Experience the thrill of the US Navy Blue Angels from the historic USS Potomac on San Francisco Bay. Enjoy expert storytelling, breathtaking views, and a delicious box lunch on this exclusive Fleet Week cruise.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity primarily involves sitting or standing aboard the ship with minimal walking.
Wildlife
History
The USS Potomac served as President Franklin D. Roosevelt's 'Floating White House' and now operates as a historical museum and event vessel.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve San Francisco Bay's marine environment include strict regulations on boating activities to protect local wildlife and water quality.
USS Potomac Association
Experience the thrill of the US Navy Blue Angels from the historic USS Potomac on San Francisco Bay. Enjoy expert storytelling, breathtaking views, and a delicious box lunch on this exclusive Fleet Week cruise.
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
Ensure you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure for smooth boarding and orientation aboard the USS Potomac.
Bring a Light Jacket
Bay area weather can be chilly and breezy in October, so pack a light jacket to stay comfortable during the cruise.
Charge Your Camera
The Blue Angels perform fast and impressive stunts—keep your camera or smartphone fully charged to capture the action.
Mind the Sun Exposure
Though the cruise is mostly on water, the sun can be bright; apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses for protection.
Light Jacket
Protects against cool breezes and sudden temperature drops on the bay.
fall
Sunglasses
Reduces glare from the water and enhances viewing comfort.
Binoculars
Helps get a closer look at the Blue Angels’ aerial maneuvers.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning photos of the flight demonstration and San Francisco Bay scenery.