private boat tour washington dc

Private Sight Seeing Cruises & Fishing Charters 202-703-1141 Washington DC

Best google ratings on the water, fish the potomac, 🐟🐠🎣washington dc fishing🐟🐠🎣.

The allure of fishing in Washington DC is almost palpable. While the city is renowned for its political influence and monumental attractions, those who venture into its depths discover a hidden treasure: a surprisingly rich fishing experience. Beneath the iconic skyline and amidst the hustle of urban life, DC offers anglers a unique and captivating escape.

Our United States Coast Guard Licensed Captains will take your party of up to 6 guests to our favorite spots on the Potomac where we’ve been successful in hooking some nice looking fish! It’s all “Catch n Release” so you’ll hook them up, we’ll get that “money shot” for Instagram and then we’ll send the beast on it’s way…

Here are a few of the species that have been known to swim the waters of our Nations Capital:

Blue Catfish

Fishing for blue catfish on the DC shores of the Potomac River offers an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. Known for their size and strength, blue catfish thrive in the Potomac’s deep waters, especially near the capital’s iconic landmarks. Whether you’re casting from the shoreline or setting out on a boat, the river’s diverse ecosystem provides an ideal habitat for these impressive fish. As you enjoy the serene surroundings of Washington DC, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of battling a blue catfish, making it a must-try adventure for anyone looking to explore the area’s rich fishing opportunities.

Cruise with us on The Potomac!

Our private boat cruises are a refreshing view of the nation’s capital! See the monuments and all the sights of the city with the sun in your face and the wind in your hair. Our private cruises are a great mixture of city scape and nature. We start on the Washington Channel at DC’s Wharf Marina and move up to the northern Potomac for a sight of numerous monuments as well as the Washington Harbor. What makes our private cruises special is that we show you all of the things in between, much of it unnoticed even for many long time residents. Our Private Cruises are full of great local stories and fun conversation!

• Your own private boat
• Your own private captain
• Up to 6 guests
• Sunset Cruises
• Picnic Cruises

Sights You'll See

– Washington Monument

– Lincoln Memorial

– Jefferson Memorial

– Arlington Memorial Bridge

– The Pentagon

– Tidal Basin

– Reagan National Airport

– And more!

– Washington Harbor

– Georgetown Waterfront Park

– Francis Scott Key Bridge

– Theodore Roosevelt Island

– Key Bridge Boathouse

– Aqueduct Bridge

– Three Sisters

– Watergate

– The Kennedy Center

– Washington Channel

– Joint Base Anacostia Bolling

– Defense Intelligence Agency

– Marine One Hangar

– White House Communication Center

– US Coast Guard Headquarters

– Fort McNair

– National War College

– Titanic Memorial

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Why Choose Us?

Amazing captains.

What sets Reflections DC apart is our extensive experience and expertise. Our captains excel in narrating tours, seamlessly weaving historical facts with captivating stories, making every journey a memorable and educational experience. Their expertise and engaging delivery ensure that passengers are not just sightseeing but fully immersed in the rich narratives of the waterways.

Our captains are also fully licensed by the United States Coast Guard to operate commercially, ensuring top-notch safety standards.  

100% Unique

The charm of Reflections DC’s sightseeing cruises is uniquely different from other options in two distinct ways. Firstly, our narrated tours unfold with the same enchanting storytelling style as a classic Italian gondola cruise, where every anecdote and historical tidbit brings the journey to life. Secondly, our intimate boats ensure a cozy and personalized experience, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the sights and sounds of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks. With Reflections DC, each cruise is a captivating blend of narrative elegance and intimate luxury, promising a memorable adventure on the Potomac River.

Your Cruise, Your Way

At Reflections DC, we strive to  create a personalized and comfortable journey just for you. Your tour with us is all about catering to your preferences and ensuring you feel completely at ease throughout your adventure. 

The Best Reviews in DC!!

CAPITOL RIVER CRUISES

Celebrating over 30 years on the potomac, what we offer, our sightseeing tours are our most popular. cruise down the potomac river while enjoying historical narration on the landmarks, monuments and memorials. our vessels are also available for private charters great for any type of event, we've done it all.

Sightseeing Tours

Private Charters

Crab Feast Charters

(Only available for private charters)

Specialty Cruises

Our Gallery

Capitol River Cruises is a small family owned and operated Tour Boat Agency that has been cruising on the Potomac River in Washington, DC for 29 years!

We offer Sightseeing Boat Tours, Crab Feast Charters, Custom Private Charters and various types of Specialty Cruises. Our everyday Sightseeing Cruises are 45 minutes long. We depart every hour on the hour from Washington Harbor in Georgetown, cruise past the 14th St. Bridges and turn around near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. You'll learn all about the history of Washington, DC monuments, memorials, statues and the surrounding area. Our crab feast charters & custom private charters are perfect for company outings, birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, celebrations, etc. Any type of event really, we've done it all!

What our customers had to say!

Had an awesome time. Great way to let your feet rest from all the walking. We even got to bring our pup & he loved it. Had a nice glass of wine and enjoyed the breeze from the water. I recommend this tour it’s a different way to see the monuments and memorials without walking a million miles.

-Alexis Suarez

We had an amazing time! We scheduled the Crab Boat for a ladies day out on the Potomac. The crew was very friendly and funny. The Captain played great music. The crabs were delicious! Even the side dishes were good. The weather was perfect. We would definitely cruise with them again.

-S. Haskins

Sightseeing Guide

Embark DC Boat Tours

Embark dc private boat tours — see dc differently.

We offer private boat tours from Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia—our captained cruises are customized just for you. Our home port is the Wharf Marina, but we operate throughout the area. All captains are USCG-certified and trained in the local history and sites. Cruise quietly by DC's iconic landmarks, speed down the Potomac to Historic Mt. Vernon or lower the anchor and let the day ebb and flow. Whether with friends, family or colleagues, there is no better way to see DC than from the water. It's your boat. Your day. Your way! • All Washington, DC boat tours are fully customizable, hourly rentals. • Do some sightseeing, relax on anchor, or have fun in the sun! • Your captain provides a tour narrative if desired. • Food and beverages may be brought aboard (some limitations). • Up to 6 people/boat. • Dogs allowed on open boats. — Yacht option is multi-level and climate-controlled. Call for details. — For open-bow boats: • Comfortable seating in bow & cockpit. • Bottled water, soft drinks and ice included. • Bimini cover provides shade if desired. • Stereo: Bring your own playlist or enjoy ours. • Swim ladder in case you choose to get wet. • Life jackets provided (required • Dining table, coolers and grill available. • Private (small) toilet and sink. • Fuel, ice, soft drinks included in all rates. Book online at https://www.embarkdc.com , or call us to discuss and/or book!

• Group Minimum
• Guided tours available
• Private Tour
• Veteran Owned

Additional Information

Distance to metro, distance to conv center, nearby landmarks.

National Mall

Group Maximum

Min to airport, metro station, payment options.

American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

650 Wharf Street, SW Washington , DC 20024 United States

(202) 570-2410, [email protected].

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Sightseeing and Dining Cruises

City cruises.

City Cruises (formerly known as Hornblower Cruises & Events) offers water experiences beyond compare. Choose from a variety of cruises including: dinner cruises, brunch cruises, lunch cruises, cocktail cruises, sightseeing cruises, and holiday cruises. All of the vessels are conveniently docked at The Wharf, giving you the perfect launch point to explore the nation’s capital from the water.

Odyssey Savor delicious entrees and desserts as this glass-enclosed vessel drifts by the sights—accompanied by a relaxing atmosphere and live music.

Spirit of Washington Cruises A unique mix of dining, entertainment, and views, Spirit of Washington offers offers lunch, dinner, and holiday cruises, plus a variety of themed cruises.

Elite Private Yachts Host your own event or plan an unforgettable jaunt on the Potomac by chartering one of our two private yachts. Our sleek vessels are the perfect backdrop for weddings and other special occasions.

Water Taxi   Come to The Wharf’s Transit Pier to catch a ride on the Water Taxi to Georgetown in DC, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, or National Harbor in Maryland—and enjoy the scenic views of the nation’s capital from the Potomac. Sightseeing Cruises See the famous monuments of Washington, DC from an entirely new perspective on this narrated sightseeing cruise. You’ll travel along the Potomac River while taking in breathtaking views of the Washington monuments and famous landmarks.

Sightseeing cruises depart from Transit Pier (970 Wharf St SW). Dining cruises (all others) depart from Pier 4 ( 580 Water St SW ).

Learn about Getting to The Wharf , including metro and parking directions.

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.

Do It All on the Waterfront

Whether you like to be on the Potomac or prefer the sparkling views from land, The Wharf offers ample things to do and ways to enjoy the water. Dine in one of our fabulous restaurants. Browse our shops. Or join us during one of our festivals. Take a look at our upcoming events to plan your next visit.

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Frequently asked questions, what are the top cruises in washinton dc.

• Mount Vernon from DC Cruise
• DC Sightseeing Tours
• Washington DC Brunch Cruises
• DC Dinner Cruises

More about the best boat tours in Washinton DC?

DC sightseeing cruises are a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. There are several different cruises to choose from, each offering something unique. Dining cruises are also available if dinner or brunch on the water sounds appealing.

Are private boat charters in Washinton DC available?

• DC Boat Charters
• Washington DC Corporate Events
• Wedding Cruises around DC
• Washington DC Party Cruises

Which landmarks and famous sights can you see on a Washinton DC cruise?

Some of the most popular landmarks and sights to see on a Washington DC cruise include the US Capitol Building, the White House, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial. There are also many other great sights to see on a cruise of Washington DC, such as the Smithsonian museums, the National Zoo, and much more.

Water & Boat Attractions in Washington DC

Mount Vernon from DC or Alexandria | Prix Fixe Dinner Cruise | Premier Lunch Cruise | Potomac Water Taxi | Water Taxi 2023 Pass | Water Taxi One Day Pass |   Washington D.C. Alive After Five Cruise | Signature Dinner Cruise | Premier Dinner Cruise | Premier Brunch Cruise | Signature Lunch Cruise

Things to do near Washington DC

Things to do in Alexandria | Things to do in Baltimore | Things to do in Jersey City | Things to do in Weehawken | Things to do in Niagara Falls | Things to do in Philadelphia | Things to do in Toronto | Things to do in Chicago | Things to do in Boston

Recommended for Washington DC

Washington DC: Big Bus – Classic Tour | Washington D.C. Alive After Five Cruise | Monuments Tour From The Wharf | Mount Vernon from DC | Monuments Sightseeing Tour From Alexandria and Georgetown

Trending Attractions

Sights & Sips Cruise | Gospel Lunch Cruise | Signature Lunch Cruise | Signature Dinner Cruise | Baltimore Brunch Cruise | Baltimore Harbor Tour | After Dark Dance Cruise | Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour | Toronto Sightseeing Harbour Tour | New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise |  Official NYC Downtown Experience – Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory

Holiday Experiences in Washington DC

4th of July Signature Lunch Cruise | Father’s Day Signature Brunch Cruise | Fireworks Cruise from The Wharf, DC | Fireworks Cruise from Alexandria | 4th of July Premier Dinner Cruise | 4th of July Signature Dinner Cruise | Father’s Day Premier Dinner Cruise | Father’s Day Premier Afternoon Brunch Cruise | New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner Cruise | New Year’s Eve Premier Dinner Cruise | New Year’s Day Premier Brunch Cruise | Christmas Eve Premier Brunch Cruise | Thanksgiving Day Afternoon Lunch Cruise | Holiday Boat Parade of Lights | Labor Day Premier Lunch Cruise | Potomac Water Taxi New Year’s Eve Cruise | Lunch with Santa Cruise

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Private DC Tours - Private Day, Moonlight and Thematic Tours

Private dc tours - let's make history monumental.

Monumental Tours provides a premium private DC tours experience with professional guides and luxury transportation.

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Famous battleground, fought during the Civil War in July 1863

Mount Vernon

George washington’s mount vernon estate and old town alexandria.

Northern Virginia Wine Tours

Travel in style and comfort to beautiful vineyards, seasonal tours.

Discover the captivating beauty of Washington, D.C., and the surrounding area any time of the year. We offer tours in winter, spring, summer, or fall, each with a special theme.

We offer luxury vehicles like sedans, limos, SUV, passenger vans, and buses that fit your needs no matter the size of your group.

Expert Guides

Our passionate, professional, seasoned tour guides will ensure your tour experience is a memorable one and that it is satisfying from start to finish.

Off the Beaten Path

We want to take you on discreet, exclusive DC tours to places most tour companies overlook. Our tours will include some stops with unique and intriguing stories hidden from plain sight.

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And don`t worry, you`ll still get out to look at every cool stop along the way! #dctours #visitingdc #washingtondc #monumentaltours ...

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Our school group that drove down from NYC really enjoyed their tour with Edgar today! The skies stayed clear as they learned about the American history in the heart of the Nation`s Capital! #MonumentalTours #SchoolTour #Grouptours #monumentaltours #privatetours #dcphotography #dcstyle #mydccool #dclife #dcchasers #acreatievdc #dccreatives #dcrefined #dcitystyle r #destinationdc #dcfocused #walkwithlocals #walkwithlocalsdc #familytrip #familytravel #travelphotography #washmagphotogeo ...

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Private Cruise in Washington DC - Reflections DC

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Experience DC in a truly personalized boat cruise, and see the city painted in the colors of the sunset and the skyline lit up in the city's lights. BYOB/BYOF to make it a picnic on the water! ** Guests must send a text message or send an e-mail address as soon as the trip is booked. ** ** We cannot take expecting mothers aboard our vessel ** ** No marijuana, illegal substances, or hard liquor aboard ** The DC river cruise for small groups up to 4, and is the most highly rated and reviewed boat experience in DC. Popular for dates and special occasions, for locals and visitors alike. Among the sights and stories, I (or captain Katie) will be talking about some unique things I've experienced or seen that really connects you to the environment around us. The boat has plenty of room to be comfortable, but just small enough to be intimate - the perfect vessel for this type of cruise. Owner-operated, with the experience provided with pride!

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

2 Hour Private River Cruise in Washington DC: $800

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• USCG required safety equipment, First aid kit, Life Jackets

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Children under the age of 5 cannot attend

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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 Water

Beloved neighborhood bar Whitlow’s has existed, in various forms and locations, since 1946, but never quite like this. Whitlow’s on 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.