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Mount Vernon welcomes guests arriving by the Potomac, including private boats.

Wharf Hours

Summer Hours (Through September 1): 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday - Sunday

Fall Hours (September 6 - October 27): 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday – Sunday

Winter Hours (November 1 - April 1): Closed

Wharf Guidelines

To provide the very best experience to all of our guests we ask that those wishing to use our wharf abide by the following guidelines:

  • The estate’s contracted commercial sightseeing vessels have priority for tying up, arriving, and departing.

     
  • All private vessels are welcome on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • We are not able to accommodate Kayak docking.
  • Boats are only allowed to dock on the up-river side of the Wharf.
     
    • Approaching vessels should navigate to starboard, leaving Wharf Pavilion to Port.
    • Approaching vessels should hail Wharf Master on Marine VHF Radio Channel 16 for docking instructions.

       
  • Captain must check and secure any lines the Wharf Master has handled while assisting docking. This includes protective devices such as fenders.

     
  • Docking Agreement must be signed and returned to Wharf Master.
     
    • Agreement must contain a mobile phone number for emergency contact.

       
  • Estate Admission is required for all arriving guests.
     
    • Government-issued ID to be held by Wharf Master until proof of purchase is shown.
    • Tickets may be purchased either online from a mobile device or at the Mount Vernon Ticket window.

       
  • Rafting is only allowed with the permission of the Wharf Master.
  • Please keep off the beach because of the dangerous debris.

Contact the Wharf Master

The Wharf Master can be reached by:

Phone: 703.799.6856
Marine VHF Radio Channel 16
wharf@mountvernon.org