Washington DC for the 4th of July week

[Gimme Time]

We're in the beginning stages of trip planning departing the Middle Bay area from Deltaville just off the Rappanahock up the Potomac to DC for the Forth of July week.

Plan on departing Deltaville Friday July the 1st or Saturday the second if someone can't make it on Friday heading up the bay then Northwest up the Potomac.

We are looking for suggestions on good places to stop on the way up and then back down. Some if our group like each stop to be for 2 nights rather than moving each day. While we are on the waiting list #4s&5 for Gang Plank Marina for the Monday & Tuesday nights we are open to other suggestions. Thinking about 2 nights at Old Town Alexandria and then two nights at National Harbor.

Suggestions for other or better stops would be greatly appreciated and Anyone interested in making the trip with us, please feel free to pipe in. Typical cursing speed 18-20Kn.

Boats presently scheduled to make the trip
Gimme Time
Hoo's on the Bay.

 

[WDCboater]

We're full time at James Creek Marina. If you have trouble at Gang Plank, James Creek may have space. I know we're not full on seasonal slips, but I'm not sure about transients. You can't, however, see the fireworks from the marina. Columbia Island may also be an option.

Enjoy the trip! I'm actually going to miss this year's 4th because of travel for work! Doh.

 

[Gimme Time]

Ryan,

Many thanks for the info as I just sent them an email message tonight to see if they have space. Do you know where the fireworks are shot off from and where one should be to have a good vantage point for the show?

 

[sheridon]

I believe the Fireworks are shot from the Mall, if you are near the Jefferson/Pentagon area you should be able to see them.

 

[Steps Ahead]

John,

You will not be able to miss the crowds anchored out to see the fireworks. Typically there are several hundred vessels there. Many spend (at least) the night to stake out their spot.

Alexandria is wonderful but tough - there are only a handful of transient slips available and those go VERY fast for the holidays. National Harbor is great but the furthest away. Your only option may be staying on the hook during the 4 July holiday.

IMPORTANT NOTES: (1) much of the way from a few hundred yards south of the I-95 bridge to beyond Georgetown will be "no wake;" and (2) the vessel captain must be able to show proof of completing a vessel safety course north of the I-95 bridge.

Let me know if I can help you with cruise planning.

- Scott

 

[WDCboater]

The fireworks are set off near the WWII memorial.

The river will be full of boats and up near Gtown kayaks a well.
Your best bet if you want to be on the river is get a spot in advance and be prepared to stay the night. I have heard of people getting hit by intoxicated boaters trying to return to port. Patrol boats will be out in force. Coast Guard HQ is at James Creek, DC harbor patrol is near Gangplank.

FYI, all of the water north of the beltway is essentially DC water, hence the requirement for the safety license. Alexandria's city dock is relativey small and is fills up fast.

If you want to brave the crowds your best view will be between the 14th st bridge and key bridge.

Have a safe trip!

 

[PlayDate]

I have been at the Gangplank Marina for 9 years. While being out on the river does offer the best view, it is complete chaos. The bottom is mud so dropping an anchor is problematic since you are in such close proximity to other boats (think 100s of boaters drifting into you). If you are rafting up with a large group, they are properly anchored and they stay overnight....it can be a good experience. If you are by yourself......you will be worried the entire time.

Out of the last 9 years, seven 4th of Julys have had a major thunderstorm roll through before the fireworks and create a huge mess on the water. I don't know which is worse....Aquapalooza at Fairfield Beach or the 4th of July in DC on the water. When a storm hits.....it is serious business. If we overnight .....some body is up all night (usually me) making sure the anchor doesn't drag or another boat doesn't run into you.

For the last few years, I just throw a party at the Gangplank Marina (great view of the fireworks from the Marina) and keep the boat in the slip. We also raft up in the Washington Channel (where the Gangplank Marina is located). It is sheltered from most storms and offers a great view of the fireworks.

-John

 

[Steps Ahead]

For the last few years, I just throw a party at the Gangplank Marina (great view of the fireworks from the Marina) and keep the boat in the slip. We also raft up in the Washington Channel (where the Gangplank Marina is located). It is sheltered from most storms and offers a great view of the fireworks. -John

What time would you like us there?

 

[Gimme Time]

Thanks for the info and we are #4 & 5 on the Gangplank waiting list. What time and where is the party taking place this year!!!!!!!

 

[PlayDate]

Gangplank has a little under 300 boats at the marina. 90 of them are "live-aboards" and live on their boats year round. It is one of the best deals in the DC area for "housing". Congressmen and Senators who don't want to spend the money on DC real estate bring or buy a boat to live on which is why there are some large boats at the marina. It is the only DC marina which allows live aboards. I like it because they are a community and do a great job of watching out for problems. Security is tight and the DC Harbor Police are located next door.

The fireworks begin at around 9 pm. There are parties all over the marina. I will let you know if we are throwing one this year!

-John

 

[Gimme Time]

Sounds terrific and let us know as we are looking forward to the trip.

 

[Hoo'sdave]

Still # 4 and 5 on the waiting list as of 5-17 Hoping to move up.