Tour operator
Old Town Trolley Tours of Washington DC
Narrated hop-on, hop-off trolley tours with 15 stops around the National Mall, plus a Monuments by Moonlight night tour of the major memorials.
Capitol River Cruises
A family-run company offering 45-minute narrated sightseeing cruises on the Potomac from Washington Harbour in Georgetown, departing every hour.
At a glance
- Type
- Sightseeing river cruises
- Area
- Georgetown, Washington DC, United States
- Official site
- capitolrivercruises.com
Good to know
- 45-minute narrated cruises
- Hourly departures
- Private charters
Why we recommend it
Capitol River Cruises is a family-owned and family-run company that has been operating sightseeing cruises on the Potomac River for around 30 years. Its boats leave from Washington Harbour on the Georgetown waterfront, and the trip offers a different view of the city's monuments and memorials from the water.
The standard sightseeing cruise lasts 45 minutes, and departures leave every hour on the hour. From Georgetown the boat heads downriver past the 14th Street bridges and turns around near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport before returning. Along the way, the narration covers the monuments, memorials and statues you can see from the river, as well as the surrounding area.
The short length is the main strength. A 45-minute cruise fits easily into an afternoon in Georgetown, and the hourly schedule means you do not need to plan your day around a fixed departure time. It is a relaxing break after a morning of walking, and on a warm day the breeze on the water is welcome.
Besides the regular cruises, the company offers private charters, including crab feasts, and specialty cruises for groups and celebrations. Details are on the website. The season and exact schedule can vary, so use the website to confirm sailings before you go, particularly outside the summer months.
The cruises suit families with children, couples, older travellers and anyone who wants to see the city from a new angle without a long commitment. Children usually enjoy the boat, and the trip is short enough to hold their attention. Bring a layer, as it can be cooler on the water than on land. Arrive a few minutes before the hour to be sure of a seat on the next sailing.
Washington Harbour is on the Georgetown waterfront, close to Fiola Mare and the waterfront paths, and a short walk from M Street. Georgetown has no Metro station, so most visitors arrive by bus, taxi or ride share, or walk along the river. Combine a cruise with lunch in Georgetown, an afternoon cupcake at Baked & Wired and an evening show at Blues Alley for a full day in the neighbourhood.
Capitol River Cruises FAQs
Where do Capitol River Cruises depart from?
Washington Harbour on the Georgetown waterfront.
How long is the cruise?
The sightseeing cruise lasts 45 minutes.
How often do cruises leave?
Every hour, on the hour.
What will I see?
The route passes the 14th Street bridges and turns near Reagan National Airport, with narration on the monuments and memorials.
Is the company family run?
Yes. It is family owned and operated.
Can I charter a boat?
Yes. Private charters include crab feasts, and specialty cruises are offered.
Is it good for children?
Yes. The short length suits families with young children.
How do I check the schedule?
Use the company's website to confirm sailings before you go.