Let’s go on a cruise on the USS Potomac, Franklin Roosevelt’s yacht, in the Oakland Harbor.
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026.
Visit Franklin D. Roosevelt's historical presidential yacht, known as his "Floating White House," from 1936 to 1945. Brought through the Panama Canal in the early 1960s, the ship is fully restored to her presidential glory. Berthed at Jack London Square in Oakland, Potomac has been providing cruises to the general public in San Francisco Bay since 1995. She is the only former historic Navy vessel still in daily operation and the only memorial to FDR on the West Coast.
Come aboard the USS Potomac for a beautiful cruise around San Francisco Bay!
Enjoy picturesque views of the San Francisco waterfront, Alcatraz, Angel Island, the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge, while learning of the rich history of surrounding landmarks and the impacts FDR's administration had on Bay Area landmarks. The cruises are live narrated, with docents pointing out and describing sights around the bay. Some cruises in addition have special topic narrations as noted and described. All three-hour cruises include a box lunch with beer and wine available for purchase.
The tour is three hours, departing from 540 Water Street at Jack London Square in Oakland, California.
How to register: Please register on this FF website, so we know who is coming and can help with carpooling, but also BUY YOUR TICKET from the website at https://usspotomac.org/
Go to Get Tickets, then select Three-Hour Bay Sightseeing and History Cruises with Lunch, May 9, put in number of tickets (Adults $107.55) and pay for tickets. Please do this soon, as tickets tend to sell out.
Cruise departs at 12:30 but arrive 45 minutes early (11:45 am) to the Potomac Visitor Center at 540 Water Street on Jack London Square, Oakland for check-in and allow extra time to park. If you wish, you may watch a 15-minute video that provides a glimpse of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s use of the USS Potomac. The video retraces the impact of his administration on the nation, and tells the USS Potomac restoration story. While cruising, guests may elect to take a docent-led or self-guided tour of the ship.
On a typical cruise, we'll see all kinds of water craft, from container and cruise ships to luxury sailboats to kayakers. We'll also see sailboarders and windsurfers, and marine life, from harbor seals to flocks of soaring waterfowl. There is something for everyone!
Your three-hour cruise includes a delicious box lunch which is comprised of your choice of a deli-style turkey, beef or veggie sandwich (while selections last), a side of potato salad, piece of fruit, and a cookie, brownie, or similar dessert. Coffee, tea, and water are also provided. If you need snacks, please feel free to bring them with you.
Note: Tickets are fully refundable up until 72 hours before the date, and after that may be exchanged for a different date.
Contact: Helen Flach, kwflach@aol.com, 530-902-7543.
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