Sail the Oakland Bay with live music aboard the historic USS Potomac. Enjoy snacks, drinks, and an unforgettable summer afternoon on July 27 and August 24.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the cruise involves relaxed seating and limited walking.
Wildlife
History
The USS Potomac served as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht, playing a role in key historical events during his administration.
Conservation
The USS Potomac Association emphasizes preservation and sustainability, minimizing environmental impact while maintaining the historic vessel.
USS Potomac Association
Sail the Oakland Bay with live music aboard the historic USS Potomac. Enjoy snacks, drinks, and an unforgettable summer afternoon on July 27 and August 24.
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
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and to get settled.
Bring a Light Jacket
Even in summer, bay breezes can be cool in the evening, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Limit Large Bags
Space onboard is limited, so bring a small bag for essentials and leave large items at home.
Keep Hydrated
Although beverages are available, bringing a reusable water bottle is wise for staying hydrated throughout the cruise.
Light Jacket
Protects against cool bay breezes during the cruise.
summer
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during daytime cruising.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Helps you stay hydrated throughout the event.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture beautiful photos of the bay, yacht, and live performances.