[Archived] War of 1812 Boat Cruise-June 14th

Kick-off the Star-Spangled Summer with a tour of War of 1812 sights by boat

On Saturday, June 14, 2014 embark on a river cruise of the Potomac that highlights significant sites along the Potomac River.  The boat departs the Potomac Riverboat Company’s dock near 205 The Strand at 7:00 p.m. and returns at 10:00 p.m.  Tickets are $75 each, with additional sponsorship levels available.  Tickets include a dinner buffet and open bar during the three-hour cruise. 

The War of 1812 was largely a naval war, and the cruise takes guests along the route the British squadron traveled as they sailed to Alexandria.  Narration will bring the events of 200 years ago to life as the boat sails past sites such as Fort Washington, Alexandria’s last line of defense during the war, and the location of the Battle of the White House, where American’s fought back as the British squadron struggled to sail down the Potomac after leaving Alexandria.  Costumed characters will add to the atmosphere.

Flag Day marks the official beginning of the Star-Spangled Summer, a region-wide commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 In the Chesapeake region and the writing of the national anthem. While war was declared in 1812, it did not reach Alexandria’s shores until 1814.  The City of Alexandria and community partners are commemorating Alexandria role in the war through lectures, concerts, a film series, and specialty tours, culminating in a free Signature Event in Waterfront Park on Sunday, August 31, 2014 from noon—5 p.m. 

To purchase tickets, visit shop.alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.4242.  For more information and a complete listing of Bicentennial events, visit visitalexandriava.com/1812.