Instead of packing onto the National Mall for a glimpse of DC’s fireworks this year, spend Independence Day on the water. With these Fourth of July cruises, you can spend the holiday relaxing on the river, taking in views of the fireworks without the crowds, and enjoying special dining opportunities on the water.
4th of July Fireworks Cruise and Celebration
Enjoy the fireworks with an unbeatable view from the Potomac on this Independence Day cruise. You’ll get to watch the display from the water, get a tour of the monuments by moonlight, and explore Georgetown in an optional nightlife tour after the cruise. Washington Harbour: 3050 K St. NW, Washington, DC, $145
City Cruises Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Enjoy a meal while you watch the fireworks over the river with this cruise experience. Choose either a signature dinner cruise experience with a buffet dinner or a premier dinner cruise with a three-course plated dinner. Both options last around three hours and bring guests around the Potomac to see sights like Old Town Alexandria and National Harbor from a climate-controlled boat. 580 Water St., Washington, DC, $245 for signature, $275 for premier
City Cruises Fireworks Cruise from Alexandria
Don’t want to brave the traffic to get into DC? Take the Potomac Water Taxi from Alexandria for a two-hour cruise on the Potomac. Concessions are available on board, including beer, wine, soda, and snacks. 0 Cameron St., Alexandria, $175
Boomerang Boat Tours
Where better to celebrate July 4 than on a double-decker party yacht? This 21-and-up option offers an open bar throughout the two-hour ride, with “immersive surround sound music” to keep the party going. The company has two Fourth of July cruises leaving at 7:30 p.m. Washington Harbour: 3050 K St. NW, Washington, DC, $125
Tall Ship Providence
While it won’t sail during the fireworks show, Alexandria’s Tall Ship Providence makes for a fun Fourth of July activity for the whole family. Sail at 1 or 4 p.m. on this replica of an 18th-century ship and enjoy a picnic of hamburger sliders, hot dogs, and apple crumb cake. 1A Prince St., Alexandria, $85
Sea Suite Cruises
Want a private experience for your group? Book a private tour on one of Sea Suite Cruises’ boats, taking off from The Wharf, Georgetown, and Navy Yard. There are options for groups up to 16 people. Book a time slot to enjoy the holiday on the water. Multiple locations, price varies
Feature image courtesy City Cruises
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