nationals Stadium for a game!
If you really want a full riverboat experience, you can choose to rent the Cherry Blossom. This is an recreation of a 19th century Victorian steamboat. It is one of only six coast guard certified sternwheelers in the country. However, it is only available for private rental.
No matter whether you rent out a vessel for the evening or take a quick 40 minute ride around, you are going to love the unique experience aboard a Potomac Riverboat!