Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is the size and capacity of the Capital Elite?
Where is the Capital Elite docked?
Where does the Capital Elite go?
Do you provide entertainment?
Do you provide food or do I need to hire a caterer?
How long is a cruise?
Where do I park?
When should I make a reservation?
When do I make payment?
Do I need to pick up tickets?
When do I need to let you know how many guests will be in my party?
Are the sailing times flexible?
Can I decorate the ship for my special event?
What are the menu and beverage selections?
What are the table arrangements?
Can weddings be performed on the Capital Elite?
Are tax and gratuity included with the price?
Is the Capital Elite handicap accessible?

What is the size and capacity of the Capital Elite?
The Elite is 91 feet long and 20 feet wide. It can accommodate parties of 25 to 75 guests for seated dinners, cocktail receptions or classroom style meetings.

Where is the Capital Elite docked?
The Capital Elite is docked at Pier 4 at 6th & Water Streets SW. See complete directions to the ship >>>

Where does the Capital Elite go?
One of the great benefits to chartering the Capital Elite is the flexibility in travel. The Capital Elite sails throughout Washington, DC's Potomac River.

Do you provide entertainment?
We provide light background music during your cruise. Guests chartering the Capital Elite are welcome to bring their favorite CDs to play. Additional entertainment, such as a DJ, dance band or jazz trio can be purchased for your event through a sales consultant.

Do you provide food or do I need to hire a caterer?
The Capital Elite features a fully equipped galley that is designed for our executive chef to prepare exquisite plated meals and elegant hors d’oeuvre buffets. The Capital Elite is also accessible to select outside caterers.

How long is a cruise?
As a privately chartered vessel, you can choose the length of your cruise. Our charter fees are based on a two hour minimum.

Where do I park?
Parking is available just steps away from the dock at Pier 4. See complete directions >>>

When should I make a reservation?
We recommend that groups interested in chartering the Capital Elite make reservations at the earliest date possible to secure your preferred date. Contact us today >>>

When do I make payment?
For charter events, a deposit of 33% of the total price of your cruise is due within two weeks of making the reservation. Final payment is due 30 days prior to cruise date. See our rates and policies >>>

Do I need to pick up tickets?
Groups chartering the Capital Elite may provide us with an alphabetized guest list of everyone in their party. We do not use tickets or boarding passes for the Capital Elite.

When do I need to let you know how many guests will be in my party?
Groups chartering the Capital Elite are required to give the total number of guests in their party 2 weeks prior to their cruise. Certain events may require guaranteed minimum counts. See our rates and policies >>>

Are the charter times flexible?
The charter times are somewhat flexible depending on the other cruises scheduled for that particular day. See our rates and policies >>>

Can I decorate the ship for my special event?
Charter groups are permitted to bring decorations. Your Capital Elite representative must approve decorations. Confetti and rice are not permitted. All decorations must be removed by patron after cruising to prepare for our next event.

What are the menu and beverage selections?
The Capital Elite offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktail receptions. Our beverage packages include a full selection of premium liquors, wines, beers, and non - alcoholic beverages. Please ask your sales representative at (202) 554-8013 for assistance with menu and beverage planning.

What are the table arrangements?
The Capital Elite's Main Salon offers flexible table design based on your group's specifications. Please work with your sales representative at (202) 554-8013 to design the event you desire. Back To Top

Can weddings be performed on the Elite?
The Capital Elite is pleased to offer both wedding ceremonies and receptions aboard our vessel. Our experienced sales staff is happy to answer all of your questions regarding your wedding needs. They can be reached at (202) 554-8013.

Are tax and gratuity included with the price?
All menu and beverage pricing is exclusive of 23% tax and service charge. These fees will be added to your cruise contract. Charter fees are inclusive and include gratuity. See our rates and policies >>>

Is the Capital Elite handicap accessible?
The Capital Elite is a private charter vessel and is unable to accommodate guests in wheelchairs. Our sister ship, the Spirit of Washington, is available to accommodate guests in wheelchairs.

Let your own personal Capital Elite Event Planner handle every detail to your complete satisfaction. Contact Us Today >>>