Water Taxi FAQs

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Potomac Water Taxi Frequently Asked Questions

Before visiting the water taxi, many guests have questions to ensure a smooth and memorable trip. Frequently asked questions include advice on booking tickets (which often sell out in advance), accessibility options, on-site amenities, and the detailed schedule. Knowing what to expect in advance helps guests fully enjoy their journey, from the scenic journey along the Potomac River to our popular destinations. For customer service, please email us at tickets@potomacticketing.com

Book Your Tickets
How far in advance should I purchase tickets?

Tickets often sell out weeks in advance, so it’s recommended to book as early as possible to secure your preferred date.

Tickets are not required for boarding. When boarding, you can check in with your confirmation number and the last name that is on your reservation.

The Potomac Water Taxis sail rain or shine. In the event of severe weather conditions or upon the direction of the U.S. Coast Guard, the taxis will remain dockside.

Casual attire is recommended, including jeans, shorts, t-shirts, sweaters, and sneakers. Since it can get breezy on the water, we suggest bringing extra layers to stay comfortable, especially during cooler seasons.

The water taxi service offers routes connecting The Wharf to Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor.

Routes & Destinations

Our water taxi connects:

  • The Wharf (Transit Pier) ➔ Georgetown

  • The Wharf (Transit Pier) ➔ Old Town Alexandria

  • The Wharf (Transit Pier) ➔ National Harbor

Approximate trip times:

  • Georgetown: 30 minutes

  • Alexandria: 30 minutes

  • National Harbor: 45 minutes

Departures begin at the Wharf at 11:45 am and will depart every 30 minutes to one hour depending on the day of the week. Departures out of National Harbor and Alexandria may vary.

Schedule Subject to Change – Please Confirm Times Before Planning Your Trip

  • From National Harbor:
    Last departures to Alexandria and The Wharf typically run between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

  • From The Wharf:
    Departures to Alexandria and National Harbor generally end between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
    Departures to Georgetown typically end by 4:00 PM.

  • From Alexandria:
    Final departures to The Wharf usually run between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
    Service to National Harbor typically ends between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

  • From Georgetown:
    Last boats to The Wharf generally stop around 5:00 PM.

Approximate travel time ranges between 30-45 minutes.

  • Dock Locations

  • The Wharf

Dock: Transit Pier, 950 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC
Drop-Off: 950 Maine Ave SW
Pedestrian access only (between Blair Alley SW & 9th St SW).

Georgetown

Dock: 3100 K St NW, Washington, DC
Approximate Trip Time: 30 minutes
Note: Dock is not wheelchair accessible.

Alexandria City Marina

Dock: 0 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA
Behind the Torpedo Factory Art Center.
Approximate Trip Time: 30 minutes

National Harbor

Dock: 145 National Plaza, National Harbor, MD
Approximate Trip Time: 45 minutes

Dock Addresses and Information

  • The Wharf
    Dock: Transit Pier, 950 Wharf St SW 
    Drop-Off: 950 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC
    Note: Pedestrian access only. Located between Blair Alley SW & 9th St SW.

  • Georgetown
    3100 K St NW, Washington, DC 
    Approximate Trip Time: 30 minutes
    Note: Georgetown Dock is not wheelchair accessible. The route from Georgetown to Old Town Alexandria operates as our Monuments Cruise.

  • Alexandria City Marina
    0 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA 
    Located behind the Torpedo Factory Art Center
    Approximate Trip Time: 30 minutes

  • National Harbor
    145 National Harbor Plaza, National Harbor, MD 
    Approximate Trip Time: 45 minutes

You will see a plethora of famous monuments and landmarks of Washington, DC with stunning reflective views.

Yes. Light concessions are available to purchase on board.

Sorry, no pets are allowed. Only service dogs are allowed on the Potomac Water Taxis.

Smoking is not permitted onboard.

Explosives, firearms, illegal substances, or any items deemed dangerous or harmful to yourself or others, at our sole discretion, are strictly prohibited.

The boats are ADA compliant but please note that the Georgetown Dock is not ADA compliant.

Each vessel is fully certified by the U.S. Coast Guard and equipped with all required lifesaving equipment, including life preservers and child-sized life vests.

Parking availability differs by location, and the Potomac Water Taxi does not own or manage any parking facilities. Please refer to your specific departure site for nearby parking options.

Enhance your experience with narrated sightseeing routes:

  • Alexandria ➔ Georgetown Monuments Route

  • Wharf ➔ Georgetown Sightseeing Route

There are no discounts available for our water taxi tours at this time, however children under 3 years of age ride for free with an adult.

Each visitor is allowed to purchase a maximum of 50 tickets.

Tour operators and travel agents must book tickets using the client’s name and credit card. The client must present a valid photo ID and the credit card used for the purchase.

No, all ticket sales are final and non-refundable.

You may change your return time at the ticket booth or over the phone as long as space is available. Pricing is subject to change.

No, minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

We recommend against booking tickets on your day of arrival, as travel delays cannot be accommodated. Changes and cancellations cannot be made on the day of the tour.

A Scenic Water Taxi Experience

*Enjoy the ride and discover D.C. from a new perspective! We provide genuine reservations and e-tickets for tours, including ferry service, with 24/7 customer support every day, even on holidays. As a private booking company, our goal is 100% customer satisfaction. Please note, we are not affiliated with any government agency or the official box office. Prices at checkout may exceed face value.

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