Spirit Boat Cruises
The Spirit Cruise Line is a Washington, DC floating landmark that offers lunch, dinner, moonlight and Sunday brunch cruises aboard the Spirit of Washington. Cruise around the Potomac and Old Town Alexandria while enjoying the sites, or take the Spirit of Mount Vernon on a half-day round trip cruise to George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate.
The 3 indoor decks of the ship are surrounded by windows, and provide room for over 500 dining guests. Each level also has a dance floor and popular dance music spun by the ship’s DJ. Lunch and dinner cruises usually have live music reviews, that get the crowd involved and up to dance.
The 2-hour Potomac Cruise offers views of the Washington Monument, Fort McNair, planes taking off and landing at National Airport, colonial era Admiral’s Row town houses and Old Town Alexandria.
The Mount Vernon Cruise, takes the same route and down the Potomac to Mount Vernon, but does not include dining.
All cruises include a multi-item buffet dinner, except for the Moonlight Cruise which includes light “hors d’oeuvres” (wings, pizza, cheese and veggies, meatballs).
The dinner menu on the Potomac Cruise includes roast beef and smoked ham carving stations, roast chicken, salmon, vegetable lasagna, and jambalaya, along with seasonal vegetables, sides, and dessert.
My experience on a Spirit dinner cruise was enjoyable, as long as you set your expectations. First, go primarily for the views; yet most people seem to never step outside on to the deck. Second, the rather typical buffet offerings are nicely prepared, yet rather bland and uninspired. But again, they are cooking for the masses, so don’t expect five-star food.
The seating arrangements can be a bit cramped, with tables closely positioned near each other.
Spirit Boat Cruises
Pier 4 at 6th & Water Streets, SW
Washington, DC (map it)
Dates and Times - Daily summer cruises, including lunch, early dinner, dinner & dancing, and moonlight cruises. No Mount Vernon cruises on Mondays.
Tickets - Lunch and dinner Potomac Cruises range from - $32.90 - $81.90 and are available online. Discounts for kids under 13 are available. Cash bar for beer, wine and mixed drinks.
Mount Vernon cruise include round trip boat ride (1½ hours each way) to Mount Vernon, and included admission to the estate, and 3 hours to tour. Food is not included on this cruise. Adults - $38.95, $31.95 for kids 6-11, under 6 are free. An onboard snack bar is available.
Try to check the weather forecast for the day of your cruise before making reservations, as a rainy day will not enhance your experience.
Both ships are handicap-accessible. Must be 21+ for the moonlight cruises.
Nearest Metro Subway Station - Waterfront, Green line, then a 3-block walk.
Parking - paid lot and limited metered street parking is available.
Images - from personal collection - © 2008 - Jon Rochetti,
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POSTED IN: Family Fun, Food & Beverage, Great Activities for a Date, Great Places to Unwind, Nightlife, Tours – Guided or Self-guided
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