About The Potomac Belle
The Potomac Belle is a 59' custom Bluewater yacht built in 1990. She is comfortable for 25-35 passengers although depending on the weather a smaller number might be preferable.
Lower level: Starting in the bow, the Potomac Belle has a generous catering prep area including a microwave oven and a full size refrigerator. The separate main salon has a caterer's serving area, as well as tables and chairs accommodating 15-20, that can be tailored to your needs. There is a built-in stereo system and separate restrooms.
Upper level: The upper level is accessed by stairs near the stern. There is seating for approx. 25 guests. Evening cruises are illuminated by rope lighting around the entire rail, offering both safety and enjoyment to your guests. A portable stereo system is used on this level.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Potomac Belle is a U.S. Coast Guard inspected vessel and is comfortable for up to 25-35 guests. In the cooler months, using the main salon only, 15 - 25 is recommended.
The most popular time for a night charter is 6-9 PM or 7-10 PM, depending on the time of sunset. This allows your guests to enjoy Old Town after the cruise. A three-hour charter is ideal for a cruise from Alexandria to the Washington waterfront or Mt. Vernon and back.
You make the call. We conduct the majority of our charters from Old Town to Georgetown, though the southern route to Mt. Vernon is also beautiful. From the upper deck, you'll be able to see the best sunsets and views of the Alexandria and Washington skyline.
The Potomac Belle offers a spectacular view of Mt. Vernon from the water, however a tour of the estate is best left for a trip by car.
Our home port is the Alexandria City Dock located in historic Old Town Alexandria. Walking toward the river, you will pass the Torpedo Factory. Our slip is located directly in front of the Chart House Restaurant.
There are several parking garages on Union Street just one block from the boat and an underground lot beneath the Chart House Restaurant. We do recommend that you carpool as much as possible.
Children, under your supervision, are welcome on the Potomac Belle. It is important to let us know, well in advance of your date, how many children under 45 pounds will be aboard. Parents of infants should bring their own life jackets for their comfort and safety.
We can arrange to depart from the Georgetown waterfront as well as Fort Washington Marina. There are additional dockage fees for these venues.
You may bring your own provisions or choose a caterer to serve you. Choosing a caterer is always more convenient and we have had excellent results from our list of caterers. They can provide food and beverage service to meet your needs and budget. If you bring your own food or beverage, we'll provide help with the setup. Some things to remember when bringing your own, you need to bring everything including cups, plates, napkins, and eating utensils. Whenever alcohol is served, a positive ID is required to be served; there are no exceptions to this law.
The sound system on the Potomac Belle is superb. Bring CDs or your iPod. Each level of the boat has an independent volume control. We have a great collection of music onboard.
Guests onboard the Potomac Belle are completely protected from the weather and we do not cancel a charter for rain. Most summer showers last only a short time. In the event of extreme weather conditions such as a hurricane or state of emergency, we would cancel and reschedule your charter.
The Potomac Belle is a full time charter yacht. Our season begins in late March and continues through early December, depending on the weather. The Potomac Belle was built and designed for the charter industry. Most of our charters are repeat business or referrals from people who have had a great experience with us.
First, call us to determine if the date you have in mind is available. We can put a tentative (48 hour) hold on a date. In order to confirm a date and time for your charter, a one hour deposit is required. The remaining balance is due on the day of your charter.
On the day of your charter, you and/or your caterer are welcome to begin the setup one and a half hours before departure. Your guests are welcome to board 15 minutes prior to departure. If you need to make other arrangements, please let us know. There is temporary parking for loading and unloading on Thompson's Alley, located just north of the Torpedo Factory. There is underground parking on Thompson's Alley as well as on Union Street across from Thompson's. On weekends, parking can be a challenge, so please advise your guests so that we may depart on time.
In the event you need to cancel your charter, deposits will be refunded provided you notify the office at least 30 days in advance. If the Potomac Belle is unable to leave the dock due to weather, safety, or mechanical reasons, as determined by the Captain, you have your choice of a refund or the option to reschedule your date.
