Washington’s #1 Boat Tour
Join us on a private, captained boat or yacht tour.
Your day, your boat, your way!
— Since 2015 —
custom cruises along the capital city’s waterways.
Your day.
your boat.
your way.
Boat tours are private, customizable, hourly charters.
Choose an open boat or climate-controlled yacht.
Up to 6 guests per boat. (Have more? Add boats!)
Perfect or monumental sightseeing, special occasions, family fun, or business retreats.
Captain provides a rich tour narrative (if desired).
Ice, water & soft drinks provided.
Dogs are permitted on open boats.
cruise quietly by DC’s iconic landmarks, speed down the Potomac River to historic Mount Vernon, or lower the anchor and let the afternoon ebb and flow.
( Why embark with us? Hint: we’re licensed, legal, experienced, etc… learn more.)
Amenities
Open boats:
Comfortable seating for up to 6 guests.
Bimini cover provides shade, if desired.
Stereo: Bring your own playlist, or enjoy ours.
Dining table, coolers and grill available.
Private (small) toilet & sink.
Life jackets provided (required for <13).
Bottled water, soft drinks & ice included.
Fuel included in all rates.
For yacht amenities, view boat types ⇒
Reviews
We’re proud to say that we do all we possibly can to provide a safe, enjoyable experience on the water. Our guests agree!
“I recently had the pleasure of working with Embark DC in Washington. It was one of the best experiences I have had in recent years. Denny and his team stepped in when we needed help and worked with us in a professional, friendly, and considerate manner.
We had multiple variables to manage… nothing was a problem for them. They went above and beyond with each turn, and their only concern was the enjoyment of our mutual clients. I can not thank them enough or speak highly enough about this team or their services.”
Justin Smith, President, The Evolved Traveler
In association with: Coastline Travel Group | Virtuoso Travel
Video Review:
A luxury travel show from Australia takes an Embark DC boat cruise…
frequently asked questions
Q: How do your tours differ from other Washington, DC boat charters?
A: All cruises are private and include a USCG-licensed captain who can provide a live tour narrative, for groups of up to 6 friends, family members or collegues. We are the only private boat tour operator in the Washington DC area with official approval to operate out of every major location (including nearby Maryland & Virginia). We are happy to customize each tour based on guest preferences.
Q: Do you offer a private yacht tour of Washington, D.C.?
A: Yes. View our boat types here. Regardless of which boat you select, we take your group of up to 6 people per boat to any DC area destination you would like to visit. The distinct advantage (vs. the large-boat operators) is that everything is based on your wishes and whims.
Q: Can I host a private party in DC on your boats?
A: Yes, for groups up to 6 per boat. We often host birthdays, anniversaries, marriage proposals, weddings, graduations, promotions, and other special events. A private boat cruise is one of the most memorable ways to celebrate any special occasion!
Q: How are your services different from a public or large-boat Washington, DC river tour?
A: We customize all of our tours for our guests. And you are the only guests!
Q: What types of boat tours in Washington, D.C. do you offer?
A: Entirely up to you, and we have a variety of popular routes to choose from. Most guests select a sightseeing tour including historic monuments (Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, etc.), important buildings (Kennedy Center, Pentagon, etc.) and to see the famous cherry blossoms (in early spring); some head further south to Fort Washington and George Washington’s Mt. Vernon Estate; some relax on anchor for the sunset, or propose to their best friend!
Q: Can I use the boat going only one way?
A: Sure! Some use us as a private “water taxi” to travel to baseball or soccer games, events at Nats Park, The Anthem or Arena Stage; some book sightseeing cruises to see historical Washington DC landmarks from a new perspective on their way from one location to another.
Q: What locations can I start my boat cruise from?
A: We are the only private boat tour company with permissions for all of the area’s major waterfront locations in Maryland (National Harbor), Virginia (Old Town Alexandria, Mt. Vernon) and DC (the DC Wharf, Georgetown, The Yards).
Q: Can we bring food and drink aboard our boat?
A: Yes! We provide water and soft drinks, but you’re welcome to bring food & drinks aboard as you see fit. See the locations pages for recommendations on restaurants with takeout menus (though they’re always changing), and feel free to contact us with questions (some limitations apply on our yacht option).
Q: Can we bring our dog aboard?
A: Yes, on our open boats, you can! We do have some doggy life jackets too. Call to confirm details!
— More questions? View our full FAQ page. —
We Look Forward To Welcoming You Aboard
I’ve heard enough! I’m ready to make a reservation.