This year, D.C.’s docks are showcasing a range of drinking vessels tailored for various occasions, styles, and budgets. Among these, a popular series of vintage motorboats has emerged as a hotspot for engagements, boasting several proposals on the water over the last three years. Additionally, a luxurious sailboat helmed by a gourmet chef continues to delight patrons with expertly crafted tasting menus paired with fine French wines. Experience breathtaking views along the Potomac River and beyond with this curated list of rental boats for 2026.
Founded by Arlington natives Jack Walten and Jack Maher, the first BYOB paddle pub made its debut in 2018. Fast forward eight years, and their extensive fleet now includes 26 boats navigating the waterways of the mid-Atlantic, including D.C., Annapolis, and Richmond, along with floating tiki bars and charming vintage electric Retro Boats. They have also forged partnerships with well-established local bars, beverage brands, and live DJ events.
Among the standout offerings is Sea Suite Cruises’ 47-passenger tiki tour boat, a collaborative venture with Jon Williams, owner of the legendary Whitlow’s bar. Although the original Whitlow’s has since relocated to Shaw and the Wharf, its iconic tiki roof on Wilson has transformed into a floating bar. “Whitlow’s on Water has taken the Potomac by storm,” states Walten, who notes the boat is nearly booked out every Saturday during the summer. Loyal patrons can indulge in classic mixed drinks, beers, wines, seltzers, orange crushes, margaritas, and rum punches, with catering provided by Whitlow’s for private events.
Entertainment options include two televisions that play a variety of events, from March Madness to episodes of the Bachelorette—a fitting choice for the many bachelorette parties that reserve the space. The boat also hosts corporate gatherings, birthdays, and milestone anniversaries. For social experiences, individual tickets are available for those looking to mingle in a bar setting. Last year, the boat transitioned from its original dock at Navy Yard to a prime location at the Wharf, directly across from D.C.’s newest Whitlow’s location adjacent to the Anthem venue. This makes Whitlow’s on Water an ideal prelude to concert events.
Now stationed directly across from D.C.’s latest Whitlow’s location, the vessel serves as a premier spot for concertgoers.
Pricing Information: Tickets start at $40 for daily options, which include individual tickets, sunset cruises, private charters, and corporate events (available for online booking).
Location: Boarding and drop-off occur at the Market Pier located at the Wharf, situated between the Municipal Fish Market and the Anthem (101 Market Square SW).
Cantina Cruises serves as the second large vessel within Sea Suite Cruises’ fleet. This 48-passenger boat is designed to mimic a vibrant cantina, offering stunning views, mixed drinks, beers, wines, seltzers, and an impressive selection of tequila cocktails—including products from D.C.’s own woman-owned 1953 Tequila.
Additionally, the boat features live DJs as part of its “On Deck” series on a bi-weekly rotation. Two televisions are available for viewing major events like World Cup matches and various other sporting occasions. Guests planning private events can also order catering through District Taco, ensuring delicious meals are ready upon their arrival. The boat is equipped with retractable Isinglass panels, allowing for flexible enclosure options.
Price: Ticket tiers begin at $40 for daily options, including individual tickets, sunset cruises, and private charters, available for online booking.
Location: Pick-up and drop-off logistics for guests occur at Washington Harbour in Georgetown from Monday to Thursday and at the Yards Marina in Navy Yard from Friday to Sunday.
Experience the charm of vintage runabout boats that have been retrofitted with electric motors, creating the perfect setting for intimate conversations. These boats, which each boast a different name and color such as Gladys, Bonnie, and Violet, have become popular choices for proposals every season, according to Sea Suite.
Pricing: $175-$250 for 1.5-hour tours; patrons are invited to bring their own drinks and food.
Location: Wharf to the Washington Channel.
For an unforgettable experience, D.C.’s first tiki cruise, offered by Sea Suite Cruises, allows guests to purchase beverages on board or opt for an $8 corkage fee for wine and Champagne. An all-inclusive drink package is also available, along with BYO food or small snacks that can be picked up along the way.
Pricing: $50-$65 per standard ticket for groups of 8 to 18, departing from Georgetown; an upgrade to an all-inclusive experience is available for an additional $20 per person.
The original vessels in Sea Suite Cruises’ fleet are pontoon paddlewheel boats that were fully renovated in 2025. These were previously equipped with cycling stations, but have since transitioned to plush barstools, emphasizing a party atmosphere that has greatly increased demand. Early booking is advised due to the popularity of these boats, now on par with their thatch-roofed counterpoints.
Pricing: Expect to pay $45-$60 per person for groups of 8 to 20 on cruises lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes. All boats offer BYOB options (no hard liquor allowed), with the opportunity to purchase drinks on board or upgrade to all-inclusive packages for the Georgetown and Navy Yard boats.
Location: Docks at the Wharf, Navy Yard, and Georgetown.
Chef and sommelier Troy Knapp offers Michelin-quality cuisine aboard his luxury sailboat, Cru Classé. Now in its fifth year at the Wharf, Knapp serves exquisite meals alongside intricate floral decor and carefully curated table settings, complemented by French wines he pours personally. He also operates other Wharf vessels for gatherings of six or more, collaborating with Nautiste for exclusive dining excursions through his catering service Curated.
This season in D.C., patrons can choose between two exceptional experiences available from April through October (available for booking via TOCK):
Location: Docks at the Wharf (650 Wharf Street SW)
Additionally, the Sea Table Annapolis experience sets sail again this season on the Chesapeake Bay aboard the modern luxury yacht Prestige 520. You can book one of two dining excursions through TOCK for the season running from April to October. A fun Master of Champagne-led tasting will also be available to enhance your time on board, with options for oyster, seafood, and cheese-and-charcuterie pairings. 1 Dock Street
Captain Hannah Puckett leads Nautiste’s fleet of American-made yachts, offering memorable dining experiences for groups of up to 30. Chef Troy Knapp provides catering services through his brand Curated by TPK as well. Nautiste features an impressive fleet including the 72-foot mid-century Patriot, the newly restored Independence, and the turquoise-toned American Pie, which can accommodate small groups.
Luxury outings start at $2,875 and include options for Golden Hour cruises, premium dining experiences, dockside receptions, and VIP trips on the Potomac.
Location: Departures are from the Wharf (634 Wharf Street SW) with additional options in Navy Yard, Alexandria, National Harbor, and Mount Vernon.
For those looking for a unique experience, Sea the City has introduced its luxurious hot tub boat, combining the thrill of a hot tub party with water exploration. Available exclusively for adults 21 and older, patrons can bring their own drinks, including beer, wine, or hard seltzers while enjoying complimentary ice, coolers, and water. Accommodating up to 20 guests, the experience includes a Bluetooth sound system for a customizable soundtrack.
A private changing area and separate bathroom are provided for convenience, and to enhance the experience, guests can rent towels for a nominal fee. Options for VIP “Date Night” experiences are also available. It’s noteworthy that this venue was featured in Netflix’s Love Is Blind.
Location: The Wharf Marina, 101 Market Square SW
Pricing: Starting at $395 for a two-hour experience.
