OAKLAND BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Three‑Hour Passage on FDR’s “Floating White House”: Lunch, Live Narration, and Bay‑Side History from Jack London Square
Board the fully restored USS Potomac at Jack London Square for a three‑hour, docent‑narrated cruise of San Francisco Bay that includes a boxed lunch and opportunities to tour the presidential yacht.
A Three‑Hour Passage on FDR’s “Floating White House”: Lunch, Live Narration, and Bay‑Side History from Jack London Square.
Berthed at Jack London Square in Oakland, the USS Potomac — Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1936 presidential yacht, restored to her presidential configuration — offers a three‑hour narrated voyage around San Francisco Bay. From the ship you’ll pick out landmarks and waterways shaped by the era of FDR while volunteers and docents outline the vessel’s story and its continuing role as the West Coast’s memorial to the 32nd president.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
FDR’s Presidential Yacht, Restored and Sailing
Potomac is presented to passengers as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht, restored to her 1936–1945 presidential configuration and preserved as the only memorial to FDR on the West Coast; she has carried paying passengers around the bay since 1995.
Bay Landmarks Visible from Deck
The live‑narrated cruise takes in the San Francisco waterfront, Alcatraz, Angel Island and both the Bay and Golden Gate bridges, with docents pointing out historical context for the skyline and shoreline you pass.
Narration, Onboard Tours and a Boxed Lunch
All three‑hour cruises include live narration, the option of docent‑led or self‑guided tours of the ship and a deli‑style boxed lunch served midvoyage; coffee, tea and water are also provided.
What the day feels like
What the Three‑Hour Cruise Feels Like
Departing from Jack London Square, the Potomac slips out into the busy sweep of San Francisco Bay for three hours of close views — city skyline, islands, bridges — punctuated by docent narration, the occasional shipboard tour and a seated boxed lunch. The rhythm is relaxed but focused: sightseeing and history interwoven, with time to explore the decks of a restored presidential yacht.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits — and the limits to consider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The cruise duration is three hours; arrive 45 minutes before departure for Visitor Center check‑in and the optional 15‑minute historical video.
Bring flat‑soled shoes (required for safety on board), a jacket for wind and, if desired, extra snacks — the three‑hour cruise includes a deli‑style boxed lunch and complimentary coffee, tea and water.
The Potomac is a historic 1934 vessel with limited ADA compliance: wheelchairs limited to the main deck (25‑inch maximum width), narrow bathroom doorways and steep stairs between decks.
The USS Potomac Association is a nonprofit that operates the vessel; ticket purchases support preservation and guests may add donations when booking or by mail. For more information call the office at 510‑627‑1215.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise and where does it depart?
The sightseeing and history cruise runs three hours and departs on time from 540 Water Street at Jack London Square in Oakland.
Is lunch included?
Yes — all three‑hour cruises include a boxed lunch (choice of turkey, beef or veggie sandwich while supplies last, plus a side, fruit and dessert); coffee, tea and water are provided.
When should I arrive before departure?
Arrive 45 minutes early for check‑in and to view the 15‑minute visitor center video about FDR and the USS Potomac.
Are children allowed on board?
Yes; minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Is the Potomac accessible for wheelchair users?
The vessel does not fully comply with ADA standards: wheelchairs are limited to the main deck with a maximum outside‑to‑outside width of 25 inches, bathroom doorways are narrow, and crew/docents cannot physically assist by lifting wheelchairs; accessible public bathrooms are available dockside.
Are there other cruise options and do they serve food?
The Potomac runs multiple events and themed cruises throughout the season; two‑hour morning cruises do not include food though you may bring snacks.