Washington DC is a city that offers more than just monuments and museums. Its location along the Potomac River means you can see the nation’s capital from a whole new perspective—on the water. Whether it’s catching stunning views of the Lincoln Memorial from a boat or enjoying a gourmet dinner while drifting past iconic landmarks, boat tours here add a memorable dimension to your visit. I personally love the Washington, DC: Full-Day Tour with a Scenic River Cruise because it combines comprehensive city sightseeing with a relaxing boat experience, making for a truly full day.
For travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing, dining, and fun on the water, DC’s boat options cover a broad spectrum. From guided monuments tours on a glass-top bus combined with a Potomac River cruise to upscale yacht brunches, there’s something for every mood and budget. Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of the top boat tours and cruises, helping you choose the perfect experience for your trip.
1. Washington, DC: Full-Day Tour with a Scenic River Cruise
At number 1, this full-day tour combines classic city highlights with the relaxing pleasure of a boat cruise. You’ll explore the White House, U.S. Capitol, Jefferson Memorial, and more, all explained by an expert guide. The tour includes guided walks at major monuments and offers the best city views from a convertible bus—either open-top or glass-top. When summer hits, the boat cruise and waterfront lunch are the icing on the cake. Guests praise the “excellent guide” and the “beautiful Tidal Basin” tour, making it ideal for first-time visitors wanting an all-in-one day.
This tour is perfect for those who want a detailed, immersive experience with a touch of leisure. The 6-hour itinerary offers a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation, for $89 per person. The boat cruise and lunch provide a restful break amidst busy sightseeing, especially enjoyable in warm weather. It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day.
Bottom line: A versatile, full-day experience that offers city highlights, scenic views, and waterfront leisure—great for first-timers or those wanting a full Washington DC experience in one day.
2. Washington DC: Sightseeing Tour with Potomac River Cruise
Number 2 on our list is a guided tour that brings DC’s monuments to life, with a seasonal boat cruise along the Potomac. From March to October, the cruise is included, giving a stunning view of the Tidal Basin and memorials. During the low season, the tour shifts focus to the Jefferson Memorial and other nearby landmarks. It’s a 6-hour experience, combining walking among memorials with a scenic boat ride, perfect for those who want a balanced mix of land and water.
The reviews highlight how the “memorials are best experienced with a guide,” and the boat cruise during high season offers a “magnificent day.” The tour costs $79, which is reasonable considering the mix of modes and sights. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts who appreciate expert narration coupled with a scenic cruise.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for visitors wanting a guided monument tour complemented by seasonal water views, offering a good value at $79.
3. DC: City Cruises Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise
For around $60, the City Cruises buffet offers 2 hours of dining, dancing, and sightseeing aboard the Spirit of Washington. It’s a lively way to enjoy DC’s waterfront, with an extensive buffet and ample space to dance with a DJ onboard. Guests love the panoramic 360° views from the observation decks as you glide past landmarks like the Washington Monument and National Harbor.
This cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a laid-back experience with good food and entertainment. The buffet is plentiful, and the ability to enjoy views while dining makes it a popular choice. The price reflects the entertainment and dining experience, making it a good value for those who want more than just sightseeing.
Bottom line: Perfect for an energetic, food-filled cruise with great views—especially suited for those celebrating special occasions or seeking a fun social outing.
4. DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise
Number 4 on our list is a gourmet cruise aboard the Odyssey, offering elegant dining and curated music. You can enjoy a plated 3-course meal or buffet brunch, with 360° views of the monuments like the Lincoln and Washington Memorials. The cruise lasts around 2 to 3 hours and is perfect for those who want a relaxed, upscale experience with a focus on fine dining.
Reviews mention the “gourmet dinner” and “curated background music,” making it ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations. The ticket price of $71 offers good value for a high-quality meal with memorable city views. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate fine dining combined with sightseeing.
Bottom line: An elegant, scenic dining cruise perfect for couples or those celebrating an occasion with a taste for gourmet food and stunning views.
5. Washington DC Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise
Number 5 is a luxurious 2-hour bottomless mimosa brunch aboard a private yacht. For $102.55, enjoy brunch buffet items while sipping champagne, with views of the DC skyline from a private setting. The cruise departs from Gangplank Marina, and guests can relax at their private tables, capturing beautiful photos of monuments and the cityscape.
Known for its “sumptuous brunch buffet,” this cruise is perfect for those seeking an upscale, leisurely morning on the water. The small-group size ensures a personal experience, and reviews highlight the “excellent food and service.” It’s an excellent choice for romantic mornings or a special treat.
Bottom line: A top-tier brunch cruise for those wanting a luxurious, intimate experience with unlimited drinks and great views—great for celebrating a special occasion.
6. Washington DC: River Cruise & DC City Tour + Entry Ticket
Position 6 features a comprehensive 6-hour package combining city highlights with a scenic river cruise. You’ll see the Lincoln Memorial, WWII Memorial, and the Washington Monument, along with a boat ride on the Potomac from March to October. This tour is great for travelers who want a thorough overview with a water perspective.
Guests appreciate the “comfortable climate-controlled bus” and the opportunity to stop for photos at key landmarks. The $99 price includes both land and water experiences, making it good value for an all-in-one tour. Suitable for first-timers wanting an overview with multiple modes of exploration.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking an extensive, balanced tour of DC’s monuments with the bonus of a river cruise, especially in warmer months.
7. Washington DC: Mt. Vernon Day Trip with River Cruise
Number 7 offers a full-day trip with a scenic cruise and a visit to George Washington’s estate. This $161 tour includes VIP boat seating and expert guides as you cruise the Potomac, followed by a tour of Mount Vernon’s historic grounds. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts who want a deeper dive into Washington’s life.
Guests praise the “gorgeous cruise” and the “fascinating Mount Vernon estate,” making this a well-rounded day. The experience balances scenic relaxation with educational insights, perfect for those interested in American history.
Bottom line: A premium, full-day experience that combines scenic cruising with a personal tour of George Washington’s home—excellent for history lovers.
8. Washington DC: Potomac Cruise and Georgetown Walking Tour
This combo offers a 2-hour river cruise and a guided walk through historic Georgetown. Starting with a cruise along the Potomac, you’ll see D.C.’s landmarks from the water and then explore the neighborhood’s cobblestones and local gems like Martin’s Tavern and the Old Stone House.
The guide’s storytelling makes history come alive, and the cupcake treat from a beloved bakery is a sweet bonus. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, in-depth look at both the city’s landmarks and its historic neighborhoods.
Bottom line: A small-group, intimate experience blending scenic views with local stories and tasty treats—ideal for those wanting a relaxed but comprehensive half-day.
9. VIP Mount Vernon Day Trip & Potomac River Cruise
Number 9 features a small-group VIP tour combining a boat cruise with a guided visit to Mount Vernon. For about $169, enjoy prime boat seating, a scenic cruise past memorials, and a full exploration of George Washington’s estate, including lunch and roundtrip transportation.
Guests call the guide “very knowledgeable” and rave about the “relaxed pace” and private experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want an intimate, educational, and scenic day with a focus on personal service.
Bottom line: An upscale, small-group experience ideal for those wanting a personalized, comprehensive day combining history and scenic cruising.
How to Choose Your Perfect Washington DC Boat Tour
When selecting a boat experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a full, immersive day that includes everything from monuments to a waterfront lunch, the Full-Day Tour with a Scenic River Cruise offers excellent value. If fine dining or celebrating a special event appeals to you, the Gourmet Dinner Cruise or Bottomless Mimosa Brunch might be better suited. For those on a tighter schedule or wanting a quick overview, tours like the Potomac River Yacht Cruise with Open Bar provide fun, hassle-free options.
Consider the season too—many cruises operate seasonally, so check availability and book early, especially during cherry blossom season in spring. Whether you want an elegant dinner, a lively party, or a historical excursion, Washington DC’s water-based tours have something for you.
To sum it up, Washington DC’s boat tours and cruises bring a fresh perspective to the city’s famous sights. From luxurious brunch cruises to comprehensive full-day adventures, each offers a unique way to experience the capital’s beauty and history. For best results, plan ahead—these popular experiences fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Whichever you choose, enjoy the views, the stories, and the water’s calm as you explore the capital from a different angle.