hornblower cruise dc

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Hornblower Cruises & Events

Located near Southwest Waterfront Park and Wharf Gangplank Marina, Hornblower Cruises and Events, formerly Entertainment Cruises, offers experiences on the water. Find inspired dining, a sightseeing adventure, perfect private venue and taxi service on the water.

• Sun. to Thurs. 5pm – 12am
• Fri. to Sat. 5pm – 3am

Contact 580 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024

WWW.HORNBLOWER.COM

866.302.2469

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City Cruises

Make unforgettable memories with these popular experiences.

City Cruises provides the most unique and entertaining dining cruise experience. View Washington, DC aboard the elegant Odyssey and enjoy a three-course plated menu with live band entertainment, or set sail on the brand new Spirit of Washington and dine on grand buffets with DJ entertainment. Take the family on the fun and educational Spirit of Mount Vernon for an exciting excursion to George Washington's home and gardens. You can also host an exclusive event on the private yacht Capital Elite for an intimate setting on the water, or sail out of National Harbor on the private yacht National Elite, perfect for groups of 80 - 145.

• After Hours
• Private Dining
• Semi-Private dining
• Group Dining
• Reservation
• Rooftop Dining
• ADA compliant

Additional Information

Largest capacities.

Banquet capacity: 500, Reception capacity: 468

Nearby Landmarks

Mount Vernon, National Mall

Private Rm Capacity

Dinner Cruise

Seating Capacity

Service type.

FIT/Voucher Program, Group Charter, Handicapped Accessible, Handicap Accessibility, Regular Scheduled Tours, Student Tours

Season Pass, Military Discounts

Metro Station

Blue, Green, Orange, Silver, Yellow

580 Water St. SW Pier 4 Washington , DC 20024 United States

(866) 404-8439, [email protected].

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Explore the Potomac

The Wharf’s piers and waterside promenades not only provide opportunities for leisurely riverfront strolls but a real connection to water recreation and even transportation. From scenic marinas and convenient water taxis to kayaking, paddleboarding, and so much more, The Wharf turns the Potomac into a playground for all water enthusiasts. View The Wharf map

Docks, Marinas, and Yacht Clubs

The wharf marina.

This 309-slip marine facility provides a distinctive venue for local and visiting boaters seeking the best of all worlds—a boater’s lifestyle and the proximity to the cosmopolitan attractions of the nation’s capital. It’s the perfect on-the-Potomac escape, whether for a week, a season, or a lifetime. The marina security office is also open 24 hours a day. 

Wharf Coordinates: N 38° 52.600’ / W 077° 01.334’

Market Docks

With both overnight and short-term docking, the Market Docks at The Wharf Marina is the perfect landing spot for boaters visiting The Wharf. The Market Docks are located off Market Pier, between the historic Municipal Fish Market and the shops, restaurants, and nightlife of The Wharf.

The Day Docks at The Wharf Marina offer hourly side-tie dockage every day during the boating season. If your stay is longer than a few hours, check out the accommodations at Market Docks .

Boat Rentals

New to The Wharf in 2023, SeaDC offers rentals of electric Duffy Sun Cruiser boats that can fit up to 10 passengers. SeaDC's boats comfortable, easy to drive, and are great way for a group of friends or family to see the amazing sights of the Potomac.

Aviara Experience at Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf

Enjoy a scenic adventure exploring Washington, DC by water, departing from the renowned Wharf Marina located just steps from the Pendry Washington, DC – The Wharf.

Sea the City DC Hot Tub Boat Tour

Elevate your special occasions with Sea the City, the first and only Hot Tub Boat Tour in Washington, D.C. Book a Single hot tub for up to 10 people or rent out the entire boat for up to 20 people! Sea the City is an extraordinary and exhilarating way to see the sights of the Potomac, whether it's for an anniversary, family day out, or to create unforgettable memories. Book now for an unforgettable adventure on the water!

Retro Boat Rentals DC

New to The Wharf in 2023, Retro Boat Rentals DC offers a fleet of meticulously maintained and rare classic fiberglass runabout boats from the jet-age era (1958-1963).

Potomac Paddle Club

Potomac Paddle Club is the first and only pontoon pedal boat or 'cycleboat' in the nation's capital. An adventure on these active boats is the perfect way to sip, cycle, and celebrate out on the water. 

GoBoat Rentals

Be your own captain with GoBoat at The Wharf (formerly known as Float DC). Rent a 100% electric, Scandinavian designed, picnic boat and cruise past monuments & historic sights in the heart of the US capital.

If you're over 21 and have a valid drivers license, GoBoat allows you to be your own captain and steer the electric vessel up and down the Washington Channel on your own. Gather up to 8 of your friends and set sail!

Kayaks and Stand-Up Paddleboards

Whether you want to rent a kayak to get away from it all or get all your friends onto paddleboards for the first time, we have ways for everyone to enjoy a day out on the water. Just stop by The Wharf Boathouse on Recreation Pier to get geared up.

Sightseeing and Dining Cruises

City cruises.

From dinner cruises to sightseeing to longer excursions, City Cruises (formerly known as Hornblower Cruises & Events) offers water experiences beyond compare. Choose from a variety of dining and sightseeing cruises conveniently docked at The Wharf to explore the nation’s capital from the Potomac.

Cru Classé - Sea Table D.C.

Cru Classé - Sea Table D.C. offers private dining experiences aboard a 47 foot modern sailing yacht. Each experience is led by Michelin awarded Chef & Sommelier, Troy Knapp, aboard the luxury sailing vessel. Exclusively at The Wharf, Cru Classé - Sea Table D.C. is one of the most intimate special occasion venues in the city and is available every spring to late fall.

Carefree Boat Club

Enjoy the pleasures of boat ownership with none of the hassles!  Carefree Boat Club is a members-only boat club located at The Wharf and over 80 other locations in the US and Canada.  Boating without Owning, It’s About Time!

Barton & Gray Mariners Club

Barton & Gray offers membership in a fleet of crewed Hinckley Yachts at The Wharf and throughout the Eastern seaboard. Members have unlimited access to the entire fleet, all year long. Crew members organize and facilitate incredible experiences on the water, in the most desirable ports and destinations. Members have all the joys of yachting without any of the hassle.

Book a private, captained charter boat tour of Washington, DC with Embark DC at The Wharf Marina. Cruise past monuments & historic sights in the heart of the US capital.

Capital Yacht Club

A private membership club formed in 1892, the Capital Yacht Club has a rich tradition of boating with monumental views and warm hospitality. Join CYC as a member or visiting boater and get to know this unique community on DC’s Washington Channel.

Wharf Jitney

The Wharf Jitney is a free boat service operated by The Wharf that ferries passengers between Recreation Pier and East Potomac Park. 

The Wharf Jitney operates from 12:00pm - 6:00pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through November. 

Jitney operations are subject to weather conditions. View the current operating status through  Boating in DC .

Sloan's Pink Boats

Sloan's Pink Boats offers six-passenger chartered tours in our brand new beautifully colored Pink Bentley Pontoon Boats.  

Get Your Fill at The Wharf

Fresh seafood is a given on the waterfront. But The Wharf offers more, including a wide selection of distinctive choices for food, drinks, and entertainment while you eat. Watch the chefs prepare your meal. Listen to music. Or just people-watch while you savor the flavors of The Wharf.

Visit the Fish Market

Enjoy the freshest fish from one of the country’s oldest fish markets. Oysters on the half shell. Blue crabs by the bushel. Whole fishes caught that morning. And a low-key atmosphere that makes everything taste even better. Stop by for the food or the fishmongers—the Municipal Fish Market never disappoints.

Popular Searches

City cruises.

• 105 N. Union Street Alexandria, Virginia
• (703) 684-0580

Celebrate your wedding day aboard the Cherry Blossom! The Cherry Blossom is an authentic split sternwheeler, designed with ornate iron rails and a plush interior of brass and mahogany. The open-air third deck offers a great location for outdoor ceremonies, providing spectacular views of Old Town Alexandria and the Washington, D.C. skyline. The Cherry Blossom is by far the most elegant yacht on the Potomac River.

City Cruises anchored by Hornblower’s number one priority is to assist you with an effortless planning process and an unforgettable day!

Accommodates: 350 reception, 120 seated.

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Spirit of Washington DC by Hornblower

Board this sleek, 4-deck, luxury spirit of washington yacht (formerly the "spirit of baltimore ii") and cruise for a fun night of dj dancing & sightseeing in washington dc..

Venue Description

A party cruise aboard the Spirit of Washington DC (formerly “Spirit of Baltimore II”) offers stunning views of some of DC’s top attractions and historic landmarks. See the nation’s Capital with iconic monuments plus a new take on DC – all from the water.

The Spirit of Washington DC provides the perfect night out. A magical setting enhanced by dazzling city sights and harbor lights. An evening filled to the brim with wonderful cuisine. Plus, dancing under a canopy of stars. For a party of two, a couple of couples, or a grand affair… This is the ultimate DC experience!!

One thing is for sure… You’ll know you are in for a special evening the moment you step aboard the elegant decks. Many tables are designed for cabaret-style seating with other guests (reminiscent of ocean-going cruises). Order drinks. Then, feel free to explore the ship while the crew casts off for hours of fun on Washington Harbor.

So when is the best time to come aboard the Spirit of Washington yacht? The DC Labor Day Weekend Party Cruise , Titanic Masquerade Halloween and Gatsby’s DC Fireworks New Year’s Eve Yacht Party 2025 ; of course. And if you still have questions; then head to our Contact Info to connect with us. We have highly trained DC Nightlife pros standing by and ready to help you, 24/7. We’d love to hear from you!

When you choose VIP Nightlife to plan a night out; you don’t have to know anything about the Spirit of Washington Yacht to have the time of your life. With years of experience, our team can take your ideas from an inspiration to a fully executed, once-in-a-lifetime occasion. We will create an event experience for your every need and can service groups of all sizes; up to 1000 guests or more.

If you are looking to put a nautical spin on your next day and or night out in the DC area; then let VIP Nightlife show you the way! And be sure to Like Us on Facebook so you can keep up with our Upcoming Events and Deals.

Quick Facts

• The Spirit of Washington DC – formerly the “Spirit of Baltimore II” • Breathtaking views of the DC Skyline, Harbor & more • Climate-controlled decks designed for cruising 365 days-a-year • Amenities: Bars, WiFi, Multiple DJs & Dance Floors, Games • Open-air roof deck • Stunning, panoramic skyline views • Exclusive VIP area • Multiple dance floors • Cocktail bars on each deck • Multiple DJs playing all the hits • Luxury cruise without leaving Washington Harbor • Professional, uniformed crew

Click To View Current Weather in Washington DC.

Still have questions? Head to our Contact Info to connect.

Parking Info

Boarding Address: Wharf Marina – Pier 4 at 580 Water Street SW Washington, DC 20024. Please arrive 30mins in advance as we do leave on time. DO NOT Drink & Drive. Use Ride Share Apps: Lyft or Uber. No refunds or exchanges if you miss the boat.

NOTE: City Cruises does not own or operate any parking lots in the area. Local parking is available at The Wharf Parking Garage. There is also metered street parking in area (fees do apply and you park at your own risk). Bus drop-off and pick-up is located on Main Ave SW.

Getting Here and Parking:

• Due to development and construction at the District Wharf, parking near our boats is very limited. We do apologize for the inconvenience. We highly recommend using rideshare whenever possible and we are located just 2 blocks away from the Waterfront Metro (Greenline).
• For Drop Off Only – use  580 Water Street SW  –  this will drop you off right in front of the boarding areas for all of our boats.
• For Parking – there is limited street parking in the area as well as a few garages.

Closest Parking Garages

• Option A: 607 Water Street  – this garage is located next to Pier 4, where you will board.
• Option B: 1100 4th St SW  – this garage is located near the metro and underneath the Safeway Grocery Store – your walk to the boats will be about 1000 steps or 2 blocks.
• Another Parking Garage option is at the District Wharf –  1000 Water Street SW .
• We recommend arriving to the area a little early to secure parking – there are plenty of things to see and do at the District Wharf.
• For more information, please visit  https://www.wharfdc.com/getting-here/car-parking/

Spirit of Washington DC by Hornblower Events

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Set sail with 5 of the most fun boating excursions in the D.C. area

If the weather is fair but D.C.’s usual going-out scene is starting to feel a bit drab, well, look to the water. There you’ll find boats with DJs and dancing, and boats with open bars and craft beer tastings. The vibes feel better on the river, with the breeze ruffling your hair. The views are better, too, allowing passengers to take in colorful sunsets and perspectives of the Lincoln Memorial or Reagan National Airport that can’t be appreciated from dry land.

We’ve spent the past few weeks on different vessels, from multi-sailed schooners to the sightseeing deck of the Potomac Water Taxi. We know there are trendy new options on the river, but as much fun as they sound, we decided not to include Hot Tub Boat Tours (starting at $449 for a private tour for two people) or the Potomac Paddle Club Pedal Boats (minimum group size of eight for reservation), and focus on cruises where anyone can hop on board, whether for date night or a BYOB outing with a small group of friends.

Whitlow’s on the Water

Beloved neighborhood bar Whitlow’s has existed, in various forms and locations, since 1946, but never quite like this. Whitlow’s on the Water, the largest tiki boat from local water transportation company Sea Suite Cruises, claims to be “situated at the cross-section of novelty and nostalgia.” That feels true no matter which generation of Whitlow’s you were part of: the ’80s 11th Street NW crowd, the Y2K 20-somethings in Clarendon or the current iteration of partygoers at the newest U Street NW reincarnation. Because the vibe at Whitlow’s, whether on land or on the water, is nothing if not consistent.

That means you can expect rowdiness, kitsch and a free-flowing bar. The 21-and-over boat, which takes off from Georgetown on weekdays and Navy Yard on weekends, is an homage to Whitlow’s on Wilson’s tiki rooftop: a straw roof canopy, faux bamboo siding, hanging surfboards that proudly declare “it’s 5 o’clock someplace.” There’s also an 18-foot U-shaped bar and plenty of space for up to 48 passengers to shake it to a soundtrack of throwbacks.

For weekend passengers, the trip kicks off with a vodka or tequila High Noon. For additional drinks, the bar menu includes five beers (all $7 or less), wines ($11), and the requisite orange crush and rum punches ($12), plus rail and premium liquors and mixers. Chips and light fare are available for purchase, but you can also bring your own food.

Over the course of the 105- to 120-minute venture, you’ll pass National Airport, where the planes soar seemingly just overhead — though the roar might be drowned out by a spirited drinking game set to AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck.” You might round the Anacostia past East Potomac Park just as someone pops an overflowing champagne bottle to celebrate the passengers marking birthdays. By the time the party lights come on and the disco ball descends, you’ll hardly notice you’re passing under Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge (which also marks last call). The patrons, in captain’s hats and Hawaiian shirts, might celebrate the ride with tequila shots.

You’d be forgiven for thinking this all sounds a little like a frat party cast at sea. Or like a tailgate gone nautical. Or, frankly, like an average night at Whitlow’s.

Monday through Thursday, 3100 K St. NW, $40. Friday through Sunday, 1492 Fourth St. SE, $40-$50. seasuitecruises.com .

D.C. Sail’s American Spirit

Much of the time, D.C. Sail’s 65-foot schooner is the nautical classroom of the National Maritime Heritage Foundation’s community sailing program. But every other Friday night from May to October, American Spirit embarks on a sunset cruise, open to individual passengers looking for a more casual boating experience.

The gaff-rigged, steel-hulled ship comfortably fits around 35 passengers, who can take a seat on the hull’s bench (board early to claim a limited cushion). The boat has little fanfare: a white boat with three sails, looking classic and rugged next to the multimillion-dollar yachts parked alongside it at the Wharf. Its charming simplicity speaks for itself by the time the air horn blows and the crew starts unfurling the sails — this is not a tourist attraction or a party boat but a chance to disconnect from the bustling city and unwind for a glorious three hours.

Follow the lead of regulars and bring a picnic. There’s no food, drink, plates or cutlery available for purchase on board, so you’ll want to pack everything in advance — most passengers bring sandwiches, charcuterie and snacks. Wine and beer are permitted, but leave the spirits at home. If you’d rather not prep a meal, grab takeout from a restaurant on the Wharf; Grazie Grazie and Chopsmith have sandwiches, Colada Shop has handheld Cuban fare, and a recently opened Bartaco location is just across the pier.

A few more things to note: The cruise’s route depends on wind and weather, but you can count on departing down the Washington Channel to the Potomac. Even on sweltering days, strong breezes and a setting sun mean the vessel can get chilly; dress accordingly. Note that open-toed shoes are banned, and you’re best off wearing sneakers (even if they don’t match your sundress). In contrast to many other regional boating excursions, kids are not only permitted but welcomed. They’ll still need a ticket, but strollers are allowed and can be stored below deck.

Alternating Fridays, 650 Wharf St. SW. dcsail.org . $75; $25 for members.

Boomerang Pirate Ship Cruise

It should be noted: The pirate life is not for everybody. But for those willing to walk the plank and fall into some drunken kitsch, this two-hour excursion on the Potomac is the way to spend an evening on the water.

On other trips, this 54-foot, custom-built ship (complete with 12 “cannons”) is the stage for an interactive pirate-themed children’s show. In 2013, Boomerang Boat Tours opened the boat for adults in need of a swashbuckling adventure — parents, yes, but also bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, Greek life formals, and legions of 20-somethings in pirate attire. It’s the sister boat to Boomerang’s 21-plus yacht cruise, which also features an open bar but disappointingly lacks pirates.

Once you board, grab either a rum punch or an orange crush to get settled in. The captain will make some pirate-speak-laden announcements — plenty of “grog” and “arrrrrs” — before the music kicks off and blares for the rest of the evening. If your cruise is like the one we attended, you might experience a riveting mashup of “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” and Aqua/Ice Spice/Nicki Minaj’s “Barbie World” before you’ve fully departed Washington Harbour.

The ship won’t take you far, but you will pass the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument before you loop around near the Tidal Basin. By then, the open bar has been flowing for over an hour and the dance party on the main deck has surely kicked up to tunes from “Mr. Brightside” to Shaboozey’s “Tipsy” (sea chanteys, it seems, are not quite as easy to get down to). If you need a respite, head to the second-level deck, which is lined with benches and has the music turned down.

At the bar, you’ll find beer, wine and seltzers, plus an extensive cocktail list with summertime mixes: creamsicles, raspberry crushes, blue breezes and margaritas. Bartenders accept cash, Venmo or Cash App tips. Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, but the crew offers prepackaged chips and snacks about halfway through the voyage.

Saturdays through October, 3100 K St. NW. ridetheboomerang.com . $65.

Tall Ship Providence

Of all the vessels cruising up and down the Potomac, only one can claim it was cast to portray a pirate ship in two “Pirates of the Caribbean” sequels. (Spoiler: It was destroyed by the Kraken.) And only one can help you imagine what it was like to sail with Revolutionary War hero John Paul Jones, hauling ropes to raise sails and sleeping in hammocks below decks — while sipping a local craft beer and working on your tan.

The Tall Ship Providence was built for America’s bicentennial — a reproduction of an 18th-century sloop that served as a privateer and trading vessel before becoming one of the first ships purchased for the fledgling Continental Navy. It arrived in Alexandria in 2019, and today, docked along the waterfront at the Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center, it serves as a floating classroom, where groups of students and Scouts, as well as curious tourists, take living history tours led by guides in period clothing.

The real fun happens when Providence’s crew casts off and the ship begins running on the Potomac, under a mix of sail and motor. Passengers are drafted to help pull the halyards and raise sails (under supervision, of course), while acrobatic members of the crew scamper up rope ladders into the rigging. During the sail, the crew leads tours down to the hold, to discuss how the crew of 70 — seventy! — slept, ate and went to the bathroom, and into the relative comfort of the captain’s cabin, where you’ll hear more about Jones’s derring-do.

Of course, you’re free to just relax and enjoy the wind in your face. Climb a short wooden ladder to the quarterdeck, the sunny area where the captain steers the ship, or grab canned beer, seltzer or cocktails ($8-$11) from the tiny bar, and find a space along the gunwale where you can enjoy the passing scenery and chat with a sailor, who might casually mention that two of the cannons on board can actually fire black powder.

Providence’s regular voyages focus more on sailing into the past than on party boat vibes; on recent trips, we’ve seen several multigenerational family groups enjoying a birthday or special occasion. Things are a little looser on the monthly Pirates of Providence sail, where tricorn hats and eye patches are encouraged and the Ship’s Company Chanteymen perform salty songs of the sea, and on monthly Craft Beer Sails, which include guided tastings from Heavy Seas, Port City or another brewery once you’re underway. Back in port, share tales of your trip over glasses of potent rum punch at Providence’s dock bar, where you can hear the water splashing under your feet.

Daily sails offered twice per day, Thursday through Sunday. Specialty cruises offered monthly. 1A Prince St. (at Waterfront Park), Alexandria. tallshipprovidence.org . $55-$65 adults; $47-$57 ages 3 to 13; Free for children 2 and younger. Craft Beer Sails $76.

DIY Potomac Water Taxi bar crawl

Going sailing on the Potomac can be fun, but it’s hardly a voyage of discovery. On most tours, you board the boat, enjoy drinks and maybe some dancing on your two-hour tour, then eventually wind up back at the dock where you started.

If you’d rather choose your own adventure, set sail on what we call the water taxi crawl — a favorite way to spend a lazy day that combines the thrill of being on the water with the freewheeling benefits of a neighborhood bar crawl. You’re cruising on the Potomac River, enjoying the breeze and taking in landmarks from interesting new angles, until the boat arrives in port. Then you can choose your own vibe for the next hour or two: a dockside rum drink, a wine bar, an Irish pub with live music. Maybe hit a bookstore or an art gallery. Get back on the boat, find yourself in a new place and start the process over again. Repeat until the boats stop running.

The Potomac Water Taxi runs between the Wharf, Old Town Alexandria and National Harbor, taking about 30 minutes to travel between each stop. Download the City Experiences app to check boat times and purchase tickets; to make the most of the crawl, you want the one-day pass , which offers unlimited trips for $36 on weekdays and $46 on Saturday and Sunday.

The first boat leaves each port between 11:25 a.m. and noon each day, then water taxis are scheduled every 30 to 90 minutes until the evening. Check that schedule carefully on the day you’re traveling: On a recent Friday, a couple of boats were canceled, which made our itinerary less flexible but still enjoyable.

Stop 1: The Wharf

On weekends, plan to meet up at Cantina Bambina , a no-frills rooftop dock bar directly over the water taxi’s office, so you won’t have to go far to board. The menu is simple: dark and stormys, margaritas, cans of beer. Outside food is allowed, so hit Grazie Grazie for a Philly-style sub or Falafel Inc. for affordable vegan sandwiches. If you’re going out during the week, the Cantina doesn’t open until 4, so consider people watching from the Brighton’s patio across the street while you wait for your ship to come in.

On board between D.C. and Virginia

The water taxi has two levels. The uncovered rooftop deck is lined with metal benches, perfect for sightseeing, while the lower level is enclosed, offering shelter from summer squalls, as well as bathrooms and a small bar selling snacks and cans of beer, wine and hard seltzer. Upstairs, sit on the port (left) side to see boats tied up at the Wharf, or the Frederick Douglass Bridge across the Anacostia; grab a seat starboard (right) for unobstructed views of planes landing and taking off from National Airport.

Stop 2: Old Town Alexandria

Alexandria has been a bustling port for 275 years, and it embraces its location along the Potomac. Steps from the dock is Vola’s Dockside Grill , which offers the choice of eating at tables next to the water, inside at an air-conditioned bar and restaurant, or in a retro tiki lounge. Either way, go for the crab dip or a pile of steamed shrimp coated with Old Bay chili crisp, washed down with a frozen orange crush or a Port City Optimal Wit. If you’d prefer to drink on top of the water, make the short walk downriver to Barca , constructed from shipping containers atop an old pier. The vibe is fun and nautical, with sparkling rosé, sangria and frozen rum drinks accompanying Spanish-style tapas, and views of boats sailing by.

Beyond bars, the blocks near the dock are full of activities: The Torpedo Factory houses dozens of artist workshops and galleries. A string of small green parks lie along the river, including the bench-filled Waterfront Park. Its centerpiece is a sculpture inspired by an asteroid that struck the Chesapeake Bay region more than 35 million years ago, and the metallic “ Interstellar Influencer ” delights kids of all ages by emitting clouds of mist.

On board between Virginia and Maryland

This section includes passing under the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and views of the historic Jones Point Lighthouse . For the best selfie op of the trip, head to the bow (front) of the boat after it passes under the bridge, when the Potomac opens up downriver, providing a perfect, expansive backdrop. There are dramatic views of the Capital Wheel Ferris wheel as the taxi makes a sweeping turn toward the dock.

Stop 3: National Harbor

As the boat pulls in, take a minute to marvel at “The Awakening,” the statue of a buried giant moved from D.C.’s Hains Point to National Harbor’s “beach” in 2008. The closest bar to the dock is Redstone Grill , a national chain that boasts a curving patio and outdoor bar looking toward the water. The food is people-pleasing — steak, baby back ribs, flatbreads — and so is happy hour, which brings $2 off draft beers and $3 off spirit-and-mixer drinks and wines by the glass from 3 to 6 p.m. on weekdays. It’s worth pulling up a stool at the edge of the patio for prime people watching.

A few minutes’ walk away, try V-No , a Black-owned wine bar offering flights and by-the-glass pours on its patio, as well as frequent tasting events. The Brass Tap is National Harbor’s best craft beer bar, a bright, modern tavern with dozens of drafts from Maryland and regional breweries, including Nepenthe, Dewey and Evolution.

Check National Harbor’s calendar when planning; depending on the day, you might catch an Air Force or Navy band performing in the waterfront plaza or a movie on the giant outdoor video screen . For unusual photo ops, don’t miss the parks along American Way, home to life-size statues of Winston Churchill, George Washington, Marilyn Monroe and Rosie the Riveter, among other outdoor displays.

You can mix and match the itinerary at will: If you’d rather start the day in National Harbor, the first boat out of the Wharf heads there after a five-minute layover in Alexandria to pick up more passengers. Or try grabbing coffee at Misha’s in Old Town before boarding the first boat to explore the shops at the Wharf. Consider yourself the cruise director.

Potomac Water Taxis run daily, though schedules vary. See cityexperiences.com/washington-dc for schedules and tickets.

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