ON THE POTOMAC RIVER — For a fifth anniversary celebration, my wife and I took the Potomac River Boat Co. water taxi from Old Town Alexandria to National Harbor. Given the beautiful weather we were having, crossing the river via boat seemed like a better idea than driving over the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. We left right before sunset and took in the sights during the 35 minute ride. The voyage took us under the Wilson Bridge, off the main channel, then proceeded down river in straight direction. After passing most of National Harbor, the water taxi cut to port to dock near the Gaylord National Hotel. After staying there for what seemed like 10 minutes, we headed up the shore to the other National Harbor dock. From there we went to our destination in National Harbor.
[flickr : Photos tagged with watertaxi/slideshow]
The boat itself seats several dozen passengers inside and has room for dozens on the outside; most of us where in the forward. You’ll want to bring your camera as the views are fantastic, particularly at sunset. A crew of 2 manned the boat.
It cost us $8 an adult for each one-way trip. We parked in a garage for $4 near the Potomac Riverboat Co. dock by the intersection of Union Street and Cameron Street in Old Town. Since it was late, we elected to take a cab back to Old Town after dinner and spent about the same. From what I hear of the cost of parking, this was an economical decision, plus a lot of fun. We’ll be sure to do it again as well as utilize Potomac Riverboat Co. for a trip to Nationals Park sometime too.
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