OAKLAND SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Final 3‑HR History Cruise of the 2025 Season — A Tribute to our Veterans
A three‑hour Veteran’s Day history cruise from Oakland aboard FDR’s presidential yacht Potomac, featuring a military tribute, live bagpiping and choral performance, docent narration and an included box lunch.
Final 3‑HR History Cruise of the 2025 Season — A Tribute to our Veterans.
On Veteran’s Day, the Potomac slips from Oakland for a three‑hour passage through San Francisco Bay that pairs ceremonial observance with the easy, close‑in drama of islands, bridges, lighthouses and working waterways. Docents onboard narrate stories of World War II sites and other bay history as live music and a formal commemoration set a quietly reverent tone—then a boxed lunch and warm beverages make the afternoon wholly convivial.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Veteran’s Day Commemoration Aboard Potomac
The cruise opens with a commemorative call to the USS Hornet in Alameda, accompanied by a Potomac crew member and a Scottish bagpiper performing TAPS and other tunes; the Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir also joins the program in honor of veterans.
A Bay Panorama — Islands, Bridges, Lighthouses
After the opening ceremony the Potomac moves into San Francisco Bay, where passengers see islands, bridges, lighthouses, flocks of birds and a parade of boats and ships while docents point out historical sites and World War II‑era features.
Included Box Lunch and Onboard Refreshments
A delicious box lunch is provided for each guest; complimentary coffee, tea and dispensed water are available onboard, and soft drinks and bottled water may be purchased.
What the day feels like
What the Cruise Feels Like
This is a deliberate, commemorative three‑hour outing: a formal opening at the Hornet with musical tribute, followed by an easy, narrated sweep through the bay’s landmarks. The tempo alternates between quiet reflection and sightseeing, with docents providing historical context as you eat and watch the water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits best—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This Veteran’s Day cruise runs Tuesday, Nov. 11th and is a three‑hour history cruise departing from Oakland aboard the Potomac.
A boxed lunch is provided; complimentary coffee, tea and dispensed water are available onboard. Guests may purchase soft drinks or bottled water during the cruise.
The cruise is operated by the USS Potomac Association. A 3% transaction fee is added to ticket purchases. Special discounts apply for veterans, active military and groups of 10 or more.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise?
The Veteran’s Day cruise is three hours long.
Is lunch included?
Yes — a delicious box lunch is provided for each guest.
Where does the cruise depart?
The cruise departs from Oakland, California.
What commemorative events or performances are planned?
The opening includes a commemoration at the USS Hornet in Alameda with a Potomac crew member and Scottish bagpiper performing TAPS and other tunes; the Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir also performs.
Are there discounts available?
Yes — a special discount is offered for veterans and active military, and for groups of 10 or more.
Are beverages provided onboard?
Complimentary coffee, tea and dispensed water are available; soft drinks and bottled water can be purchased onboard.