Experience Fleet Week like never before with front-row views of the Blue Angels from the historic USS Potomac. Enjoy lunch and drinks as precision jet maneuvers awe from Oakland’s waterfront.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires boarding a boat and standing for short periods.
Wildlife
History
USS Potomac, once Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht, offers a rich maritime legacy paired with military aviation history during Fleet Week.
Conservation
The Bay Area emphasizes marine conservation efforts, with ongoing programs to protect local wildlife and minimize the cruise’s environmental footprint.
USS Potomac Association
Experience Fleet Week like never before with front-row views of the Blue Angels from the historic USS Potomac. Enjoy lunch and drinks as precision jet maneuvers awe from Oakland’s waterfront.
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.
Book Early
This exclusive cruise fills quickly, so secure your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Dress in Layers
Even in October, temperatures on the water can be cool and breezy – prepare with comfortable layered clothing.
Arrive on Time
Boarding begins promptly; arriving early ensures a smooth check-in and best seating options.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
Capture close-up shots of the Blue Angels’ incredible stunts – a zoom lens will help snap detailed photos.
Light Jacket
Keeps you warm against cool breezes during the cruise.
fall
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from glare reflecting off the water.
summer
Waterproof Camera or Smartphone Case
Safeguards your electronics from sea spray while capturing the moment.
Comfortable Non-Slip Shoes
Ensures steady footing on potentially wet boat surfaces.