Sail aboard FDR’s historic presidential yacht for an exclusive view of San Francisco’s Fleet Week parade. Join 50 passengers for an unforgettable maritime celebration in Oakland Bay.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves sitting or standing on deck with no strenuous exertion.
Wildlife
History
The USS Potomac served as FDR’s presidential yacht and now preserves maritime history on San Francisco Bay.
Conservation
Efforts focus on reducing marine pollution and protecting bay wildlife during events like Fleet Week.
USS Potomac Association
Sail aboard FDR’s historic presidential yacht for an exclusive view of San Francisco’s Fleet Week parade. Join 50 passengers for an unforgettable maritime celebration in Oakland Bay.
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
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to complete check-in and boarding.
Dress in Layers
Bay Area weather can be cool and windy on the water; layers keep you comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring Binoculars
Binoculars enhance views of distant ships and aerial demonstrations during the parade.
Motion Sickness Prevention
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider medication or remedies before boarding.
Windbreaker Jacket
Protects against wind and cooler temperatures on the open water.
all
Comfortable Non-Slip Shoes
Provides stability and safety while moving around the yacht’s deck.
Sunglasses
Reduces glare from the sun reflecting off the water.
spring|summer|fall
Binoculars
Enhances the view of distant ships and waterborne festivities.