District Wharf Marina | Southeast Washington

The District Wharf Marina, located at 650 Wharf Street SW in Washington, D.C., is a premier, full-service waterfront marina that serves as a key hub for boating enthusiasts in the nation’s capital. Nestled within the vibrant and revitalized District Wharf neighborhood along the Potomac River, the marina offers an exceptional combination of modern boating facilities, scenic waterfront views, and easy access to a lively urban environment filled with restaurants, shops, entertainment venues, and cultural activities.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the Southwest Waterfront area, The Wharf Marina benefits from its prime position on the Potomac River, making it a convenient and attractive destination for boaters traveling along the East Coast or locally within the Chesapeake Bay region. The marina is easily accessible by car, public transit, and even water taxis, providing seamless connectivity to downtown Washington, D.C., and surrounding neighborhoods.

Marina Capacity and Infrastructure

The marina boasts a substantial capacity with 309 slips that accommodate a wide variety of vessels, ranging from small recreational boats to large superyachts. The docks are floating and situated in water depths between 15 and 20 feet, providing safe and secure mooring options for different sizes and types of boats.

The slip infrastructure includes high-capacity shore power options such as 100-amp three-phase and 200-amp single-phase electrical hookups, catering to the power needs of modern boats and yachts. Additional essential services include pump-out facilities for waste management, cable TV hookups, and access to ice and provisions to support boating needs.

Amenities and Services

The Wharf Marina is designed to offer a comprehensive suite of amenities aimed at enhancing the boating experience:

Boater’s Lounge: A comfortable indoor space where boaters can relax, socialize, and access information or assistance.

Laundry Facilities and Showers: Clean and modern facilities provide convenience for overnight guests and long-term slip holders.

Restrooms: Well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the marina.

Modern Ship Store: Offers a variety of boating supplies, gear, snacks, and essentials to cater to boaters’ immediate needs.

The marina is managed by Oasis Marinas, a reputable company specializing in high-quality marina operations, ensuring professional and attentive service.

Docking Options and Policies

The marina features a variety of docking options, including:

Transient Slips: For boaters who need short-term docking, whether for a day or several nights.

Liveaboard Slips: Accommodating residents who choose to live aboard their vessels.

Superyacht Slips: The marina can host large yachts; for example, in 2023, the 197-foot superyacht Constance docked here, highlighting the marina’s ability to welcome luxury vessels.

Adjacent to the main marina, Market Docks provide an additional 300 feet of alongside dockage with similar depth, as well as mooring balls for flexible mooring arrangements. These docks offer showers, restrooms, ice, provisions, and laundry facilities to day visitors and transient boaters.

Day Docks offer hourly side-tie dockage (400 feet total) on a first-come, first-served basis during the boating season, from April through October. Fees vary based on boat length, with discounted rates available on weekdays and higher rates on weekends. These docks operate daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM during the season.

Integration with The Wharf Neighborhood

The marina is an integral part of the District Wharf’s vibrant waterfront community. Visitors and boaters can easily access an array of amenities and attractions, including:

Dining: A diverse selection of waterfront restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining.

Shopping: Boutiques and specialty shops offer unique products and souvenirs.

Entertainment: Live music venues such as The Anthem and Pearl Street Warehouse provide year-round entertainment options.

Events: Seasonal festivals, cultural activities, and waterfront celebrations frequently take place, making the area lively and attractive to both locals and visitors.

Recreational Water Activities: Kayak and paddleboard rentals, water taxi services, and other water-based recreational opportunities add to the marina’s appeal.

Environmental and Operational Aspects

The marina operates seasonally, generally from April 1 through October 31, aligning with the typical boating season in the region. Docking hours during the week are from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM and extend until 10:00 PM on weekends, accommodating a flexible schedule for boaters.

Sustainability and environmental stewardship are increasingly emphasized in marina operations, with pump-out services helping prevent pollution and water-quality degradation in the Potomac River. The marina’s modern infrastructure supports environmentally responsible boating practices.

Community and Boater Experience

The Wharf Marina is more than just a docking location-it serves as a community hub for boaters and waterfront enthusiasts. Its well-maintained facilities, attentive management, and proximity to an engaging urban waterfront environment combine to create a unique marina experience that blends luxury, convenience, and community spirit.

For transient boaters, the marina provides a welcoming stop with easy access to explore Washington, D.C.’s cultural landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. For long-term slip holders and liveaboards, it offers a secure, comfortable, and well-serviced home base.

Overall, the District Wharf Marina stands as a shining example of modern marina design and operation, seamlessly integrated into the revitalized Southwest Waterfront district, enhancing both the boating lifestyle and the broader community’s enjoyment of the Potomac River waterfront.