Updated September 23, 2022. Just because the weather is cooling down doesn’t mean it’s time to hunker down and spend all your days inside. In fact, it’s more of a reason to throw on your favorite sweatshirt and walk out the door to see the red, orange, and yellow shades of nature starting to come to life here in Northern Virginia.
This season, take a break from your usual weekend routine of nature hikes and apple picking on the weekends, and instead hop aboard one of the many sightseeing boat cruises offered in our region. Whether you’re interested in learning about how pirates survived on the Chesapeake Bay or simply want to sit on the top deck with a pumpkin beer in hand, here’s where to do it all this fall.
Alexandria to Georgetown Cruise
Dates and times vary
No metro stop in Georgetown, no problem. Make your way over to the culture-rich, historic neighborhood in style with a 45-minute one-way boat ride from Alexandria, complete with a narrated tour of the Potomac and waterside views of the monuments on the way. Explore to your heart’s content then hop back on in the opposite direction to make it back home. 0 Cameron St., Alexandria; 3100 K St. NW, Washington, DC; $20-26 one-way, $30-42 round-trip
Tours and Cruises on the Providence
Dates and times vary
What’s better than a day cruise? What about a day cruise in a pirate ship? With the Tall Ship Providence, visitors have the opportunity to board a fully-functional replica of a historic 18th century vessel, and learn about the original Providence’s storied past. This season, in addition to their regularly-scheduled dockside tours and sail trips, the company is offering a series of specialty sails in collaboration with local breweries. 950 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC.; prices vary
Mount Vernon Cruise
Dates and times vary
Whether you choose to start from Alexandria or the Wharf in DC, this cruise along the Potomac to historic Mount Vernon will take your breath away this fall. While the trip to Mount Vernon is short, once you arrive at George and Mary Washington’s home, you’ll have three hours to enjoy the fields of greenery on the estate, the farm grounds, and the new education center. Alexandria City Marina: 0 Cameron St., Alexandria; The Wharf: 950 Water St. SW, Washington, DC; $49.95-$55.95
Photo Sightseeing Cruise
Through October 30, times vary
On this 45-minute excursion, you’ll be able to see historic Mount Vernon like never before. Once the boat takes off from the Wharf dock, you and your family will be taken around the Potomac and hear from an experienced tour guide about the river’s connection to George Washington’s affairs, local animal life like eagles and osprey, and so much more. Transit Pier: 950 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC; $7-$11, free for children
Odyssey on the Potomac: Brunch and Dinner Cruises
Dates and times vary
Grab a sweater and come on board for an Odyssey boat cruise, offering buffet brunches and plated dinners throughout the fall months and beyond. Following the recent renovations to the vessel, these one-of-a-kind experiences give you the opportunity to check out Washington’s monuments from the water, while enjoying delicious food and drink options. From the outdoor deck with a live band to the indoor climate-controlled seating area, you’re sure to be comfortable and happy during this excursion. 580 Water St. SW, Washington, DC; prices start at $111.79
Boomerang Rooftop Cruise
Dates and times vary
Feel the crisp autumn air with a drink in your hand on this open-air rooftop cruise. The two-hour trip will sweep you along the Potomac with breathtaking views of the monuments cloaked in fall foliage. For extra entertainment, an open bar and music on board will ensure that there’s not a dull moment. 3100 K St. NW, Washington, DC; prices start at $65
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