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DC-Cruises POLICIES:
Attire. We suggest you check the weather forecast and dress suitably. For temperatures below 75-degrees, a sweatshirt or windbreaker is a good idea (although all of our vessels have enclosed areas).
Boarding. What is "Boarding Time" and "Cruising Time?"
"Boarding Time" is the earliest passengers may board -- it is typically 15 minutes prior to "Cruise Time.”
Cancellations.
We cruise rain or shine. For our 45 minute sightseeing loop: tickets are not refundable but they may be used at a later date. For Special Events (Fireworks cruises, Parade of Lights, Wine Tasting, etc.) -space was reserved for YOU on these cruises, so tickets are non-refundable. [for Groups/Charters -- please check your contract for details]
Children. Are there any age requirements?
No. We've accomodated people from 2 to 92, and they all seem to have a great time!
Coast Guard Regulations. Is the vessel Coast Guard certified?
Yes. All our vessels are Coast Guard certified and maintained regularly to adhere to strict safety regulations.
Cruise Route.
There are maps within this site that show our routes. For cruises during Cherry Blossom Festival (3/28-4/12), individuals should click on the Monuments Cruise button on the left, and groups should click on the Tour Groups button.
Directions.
For individuals/famlies:
90 Minute Cherry Blossom cruises (these are NOT the cruises sold by bus companies):
The cruises depart/return from 1300 Maine Ave. SW, near the Jefferson Tidal Basin. See the directions link at the left for details.
For Tour Groups: Check your reservation form! (Boats usually depart from Washington Marina, 1300 Maine Avenue SW, near the foot of 15th Street in Soutwest Washington, DC. Your cruise will begin and end there unless your organizer indicates otherwise (occasionally we pick-up groups along the Georgetown waterfront, at Old Town Alexandria, or at Mount Vernon.)
[See the directions link at left for more detail]
Drinks. Food. Etc.
On most of our cruises, lite beverages and snacks are available. [Groups may additionally arrange café lunches, hors d’oeuvres and a wide assortment of catered options].
Gratuity. Is gratuity included in the ticket price?
Gratuity is subject to the discretion of the passengers. No gratuities are required or otherwise included in your ticket.
Groups. What size group can your boats accommodate?
Our fleet can host parties and groups from 15 to 125 guests, or more if your group is willing to be divided between two vessels.
Handicap Accessibility. Are the boats handicap accessible?
On the regularly scheduled cruises departing from Georgetown there is no wheelchair access. For Groups departing from our Southwest location we can accommodate wheelchairs for boarding and restrooms. Please notify us of any special-assistance members in your party prior to the cruise so we can provide the appropriate assistance upon arrival.
Menu. What type of food is served?
(see Drinks. Food. above)
Parking. Is there parking close to the boats?
Yes, paid parking is usually available. Free or metered parking is also available nearby but you will have to build in some time to your schedule.
Payment. What type of payment do you accept?
For individuals and families, we accept credit card transactions through this web site. Groups should review their reservation form or call our office to make arrangements.
Phones. Will my cell phone work on the cruise?
Yes, your cell phone will work on the cruise. We ask, however, that you be considerate of other passengers.
Reservations. How can I plan a cruise for my group?
- Please call us M-F, 9am - 5pm (EST)
Seasickness. Will I get seasick?
It is highly unlikely. The Potomac River is a ‘protected water way’, meaning that it is a fairly narrow waterway (and NOT a broad, open expanse of water such as a bay or ocean). Therefore, the winds and waves tend to be modest. Seasickness is extremely rare.
Seating Arrangements. How is seating arranged on board?
Seating is unassigned and on a ‘first come’ basis.
Smoking. What is your smoking policy?
All interior areas of our ship are non-smoking areas. Passengers who smoke may do so on the outdoor observation decks, subject to the discretion of the Captain and crew.
Weather.
Our tour boats and yachts have enclosed seating areas to protect passengers from the elements. We sail rain or shine.
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