City Cruises D.C. unveiled its events lineup for this year’s Cherry Blossom Festival, offering a variety of experiences from the water. Guests can enjoy sightseeing tours with views of the blossoms along the Potomac, live performances, and dining options aboard the Potomax Water Taxi and other vessels like The Odyssey. A highlight includes a special performance by Joey Fatone and Wanyá Morris during the Petalpalooza event, which ends with fireworks. Cruises are scheduled from March 20 to April 13, with various departure times and locations, allowing visitors to celebrate spring in Washington, D.C. and enjoy the iconic blooms.
WASHINGTON (7News) — As the Japanese cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin are about to bloom, City Cruises D.C. has revealed its event schedule for this year’s Cherry Blossom Festival.
City Cruises D.C. invites both locals and visitors to celebrate this year’s festival from the water, with options ranging from sightseeing excursions to stunning views of the cherry blossoms.
The routes will connect The Wharf, Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor via the Potomax Water Taxi.
7News interviewed a representative from City Cruises, who stated:
We are excited to welcome guests for another fantastic Cherry Blossom season on the water, featuring breathtaking views of the Cherry Blossom trees along the Potomac and unforgettable live performances aboard City Cruises Live. This year, we are hosting a unique, exclusive performance featuring Joey Fatone and Wanyá Morris aboard the Spirit of Washington during Petalpalooza, a must-see event culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful dining cruise or a vibrant evening on the water, City Cruises provides remarkable experiences to honor spring in the capital.
SEE | LIST | Events and activities in DC to explore during Cherry Blossom season
Below is a list of City Cruises’ cherry blossom experiences:
City Cruises Live Kickoff Cruise and Petalpalooza Fireworks Cruise
Kicking off the season, this national event features renowned 90s celebrity artists Joey Fatone of *NSYNC and Wanyá Morris of Boyz II Men, along with views of the Petalpalooza Fireworks Show following their live performance. The cruise departs from Pier 4 at The Wharf.
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, April 5
Location: 580 Water St SW
Dining Cruises
Experience City Cruises’ glass-enclosed vessel, The Odyssey, offering upscale plated meals, live DJ entertainment, and cocktails. All cruises depart from Pier 4 at The Wharf located at 580 Water St SW.
Dates: March 22, March 23, March 29, March 30, April 5, April 6, April 12, and April 13
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Dates: Daily cruises available on weekdays from March 20 until April 11
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Dates: March 20, March 21, March 22, March 28, March 29, April 2, April 4, April 9, April 11, and April 12
Sunday through Thursday Time: Boarding at 5:00 p.m.; Cruise from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Friday through Saturday Time: Boarding at 6:00 p.m.; Cruise from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Signature Dining Cruises
Enjoy buffet dinners aboard City Cruises’ climate-controlled vessel, complete with DJ entertainment and signature cocktails while taking in the National Cherry Blossom Festival on the water. All cruises depart from Pier 4 at The Wharf located at 580 Water St SW.
Dates: March 23, March 30, April 6, and April 13
Time: 10:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Dates: Daily cruises available from March 20 until April 12
Weekday Time: Boarding at 11:30 a.m.; Cruise from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Weekend Time: Boarding at 10:45 a.m.; Cruise from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Dates: March 21, March 22, March 23, March 28, March 29, March 30, March 31, April 4, April 6, and April 7
Sunday through Thursday Time: Boarding at 5:00 p.m.; Cruise from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Friday through Saturday Time: Boarding at 6:00 p.m.; Cruise from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
SEE ALSO | BLOOM WATCH! DC’s Tidal Basin cherry blossoms reach stage 1
Water Taxi Sightseeing Cruises
The Cherry Blossom Water Taxi tour provides close-up views of the blossoms along the Potomac River shoreline.
Dates: Cruises operate daily from March 20 to April 13
Departure Location: Round-trip routes are available from The Wharf, Old Town Alexandria, National Harbor, and Georgetown.
Time: Cruises run hourly starting at 11:30 a.m. (dependent on the departure location)
To book, visit City Cruises’ website.