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Frequently Asked Questions (and DC Cruises' policies):
About Us.
DC Cruises LLC has been providing and marketing cruises in Washington DC since 2006. Our cruise boats are all US Coast Guard certified, and our captains on average have more than 20 years of experience.
Attire. We suggest you check the weather forecast and dress suitably. For temperatures below 75-degrees, a sweatshirt or windbreaker is a good idea (although all of our vessels have enclosed areas).
Boarding/Departure Time. Customers usually will be invited to board 10 minutes before the time that appears on your ticket. You are req'd to ARRIVE AT THE BOARDING LOCATION 20 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE TIME on your ticket. Occassionally our boat will need to depart a few minutes prior to boarding time to accomodate other boats.
Cancellations.
We cruise rain or shine. For our 45 minute sightseeing loop from April 15-Oct 15th: tickets are not refundable but if purchased through our site, they may be used at a later date. For Special Events (Fireworks, Monuments-by-Moonlight, Sunset and Cherry Blossom cruises etc.) -space was reserved for YOU on these cruises, so tickets are non-refundable unless your ticket/voucher says otherwise. If space on a later/earlier cruise that day is unsold at cruise time, we'll seek to accomodate you. [for Groups/Charters -- please check your contract for details].
Children. Are there any age requirements?
We've accomodated people from 2 to 92, and they all seem to have a great time! But there is no ramp and passengers need to climb down several steps without a handrail [The exception would be on Special Event cruises which may have a minimum age. Check their specific pages for details].
Coast Guard Regulations. Is the vessel Coast Guard certified?
Yes. All our vessels are Coast Guard certified and maintained regularly to adhere to strict safety regulations.
Contacting Us.
For questions or issues, please email us.
We'll respond within 4 hours.
Cruise Route.
There are maps within each section of the site - whether for 45 minute tours, group & school tours, special events, etc. - that show our routes.
Directions.
See the directions link at the left for details.
Drinks. Food. Etc.
Our public daytime cruises typically offer beer, water, juices and sodas for sale, but not much else. Sorry, but no outside food or drinks are permitted! The Happy Hour and other nighttime cruises have a full bar. Note: There are a broad range of restaurants nearby. [GROUPS of 25+ ONLY: You may arrange box lunches, hors d'oeuvres and a wide assortment of catered options at least 7 days in advance with our office]
Gratuity. Is gratuity included in the ticket price?
Gratuity is subject to the discretion of the passengers. No gratuities are required or otherwise included in your ticket. For groups a gratuity will frequently be included if there will be food and beverage service.
Groups. What size group can your boats accommodate?
Our fleet can host parties and groups from 15 to 105 guests.
Groupon (Promotion).
Groupon purchasers need to reserve a cruise by simply:
1. Open the email from Groupon that has your voucher number
2. Go to this
page and follow the instructions. If you need to change your reservation later on, and the rules permit you to, you'll need to email info@dc-cruises.com
Handicap Accessibility. Are the boats handicapped accessible?
Unfortunately the boats are not accessable by wheelchair. Passengers must be able to walk down three steps.
Living Social (Promotion).
If you'd like to redeem a Living Social purchase for a WEEKEND cruise, follow these steps:
1. Open the email from L.S. that has your voucher(s) attached.
2. Locate the Voucher Number
3. Find the page within our website that offers the type of cruise you purchased and click where it says "Living Social". Select your date/time, and enter your code(s).
Minimum No. of Passengers Requirement
On public cruises, whether during day or at night, there is usually a 20 person minimum. This is necessary due to the high cost of running our vessels. Should your cruise need to be cancelled due to lack of participation, we'll offer you a comparable replacement, or, in most cases a full refund. (For private cruises - there is no minimum. The boat is all yours since you paid a flat rate by the hour.)
Parking. Is there parking close to the boats?
Yes, paid parking is usually available. Free or metered parking is also available nearby but you will have to build in some time to your schedule.
Payment. What type of payment do you accept?
For individuals and families, you need to purchase tickets through our web site (we accept credit card transactions). Groups should review their reservation form or call our office to make arrangements.
Phones. Will my cell phone work on the cruise?
Yes, your cell phone will work on the cruise. We ask, however, that you be considerate of other passengers.
Reservations.
- Individuals - MUST purchase tickets through the web site. No orders are taken by phone. Sometimes single tickets are available at the dock at cruise time. DISCOUNTED VOUCHERS: check the instructions on this FAQ page or on your voucher.
- Groups - Please click the Send Me More information button in the left column (you might need to scroll up to see it).
Seasickness. Will I get seasick?
It is highly unlikely. The Potomac River is a ‘protected water way’, meaning that it is a fairly narrow waterway (and NOT a broad, open expanse of water such as a bay or ocean). Therefore, the winds and waves tend to be modest. Seasickness is extremely rare.
Seating Arrangements. How is seating arranged on board?
Seating is unassigned and on a ‘first come’ basis.
Smoking. What is your smoking policy?
All interior areas of our ship are non-smoking areas. Passengers who smoke may do so on the outdoor observation decks, subject to the discretion of the Captain and crew.
Weather.
All of our boats have both outdoor areas and enclosed seating areas - including air conditioning and heating (except the 45 min. tour boat, which does not have HVAC). We sail rain or shine.
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