Discover the scenic beauty and rich history of Oakland on a private boat tour with USS Potomac Association. Enjoy year-round cruises that reveal stunning skyline views and fascinating waterfront stories.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; some standing or walking onboard is optional
Wildlife
History
The USS Potomac was Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidential yacht, now serving as a floating museum and tour vessel in Oakland.
Conservation
Our tours promote awareness of the bay's ecology and support local efforts to preserve waterfront habitats and marine wildlife.
USS Potomac Association
Discover the scenic beauty and rich history of Oakland on a private boat tour with USS Potomac Association. Enjoy year-round cruises that reveal stunning skyline views and fascinating waterfront stories.
The USS Potomac Association preserves and operates the USS Potomac, Franklin D. Roosevelt's historic presidential yacht, from Oakland, California. The Association offers a range of public experiences that combine maritime heritage with scenic San Francisco Bay views. Visitors can take one-hour dockside tours year-round to walk through FDR’s private cabin, dining room, and the engine room while learning stories of presidential use, royal visits, and notable onboard events.
Beyond dockside access, the Association schedules narrated sightseeing cruises that highlight regional history and landmarks, including two-hour and three-hour options with opportunities to explore the ship. Seasonal special events feature curated experiences such as wine tasting with Rosenblum Cellars on the Summer Solstice, beer tasting with Oakland United Beerworks, live-music cruises, and signature holiday sails like the July 4th fireworks cruise departing Jack London Square. Fleet Week offerings include Blue Angels viewing cruises with expert narration and parade-of-ships participation for a limited number of passengers.
The Association operates as a steward of a nationally recognized historic vessel and works with knowledgeable docents to ensure accurate interpretation and a respectful visitor experience. Ticketed events, scheduled dates, and special programming are published in advance, and reservations are recommended for limited-capacity cruises. The USS Potomac Association focuses on historic preservation, education, and providing safe, well-organized public access to an important piece of American maritime and presidential history.
Location
Oakland, CA
Based on the Oakland waterfront
Dockside Tours
Year‑round
One‑hour guided visits
Special Cruises
Seasonal events
Music, wine, beer, Fleet Week
Historic Vessel
FDR's yacht
Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidential yacht
Limited seating on specialty cruises — book tickets now to secure your date and experience FDR’s presidential yacht.
Wear layered clothing
Weather on the water can change quickly; dressing in layers ensures you stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring sun protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses will help shield you from sun exposure during daytime cruises.
Arrive early
Arriving 15 minutes before departure ensures a smooth check-in and ample time to settle in.
Capture the moment
Use the golden hour window for the best lighting when taking photos of the skyline and waterfront.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Keeps you comfortable against splashes or wind during the cruise.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin while enjoying daytime cruises in bright sunlight.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing and distant scenery appreciation.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning views and memorable moments on the water.