Adventure Collective
Family Treasure Hunt Cruise with Boomerang Boat Tours in Washington DC - Washington DC

Family Treasure Hunt Cruise with Boomerang Boat Tours in Washington DC

Washington DCeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most children and adults in basic physical shape

Overview

Set sail on the Potomac with Boomerang Boat Tours for a family-friendly treasure hunt that combines sightseeing, pirate fun, and water battles. Discover how this unique adventure makes exploring DC exciting for kids and adults alike.

Boat Tour
Washington, District of Columbia

Family Fun Treasure Hunt Cruise

An interactive adventure | Created for kids | Water Cannons | Games

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Adventure Photos

Family Fun Treasure Hunt Cruise photo 1

About This Adventure

Join the Boomerang Pirate Ship in Georgetown for an exhilarating treasure hunt on the Potomac River! Help recover stolen keys while enjoying water cannon battles, music, face painting, and pirate celebrations. Experience stunning views of Washington DC's landmarks in this interactive, family-friendly adventure that promises unforgettable memories!

Ahoy there, pirates! Our gangplank in Georgetown awaits as we navigate the Potomac River on an adventurous treasure hunt!


Rates

Passenger: $26.00 (free under 1yr)


Duration

1 hour


About

• Family friendly • Interactive adventure • Beautiful views of the scenic skyscape

You see, me mateys, we are friendly pirates protecting the Nation’s Capital from any boisterous buccaneers that might get too close. We house the city’s most valued treasure on board our ship, but recently the keys to our treasure chest were stolen! We need your help as we search the waterways looking for the scallywags who stole the keys to our precious loot. If we find these scurvy dogs sailing the high seas, they better beware!

In our search for treasure, you will enjoy: • A hunt for the stolen keys to our city's treasure chest. • Water Cannon Battles • Music • Face Painting • Booty & Pirate Souvenirs • Pirate Celebrations with limbo & dancing • Washington DC’s famous cityscape including views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Watergate, Kennedy Center, and Georgetown University.

We hope to welcome you aboard as we’ll need all the help that we can get… Sail ho!

About the vessel The Boomerang Pirate Ship was custom designed and built to U.S. Coast Guard requirements for use on the Potomac River in 2013.

Our ship is equipped with all of the latest life-saving equipment, including life jackets, life rings, and ship-to-shore radio. All of our captains hold their 100 ton master’s license, and they are the saltiest dogs on the river!

There are two restrooms on board, a full bar for refreshments, and a professional sound system with a large variety of music.

Additional Information You are welcome to purchase beverages, snacks, and souvenirs from our bar area.


FAQ

What happens during the water cannon battles? Me friends, a pirate doesn't like to discuss the rough life at sea. However, we will tell you this - when we find the scurvy dog that stole the keys to our treasure chest, we will turn on our water cannons and engage in battle for as long at it takes until we win those keys back!

Is there face painting? Yes! It is important that we look serious as we search for rogue enemies! If you would like us to help you with a new 'nautical look', we will be happy to 'toughen you up, pirate style'!

What is the layout of the boat? The Boomerang has a large open floor plan with two levels, and an enclosed bar & bathroom area. The upper deck can accommodate 32 passengers at a time, while the entire boat can accommodate 80 passengers.

Can outside food & drinks be brought aboard? No. Although me pirates love a good meal, sadly, we do not allow passengers to bring food & drinks aboard.

Can I bring a cake? No. Unless the Pirate Ship is chartered privately, there is no outside food allowed, including cakes.

Can we purchase food on board? Yes. We do not serve meals on board ye ship, but we do sell a variety of healthy snacks for any hungry pirates!

Can we purchase alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages on board? Yes. We operate a full bar inside the galley full of grog, spirits, wine, beer, juices, & sodas. We also have a large cooler of drinking water that is free of charge for thirsty pirates!

Do you accept cash & credit cards? Yes! We are pirates and we are happy to accept all kinds of booty.

Will I receive any pirate treasure? Ye landlubber already asking about me loot, eh? Well then, I suppose it's only right for us pirates to share! If we win back the keys to our treasure chest during our water battles, we will happily share our pirate booty with our new crew!

Will I get wet? Piracy is not for the faint of heart! When our water cannons go off, you may get misted during battle if it is a windy day. However, me mates, there are areas of the boat where you can go if you'd like to guarantee that you will stay dry.

Are there bathrooms on board? Yes! We have two bathrooms on board. On a pirate ship, however, bathrooms are called ‘heads’. So stop calling them bathrooms, ye land lubber!

Do I have to dress like a pirate? This here is a tough question for me and my mates... However, we are modern pirates who accept all kinds - land lubbers, scurvy dogs, buccaneers, wenches, and more. So relax, me hearties, we will accept you for who you arrrrrrrr. Just don't bring any scallywags.

What should I wear? Me lads, me lasses, we encourage you to look your plundering best! Once you've swabbed our decks, played with the bilge rats, and walked the plank, no buxom beauty in town will look better than you! Please wear practical shoes for your comfort and safety.

What do I need to bring? You don't need much to live the life of a pirate. Make sure to bring cash or credit cards for booty on board - snacks, drinks, or souvenirs, and a camera if you'd like. Wear practical shoes since you are boarding a boat, bring your best smile, perhaps an eye patch, maybe a hoodie if it is chilly, shades if it’s sunny, and you should be good to go!

What if someone in my party misses the boat? Can we go back to pick them up? Unfortunately, we leave right on time and cannot go back to the dock to pick up any slacking pirates. For this reason it is very important for you to arrive early, or right on time. Because docking times are reserved for commercial boats throughout each hour, we are not able to linger at the dock outside of our assigned time or we stand the risk of making enemies at sea! It is very important that you are ready to board at cruise time. Please plan ahead for parking and traffic, ye scurvy dogs. Arrrr!

What happens if it rains? Our events operate in the rain.... We are fearless pirates! Be sure to plan ahead for all of the elements by wearing the appropriate attire. If rain is in the forecast, feel free to bring an umbrella, raincoat, or poncho.

What happens if severe weather is in the forecast for my cruise? If severe weather is in the forecast for our section of the Potomac, our captain might have to cancel a cruise. If this was the case, we would notify tickets holders via email and text message as soon as that decision was made. At that point, we would issue you a gift certificate for a future cruise.

Do I need to purchase a ticket for an infant? No, "infants in arms" do not need a ticket. In other words, if your little pirate isn't walking yet, then they are welcome aboard free of charge. The Coast Guard still considers every person aboard as a passenger, so please include a message if you think you will be bringing an infant in the message section when you purchase your ticket.

Can I bring a stroller? Yes, you are able to bring a small stroller on board with you, but avoid the big heavy ones! Fold-able strollers encouraged due to space on the boat.

Can I buy a ticket at check-in on the dock? Piracy on the Potomac is serious business, me friends, so the Boomerang usually sells out in advance. However, we never want anyone to miss out on an opportunity to sail the high seas, so if there is a “no show”, we would be willing to sell a ticket on the spot.

Is the boat Coast Guard certified? The Boomerang Boat is a United Stated Coast Guard certified vessel and safety is our number one priority. If anyone is acting unruly or is harmful to themselves or others, the boat will return to the dock and our security will have these guests removed. In addition, we have the right to deny boarding to any person at any time. Safety is our first priority and entertainment is our second, so please sail responsibly.

Do you have life jackets on board? Yes, we are US Coast Guard regulated & inspected, and the Boomerang is equipped with state of the art electronics and the latest life saving equipment.

Is smoking permitted? No. After a harsh life pirating at sea, our voices are coarse and our lungs are full of damp and salty air. Don't be a scurvy dog, please no smoking on board.

Is this a tour boat? Will we be making stops? Arrrr you crazy? We are not your traditional, boring tour boat. We are not your traditional boat at all! We will be keeping the treasure hunt alive while enjoying the beautiful DC harbor views and searching for scallywags!

Which historical sights will I see during the trip? All the good ones! You will be able to see the Georgetown waterfront, boathouse, and University, the Watergate, Kennedy Center, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, the Pentagon, entrance to the Tidal Basin, Hains Point, the Custis Lee Memorial, Key Bridge, and the Memorial Bridge.

Will I get seasick? Most likely no. The Potomac River is very narrow and it is usually a very calm waterway.

Can I stow my belonging somewhere on board during the cruise? You'd like to give a ship full of pirates all of ye possessions? Me mates don't think this is such a good idea so we do not have an area to stow people's belongings at this time.

Can I rent out the entire Boomerang Pirate Ship for a private party? Yes! For all private charter inquiries, please email our sales director at: info@ridetheboomerang.com to contact us directly.

Adventure Tips

Wear quick-drying clothes

Water cannon battles and water splashes are common, so dress accordingly to stay comfortable.

Bring sunscreen and hats

Protect yourself from sun exposure while enjoying the open water and vibrant city views.

Arrive early for check-in

Arriving early ensures plenty of time to settle on the boat and start the adventure on time.

Secure valuables beforehand

Keep wallets, phones, and personal items safely stored to enjoy the fun without worry.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • Great blue herons

History

The Potomac River played a vital role in Washington’s founding and remains a hub of activity, from historic battles to modern-day cruises.

Conservation

Boats are designed to minimize environmental impact with eco-friendly practices, helping preserve the river’s natural beauty.

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Adventure Hotspots in Washington DC

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Water-resistant sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin during outdoor activities on the water.

summer specific

Hat or cap

Offers shade during sunny cruising hours.

spring|summer specific

Waterproof jacket

Keeps you dry in case of rain or splashes.

winter|spring specific

Comfortable shoes

Essential

Necessary for moving comfortably on and off the boat.