More about: Boat Tours and Cruises in Washington DC
One of the coolest things to do in Washington during a holiday is to take a boat trip on the Potomac River. Not only will you get to see some of the most famous monuments from a different perspective, but you'll also get to enjoy a tasty feast followed by a good old-fashioned dance party on board. Ready for a day to remember?
1. Take an evening dinner cruise
Are you up for a different kind of night out in Washington? Make the most of your stay in the capital of the United States and put on your best clothes for an evening cruise with dinner included on the Potomac River.
During this type of tour you'll have the opportunity to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city's most beautiful monuments as the sun sets and the landscape is illuminated by small twinkling coloured lights. It's a magical experience!
Exploring the waters of the Potomac River on a leisurely boat ride to take in Washington' s illuminated skyline is a great way to start the evening.
Take a seat and relax with the view as the evening gets more exciting. You'll need your strength to dance the night away on board the boat with live music after dinner - bring your camera because you'll experience Washington like never before!
2. Take a scenic cruise with lunch included
Daytime souls or those travelling as a family can also take a fun morning cruise on the Potomac River with lunch included if you have other plans to enjoy the evening in the US capital.
Taking a boat tour of Washington is an original way to see the city's skyline, giving you a more complete and different view of the city as you observe it from the water.
During the tour, you'll be able to see some of the city 's most beautiful monuments while sitting comfortably on the deck of the boat and take some of the coolest pictures of your trip while the captain tells you anecdotes about Washington's history.
Afterwards you'll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and in the evening a fun party with a DJ will get underway, and you'll have a great time on the dance floor!
How much does it cost to take a cruise in Washington?
There is no doubt that Washington is an exciting city full of history and amazing monuments. Most tourists take a walking or bus tour of the city, sometimes forgetting that the Potomac River offers amazing views of the capital of the United States.
That's why if it's your first time in Washington and you want to get the full picture of the city, my advice is to also take a cruise on the Potomac - there are plenty of tours available! And they're super fun too, because not only will you cruise along the river for a relaxing ride, but there are cruises that also include lunch or dinner and even have parties on board with DJ's. Doesn't that sound great?
So if you're looking for something original and different to do on your holiday, you should definitely include a cruise in Washington in your plans. You can find options from almost 70 euros.
In Hellotickets you can compare prices, schedules as well as availability of tickets and day or night cruises, you will surely find the tour that best suits you!
How long are the cruises in Washington?
The Potomac River is one of Washington's main tourist attractions and tours along the river usually vary in length depending on the theme of the cruise.
Some tours are limited to a short trip along the water to enjoy the views of the riverbank, but Washington cruises that include lunch and an on-board party are usually 2-3 hours long.
Since they are not too long, these types of activities are perfect to do in the morning or evening to rest your legs for a while after so much sightseeing. You can then spend the rest of the day sightseeing around Washington.
Which is better, a daytime or nighttime cruise?
It depends on your taste but in my opinion Washington at night is a sight to see.
Taking a leisurely boat ride at sunset while gazing at the city's major monuments lit up and sailing down the Potomac River is a magical experience not to be missed.
Add to that a good party with music on board, and I think it's the perfect finishing touch to a unique and very special evening you'll experience during your holiday.
How to book a cruise in Washington?
You can book your place for a cruise in Washington online and in advance of your travel date. All you have to do is choose the time you want to do the activity, the number of passengers and the day you want to go to check availability.
Then you will have to fill in the requested fields to make the reservation and finally proceed with the payment. It's that easy!
This is a very original activity, so by booking online and from home you won't have to worry about getting your tickets once you're in Washington, you'll be sure to take them with you before you land and instead of queuing at the ticket office you'll be able to spend that time doing other things!
Why is it worth taking a cruise in Washington DC?
Because it's a fun and original way to explore the city from a different perspective!
On board the boat you'll not only see some of Washington's most beautiful scenery and a host of monuments, but you'll also have a relaxing time cruising along the river before enjoying a delicious dinner and a party with music and dancing. What more could you ask for?
You'll have a great time and take home unforgettable memories of your stay in the capital!
What's more, with day and night cruises available, you'll be able to choose the one that best suits your tastes and circumstances. For example, if you're travelling as a couple, you can spend a romantic evening on the evening cruise as you watch the sun go down and the Washington skyline gradually light up before enjoying dinner and dancing.
Alternatively, if you're travelling with your family you can opt for the daytime cruise with buffet lunch and dancing to a DJ. The kids are sure to love the boat ride and a good time on the Potomac River, an original experience they won't forget!
What will I see on a Washington DC cruise?
Along the route, some of the most popular sites you will see are:
- The Potomac River
- George Washington Monument
- Arlington National Cemetery
- Abraham Lincoln Memorial
- The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
- Thomas Jefferson Memorial
- The Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge
- Reagan National Airport
- The United States Naval Research Laboratory
- Historic Downtown Alexandria