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Washington, DC Cruises & boat tours

Our most recommended Washington, DC Cruises & boat tours

Washington DC:Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey

1. Washington DC:Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey

Cruise on the Potomac River and see the sights of Washington DC from a luxury boat, The Odyssey. Get a keepsake photo taken by the ship's photographer, then embark on an elegant dining cruise along the Washington DC shoreline. After being seated at your private table, enjoy a brunch or 3-course dinner, with meals prepared fresh daily by your onboard executive chef. Menu items are subject to change. After your meal, relax on any of the 3 climate-controlled decks as you watch the monuments glide by. Sample Brunch MenuEarly Riser:Breakfast pastries Scottish smoked salmonScrambled eggsBreakfast meats Breakfast potatoes French toast Late Risers:Caesar salad Greek salad Sun-dried tomato pasta saladBaked orecchiette pastaBirria-style chicken Chesapeake Bay rockfish Hand-carved tri-tip steak Kid's station Dessert: Individual dessertsIn-season fruit Sample Dinner Menu Starters (choice of one): Caesar salad Lobster soup Main Course (choice of one): Jumbo forest mushroom ravioli Oven-roasted frenched chicken breast with rosemary and thyme Broiled salmon filet Braised beef short rib Pan-seared fresh Pacific cod Desserts (choice of one): New York-style cheesecake Triple chocolate mud pie Duo of sorbet Freshly cut fruit Odyssey signature warm butter cake

Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit

2. Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit

See the sights of Washington DC from onboard the Spirit of Washington with a lunch or dinner cruise on the Potomac River. Enjoy a buffet dining experience as you sail, and delight in panoramic views. Board your vessel and receive a personal greeting. Have your photo taken by the ship's photographer to capture the memory before being seated at your private table. Once there, gorge on your lunch or dinner buffet consisting of creative entrees prepared fresh daily and listen to the onboard music. After your meal, visit any of the three climate-controlled decks as you glide by the sights. LUNCH/DINNER BUFFET SAMPLE MENU SALADS FIELD GREEN SALAD (G*)(VG)Tomatoes | Cucumbers | Carrots | Ranch Dressing | Balsamic Dressing KALE QUINOA SALAD (G*)(VG)(V)Quinoa | Roasted Red Pepper | Spinach | Lemon Oregano Vinaigrette GREEN GODDESS PASTA SALAD (V)Sweet Peas | White Beans | Scallions MAIN HONEY SESAME CHICKEN (G*)Scallions | Fresno Chillies OVEN ROASTED WHITEFISH (G*)Spicy Tomato | White Bean Ragu BAKED ZITI PASTA (V)Aged Reggiano Parmesan Cheese | Mozzarella Cheese | Spinach Cream Sauce ROOT VEGETABLE FRICASSEE (G*)(VG)(V)Idaho Potatoes | Broccoli | Grape Tomatoes | Gremolata | Cauliflower Coconut Cream Sauce COMPLEMENTSROASTED BROCCOLI (G*)(VG)(V)Toasted Garlic | Chili Flakes GARLIC MASHED POTATOES (G*)(V)Idaho Potatoes | Roasted Garlic DESSERTSIGNATURE DESSERT STATION (V)Cakes | Brownies | Seasonal Fruit | *May Contain Nuts *Menus subject to change

Washington DC: Potomac River and Georgetown Walking Tour

3. Washington DC: Potomac River and Georgetown Walking Tour

Gain an in-depth understanding of the US capital on this tour combining a Potomac River cruise with a foray into the past on a walking tour of Georgetown. Other tours of this historic neighborhood are difficult to reach, but on this tour, you’ll disembark from your cruise ready to explore! Alongside an expert guide, the area’s past will be brought to vivid life before your eyes. Meet your guide at the wharf and step onto the ferry to see DC from the water. Hear about the history of the nation's capital as you pass by the district’s key landmarks. One of the first sights you’ll see is the Titanic Memorial, organized by US women of high society to honor the men who lost their lives so that women and children could board the limited lifeboats during the ocean liner's tragic sinking. Further down the channel, you’ll lay your eyes on one of the most filmed and photographed statues in the country: the Lincoln Memorial. Your guide will explain the story behind the "Stairs to Nowhere" before seeing Teddy Roosevelt Island. In memory of America’s 26th president and avid adventurer, this memorial was once neglected, overgrown farmland. Now it’s a lush woodland featuring trails and guided nature walks. A tribute to another influential American president is up next as you pass by the Kennedy Center, a bustling space for the performing arts. But let’s not forget about presidential scandal! See where the Watergate Scandal got its name as you pass by the complex where the infamous incident originally occurred. After you land at Georgetown Port, the second part of your tour begins. You’ll get an introduction to the oldest neighborhood in Washington DC as you head towards C&O Canal. Hear how George Washington himself was instrumental in redesigning the untamed wilderness here, transforming it into a national monument. You’ll stop into a favorite local spot for something sweet afterwards. Try a delicious cupcake from a family-run bakery that’s earned the reputation as one of the best in town. Afterwards, it’s time to continue to explore the fascinating neighborhood of Georgetown. Your guide will invite you into the past with anecdotes behind the sights as you pass. Learn about the oldest house in DC and the story behind buildings connected to the Kennedy family, including the church where JFK attended his last service before he was assassinated. More riveting stories await when you get to Georgetown University, which counts "The Exorcist" author William Peter Blatty among its alumni. See the "Exorcist Steps" and hear about the true story of an exorcism that inspired him. By the end of the afternoon, you’ll have an in-depth knowledge of this fascinating corner of DC and all the tools to explore further on your own.

From Washington, D.C.: Mount Vernon Sightseeing River Cruise

4. From Washington, D.C.: Mount Vernon Sightseeing River Cruise

Experience a great American adventure on this boat trip to the home of George Washington, the first president of the United States. Enjoy a round-trip cruise from Washington, D.C. to Mount Vernon, including entrance to the estate of George and Martha Washington. Start your tour with a fully narrated cruise down the Potomac River to Mount Vernon. Tour the gardens and grounds of this national historical landmark and learn the history of one of the country's most important leaders. Spend 3 full hours at the estate viewing the gardens, strolling the many trails, visiting the farm, and stopping by the many restaurants and shops, on a tour that allows you to travel back in history to the time of colonial America.

Mount Vernon: Full-Day Bike and Optional Boat Tour

5. Mount Vernon: Full-Day Bike and Optional Boat Tour

Enjoy a full-day bike ride to and from Mount Vernon on the banks of the Potomac River, or rest your legs on the return journey and travel by boat. Meet in the Old Town of Alexandria to pick-up your bike and helmet. Then, cycle along the wooded Mount Vernon Trail to George Washington’s historic Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. Lock your bike outside the estate for tour staff to pick up. Then, spend the day self-exploring the grounds and mansion house. The mansion’s interior has mostly been restored to the appearance at the time of George and Martha Washington's occupancy. Enter Washington’s study and feel a part of history! Take time for lunch, and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the gardens and farm. Then, bike back to Alexandria, or opt to return by boat. Climb aboard the Miss Christin for the 2:00 PM departure from Mount Vernon’s dock. Relax on the narrated cruise as you glide back to Alexandria's Old Town.

Washington, DC: Full-Day Tour with a Scenic River Cruise

6. Washington, DC: Full-Day Tour with a Scenic River Cruise

Discover all the delights of Washington DC with this day-tour around the city, hitting hotspots such as the White House, the U.S. Capitol Building, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Board your glamourous, climate-controlled, panoramic bus at the U.S. Navy Memorial. Head to all the major highlights of regular sightseeing tours and enjoy a lunch break and an opportunity to travel through the Tidal Basin. Learn about some of the most fascinating landmarks in the USA, including the White House, U.S. Capitol Building, and National Archives, plus breathtaking memorials of Thomas Jefferson and Franklin Roosevelt. After lunch, summer brings the opportunity for a boat ride through Georgetown and the DC Waterfront. In winter, this Washington bus tour culminates with a visit to the Pentagon and several more fascinating war memorials. During your tour learn from your live tour guide who hops off the bus with you to ensure you receive an intimate and personalized experience of each attraction.  Your guide will educate you on the important details of each monument. From April through October, take in the fresh air on a scenic 1-hour cruise along the Potomac River. The full itinerary of this tour includes: • Jefferson Memorial • U.S. Capitol Building • FDR Memorial • World War II Memorial • Iwo Jima Memorial • Vietnam Memorial • Martin Luther King Memorial • Lincoln Memorial • White House • Korean War Memorial

Washington DC: 6-Hour Sightseeing Tour

7. Washington DC: 6-Hour Sightseeing Tour

Washington D.C. has so many monuments that sightseeing can be bewildering. But on this guided sightseeing bus tour, tour guides will take you up close and personal to treasured monuments while expert drivers navigate Washington traffic. Explore history and learn important facts with your guide throughout the tour, and have a chance to get off at each of the following stops to take pictures and get a closer look: • U.S. Capitol (exterior only) • White House (exterior only) • Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial • Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial • Korean Memorial • Vietnam Memorial • Vietnam Women's Memorial • World War II Memorial • The Iwo Jima Memorial (The Marine Corp Memorial) • Potomac River Cruise (included from March 25–October 15. When boat does not operate, the Jefferson Memorial will be added as a stop.) • Lincoln Memorial

DC: Tour with U.S. Capitol Ground Access

8. DC: Tour with U.S. Capitol Ground Access

See the most important sights in DC on the most comprehensive, top-of-the-line, and exciting tours of the historic city. Experience an 6-hour day in DC jam-packed with stops while making memories to last a lifetime.  Join your expert live guide, both on and off a climate-controlled touring bus, for an entertaining, fact-filled tour highlighting the history, culture, architecture, and sights of this beautiful city.   Your day includes the city's important monuments and memorials (listed below) including the exterior of the a visit to the outside of the Capitol Building, the White House, World War 2 Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, Dr Martin Luther King Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam War Memorial, the Women in the Vietnam Memorial, The Iwo Jima Memorial (The Marine Corp Memorial).  Have a lunch break at either the Georgetown waterfront (April-October) or The Wharf (October-April) where you can purchase lunch from one of several delicious locations. From April to October, you’ll also take a 1-hour boat ride on the lovely and historic Potomac River to experience DC's monuments and views from the unique perspective of the water. At each stop, your guide will accompany you on foot giving an informative, insider's view and great photos of each special place, before conveniently boarding the bus again.   Tour includes the following stops: Capitol BuildingWhite House (exterior)World War II MemorialKorean War Veterans MemorialVietnam Veterans MemorialVietnam Women’s MemorialMartin Luther King, Jr. MemorialFranklin Delano Roosevelt MemorialWashington Monument Time permitting there will be additional surprise stops. Sights seen from the bus include the National Archives, National Gallery of Art, Smithsonian Castle, Treasury Building, and much more.

Washington DC: New Year's Day Gourmet Brunch River Cruise

9. Washington DC: New Year's Day Gourmet Brunch River Cruise

Celebrate the New Year on the water with a New Year’s Day gourmet brunch in Washington DC. You and your guests will enjoy a festive brunch buffet freshly prepared by the chef, and full bar service. While onboard, experience exceptional views of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks, DJ entertainment, and festive décor. The crew will happily take care of the details, leaving you to celebrate the holidays on the Potomac River with your friends and family. Sample Brunch Menu LATE RISERSKALE QUINOA SALAD Quinoa | Roasted Red Pepper | Spinach | Lemon Oregano VinaigretteGREEN GODDESS PASTA SALAD (V)Sweet Peas | White Beans | ScallionsCAESAR SALADRomaine Lettuce | Aged Reggiano Parmesan Cheese | Herb Croutons | Traditional Caesar DressingOVEN ROASTED WHITEFISH Spicy Tomato | White Bean RaguKID'S STATIONChicken Tenders and French FriesHAND CARVED STRIP LOIN Signature Spice Rub | Horseradish Crème | Au JusHAND CARVED OVEN-ROASTED TURKEY Cranberry Sauce DESSERTSIGNATURE DESSERT STATION Cakes | Brownies | Seasons Fruit **May contain Nuts EARLY RISERBREAKFAST PASTRIESAssorted Muffins and Danishes | *Contains NutsSCRAMBLED EGGS American Cheddar CheeseBREAKFAST MEATS Applewood Smoked Bacon | Pork Sausage LinksBREAKFAST POTATOES Carmelized Onions | Red & Green Bell PeppersFRENCH TOAST Whipped Cream | Maple Syrup Holiday menu subject to change without notice.

Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

10. Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

Celebrate the magic of the season on the water with a Christmas Eve gourmet brunch or dinner cruise in Washington DC. You and your guests will enjoy a brunch buffet, or a 3-course plated dinner prepared by the chef, and full bar service. While onboard, experience exceptional views of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks, DJ entertainment, and festive décor. The crew will happily take care of the details, leaving you to celebrate the holidays on the Potomac River with your friends and family. Sample Brunch Menu LATE RISERSKALE QUINOA SALAD GREEN GODDESS PASTA SALAD CAESAR SALADRomaine Lettuce | Aged Reggiano Parmesan Cheese | Herb Croutons | Traditional Caesar DressingOVEN ROASTED WHITEFISHSpicy Tomato | White Bean RaguKID'S STATIONChicken Tenders and French FriesHAND CARVED STRIP LOIN Signature Spice Rub | Horseradish Crème | Au JusHAND CARVED OVEN-ROASTED TURKEY Cranberry Sauce DESSERTSIGNATURE DESSERT STATION EARLY RISERBREAKFAST PASTRIESAssorted Muffins and Danishes | *Contains NutsSCRAMBLED EGGS American Cheddar CheeseBREAKFAST MEATSApplewood Smoked Bacon | Pork Sausage LinksBREAKFAST POTATOES FRENCH TOAST Whipped Cream | Maple Syrup Sample Dinner Menu STARTER (CHOICE OF ONE - ALL STARTERS ACCOMPANIED BY FRESH BREAD AND BUTTER)BEET & BABY ARUGULA SALAD SIGNATURE SEAFOOD CHOWDER MAIN (CHOICE OF ONE)TURKEY DINNERGarlic Mashed Potato | Traditional Stuffing | Haricot Verts | Turkey Gravy | Cranberry SaucePAN ROASTED CODRock Shrimp | Crispy Couscous | Lemon Beurre BlancBRAISED BEEF SHORT RIBS WITH FRESNO PEPPER DEMI GLACE Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Baby Carrots | BroccoliFALL VEGETABLE RAGU Butternut Squash | Brussel Sprouts | Cauliflower | Carrots | White Bean Ragu DESSERTSEASONAL DESSERT STATION

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Frequently asked questions about Washington, DC

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What are the best day trips and excursions from Washington, DC?

The best day trips and excursions from Washington, DC are:

Mount Vernon, Virginia

Other Sightseeing Options in Washington, DC

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What people are saying about Washington, DC

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 46 reviews

Tyrone and Zuma did an excellent job being our guides! They were both very personable and funny. Tyrone did an amazing job with his knowledge about the monuments and their history. I highly recommend this 6 hour tour. Very well worth the money!

We had a blast! The only reason this wasn't a five star rating was because there weren't many good choices at the buffet and definitely not any vegan options. Brunch cruise.

I rather wanted to have real soul food than broccoli or green pasta you need to fix the menus

Great energy and service Food was really good. Would have loved more options

Nick was Great! He knows his History! Wonderful Job.. keep up the great work