RiverSmart Educational Boat Tours

ALERT: With Mayor Bowser adjusting the District’s operating status in response to coronavirus (COVID-19), all non-essential agency events, gatherings and meetings are postponed through March 31. DOEE remains open. All staff will work remotely, except in limited cases. All DOEE operations and services remain unchanged unless otherwise stated. For operating status of DC Government and more information on response, please visit coronavirus.dc.gov.

Anacostia River Explorers activities have been currently suspended untill further notice.

Join Anacostia River Explorers to learn about the Anacostia River’s history, wildlife, the environmental threats it faces, and the solutions helping it realize its full potential. These free, guided motorboat and canoe tours launch from a variety of locations up and down the Anacostia River, and are funded by the District’s disposable bag fee. Public and private tours are available.

Sign up for a tour. Contact DOEE’s partners listed below to schedule a tour. A full tour is two hours, and partial, one-hour tours are also available. Life jackets are provided.

Who can go on Anacostia River Explorers? Pretty much anyone no matter their age, ability, or language is welcome on the motorized tours. Tours for minors (K – 12), individuals with disabilities, and those needing translation services are available, but may require special arrangements.

How many people can go on the tour? Each tour can take roughly 12 -20 people at a time.

How much does it cost? All tours are free.

Anacostia River Explorers educates the public about the Anacostia River including its human and natural history, the threats it faces, and what solutions are being undertaken to help the River realize its full potential as an invaluable asset for the District of Columbia and its residents.