WASHINGTON, D.C.
The best way to spend a day in D.C.
The 15 best cruises & boat tours in Washington, with what each one covers, what it costs and how long to set aside. A shortlist for planning real days on and off the National Mall.
National Mall in one day with 10+ guided stops, narrated Potomac cruise, and optional museum or Capitol entry upgrades from $87.
Most Popular“Jerome was a great guide and our driver was excellent! We saw everything we wanted to see and more! Highly recommend you book this tour!”
DC City Cruises Spirit of Washington buffet brunch or dinner with DJ, games, and 360° Potomac views of major landmarks for about $65.
“The atmosphere was nice. The food choices could be better.”
A 6-hour Washington, DC guided loop with convertible-bus views and a seasonal Potomac River cruise. See major memorials plus Georgetown.
“I loved the guide very much, he is so prepared and can tell you so much about the monument and history, he can answer to all your questions. In addition he is very nice and with a great sense of humor. I loved the driver, she is clear, determined and very nice. It has been…”
A 2-hour DC Potomac River cruise with plated brunch or a 3-course dinner, 360° views, and smart-casual comfort on the Odyssey.
“Premier brunch cruise was fantastic! My group of 28 had a great time. Food was delicious, server good and DJ was awesome!!! We are thinking of an annual cruise.”
Enjoy a 2-hour Washington DC Potomac lunch cruise with a buffet, coffee, and DJ music, plus views of the Washington Monument and Alexandria.
“All the City Cruises staff were professional and friendly!! I appreciate that sooo much!! And, the cruise staff, Audi was my waitress, were all amazing!! Thank you.”
DC at night from the Odyssey: a 2.5-3 hour Potomac dinner cruise with a 3-course meal and DJ-led dancing.
“What a dump I would give zero stars if that was an option The boat needs a total refurbishment The carpets we’re disgusting, the furniture tired and needs burning The only thing premium is the price The service was rubbish The food Read more”
A guided DC highlights tour with a Potomac River cruise when in season, plus timed monument stops for an easy first-trip day.
“This tour was great. Chris our driver and Tyrone our guide were amazing. Tyrone explained the history behind each monument and the boat ride on the Potomac was a great way to end the day”
A 2-hour Washington DC brunch cruise on the Potomac with a buffet, bottomless mimosas, DJ music, and skyline views from the yacht deck.
“Good food and good music and nice staff. Chef Wanda and our server Erica are amazing! They made the experience more enjoyable.”
$99 for a 6-hour DC highlights tour with a Potomac river cruise in season, Capitol entry, and timed optional museum tickets.
“The day trip was wonderful. We were so lucky to have such an informative guide. It was especially nice getting onto a nice cold bus after walking around on the heat. I plan on taking the day trip again when visitors come to visit.”
City Cruises Washington DC buffet dinner cruise: sunset Potomac views, DJ dance party, and an all-you-can-eat dinner on a 3-hour ride.
“The ship was very nice. Several decks and well kept. The crew was very friendly. Dinner was served buffet style and was ok... Typical banquet style food. Baked chicken, a couple of salads, fish, a really good macaroni and cheese and desserts. I expected the route to take us through some of the Washington DC…”
Drive your own eco-friendly boat at Washington DC’s Wharf with a map, life vest, and captain-style control for up to 8. Choose 1–3 hrs.
“Calvin is the best! Great customer service & very accommodating.”
A small-group Potomac River cruise plus guided Mount Vernon estate walk with lunch included, starting fast from DC’s Wharf.
“Highly recommend! We loved our tour. It was so enjoyable and informational. Tyson was a great tour guide. Thank you!”
Small-group convertible van tour of Washington DC’s National Mall with reserved Capitol and Archives entry plus seasonal Potomac cruise.
“The friendliness and knowledge of the driver. We learned alot of history and it was enjoyable 😉. Hoping to come back in the future for a nighttime tour.”
River cruise to Mount Vernon with expert guides, VIP seating, and included lunch—plus time on the estate and grounds for a full day.
“Wonderful experience! Ayana was an excellent guide and helped make our day very special.”
2-hour Washington DC Potomac River yacht cruise from Georgetown with open bar, DJ music, and skyline views. $74, rain or shine.
“It was okay. It would be good if the guide provide us info about the place while we are traveling”
Every corner of the capital, and every way to see it.
