Step aboard the USS Potomac for immersive history tours and special event cruises on San Francisco Bay. Discover naval stories and stunning views on this one-of-a-kind Oakland experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion
Wildlife
History
The USS Potomac served as FDR’s "Floating White House" during the 1930s and 40s, an important link to American naval and presidential history.
Conservation
The volunteers emphasize education about San Francisco Bay’s marine ecosystem and responsible boating practices to minimize environmental impacts.
USS Potomac Association
Step aboard the USS Potomac for immersive history tours and special event cruises on San Francisco Bay. Discover naval stories and stunning views on this one-of-a-kind Oakland experience.
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.
Dress warmly for open water conditions
The bay breeze can be brisk even on sunny days, so layering is key to staying comfortable during your cruise.
Arrive early for ferry connections
Plan extra time to ferry from San Francisco to Jack London Square to ensure smooth boarding.
Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings, such as seals and whales, are common—binoculars enhance your experience.
Book special event cruises in advance
Seats on themed cruises like the Beer Tasting or Fleet Week Blue Angels can fill quickly, so reserve early.
Layered clothing
Waterfront breezes demand warm layers you can add or remove.
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Binoculars
Enhances views of distant wildlife and landmarks.
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Sun protection
Sunscreen and a hat help with prolonged sun exposure on deck.
summer
Water-resistant shoes
Comfortable footwear with good grip ensures safe movement on wet decks.
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