Pedal Boats With BYOB Policy Setting Sail From Alexandria Waterfront In 2022

ALEXANDRIA, VA — You can soon pedal your away across the Potomac River on a group paddle boat as the Potomac Paddle Club prepares to launch on the Alexandria waterfront.

Arlington natives Jack Maher and Jack Walten first founded Potomac Paddle Club as DC's only passenger pedal boat in 2018, inspired by pedal bars in cities. Potomac Paddle Club will return for its second season in 2022 starting April 21 at the Alexandria waterfront, National Harbor and Georgetown. The pedal cruises will run on select Thursdays and Fridays from April to October. Reservations are taken for groups of eight to 20 only.

Similar to pedal bars on the streets, pedal boats tend to be popular outings for groups, bachelorette parties, birthdays, corporate events and other occasions. Cruises happen on a 20-passenger paddle boat powered by a ten cycle stations and a paddle wheel. Passengers will pedal together on bicycle seats at a 10-person mahogany bar. The front of the boat has a lounge area for others who are not pedaling at the 10 cycle stations. There is also a bathroom on board.

The Alexandria cruise includes southbound and northbound options along the Potomac River. The southbound route takes passengers under the Woodrow Wilson Bridge past the Joints Point Lighthouse and around the channel markers to National Harbor. The northbound route goes toward DC's Wharf or Navy Yard before returning to the Alexandria waterfront. Cruises take two hours. The pickup and drop-off location is T-pier of B Dock near the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

Alexandria cruises have a "bring your own beverage" and "bring your own food" policy. Alcohol drinks such as beers, wines and seltzers are allowed, but bottles of hard liquor are not permitted.

The available dates for Alexandria cruises are April 22, May 20, June 24, July 22, Aug. 26, Sept. 23, and Oct. 7. Tickets are $75 per person.

For more information, visit www.PotomacPaddleClub.com.