Explore San Francisco Bay aboard the historic USS Potomac, President Roosevelt's former yacht. Enjoy stunning views and rich stories during this unique two-hour sightseeing cruise.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the experience involves seated cruising and light walking on board.
Wildlife
History
The USS Potomac served as FDR’s presidential yacht from 1936 to 1945 and is now a floating museum preserving this pivotal era in American history.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to minimize impact on local wildlife and water quality, supporting a sustainable marine environment in San Francisco Bay.
USS Potomac Association
Explore San Francisco Bay aboard the historic USS Potomac, President Roosevelt's former yacht. Enjoy stunning views and rich stories during this unique two-hour sightseeing 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
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure smooth boarding and to catch any important announcements.
Wear Layers
San Francisco Bay weather can be cool and breezy even in summer; dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Bring a Camera
Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture iconic views of the Bay Bridge and Oakland skyline.
Accessibility Considerations
The USS Potomac is wheelchair accessible but check in advance for any specific assistance needs to ensure a smooth experience.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust for changing temperatures and breezes on the bay.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays while outdoors on the water.
spring
Windbreaker Jacket
Shields you from cool bay breezes that often pick up during summer afternoons.
summer
Waterproof Footwear
Keeps your feet dry during damp or rainy conditions.
fall