Explore Historic Washington D.C. on a Private Boat Tour from Mount Vernon
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities.
Overview
Discover Washington D.C.'s landmarks from the Potomac River on a private boat tour departing Mount Vernon. Customize your cruise for history, fishing, and relaxing river views with friends and even your dog.
Private Boat Tour, embarking from George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Starting at $450/hr. with 3 hr. min + MV docking fee
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a customizable boat cruise with up to six friends, exploring iconic sights like the Washington Monument and Arlington Cemetery. Enjoy a personalized tour narrative, bring your own food and drinks, or even fish! Dogs are welcome too, making this a unique and memorable adventure on the water.
Rates are per boat, with to 6 people per boat:
• Mon–Thu: $450/hr, with 3 hr min.
• Fri–Sun: $500/hr, with 3 hr min.
Note: Mount Vernon charges a docking fee of $50 one way or $100 round trip, added during the booking process.
Given travel distance, a higher minimum booking applies. Use the calendar to start your booking.
More information:
- All cruises are fully customizable & available by the hour (1.5 hour minimum). Call (888) 634-3335 with any questions!
- Go near or far, fast or slow. See the sights or relax on anchor.
- Your captain provides a tour narrative, if desired.
- Food and (adult) beverages may be brought aboard.
- Bring a fishing pole for the kids, or fresh fish to grill.
- Up to 6 guests per boat. Have more friends? Add more boats!
- Dogs allowed (yes, we have life vests for dogs too).
Common sights to see:
Main Monuments Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Robert E. Lee Memorial & Arlington Cemetery, Lyndon B. Johnson Memorial Grove, Lady Bird Johnson Park, Arlington Memorial Bridge, The Pentagon, Tidal Basin, Reagan National Airport, and more!
Georgetown area: Watergate, The Kennedy Center, Washington Harbor, Georgetown Waterfront Park, Francis Scott Key Bridge, Theodore Roosevelt Island, Key Bridge Boathouse, Aqueduct Bridge, Three Sisters, and more!
Washington Channel: The Wharf, Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, Defense Intelligence Agency, Marine One Hanger, White House Communication Center, US Coast Guard Headquarters, Fort McNair, National War College, Lincoln Conspirators, Titanic Memorial, and more!
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Home: (min. 3 hour tour) Fort Washington, National Harbor, Woodrow Wilson Bridge, Old Town Alexandria, Naval Research Lab, and more!
Use the calendar to start your booking.
Adventure Tips
Bring Your Own Snacks and Drinks
Pack a picnic to enjoy onboard since the boat allows you to bring your own food and beverages for a personalized experience.
Reserve Early for Weekend Dates
Weekends are popular, so book in advance to secure your preferred time and date for this private tour.
Prepare for Sun Exposure
The boat is mostly open-air; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to stay comfortable during midday sun.
Bring Motion Sickness Remedies
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider medication or ginger candies to ensure an enjoyable trip.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- Great blue heron
History
Mount Vernon was George Washington’s plantation home, established in the mid-18th century and now a National Historic Landmark.
Conservation
The tour operator emphasizes low-impact boating practices to protect the Potomac River ecosystem and preserve shoreline habitats.
Select participants and date
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during the exposed, open-air boat cruise.
summer specific
Hat
Shields your face and eyes from direct sunlight on the water.
summer specific
Light Jacket
Helpful for cooler breezes on the river, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
spring specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning river views and iconic monuments from a unique vantage point.