Adventure Collective
Private Potomac Yacht Cruises with Nautiste LLC - Washington

Private Potomac Yacht Cruises with Nautiste LLC

Washington•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Requires minimal physical exertion, suitable for most guests including seniors and families.

Overview

Step aboard the vintage motor yacht *Independence* for a private cruise along the Potomac River. Nautiste LLC delivers a curated journey past D.C.’s iconic monuments, paired with gourmet dining crafted by Michelin-star chef Troy Knapp.

Washington, District of Columbia

Private Cruises Aboard Independence

1976 Bruno & Stillman Downeast Electric Motor Yacht - Up to 13 guests

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About This Adventure

Experience a private cruise aboard the vintage motor yacht Independence, where luxury meets history. Enjoy breathtaking views of iconic monuments along the Potomac, while indulging in curated cuisine by Michelin-star chef Troy Knapp. With a full-service crew and personalized event planning, this unforgettable journey promises stunning sunsets and memorable moments.

Private cruise aboard the 1976 Downeast style Motor Yacht, Independence

What's included:

  • Private cruise aboard the luxury vintage vessel
  • USCG captain of your choice from our list of professionals familiar with the boat and local waterways
  • (1) Full-service crew
  • Event planning and day-of coordination
  • Ice and still water service included

On board amenities

  • Al fresco cockpit where guests invariably spend the most time enjoying the view
  • Cozy mahogany deckhouse with 360’ views
  • Teak table and chairs for seated dining experience for 10 guests
  • Open galley to see your Chef at work on your cuisine
  • Full bathroom below decks
  • Bluetooth-enabled sound system
  • Widescreen TV with AV hookup and casting capabilities
  • A/C throughout interior

What You'll See:

Unlike other vessels in the Nautiste fleet, Independence is uniquely capable of cruising “Monuments Row” to Georgetown and beyond. Depending on your cruise duration, you’ll see:

  • The Washington Monument
  • Titanic Memorial
  • National War College
  • Jefferson Memorial
  • Lady Bird Johnson Memorial on Columbia Island
  • Lincoln Memorial and the Watergate Steps
  • Roosevelt Island
  • Kennedy Center for Performing Arts
  • The bustling Georgetown waterfront
  • Francis Scott Key Bridge
  • Three Sisters rocks
  • Fletcher’s Cove
  • Ever-changing colors of the upper Potomac river ...all while indulging your palette with CURATED wine and cuisine experiences designed by Michelin-star awarded chef/sommelier, Troy Knapp.

3-HOUR CRUISE ONLY Drop anchor in front of the Lincoln Memorial for sunset and a dining experience unlike any other... with the memorial and Washington Monument aglow at the water's edge, the tides keeping your view of the monument squarely behind you for every photo opportunity.

NOTE: You'll be prompted to add your CURATED cuisine package (priced separately, per guest) and a-la-carte wine selections immediately after you've added the Patriot Cruise booking to your cart.

Duration

Choose between a 2, 3, or 4 hour cruise experience on the Potomac. Interested in a full day cruise? Call (202) 417-8449 for a discounted daily rate and custom quote

Owner's rules:

Smoking strictly prohibited. Heels must be removed prior to boarding (you'll thank us!).

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Preferred Cruise Times

Sunset cruises fill quickly—reserve your spot in advance to secure the best views and dining experiences.

No Heels on Board

To protect the teak deck and your comfort, shoes with heels are not permitted on the yacht.

Weather Can Change Quickly

Dress in layers and bring a light jacket, especially for evening cruises when temperatures drop on the water.

Dietary Preferences Must Be Shared in Advance

For a seamless dining experience courtesy of Chef Troy Knapp, notify Nautiste LLC ahead of time about any allergies or restrictions.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Great Blue Herons frequent the riverbanks
  • Ospreys soaring above the water searching for fish

History

The Potomac River has long served as a strategic and cultural boundary, with Monuments Row showcasing decades of U.S. history from presidents to war memorials.

Conservation

Efforts by local organizations help maintain the Potomac’s water quality and native habitats despite heavy urban development along its shores.

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Adventure Hotspots in Washington

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Lightweight Jacket

Essential

Protects you from cooling breezes and occasional rain while on the open water.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Non-Heeled Comfortable Shoes

Essential

Safe and comfortable footwear recommended for moving around the teak deck.

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin during daytime cruises when the sun reflects off the water.

spring|summer|fall specific

Camera or Smartphone

Capture striking views of the monuments and river scenes from unique vantage points.