Alexandria Waterfront Welcomes Potomac Paddle Club

ALEXANDRIA WATERFRONT WELCOMES THE AREA'S FIRST + ONLY CYCLEBOAT

STORY BY JORGE MARTINEZ + PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF HEENEY

After a trolley pub ride in South Carolina, two young entrepenuers were inspired to conceive a new business idea for the waters of the Potomac River. Potomac Paddle Club is the area’s first and only pontoon pedal boat or “cycleboat” service.

The service from Old Town’s waterfront officially launched earlier this summer in a ceremony attended by Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson, members of the press, and invited guests. The 2.5-hour cruise departs from the Alexandria waterfront behind the Torpedo Factory and travels to National Harbor for a thirty-minute rest stop before continuing up the Potomac River and past Alexandria landmarks.

Each boat accommodates a total of sixteen passengers, plus the captain and deckhands. Passengers sit on comfortable bike seats that encircle a 10-person mahogany bar as they pedal at their own pace and enjoy monumental views on the Potomac River. Passengers can bring food, wine, beer, and soft drinks of their choosing. Potomac Paddle Club provides coolers and ice for passengers. Now, burning calories while consuming them is possible! For groups with 10 or more, the front of the boat has a lounge area for group members to hang out while their companions power the journey. But don’t be nervous if you aren't a strong peddler. The boats have a motor in case passengers decide to slow down their pedaling efforts.

Potomac Paddle Club was founded by Jack Maher and Jack Walter, local Yorktown High School Graduates and friends since preschool.

These boats have been cruising the DC waters from Alexandria to Georgetown, and are popular for group celebrations, bachelorette parties, birthday bashes, and corporate events. This social, active adventure is the perfect way for friends, families, colleagues, and tourists to hop between waterfront locations and take in the sights.

Potomac Paddle Club sails two Fridays a month from Alexandria. For more information about Potomac Paddle Club and to book a trip, visit www.potomacpaddleclub.com.