WASHINGTON D.C.: BOATING

Fletcher's Boathouse
4940 Canal Road   
(202) 244-0461   
Spring hours daily 5:30 Am to 5 PM 
Summer hours weekdays 7:30AM to 7:30 PM, weekends 5:30 AM to 7:30 PM.

If you wish to spend a couple of hours taking in the scenic C&O canal, Fletcher's boathouse has a large selection of canoes, rowboats and bicycles available for rent. Rates for the boats are about $8 per hour or $16-$18 for the day. There is a large picnic area located just off the water where you can sit and watch the canal's activities. Besides cycling and canoeing, many people come to the C&O to fish for freshwater fish like bass, perch and shad. You can also get a fishing license at Fletcher's.

Thompson's Boat Center
Rock Creek Pkwy. and Virginia Ave. NW 
(202) 333-9543 

Located between the Kennedy Center and Georgetown's Washington Harbor, Thompson's Boat Center has boats and bicycles available for rent. Rates for bicycles are about $6 per hour or $20 for the day.

Paddle Basin
East side of Tidal Basin in front of Jefferson Memorial
(202) 479-2426

Located in front of the Jefferson Memorial, Paddle Basin offers pedal boats for rent. Paddleboats are a great way to see the Jefferson Memorial and other sites along the Tidal Basin. Call ahead to check availability and rates. 

Jack's Boats
2000 K Street NW
(202) 337-9642

Located under the Key Bridge in Georgetown, Jack's Boats has canoes and rowboats for rent. A great way to see the sites that line the Potomac River. Rates are about $8 per hour or $25 for the day. 

Washington Sailing Marina
South of National Airport  on George Washington Pkwy
(703) 548-9027

With a variety of watercraft available for rent, the Washington Sailing Marina has a boat for any level of sailor. Beginners can take out sunfish and smaller boats, while larger boats are reserved for more experienced sailors. Windsurfers are also available.