Final 3-HR History Cruise of the 2025 Season - A Tribute to our Veterans
Celebrate Veterans Day with a unique three-hour history cruise on San Francisco Bay. Enjoy live bagpipe music, expert storytelling, stunning views, and a delicious lunch aboard the Potomac.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the cruise is seated and requires minimal walking.
Wildlife
History
San Francisco Bay served as a critical defensive and logistical point during World War II, with the Port of Oakland playing a major military shipping role.
Conservation
Operators promote sustainable tourism by minimizing waste onboard and encouraging guests to respect local wildlife habitats, preserving the bay’s natural ecosystem.
USS Potomac Association
Final 3-HR History Cruise of the 2025 Season - A Tribute to our Veterans
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.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and get a good spot on deck.
Dress in Layers
Bay weather can be unpredictable—wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Bring a Camera
Capture iconic views like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz for lasting memories of the trip.
Consider Seasickness Remedies
If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring medication or wristbands for a more pleasant experience.
Windbreaker Jacket
Comfortably protects against cool bay breezes during the cruise.
fall
Sunscreen
Essential even on cloudy days to protect skin from UV exposure on the open water.
fall
Binoculars
Helpful for spotting distant landmarks and wildlife along the bay.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the trip while being eco-friendly.