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Potomac Riverboat Company

Potomac Riverboat Company offers sightseeing tours, private charters and water taxi transportation along the historic Potomac River.

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Review Highlights

“ My sister-in-law and I had lunch in National Harbor , then boated to Alexandria to go to Silver Parrot. ” in 32 reviews

“ My company held a team building event on the Miss Christin in May, and we had a wonderful time. ” in 2 reviews

“ The Cherry Blossom took us up the Potomac from Alexandria and I found it to be extremely peaceful and enjoyable. ” in 10 reviews

Location & Hours

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211 N Union St #250

Alexandria, VA 22314

Old Town Alexandria

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143 reviews

We took this boat from Georgetown to Old Town Alexandria as part of a Saturday sight seeing trip. We found the experience to be delightful. We walked up to the kiosk, paid our $13 each and found the 40 minute cruise to be very comfortable. You can sit upstairs outdoors or downstairs in a/c. They serve beer, wine and soft drinks for a nominal fee. The cruise was so much more relaxing than the cab rides we took earlier in the day and only slight more expensive. Highly recommended. Have to laugh at the negative reviews for people who arrive late or buy tickets they later regret.. why blame them?

Re: the monuments cruise: If you're looking for a fun way to get back and forth from Old Town and Georgetown, this is a good option. If you want to learn something about the history of our nation's capital, save your money. The tour is a pre-recorded audio tape that for the most part you can't hear. If you sit inside the boat, other people's conversations will drown out the tape. If you sit at the stern of the boat, the motor will drown out the tape. If you sit on top of the boat (which I recommend), you'll have to move below to go under the Memorial and other bridges, and when you are up there airplanes (you go right by DCA) will drown out the tape. Re: Old Town to National Harbor: Great. Quick service, drops you off steps to the action.

The prerecorded tour narration is bland. I wish they had more and better refreshments, but all in all pretty enjoyable.

The cruise was on time and has a nice route between Alexandria and Georgetown. It is nice to be able to get off and spend time in either port. However, it is not worth $26. The audio on the boat giving the 'tour' is extremely difficult to hear and there is so much that they leave out. The 45-minute ride could be completely full of history and sites and they hardly touch on most of it.

We took the 4 July Fireworks cruise and was very happy with the great customer service all the workers displayed. The on site manager was Christina and did a fabulous job managing her crew. She spoke to all the customers. She constantly overlooked the buffet, bars, music ect. She was on the spot everywhere. She spoke nicely to all her workers and seemed to motivate them constantly. no slakers here, she took care of that. As a Chef and Management instructor, I was very impressed with the obvious training this company gives all their employees. All customers seemed very happy. We were very happy and had a good time because of the great customer service. We were so impressed that we took another cruise the next day to Mt. Vernon, again great customer service by all. Thanks again

Motored down the Potomac to Mt. Vernon. Despite awful weather the crew made the trip very pleasurable. They were very pleasant and informative. The boat. Ms Christian is older but more quaint than the Princess. We were lucky to see Bald Eagles. We also saw two different Osprey nests. One with a nesting pair. Several restoration projects in progress as well as a couple archaeological digs. Needed more time to spend at Museum and grounds.

We took the round trip from Alexandria Harbour to Mount Vernon and really enjoyed the time we spent on the boat. Price included Mount Vernon admission and was a unique way to get to Mount Vernon. The tour guides were funny but each gave different stories about the same things coming and going. LOL. Don't count on getting accurate information but sit back and enjoy the views, the river, and the time spent on the water instead of the highway.

A rude employee of the Riverboat's ran me and a few other pedestrians off the sidewalk in front of the Riverboat's departure table, saying she has a right to park on the sidewalk. So, she gets free parking, and those walking along this lovely sidewalk on the Georgetown waterfront get to walk around her car -- providing she's not driving on the sidewalk. There're many other river tours in DC w/nicer staff, choose another.

First of all, it's cheap. I'll stress that. Not much in the way of tour guide information, but it's a great way to get a first glimpse of DC.

We were on the Cherry Blossom for our wedding ceremony/reception this April. Excellent venue, unique experience, high quality service. The staff ensured our day felt special and everything went off without a hitch. My only reservation for future patrons is to carefully research reviews of their catering options you must use. We used Carriage House (Bugsy's), and while the tasting was great, the food quality the night of was not the same positive experience.

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The Riverboat Cruise Near Washington DC You Never Knew Existed

Maura is a freelance writer and consultant from Washington, DC.

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Many Washingtonians forget that we have access to the mighty Potomac River that flows next to our district every day. Maybe it’s because we’re busy or because it’s not the prettiest river in the world but it can be easy to forget we have a perfect water destination. If you want to experience the Potomac in a brand new way, then you need to take a ride on a riverboat cruise from Potomac Riverboat Company.

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You can learn more about the Potomac Riverboat Company on their website.

If you prefer to enjoy the Potomac closer to the water, these are the10 best places to kayak in Washington DC!

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Get to The Wharf on the Water

If you’re checking out the region’s waterfront destinations, there’s no better way to travel than by water taxi. Come to The Wharf’s Transit Pier to catch a ride to Georgetown in DC, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, or National Harbor in Maryland—and enjoy the scenic views of the nation’s capital from the Potomac.

Due to water conditions, the Water Taxi operates March-December each year.

Fares and Hours to Georgetown, Alexandria, and National Harbor

Water Taxi rates and schedule vary throughout the season. 

View the Water Taxi schedule and purchase tickets

Get Your Fill at The Wharf

Fresh seafood is a given on the waterfront. But The Wharf offers more, including a wide selection of distinctive choices for food, drinks, and entertainment while you eat. Watch the chefs prepare your meal. Listen to music. Or just people-watch while you savor the flavors of The Wharf.

Browse the Shops

Whether you’re looking for something specific or simply like to spend a few hours in our unique collection of stores, chances are you’ll find just what you’re looking for at our shops at The Wharf. And, of course, you can always treat yourself to a delicious dessert—or celebrate your shopping finds with a drink at one of our restaurants.

Morning Carpool

21 Scenic Riverboat Cruises in the USA That Are One of a Kind

Posted: June 21, 2024 | Last updated: June 21, 2024

America’s rivers are best experienced through picturesque riverboat cruises, which reveal the beauty of the U.S. waterways and the stories of the communities along their banks. From the steamy bayous of the South to the crisp waters of the Pacific Northwest, each cruise offers an array of cultural delights. Join us as we check out the coolest riverboat cruises across America.

Mississippi River Cruise

A Mississippi River cruise offers a nostalgic journey through the heart of America, gliding past historic landmarks and vibrant river towns. These cruises, which often start in cities like New Orleans or Memphis, provide a unique window into the cultural heritage of the American South.

Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise

Experience the spectacular fall colors of New York from the deck of a Hudson River cruise. These cruises not only offer stunning views but also include commentary on the region’s rich history and architecture.

Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise

Cruising along the Columbia and Snake Rivers in the Pacific Northwest takes you through landscapes carved by the Ice Age floods. It’s a blend of natural beauty, history, and innovation, with visits to some of the region’s famous dams and vineyards.

Alaska’s Inside Passage Cruise

Navigate the calm, protected waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage, renowned for its untouched wilderness and breathtaking wildlife sightings. From towering glaciers to dense forests, passengers can spot whales, eagles, and bears in their natural habitats. This cruise is a must for nature lovers and those seeking a serene escape into the wild.

Sacramento River Cruise

Explore the historic waterways of California’s capital on a Sacramento River cruise. These trips offer views of Old Sacramento’s riverfront and narratives about the Gold Rush era, complemented by sightings of local wildlife like herons and river otters.

Ohio River Cruise

The Ohio River cruise provides a journey through several states, from Pennsylvania to Illinois, showcasing the Midwest’s charming towns and vibrant cityscapes. Highlights include Cincinnati’s stunning skyline and Louisville’s historic waterfront park.

Potomac River Cruise

Take a Potomac River cruise to see the nation’s capital from a fresh perspective. These cruises offer close-up views of iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to combine a bit of education with leisure.

Detroit River Cruise

The Detroit River cruise offers a unique view of Detroit’s renaissance, highlighting both the U.S. and Canadian skylines. From the resurgence of the Motor City’s riverfront to the natural beauty of Belle Isle, it’s a testament to urban revival. This cruise is a celebration of industry and nature.

San Antonio River Walk Cruise

Experience the heart of San Antonio on a charming cruise along the famous River Walk. These quiet, electric barges take you through a network of walkways lined by bars, shops, and restaurants, illuminated by festive lights at night.

St. Lawrence River Cruise

Cruise the St. Lawrence River to explore the scenic Thousand Islands and the historic Boldt Castle. This area, straddling the U.S.-Canada border, is dotted with mansions, castles, and lighthouses, offering a glimpse into the Gilded Age. The natural beauty and intriguing history make this cruise a captivating experience.

Chicago River Architecture Cruise

A Chicago River architecture cruise provides an in-depth look at the city’s famous skyscrapers and historical buildings from the unique vantage point of the river. Guided by experts, these tours explain the significant architectural feats of the Willis Tower, the Wrigley Building, and more.

Charleston Harbor Cruise

A cruise through Charleston Harbor offers panoramic views of historic Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. The cruise provides a mix of Southern history, natural beauty, and modern charm, with close-up views of the city’s beautiful antebellum homes.

Savannah Riverboat Cruises

Explore Georgia’s historic Savannah by riverboat, where you can enjoy Southern dining, live music, and narrated historical tours. These cruises provide picturesque views of Savannah’s historic riverfront and its iconic series of river bridges.

Mobile Bay Ferry Cruise

Journey across Mobile Bay in Alabama aboard a ferry cruise that connects Dauphin Island to Fort Morgan. The Mobile Bay ferry is a practical and scenic way to explore the southernmost part of Alabama.

New York City Dinner Cruise

Experience the glamor of New York City on a dinner cruise that offers breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline. These cruises combine fine dining with spectacular nighttime vistas, providing a memorable backdrop for special occasions or a romantic evening out.

Pittsburgh Three Rivers Cruise

Discover the unique convergence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers with a cruise through Pittsburgh’s waterways. These tours highlight the city’s historic riverfronts, modern stadiums, and the bustling Strip District from the decks of a riverboat.

Tennessee River Gorge Cruise

Board a riverboat in Chattanooga for a cruise through the Tennessee River Gorge, which offers stunning geological features and a rich diversity of wildlife. This scenic cruise is perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Narragansett Bay Cruise

Explore Rhode Island’s coastal beauty with a cruise around Narragansett Bay, featuring historic lighthouses, stately mansions, and charming islands. This cruise is particularly popular for its scenic beauty and the opportunity to see marine wildlife, such as seals.

Lake Champlain Ferries

Take a leisurely cruise across Lake Champlain on one of the several ferry services connecting Vermont and New York. The lake’s historical significance and natural beauty provide a tranquil backdrop for a relaxing day on the water.

Mobile River Delta Cruise

The Mobile River Delta, encompassing wetlands, swamps, and marshes, is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the country. A cruise through this delta allows visitors to explore the area’s lush scenery and wildlife, including alligators and numerous bird species.

Willamette River Cruise

Cruise through the heart of Portland on the Willamette River, which offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and the surrounding natural beauty. The cruise highlights Portland’s famous bridges and the bustling waterfront area.

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Take to the Water with These Fourth of July Cruises

Catch the fireworks from a new point of view or spend the day with a picnic on the water.

By Maggie Roth June 24, 2024

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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CSX crews work through night to restore train traffic on Potomac River bridge after fire

Both rail lines on a trestle bridge spanning the Potomac River from Maryland to Harpers Ferry, W.Va., are expected to be ready for train traffic Tuesday after a fire in the middle of the bridge on Monday.

"CSX teams inspected the bridge and confirmed its structural integrity. CSX teams worked safely and expeditiously through the night to replace damaged ties and rail," CSX Transportation spokesperson Bryan Tucker said in an email Tuesday morning. "One of the two rail lines on the bridge reopened to train traffic at 3:30 a.m. ... We expect the other to be restored by 11:30 a.m."

The rail lines service freight trains as well as MARC and Amtrak, Tucker said.

The fire brought firefighters from at least three counties.

There was no train on the bridge at the time of the fire, Washington County Emergency Services Director R. David Hays said Monday night.

Tucker said the cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Hays said when railroad ties get older they can dry out and become susceptible to fire from sparks from crossing trains. But he did not know if that was what happened in this case.

The fire was reported at 3:38 p.m. Monday, a Washington County 911 supervisor said.

Hays said firefighters had the fire under control around 5:30 p.m. Monday and units were leaving the scene around 8 p.m.

Celebrate Independence Day: Fourth of July fireworks and more in Hagerstown, Franklin County and Eastern Panhandle

Arriving firefighters from Potomac Valley Fire Co. found a large fire in the middle of the bridge that appeared to be spreading rapidly, Hays said. CSX was notified to stop train traffic on the bridge.

Additional firefighters from Washington County and Jefferson County, W.Va., were called, Hays said. As firefighters realized the extent of the fire, more assistance was called for from Washington, Jefferson and Frederick County, Md.

Two boats were in the river in case a firefighter were to fall, Hays said. None did.

No injuries were reported, but one firefighter was treated on scene for minor dehydration before resuming activity, he said.

Hay said 68 firefighters responded.

"CSX appreciates the swift response of the local first responders that extinguished the fire," Tucker said.

Challenges in battling fire in middle of railroad bridge over Potomac River

The challenges included finding a sustainable water source and accessing the fire in the middle of the bridge over the river, Hays said. There are gaps between the railroad ties, through which the river can be seen.

There are two railroad bridges that cross the Potomac there and this was the one that did not have a walkway, so firefighters had to cross the railroad ties, with a handrail along one side, to get to the fire, he said.

Tanker trucks were used to supply water until a dedicated water service was accessed via a hydrant in Harpers Ferry, Hays said. There were no hydrants on the Maryland side of the bridge.

The hose line had to be extended about 500 to 700 feet across the bridge, which Hays estimated was about 100 feet above the water.

There was a lot of smoke due to the well-involved fire, Hays said.

The temperature was in the low to mid-90s at the time of the fire, Hays said.

Thermal imaging from a drone and buckling in metal tracks on the bridge indicate the fire reached above 1,600 degrees, Hays said.

There were significant buckles in two tracks, Hays said. There also were 15 to 20, possibly more, ties that were damaged.

Among the resources on scene was an air-conditioned mobile ambulance bus and the county's air and rehab units, Hays said.

Sandy Hook Road was closed for about 4 hours during the response.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Railroad bridge from Maryland to West Virginia closed after fire

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Nothing ever comes easy for the U.S. men's national team.

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Most River Water Comes From Unprotected Streams Post-Sackett

By Bobby Magill

More than half of all the water in US rivers comes from ephemeral streams that are thought to have lost protections under the Clean Water Act in the wake of the US Supreme Court’s ruling in Sackett v. EPA , according to research published Thursday.

Pollutants are carried in those unprotected waters into downstream rivers, suggesting that fewer protections for ephemeral streams will make protected waters dirtier, according to the study led by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and published in the journal Science.

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Off the TV screen and into real life: An MSNBC event illustrates the rise of 'event journalism'

For one weekend day this fall in New York — and for a price — MSNBC fans can see many of their favorite personalities in real life

NEW YORK — MSNBC is inviting its fans to a one-day “Democracy 2024” event this September with live panels and a dinner with stars like Rachel Maddow, Chris Hayes and Ari Melber, part of the company’s entrance into the burgeoning field of events journalism.

Live events are a growing business for many news outlets, forced to think of different ways to make money with readership, viewership and advertising revenue declining. MSNBC has ramped up its effort this year with the help of creative director Luke Russert.

The journalism-centered events business has grown in fits and starts before accelerating in recent years. It is particularly robust in Washington, with the Post, Politico, Semafor, Punchbowl News and Puck all active.

“The fact that we’ve seen others in the industry host similar events, that’s been a bit of a precedent,” MSNBC President Rashida Jones said. “One of the benefits of our brand and our content is that there are a lot ways to engage with it.”

Growth of an industry adjacent to journalism

When Semafor started two years ago, co-founder and CEO Justin B. Smith made it a central part of the business; the company held eight events before publishing its first article. He calls it “live journalism,” and it was quickly profitable through the sale of sponsorships.

Semafor will hold about 70 or 80 events this year, with the centerpiece being the World Economy Summit in April, an annual meeting Smith has positioned as Davos on the Potomac River.

“It’s a great place to make news and a great place to make money,” he said.

Before Semafor, Smith built up the live events business at Bloomberg and the Atlantic, the latter instrumental in the popular Aspen Ideas Festival. The New Yorker magazine has also built an influential festival that mixes news and culture.

Overall, events journalism didn’t catch fire quickly, in part because organizing them was a skill in short supply at news outlets, Smith said. There were also some notable missteps: A reporter for The New York Times quit under pressure in 2019 after using a racial slur in a Times-sponsored student trip to Peru; the newspaper doesn’t host such trips anymore.

And The Washington Post was embarrassed in 2009 when it was revealed it had planned to charge lobbyists as much as $250,000 to attend an off-the-record salon, hosted by its publisher, with newsmakers and journalists.

That’s a clear ethical transgression for selling access. But Thomas Rosenstiel, a journalism professor at the University of Maryland, said he didn’t see a problem with an event like MSNBC’s.

“If the product is civic knowledge and debate, that’s what news organizations do,” Rosenstiel said. “That’s the business that they’re in. It’s just the delivery system is different.”

MSNBC dips its toe in

MSNBC’s “Democracy 2024” has faint echoes of the annual “BravoCon” run by its corporate cousin, although in this case news personalities are replacing real housewives and Andy Cohen. Last year’s 3-day “BravoCon” in Las Vegas cost fans $550 for entry, with a special VIP package of $1,200 that included the right to move to the front of the line at the bar.

“We do not have that feature,” MSNBC’s Jones said.

Ticket prices for the Sept. 7 MSNBC day at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, which also includes a film screening and reception, start at $119 per person, the network said on Monday.

Hayes, Jen Psaki, Joy Reid, Alex Wagner, Andrea Mitchell and Katy Tur will lead one panel discission on campaign issues, and stat man Steve Kornacki will break down the latest poll results. Maddow, Melber, Lawrence O’Donnell, Stephanie Ruhle, Michael Steele, Alicia Menendez and Symone Sanders Townsend will run a second panel.

Dipping its toe in the business, MSNBC held an invite-only event in Washington before the State of the Union address. Hayes went on a multi-city tour surrounding his “Why is this Happening?” podcast, and was joined by Maddow for a discussion at New York’s Town Hall.

“Any opportunity I can have in front of a live crowd I love,” Hayes told The Associated Press. “I’m a theater kid at heart. I probably feel more comfortable in a room with actual people in the audience that I do on live TV.”

Hayes said it offered an unparalleled feedback mechanism.

“You can tell when people are with you, when you’ve lost people,” he said. “You can tell when people are laughing, when they’re sighing in exasperation about something you’ve told them. You can navigate that. One of the hardest things when I started doing TV was not having that.”

This story has been updated to correct the title of an event held by Semafor. It is the World Economy Summit, not the World Economic Forum.

David Bauder writes about media for The Associated Press. Follow him at http://twitter.com/dbauder .