Franklin D. Roosevelt’s famed presidential yacht USS Potomac announces a full year of commemoration with the announcement of her 2025 Cruise, Charter and Events Schedule.
The year 2025 marks both the historic vessel’s 30th anniversary since her complete restoration and public launch at Jack London Square in Oakland, Calif. In 1995, but also the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day-April 8) and Victory in Japan (VJ Day-August 15) — momentous events that marked the end of World War II.
The only presidential yacht still in operation, Potomac will host a robust lineup of dockside tours, history-focused cruises in San Francisco Bay and unique specialty events that highlight these significant milestones in American and global history. Guests of all ages are invited to come aboard and experience a living piece of our nation’s history.
Celebrating 30 years at Jack London Square
Built in 1934, the USS Potomac was FDR’s beloved floating White House from 1936 until his death in 1945 and was used by the 32nd president of the United States for respite time and for official duties. Following 14 years of meticulous restoration, the vessel opened to the general public in 1995 at Jack London Square where she remains today.
Now, three decades later, this National Historic Landmark is celebrating its 30th anniversary as a nonprofit museum dedicated to preserving and sharing FDR’s maritime and political legacy.
80th anniversary of WWII remembrances
The year 1945 ushered in significant global change with the conclusion of World War II on two fronts:
- Victory in Europe (VE Day) — May 8, 1945 marked the end of Nazi aggression and the close of the European theater.
- Victory in Japan (VJ Day) — Aug. 15, 1945 – Japanese forces surrendered, bringing an end to the war in the Pacific.
To honor these historic moments, the USS Potomac will offer World War II–themed cruises around both anniversaries:
- VE Day WWII History Cruise (May 10)
- VJ Day WWII History Cruise (Aug. 16)
And, as a nod to the era’s vibrant culture, Potomac welcomes vintage costume enthusiasts to don their 1940s attire and come aboard! Passengers who participate will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets for a future two-hour Potomac cruise. These commemorative cruises will pay homage to the “Greatest Generation,” and the sleek, romantic styles that defined mid-1940s attire.
a full event calendar and online ticketing, visit www.usspotomac.org.