Tall Ship Providence

Tall Ship Providence

Tall Ship Providence
4.8
About
Step back to the 18th century and join the Continental Navy! Our new interactive dockside tour, guided by a Continental sailor, will take you aboard Tall Ship Providence to fight with Captain John Paul Jones in the American Revolution. Or, hop on a sail! We offer public sails Thursday-Sunday, with occasional beer tasting sails, pirate-themed sails, and more!
Duration: 1-2 hours
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The area

Address
Neighborhood: Old Town
Steeped in history and charm, Old Town Alexandria is a delightful blend of colonial architecture and modern amenities. The cobblestone streets lead visitors to the famed King Street, renowned for its unique boutiques, antique shops, and distinctive dining experiences. The iconic waterfront provides stunning views and hosts the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a hive of creativity with over 80 artists' studios. Conveniently accessible via the King Street Trolley or the DASH bus service, the neighborhood is also just a short water taxi ride from Washington D.C. Old Town's allure lies in its quaint charm coupled with urban sophistication, making it an irresistible destination for any traveler.
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See what travelers are saying

  • Evelyn N
    3 contributions
    5 of 5 bubbles
    The crew of the Providence was so capable of not only sailing but making the 12 passengers on deck feel welcome and safe. The historical information was so interestingly presented both the American history and the Providence history. We also enjoyed the crew sharing some of their personal experiences.It wa a five sar aternoon.
    Visited August 2024
    Traveled as a couple
    Written August 25, 2024
  • Elizabeth B
    1 contribution
    5 of 5 bubbles
    Fun pirate themed sailing experience for the family! The crew members were so engaging, especially the gentleman who narrated stories about the ship’s history. Enjoyed the captain’s welcome, the musicians singing sea chanties, the tour of the three decks, the refreshments, and the sail on the river itself.
    We're so glad you had a great time at our Pirates of Providence Sail! We'd love to welcome you back in 2025!
    Written January 24, 2025
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited October 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written October 28, 2024
  • Joann M
    1 contribution
    5 of 5 bubbles
    I thoroughly enjoyed the way we were brought on as sailors with roles. The staff did an outstanding job of keeping in character and explaining daily life as well as the history of the ship and it's place during the dawn of our nation. I was so caught up in the narratives, I forgot to take photos until the end. The final video, tying then and now together, was outstanding as well. Can't wait to take the evening cruise with friends.
    Visited June 2024
    Traveled solo
    Written June 21, 2024
  • Jessica T
    5 contributions
    5 of 5 bubbles
    One of the best tours I've been on! We felt as if we were back in time in 1776. The crew was awesome and so knowledgeable and we felt like a part of history. Both cook/seaman John Carlton and Captain John Paul Jones with his wonderful Scottish accent never wavered from character. Definitely worth the modest $24 price. We plan to return in the summer to sail on a voyage. Highly recommended!
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written April 9, 2024
  • Trek49077354132
    6 contributions
    5 of 5 bubbles
    Wonderful tour of tall ship Providence. The friendly crew dressed in period costumes explained all of the history of this ship during the tour and were very accommodating for my mother with her mobility issues. The bar on the dock is a great place for rum punch and to watch the boats on the Potomac. I will definitely go back for another visit.
    Visited August 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written August 24, 2024
  • Swellfoop
    Reston, Virginia2 contributions
    5 of 5 bubbles
    Quite enjoyable and relaxing. Crew and captain were very knowledgeable and willing to answer questions and explain all the "goining's on." My only disappointment was the lack of sun for any good sextant sun sights to make sure we didn't get lost in the middle of the Potomac!
    Visited August 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written September 1, 2024
  • Nancy P
    2 contributions
    4 of 5 bubbles
    Nice dockside tour to see a historic vessel and appreciate the origins of our naval military branches. The tour was simple enough to allow easy participation for ages over 65 or under 8 years old. Without much hands-on activity it was not particularly exciting, but we learned some history and enjoyed the hosts. Perhaps the day sail would have suited me better.
    Visited July 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written July 8, 2024
  • Brandon W
    Smithfield, Virginia56 contributions
    5 of 5 bubbles
    We enjoyed our dockside tour. Fun actors portraying Captain and crew. Great historical information for both of us. The sloop, while a modern boat u derneath the decor, gives an accurate depiction of living spaces, which is mi d boggling.
    Visited July 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written July 22, 2024
  • Virginia O
    Alexandria, Virginia15 contributions
    5 of 5 bubbles
    The crew was so professional and friendly. They gave us great information about the boat. Really fun to watch them set sails. And the views of Alexandria, Arlington and Washington, DC from the water were spectacular. Relaxing tour.
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written April 28, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

4.8
4.8 of 5 bubbles282 reviews
Excellent
253
Very good
16
Average
3
Poor
6
Terrible
4

Mobile13345936692
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023 • Family
This was a great outing for my visiting family. It's very kid friendly, and the guides do a great job of involving the children. The guides share interesting information about the ship and never break character in a charming way! It's just the right length at an hour and ends with an interesting video about the ship's history. It would be nice if they offered an option to do a tour and then a short sail during the daytime. The only times available to go out on the water are at sunset, which makes it difficult with children.
Written August 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for joining our tour! We're so glad you and your kids had a wonderful time. And thank you for providing your feedback! We will be happy to take your suggestions into account.
Written August 21, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jason B
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2023 • Solo
This was an exceptional experience. The captain and crew were all in! They were knowledgeable, personable, and played their roles extremely well. I visited during a rain storm, but the crew dutifully did their part to provide a positive and insightful environment. They did not disappoint. I highly recommend visiting this historic replica of a key ship in America's history. God Bless and Semper Fi.
Written June 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for stopping by! We're glad you had a great time, even with a bit of rain!
Written July 13, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

dehhen1
Alexandria, VA2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023 • Friends
If you think this ship looks small it was! That’s one reason it’s so amazing. On the dockside tour costumed reenactors (specifically on our tour, Tommy boy and Captain John Paul Jones) were very knowledgeable and did a great job of telling the story of this ship crammed with 70-some sailors that fought against the large and powerful British Navy in the Revolutionary War. (Note it’s not the original ship but a replica). I look forward to going on a sailing of this ship. Although she enjoyed it this was a challenging experience for my mobility challenged 88-year-old mother (she was unable to go up on the quarter deck or below deck; had to stay at the main level). There is a steep ramp and some ladders/steep steps. I wish I hadn’t worn a skirt.
Written August 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Emmaline E
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2023 • Family
Our tour guide, Alex, and her colleague who played Captain John Paul Jones did such a spectacular job making this ship come alive for my 8 year old. He was utterly captivated by the story they shared and the historical role play they engaged him in, and he wants to return as soon as possible for a sunset sail. I’ll be happy to grant that request, because I also had a lovely time learning about Providence and the Continental Navy. And because, like my child, I really want to see how the rigging works now!
Written September 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Terri H
Kansas City, Missouri, United States6 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2023 • Family
This was a fun, interactive tour for our family. The ‘captain’ and ‘midshipman Alex’ did a great job of explaining how a ship like the Providence was manned and we learned a bit of history along the way. The ladders used to descend into the hold are vertical but there are plenty of handholds. Very fun!
Written June 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for stopping by! We're so glad you had a great time, and we'll certainly pass your compliments along to Captain Jones and Midshipman Alex.
Written July 13, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

David S
1 contribution
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2023 • Family
We looked forward to this excursion with great anticipation, being on a tall ship and all. The ship was cool and watching the exceptional and dedicated crew work to get it river worthy was interesting. But...what about the ship? We expected at least a little historical accounting about the Providence but none was given. We felt the ship was crowded, and all we really did was sail up then down...meh. Can you spice it up? Adding to this was an elderly gentleman who had a deep, hacking cough with no mask, so with a resurgence of COVID and as senior citizens we avoided him as much as possible. This required moving away when he approached, including exiting the quarterdeck when he sat down right next to us! The saving grace? We saw a nice sunset with good photos and I purchased a t-shirt which I'm wearing right now. Oh yeah, I almost forgot...when we left the ship and gift shop, walking down the ramp, the gate was locked so everyone had to climb over. A little slip-up there, I'd say.
Written October 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Rose Marie C
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023 • Friends
My husband and I visited the Tall Ship Providence on Saturday, August 12, 2023; we had a great experience and learned about the origin of The United States Navy. The Ship's Boy greeted us, told us about The Providence and assigned each tour member a job in The Continental Navy. Next, we were introduced to the captain of the ship, John Paul Jones. Everyone stayed in character throughout the tour. Captain Jones explained life on the top deck. This was a hands-on experience. We carried the ropes, used a Sextant to navigate, steered the ship, and even went into the Captain's quarters ( which were air conditioned , a nice surprise on a hot summer day ). Captain John Paul Jones shared a story about one of Providence's adventures while trying to find gun powder in Bermuda. The Ship's Boy showed us the living quarters for the crew and the cook located in the hold. Next, we went back up to the deck and the Ship's Boy had everyone help clean, load and "fire" the cannon. This ended our tour of duty, but not our tour. We went into a room and watched a movie about the beginnings of the Navy. All in all, it was an enjoyable and very informative tour.
Written August 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're so glad you had such a wonderful time aboard Providence! We would love to have you and your husband back again anytime. Captain Jones is lucky to have you as members of his crew!
Written August 21, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Mark C
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023 • Family
Honestly, thought I was just going to look around on the ship. Nope, we had 2 people in totally character and extremely knowledgeable. I seriously felt like I was part of the crew. Great experience for my young son and I (he’s almost 2). Not to mention, they have air conditioning in the waiting area and below deck. It probably lasted around 30-40 min but time flew by as it was fun.

I highly recommend this experience and I want to thank the midshipman and Captain for being so professional and making our day.
Written August 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for coming aboard! We're so glad to hear you had a wonderful experience, and enjoyed the tour presented by our historical interpreters. We'll be sure to pass your compliments along to the midshipman and Captain Jones!
Written August 21, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

gloNova
NOVA50 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2023 • Friends
Even with the desultory drizzle, this was a very pleasant and educational 2 hours. Crew seemed to have a lot of pride in their work of making everyone comfortable as they shared history and anecdotes about the ship and what its was like to sail on her. Touring the boat and watching them rig the sails all added to a great experience3
Written September 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Jim K
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2023
The recreated Providence is amazing to go through. The actors are well informed and do an excellent job of bringing the ship to life. You get to go through just about every part of the ship to see how life was on the seas in that ship during the time she sailed. Highly recommend this for anyone who likes history and an interactive experience.
Written August 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're so glad you came aboard and had such a wonderful time!
Written August 21, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Tall Ship Providence (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)

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