Boat Cruises Common Questions - Washington, DC

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Washington, DC Boomerang Boat Cruises

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Can I buy a ticket at check-in?

The Boomerang Yacht usually sells out in advance, so unfortunately the answer is most likely no. However, we never want anyone to miss out on a trip on the Boomerang, so if there is a “no show”, we would be willing to sell a ticket on the spot.

If a cruise is sold out, is there a waiting list?

No, Boomerang does not keep a waiting list for our cruises. Cruises do sell out, and often well in advance, so please make sure to purchase your tickets far in advance, especially if you have limited time availability.

What if someone in my party misses the boat? Can we go back to pick them up?

Unfortunately, we leave right on time and cannot go back to the dock to pick up any latecomers. For this reason it is very important for you to arrive 15 minutes beforehand to check-in.  Because docking times are reserved for commercial boats throughout each hour, we are not able to linger at the dock outside of our assigned time. It is very important for you to arrive 15 minutes beforehand to check-in on the dock, and that you are ready to board at cruise time.  Please plan ahead for parking and traffic. Thank you!

Can we bring our own alcohol?

No. Passengers can not bring outside beverages as we are operating a full bar inside the main cabin. We could lose our liquor license if outside alcohol was consumed on premise, so our crew will be checking for those items prior to boarding, if necessary.

What are the drink prices like?

We operate a full bar accepting cash and credit cards. We may be running various specials at anytime, and items on this list are subject to change. Typically, our sodas & bottled water is $2, our 12oz beers are $5 and our 16oz beers are $6; our rail cocktails, wines, & champagnes/mimosas are $6; our top shelf premium cocktails, frozen drinks, specialty cocktails (like our Orange Crush & SharkBite!) & premium shots are $8; our shooters are $5-$7.

Can outside food be brought aboard?

No. We do not allow passengers to bring food aboard (We tried… Way too messy!). However, snacks will be available for purchase.

Which historical sights will I see during the trip?

All the good ones! You will be able to see the Georgetown waterfront, boathouse, and University, the Watergate, Kennedy Center, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, the Pentagon, entrance to the Tidal Basin, Hains Point, the Custis Lee Memorial, Key Bridge, and the Memorial Bridge.

Is this a tour boat? Will we be making stops?

No, we are not your traditional, boring tour boat. We will not be making stops or giving history lessons. Instead, we will be keeping the party alive as we cruise by all of the historic sights while enjoying the beautiful DC harbor views!

Are there bathrooms on board? 

Yes!  We have two large bathrooms on board.

What is the layout of the boat?

The main cabin has large open windows, along with our DJ, dance floor, bar, captain’s room, and two bathrooms.  The outdoor areas of the boat include the wrap around bow (front of the boat, lower level), the stern (back of the boat, lower level), and the upper deck.  Due to Coast Guard regulations, the upper deck does not accommodate more than 33 passengers at a time because of weight restrictions. We encourage all passengers to circulate throughout the boat so that everyone has the opportunity to explore all areas of the vessel. We do not have a bar on the top deck to further encourage full circulation throughout the boat. Once the top deck is at capacity, we operate a 'one up, one down' system. All areas of the boat are great, and most guests bop throughout the boat naturally during the cruise.

What happens if it rains?

Our events are rain or shine.  We have both outdoor and indoor space, so be sure to plan ahead for all of the elements.

How long will the cruise last?

Cruise times change, so this depends on the cruise that you choose. Most cruises are between 2 - 2.5 hours and the specific cruise times and durations are listed on each ticketing page.

Where do we board the yacht?

Please meet the Boomerang Yacht on the dock at the Washington Harbour. We will board in the commercial vessel boarding zone at the Georgetown Waterfront at the end of 31st street. This is located at the river in Georgetown at 3100 K St. NW DC, 20007. Walking from K St., turn south onto 31st st. and take it all the way to the water. If you are looking at the river from the Georgetown Waterfront, the Boomerang will pull up at the end of the dock, all the way on the right. Upon boarding the boat, our crew will be checking IDs, so please have those ready to go.

Is there parking near the dock?

There are several parking garages (fees vary) within 2 blocks of the waterfront area (www.georgetowndc.com/parking). However, if you are going to be joining in the party and festivities we encourage taking a cab directly to the Georgetown Harbour. The closest metro stop is Foggy Bottom Station which is serviced by the blue and orange lines and is a 15 minute walk away. Please plan accordingly and drive responsibly!

Do you offer transportation to and from the dock?

Yes! If you have a large party and would like to rent the Boomerang Party Bus to pick you up and drop you off, please click "Contact Boomerang" to the left of the page to contact us directly for an hourly quote.

What exactly happens when we check-in at the beginning of the night?

Once you check-in on the dock with your Boomerang Host, you will receive a Boomerang boarding token. You will need this token to board the boat. It is important to arrive 15 minutes before your event time and check-in as soon as you arrive at the starting location with your ID ready.

What do I need to bring?

You don't need much to ride the Boomerang. Make sure to bring cash or credit cards for snacks, drinks, or souvenirs on board, a valid ID (US or International drivers' licenses, passports, or other government issued id), and a camera if you'd like. Wear practical shoes since you are boarding a boat, bring your best smile, maybe a hoodie if it is chilly, beach attire if it’s sunny, and you should be good to go!

Do I have to be 21 to ride?

Riders on our Boomerang Yacht tours must be 21 years of age or older AND have a government-issued, valid ID available (US or International drivers' licenses, passports, or other government issued ID).

Is the boat Coast Guard certified?

The Boomerang Boat is a United Stated Coast Guard certified vessel and safety is our number one priority. If anyone is acting unruly or is harmful to themselves or others, the boat will return to the dock and our security will have these guests removed.  In addition, we have the right to deny boarding to any person at any time.  Safety is our first priority and entertainment is our second, so please sail responsibly.

Is smoking permitted?

We have a designated smoking area at the stern (back) or the boat. Smoking is not allowed in our main cabin, on the top deck, or on the bow at the front of the boat.

What should I wear?

Although we do not have a specific dress code for this event, we encourage you to look your nautical best! We love when groups of friends show up in a funny theme.  You are also welcome to sport beach attire in the warm summer months.  Note: high heels are discouraged since cruising the Potomac can create an unstable environment.

Can I board if I am visibly pregnant?

We are on moving vessel which creates as unstable atmosphere.  If we feel that it is unsafe for you to board due to your pregnancy, or any condition, we may ask you to sign a waiver, or we may recommend that you to make alternate plans.  We have your best interests in mind when making this decision.

Will I get seasick?

Most likely no. The Potomac River is very narrow and it is usually a very calm waterway.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

The dock at Georgetown does not have wheelchair access due to tidal changes (which alter river levels) throughout the day. 

Can I stow my belongings somewhere during the sail?

We do not have an area to 'check' people's belongings at this time.

Can I rent out the entire Boomerang Yacht for a private party?

Yes! For all private party inquiries, please click "Contact" to contact us directly.