The Dockside Brief
(FAQs)
The Anchor (Deposit Policy)
To secure your vessel and chart your course, a $25 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit ensures your boat is marked “off the charts” for other adventurers and guaranteed for your specific time slot. Please be advised that this deposit is strictly non-refundable for any reason.
Changing Your Course
We understand that even the best-laid plans can encounter squalls. Should you need to reschedule your adventure with more than 72 hours’ notice, we will happily allow you to move your reservation to a future date at no additional charge. However, please note that any cancellations or “no-shows” occurring with less than 72 hours’ notice will result in the forfeiture of your $25 deposit.
Acts of Nature & Vessel Readiness
The safety of our crew and guests is our top priority. Our compass is always set on getting you out for a fantastic day on the river, but Mother Nature occasionally has other plans. In the event of severe weather or unforeseen vessel issues, our policy is to reschedule your voyage for a future date. Because our deposits are non-refundable, no cash refunds will be issued due to inclement weather. We will simply work with you to ensure you get your time on the water once the skies clear and conditions are safe.
Vessel Reassignment
In the rare event of mechanical issues, we reserve the right to reassign your group to a different vessel or reschedule your trip to maintain our high standards of safety and enjoyment. We look forward to seeing you at the docks!
No, unfortunately, we only operate weekends – September: Friday – Sunday and holidays from 12 pm until an hour before sunset: weather permitting. However, we do offer cruising on other days by appointment for larger groups. Please call us directly to reserve.
We are located on C Dock at National Harbor, just before the Ferris wheel.
Absolutely! Pack your favorite snacks and refreshing beverages to enjoy while you cruise. Whether it’s a light bite or a full spread, everything tastes better out on the water, so stock up and make your voyage uniquely yours. The table on board has a built-in ice bucket to keep all your provisions cold.
A great excursion requires the right rations, and we encourage you to bring your own food and beverages aboard to enjoy at your private floating picnic. Beer, wine, seltzers, and champagne are all welcome for shipmates ages 21 and over, provided they are consumed responsibly. However, safety is our North Star: the designated Skipper of the vessel is strictly prohibited from consuming alcohol at any time, and we do not allow hard liquor on board. You are welcome to bring any non-alcoholic drinks and snacks to make your voyage spectacular, whether you pack a homemade spread or grab takeout from your favorite harbor restaurant before you cast off.
No, for your safety and the safety of our boats, we have a set cruising area.
The primary renter must be at least 25 years old. All boat drivers must be 25 years of age or older and possess a valid driver’s license.
Unfortunately, no. Our boats can only be docked at our location. This is to help prevent damaging the boats. Rafting up to other donut boats is also against the rules for the same reason.
Yes, it is highly recommended to reserve ahead. A $25 deposit, plus applicable admissions and amusement taxes and credit card processing fees, is required at the time of booking to reserve your vessel. The remaining balance will be collected upon arrival at the dock.
No, our boats all have electric motors steered by tiller. All guests will receive a brief boat operation and safety tutorial before beginning their adventure.
No. All of our boats are powered by electric motors.
Maryland law requires all children under 13 to wear a life jacket while a boat is in operation. We provide life vests for children weighing 30 lbs and up. If your child weighs less than 30 lbs, please bring a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vest.
Yes, we require all primary guests/drivers to purchase renters’ insurance through vQuip during the booking process. For more information about renters insurance, visit our vQuip Insurance FAQs page.