Spirit of Washington Frequently Asked Questions

Before you cruise, let us answer some important questions for you!

2010 Spirit Sweepstakes Rules and Regulations (pdf)

Attire. What is the dress code on the Spirit of Washington?

Dinner Cruises - For men, appropriate attire includes slacks and a polo or button down shirt. For women, nice slacks, Capri pants or a sundress is recommended. Although allowed, we strongly discourage collarless t-shirts, jeans, shorts or sneakers.

All Other Cruises - These cruises are more relaxed and casual attire is fine.

Boarding. What is "Boarding Time" and "Cruising Time?"

"Boarding Time" is the earliest our guests may board the ship. Typically we begin boarding 1/2 hour prior to the "Cruise Time.” Tickets may be picked up at our dockside kiosk up to one hour prior to the cruise.

Cancellations. What is your cancellation policy?

We regret there are no refunds or exchanges. All sales are final. We cruise year-round, rain or shine. In the rare event the Coast Guard prohibits cruising because of weather, we will contact you to make other arrangements.

Children. Are there any age requirements?

Children are welcome on our lunch and dinner cruises. However, on midnight moonlight cruises all passengers must be 21 years or older with valid photo ID. Discounts for children age 12 and under are offered on our lunch cruises. Call 866.302.2469 for details.

Coast Guard Regulations. Is the vessel Coast Guard certified?

Yes. All our vessels are Coast Guard certified and maintained regularly to adhere to strict safety regulations.

Cruise Route. Where does the Spirit of Washington go?

Our ships cruise past several historic and National sites along the Potomac River including the Washington Monument, Fort McNair, General’s Row, Old Town Alexandria and the Torpedo Factory, to name a few. Click Here to see our cruise route.

Dancing. What kind of dance music do you play?

Our lunch and dinner cruises feature a full range of popular dance tunes spun by some of the area’s hottest DJs. Selections may include Rock, Blues, Line Dances, Motown, Oldies, Salsa, Hip Hop, Country, and current chart-toppers from every musical genre.

Directions. How do I get to the ship?

Our ships are docked at Pier 4 where 6th & Water Streets meet in SW Washington, DC. Spirit Cruises also docks at National Harbor, Maryland at the Pier & Terminal. Check the departure point on your specific cruise. Click here to see directions to both departure points.

Drinks. What do drinks cost?

Mixed drinks start at $5.75 for standard brand liquors, $6.75 for premium drinks. All beer is sold by the bottle, with domestic beers for $4.50 and imports for $4.75. Wine begins at $5.00 per glass. Soft drinks are $2.20 each and juice is available for $2.50 each. These prices do not include taxes or fees. Coffee and tea are included in your ticket price. Prices are subject to change.

Entertainment. What type of entertainment is offered?

Sit back and relax on one of our climate-controlled decks. Dine on the bountiful buffet. Watch your talented wait-staff as they delight you with their up-beat renditions of popular favorites. Then kick it into high gear as your Spirit DJ spins popular dance hits.

Day or night, Spirit is alive with vibrant entertainment.

Gift Certificates. How can I purchase gift certificates?

Spirit Gift Certificates are available from $50 to $400 and may be purchased online or by calling 866.302.2469. Printed gift certificates come with an elegant presentation holder. Spirit Cruises will continue to honor any previously issued Gift Certificates that contained a listed expiration date.

Purchase gift certificates.

Groups. What size group can Spirit of Washington accommodate?

The Spirit of Washington can host parties of two to 600 guests. Groups of 20 or more should visit our group website or contact our group sales department at 866.446.9283 for reservations. Parties of 1-19 guests can make reservations online. Spirit also offers private yacht charters for as few as 25 guests or as many as 75 aboard our sister ship, the Capital Elite.

Handicap Accessibility. Is the ship handicap accessible?

Yes. Our ship can accommodate wheelchairs for boarding and restrooms. Please notify us of any special-assistance members in your party prior to the cruise so we can provide the appropriate assistance upon arrival. Call 866.302.2469.

Menu. What type of food is served?

Our cruises feature all-you-can-eat lunch and dinner buffets with delicious choices prepared on board by our executive chefs and their galley staffs. With advance notice, we can accommodate requests for kosher meals, and we can arrange special meals for guests with allergies. Other specialty menus are available for groups and deck or full-ship charters. Click here to see our menus.

Parking. Is there parking close to the ship?

Yes, paid parking is available across the street from our dock. Car parking Monday through Thursday is $12; Friday through Sunday it is $15. Prices are subject to change.

Payment. What type of payment do you accept?

Payment is required in full at the time of the reservation. We accept major credit cards: VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and Diner's Club. We also accept traveler's checks, money orders, and certified checks. Please send checks or money orders to the address below:

Phones. Will my cell phone work on the cruise?

Yes, your cell phone will work on the cruise. For the comfort of other guests, we ask that cell phone conversations be held only on the outside decks.

Pricing & Schedules

Prices do not include taxes or fees. Prices and schedules are subject to change. Some more popular cruises and dates may be priced higher. Some prices exclude specialty, holiday and premium cruise dates.

Call 866.302.2469 or use our Reservations System to Book your Cruise Online!

Refund Policy. Do you offer refunds?

We regret there are no refunds or exchanges. All sales are final. We cruise year-round, rain or shine. In the rare event the Coast Guard prohibits cruising because of weather, we will contact you to make other arrangements.

Reservations. How can I make reservations for a cruise?

While parties of 19 or fewer are often able to walk up and purchase tickets on the day of a cruise, reservations are highly recommended. You can review pricing and purchase tickets online via our reservations system or by phone.

Individuals:
• Call 866.302.2469 or use our Reservations System to Book your Cruise Online!

Groups of 20 or more call:
• 866.446.9283
• Monday - Friday between 8:30am - 5:30pm

---

Seasickness. Will I get seasick?

It is highly unlikely. The Spirit of Washington is one of the largest and most stable cruise ships on the Potomac River.

Seating Arrangements. How is seating arranged on board?

Our ships feature cabaret-style seating. The majority of our tables accommodate four to eight people and guests are sometimes seated with other parties. Review the enhancement packages available on your date for private seating upgrades.

Ship Information. Can you tell me a little about the ship?

The Spirit of Washington is spaciously designed with three completely separate indoor decks that feature a comfortable, climate-controlled environment, stylish décor and huge panoramic windows. It also boasts the largest outdoor patio deck in DC. It is handicap accessible and Coast Guard approved for up to 600 passengers. Amenities include full service bars, two dance floors/staging areas, spacious bathrooms and flexible seating arrangements.

Smoking. What is your smoking policy?

All interior areas of our ship are non-smoking areas. Passengers who smoke may do so on the outdoor observation decks.

Tickets. Where can I pick up the cruise tickets?

Tickets can be conveniently picked up at the dock, up to one hour prior to boarding, on the day of the cruise. The credit card used for purchase and a photo ID will be required.

Transportation. Limo or Sedan to and from the Cruise?

Click here to arrange private sedan or limousine service through our transportation partner, LimoRes.

Weather. Do you sail in inclement weather?

Absolutely. Our ships are fully enclosed and climate-controlled for your comfort. We sail rain or shine all year long.

Wedding Events. How much does a wedding event on the Spirit cost?

It depends on the event (engagement party, shower, bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner, wedding & reception, post-wedding luncheon, etc.), the number of guests, the time of year and the package you choose. Our expert wedding planners will be happy to give you a cost proposal. Find out more or call 866.446.9283.