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Washington DC Yacht Rental

Boat and yacht rentals in washington dc, thank you for making anchor the #1 yacht rental company in washington dc, washington dc loves yachting.

Welcome to Washington DC, one of the fastest growing cities in the US. If you are looking for a fun day on the water with friends, you've come to the right place. With over 75 boats and yachts available for rent or charter, Washington DC is the perfect yacht charter destination. Whether you're celebrating a bachelor or bachelorette party, birthday, or just hangin' with your crew, Anchor is top rated yacht rental company in the Washington DC area. 

Day Charters

Washington DC has plenty to offer for a perfect yacht charter. We offer 4 hour rentals, 6 hour rentals, and full-day rentals. We also offer multi-day trips. Day charters are an affordable way for you and your crew to rent a private yacht with Captain and Crew included. Also included in the price is local cruising fuel, cleaning fees, service fees & taxes, and even some gratuity on most charter listings. Most of our boats have a 13 guest max, not including the Captain and Crew. 

Boat rentals and yacht charters to Potomac River

The Potomac River runs through the heartland of Maryland, touching on Washington DC, Capitol Hill, and other historic landmarks. Potomac River  is surrounded by gorgeous lush trees. Make sure you have your cooler packed with refreshing drinks and snacks for your yacht charter or boat rental. Throw out the lily pad while you hanging out with your crew in the water and relax in the sun.

Boat rentals and yacht charters to Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the US, home of the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge where you can catch sight of the bald eagle which uses this refuge to nest. Known for gorgeous sunrises in the east and calming sunsets to the west. Aso known for providing the best yachting experiences around the world. Be sure to visit this spot on your Anchor yacht rental or boat charter, you won't be disappointed!

Boat rentals and yacht charters to Patuxent River

Cruise down the 110 mile river between Chesapeake Bay and Washington DC on your Anchor yacht charter or boat rental where you'll be sure to catch sight of sailboats and all the beautiful sights nature has to offer!

Weather in Washington DC

Always keep in mind the weather when planning your yacht rental experience. If you're traveling during the summer months, remember to stay hydrated and take some extra precautions when it comes to sun care.

When planning to rent a yacht in Washington DC, your Captain will keep an eye on the weather patterns. The Captain will warn you of any weather that could cause your yacht charter to be cancelled, rescheduled, or departure time pushed back. Safety is always our top priority.

Other popular yachting destinations near Washington DC

Washington DC is located near several other wonderful boating and yachting destinations, so if you can't find the boat rental or yacht charter you're looking for in Washington DC, check out these other amazing locations. Annapolis  is a 45 minute drive away. Cruise up more east to The Hamptons with several yachts to choose from!

Anchor Yacht Charters & Boat Rentals

600 Water St SW Washington, DC 20024

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Yachting in Washington, DC

Sailing down the Washington’s Potomac River will offer you a unique perspective on the nation’s capital. Enjoy the views of some of the city’s many attractions including the memorials on the National Mall, Old Town Alexandria and National Harbour. Watch the sunset aboard your yacht and see the monuments in an entirely new light.

29' Chaparral

37' Sea Ray Sundancer

33' Cruisers Yacht

45' Sea Ray

40' Meridian

53' Regal

42' Marquis

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Once you confirm your reservation, your broker will process your payment.

• If you are booking for a single day and your reservation is confirmed more than 7 days in advance, a deposit of either $1,000 USD or 50% of the total cost of the reservation (whichever is greater) is processed immediately in order to hold the yacht. Once your embarkation date is 7 days away, the remainder of the amount due is processed.
• If you are booking for a single day and your reservation is made 7 days or less in advance, the total price of your reservation is processed immediately.
• If you are booking for a multi-day charter and your reservation is confirmed more than 30 days in advance, a deposit of 50% of the cost of the yacht is processed immediately in order to hold the yacht. Once your embarkation date is 30 days away, the other 50% is collected for the price of the yacht, plus the APA, plus the taxes due.

Terms of refunds are dictated by the Charter Agreement. Generally, once a payment is collected, it is non-refundable. In certain circumstances, as dictated by the Charter Agreement, credits can be provided so you will be able to enjoy your yacht charter at a future date that is convenient for you.

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VYC has joined the Nautiste flee t ​

Luxury experiences aboard our yachts are now bookable through their platform  .

THE POTOMAC

For your next special occasion, treat your guests like royalty with exceptional service and cuisine on a beautifully renovated vintage motor yacht.  Stepping aboard one of our yachts is like stepping back to an earlier era of service and style. Gleaming brass and chrome, polished mahogany and teak, and elegant 20th century nautical decor are all on display.  At Vintage Yacht Charters, we combine our beautiful classic motor yachts with gourmet food and beverage options, exceptional service, and other special touches to create a unique luxury experience.

Vintage Yacht Charters will help you plan an unforgettable Potomac River day cruise or dockside experience for your special occasion.

1961 Burger Motor Yacht – 72’

“Patriot” is a magnificent example of a custom mid-century motor yacht.  Since 1863, Burger Boat Company has been the oldest and most respected custom luxury yacht builder in America.  Step back in time when cruising aboard “Patriot”, originally built as “Sis W” for the Walgreen family in the exquisite Jack Hargrave design.

INDEPENDENCE

1976 bruno & stillman down east yacht – 42’.

“Independence” is a particularly elegant version of the classic Bruno & Stillman 42’ downeast motor yacht.  Designed by renowned naval architect Royal Lowell, the Bruno & Stillman 42’ is considered one of the finest examples of the downeast style and can be seen in harbors throughout New England on both working fishing vessels and pleasure craft. 

CONTACT U S

To book a charter or to ask us your questions, please reach out below!

Thank you! We'll be in touch shortly!

Vintage Yacht Charters (VYC) operates as a bareboat charter and is overseen by Nautiste LLC. Client will rent the vessel and equipment from Nautiste, and contract directly with VYC. 

Phone: (202) 417-8449 / Email: [email protected]

Luxury DC Yacht Charter

Specifications

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• Response rate: 95%
• Avg. response time: < 12 hours

Things to know

Allowed on boat, cancellation policy strict.

• Free cancellations until 30 days before the booking start time.
• 50% refund for cancellations between 15-30 days before the booking start time.
• Cancellations within 14 days of the booking start time are non-refundable.

Commercial owner

This boat belongs to a Commercial Owner, an independent boat rental company. A Commercial Owner is an independent, Boatsetter-approved boat rental company who provides their own insurance to their guests.

Security deposit

A security deposit hold (not a charge) will be placed on your credit card 48 hours before your booking starts to cover any incidental damage that may occur during your rental. This hold is released 48 hours after the booking is complete, if no claims are made. The security deposit amount for the boat you are booking will be outlined during the check-out process.

Captain info

If requested, the owner can provide a list of available captains for bareboat charter or the renter can use their own qualified captain. If the boat is being time chartered, the owner will provide the Captain.

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Experience the dmv.

You haven’t seen the DMV until you’ve seen it from the water! Join us out on the water for a memorable experience, living it up in the best parts of the DMV! Enjoy your personalized yacht experience with views of DC’s hotspots, including the Kennedy Center, the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and more. In addition to a great time our hosts will be sure to make sure you’re taken care with an on board cash bar, hookah services, and even catering!

Our yacht rentals are for all occasions: personal parties, anniversary/graduation celebrations, or even a kickback on the water!

Take your experience of the DMV to the next level, and join us out on the water! 

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Memorable yacht charters that will last a lifetime

About MD Yacht Charters

Amazing excursions, a lifetime of memories.

MD Yacht Charters is a luxury yacht chartering company serving residents, tourist, and a host of professional clientele in the Washington Metropolitan area since 2013. We take great pride in creating amazing and high quality excursions along the Potomac River in DC, Maryland and Virginia for small intimate groups.

Our team of trained professionals will ensure that you and your friends have an experience that will last a lifetime.

Discover MD Yacht's Amazing Excursions Now

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Our team at MD Yacht Charter is committed to ensuring you have a memorable charter experience with us always. 

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What You Need to Know About Washington, D.C., Yacht Charters

If you think Washington, D.C., is only about the government and other, er, less-than-exciting aspects of a capital city, think again. The city is full of beautiful architecture, the National Mall and all of its monuments, a bustling bar and restaurant scene, numerous sports teams, and gorgeous parks. However, Washington, D.C., is also a place to have fun — and lots of it! And, the nation’s capital is conveniently located on two rivers (the Potomac and Anacostia) that create incredibly beautiful waterfront views. They also give visitors, residents, and commuters alike, a rare opportunity for some on-the-water fun in the form of Washington, D.C., yacht charters!

When you’re looking to host a private celebration or corporate event, keep boat charters and yacht rentals in mind, since there aren’t too many easier ways to ensure you and your guests have a great time. Plus, boat rentals are a snap when you book through City Cruises, and the benefits of Washington, D.C., yacht charters are endless .

The Unforgettable Experience of a Yacht Charter in Washington, D.C.

You could, of course, book those same old event spaces that you’ve been using for years, but if it’s time for something new — and we think it is — chartering a yacht for your private or corporate event makes bonding with your guests or coworkers a snap. Don’t acquiesce to hitting the same old bar ‘n’ grill for the fifth year in a row. Instead, take the fun to the water and soak in all of the good times and upbeat vibes that only the waves can bring. Plus, all of your guests will be excited to soak in those gorgeous Washington, D.C., views and have the rare opportunity to sail aboard a luxurious yacht. And, no matter what you’re celebrating — whether it’s a birthday bash, a bachelor party, a wedding, a going-away party, or any number of occasions — there’s a City Cruises vessel that’s sure to perfectly suit your individual needs.

Why Choose City Cruises for Your Washington, D.C., Yacht Charter

Experience Washington, D.C. Like Never Before

Look, if you haven’t been to Washington, D.C., before, you need to book your trip ASAP. (Pro Tip: Go when the cherry blossoms are blooming!) There are plenty of guided tours of the city and the surrounding areas , but for the best views and a unique perspective and experience, taking in Washington, D.C., from the water is the ultimate way to enjoy the capital.

What to Expect on Your City Cruises Yacht Charter in Washington, D.C.

Now, it might be tough to pick just one yacht, but no matter which of the vessels you choose from the Washington, D.C. City Cruises Fleet , you and your guests can look forward to top-tier service from the highly trained wait staff and crew members; first-class amenities including well-stocked bars, delicious menus curated by local chefs, and beautiful indoor and outdoor decks; and some of the best views on the East Coast.

How to Book Your Washington, D.C. Yacht Charter with City Cruises

One of the best parts of booking a yacht charter with City Cruises is that setting up is a snap: Just head on over to the Washington , D.C. Event Venues page, pick a date, select the type and size of your event, and boom — a representative will get in touch with you to help you through the planning and details of your adventure on the water. Just keep in mind that at the end of the day, City Cruises’ yacht charter in Washington, D.C., is about having fun and enjoying all of the incredible things it entails, from breathtaking views and luxurious meals to incredible service, handpicked entertainment, and (most of all) an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. So, don’t delay: Charter a yacht in Washington, D.C., for your private or corporate event today — and get ready to have the time of your life! Fill out this form and an event planner will contact you.

FAQs – DC Boat Charters (2024 & 2025)

What is City Cruises? We’re a leading provider of boat charters and yacht rentals in Washington, D.C., specializing in delivering unique floating event experiences. We cater to both private celebrations and corporate events.

What makes a yacht charter with City Cruises unique? With us, you get access to a luxurious fleet of yachts, unmatched onboard amenities, and our extensive experience in event planning. Our all-inclusive packages are customizable to your needs and include chef-prepared menus, full bar options, and tailored entertainment.

What can I expect from a City Cruises yacht charter? When you book with us, you and your guests can look forward to top-tier service from our highly trained staff, first-class amenities including well-stocked bars and locally curated menus, and exquisite indoor and outdoor decks offering breathtaking views of Washington, D.C.

How can I book a DC yacht charter with City Cruises? Booking a yacht charter with us is a breeze. Simply fill out the form on our Washington, D.C. Event Venues page or give us a call. Choose your date, event type, and size, and one of our representatives will contact you to assist with planning and details.

What types of events are suitable for a yacht charter? From birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and weddings to corporate events and going-away parties, our yacht charters provide a perfect venue for a wide array of gatherings.

Why should I consider a yacht charter in Washington, D.C.? The waters of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers offer an unparalleled vantage point for enjoying the beautiful architecture and skyline of Washington, D.C. A yacht charter with us provides a luxurious and unforgettable experience for your guests.

Can I customize the experience on my yacht charter? Absolutely! At City Cruises, we offer all-inclusive packages that can be tailored to your exact needs, including bespoke menus, bar options, and entertainment.

Is the DC yacht charter experience limited to any season? We operate year-round, but for an exceptional experience, we recommend booking when the city’s famous cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

What views can I enjoy on a City Cruises yacht charter in DC? Our yacht charters give you a unique perspective of Washington, D.C., allowing you to enjoy landmarks like the Jefferson Memorial, the National Mall, and more, right from the water.

Is there a minimum or maximum capacity for a yacht charter in Washington DC? We offer a range of vessels in different sizes to suit your individual needs. To find the perfect yacht for your event, simply fill out the form on our website or call us, and one of our representatives will guide you through your options.

What are the most scenic routes for a yacht charter in Washington, D.C.?

Scenic routes for a yacht charter in Washington, D.C., often include cruising along the Potomac River with views of iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol building. You can also explore the quieter waters of the Anacostia River for a different perspective of the city’s evolving waterfront.

How does a yacht charter in D.C. cater to different event themes?

A yacht charter in D.C. can cater to a wide range of event themes, from elegant black-tie affairs and historical tours to casual sunset cruises and patriotic celebrations. Our team works closely with you to incorporate your theme into every aspect of the charter, including decor, menu selection, and entertainment, ensuring a cohesive and immersive experience.

What unique experiences can be added to a D.C. yacht charter?

Unique experiences that can be added to a D.C. yacht charter include live performances or DJ sets, wine tasting sessions featuring local vineyards, historical reenactments or storytelling for educational tours, and onboard cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs. These experiences enhance the charter, making your event stand out.

Can a yacht charter in D.C. include stops at waterfront restaurants or bars?

Yes, depending on the itinerary and the yacht’s capabilities, charters can include stops at waterfront restaurants or bars along the Potomac and Anacostia rivers. This allows guests to experience D.C.’s vibrant riverside dining scene as part of their charter, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the event.

What wildlife or natural sights can be seen during a yacht charter in Washington, D.C.?

While on a yacht charter in Washington, D.C., guests might spot local wildlife such as ospreys, herons, and occasionally bald eagles, especially near the more secluded areas of the rivers. The lush riverbanks and occasional sightings of deer or foxes along the Anacostia River can also add a touch of nature to your urban sailing experience.

How does a yacht charter enhance corporate events in Washington, D.C.?

A yacht charter enhances corporate events in Washington, D.C., by providing a unique and prestigious setting that encourages networking, relaxation, and team building. The serene backdrop of the Potomac River, combined with luxury amenities and customizable options, ensures a memorable experience that can foster stronger business relationships and celebrate achievements in style.

What makes Washington, D.C., at night special on a yacht charter?

Washington, D.C., transforms at night, with illuminated monuments and buildings creating a dramatic skyline that’s best viewed from the water. A night-time yacht charter offers a magical experience, allowing guests to see the city in a new light, with the reflections on the river adding to the ambiance of any evening event.

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Experience the DMV the way it was meant to be experienced.   On The Water

FUN AND ADVENTURE AWAITS !! 

Join us on the water 7 days a week.

AFFORDABLE YACHT CHARTERS

VIP Yacht Charters offers you the opportunity to join us for a relaxing day cruising along the Potomac.  Whether you want to cruise, celebrate a special event, and dine– you’ve come to the right place

THE VIP EXPERIENCE

VIP YACHT CHARTERS USA Offers you the opportunity to join us for a relaxing day cruising along the Potomac. Whether you want to cruise, celebrate a special event, and dine- you've come to the right place. 

Open Cockpit

Full Galley

Dual Zone Air Conditioning System

Two Bathrooms with Showers

Two State Rooms

3000-Watt Sound System with Bluetooth capabilities

QUALITY SERVICES

VIP Yacht Charters USA has put together many affordable charters for your cruising adventure. We specialize in day yacht charters.  Most of our guests are looking for the opportunity to get out on the water aboard a private luxury yacht. Whether you are looking to celebrate  

·       Birthdays

·       Anniversaries

·       Bachelor or Bachelorette Parties

·       TV commercials

·       Music Video Shoots

·       Sunset Cruises

·       Marriage Proposal or Renew Vows

·       Corporate Cruises

We can help you arrange all of the details for a stress-free event.

WHITE GLOVE SERVICE

Our quality assurance check ups are performed on all yachts prior to any booking. Our team is dedicated to provide you with a 5 Star experience and to treat our valued guests as royalty. Our Captain is a highly trained professional who leads a staff full of charisma that keeps clients coming back.

Good things can come ​from​ combining luxury and passion.

Call us now to book an experience of a lifetime:

WHY VIP CHARTERS USA?

A different approach to the VIP Treatment!

Experience DC Unforgettably

VIP Yacht Charters USA  

Washington, DC

[email protected]

VIPYachtChartersUSA.com

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In addition to the best offers we have for boat and yacht charters in Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, DC, see also options available for rent in these nearby locations:

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• 18 boat rentals in Georgetown, Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, DC
• 17 boat rentals in Old Town, Alexandria, VA

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Boat Rentals

Goboat rentals.

GoBoat is a safe, fun and eco-friendly way to enjoy the beautiful waterways of Washington, DC. 

GoBoat, formerly known as Float DC, offers rentals that are 100% electric, Scandinavian designed, picnic boats for up to 8 people. If you're over 21 and have a valid drivers license, GoBoat allows you to be your own captain and steer the electric vessel up and down the Washington Channel on our own. If you haven’t completed your boaters safety course, GoBoat offers a 1 day license option that will give you the confidence and knowledge you need to navigate the Washington Channel on your own! Prices start at $150 per boat per hour.

View Availability and Rental Fees on the GoBoatUS Website

GoBoat operates from 8am to 6pm daily from April through October. Feel free to bring your favorite libations and food aboard (red wine not allowed). 

Get Your Fill at The Wharf

Fresh seafood is a given on the waterfront. But The Wharf offers more, including a wide selection of distinctive choices for food, drinks, and entertainment while you eat. Watch the chefs prepare your meal. Listen to music. Or just people-watch while you savor the flavors of The Wharf.

Browse the Shops

Whether you’re looking for something specific or simply like to spend a few hours in our unique collection of stores, chances are you’ll find just what you’re looking for at our shops at The Wharf. And, of course, you can always treat yourself to a delicious dessert—or celebrate your shopping finds with a drink at one of our restaurants.

Massive crane arrives to clean up Baltimore bridge collapse

A floating crane that officials said was one of the largest on the East Coast arrived at the site of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore on Friday, part of a large flotilla being assembled to clear debris that has crippled one of the nation’s largest ports and spread economic pain.

The Chesapeake 1000, which can lift 1,000 tons, will play a featured role in the cleanup from the disaster , but Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said Friday it will be joined by 10 other cranes, 10 tugs, nine barges, eight salvage vessels and five Coast Guard boats that will arrive over the next several days.

But even as officials raced to restore access to the Port of Baltimore, which generates thousands of jobs and handles tens of billions of dollars worth of cargo each year, the Chesapeake 1000 sat idle Friday, underscoring the complexity, length and danger of the operation.

Officials said they couldn’t move forward with clearing debris until they had finished a careful assessment of the scene, where massive trusses sit twisted in 50-foot water and a large section of the Key Bridge is draped precariously across the bow of the cargo ship that struck it Tuesday.

Baltimore bridge collapse

The assessment included divers below the surface of the Patapsco River, survey boats and an FBI helicopter, which buzzed over the 985-foot Dali container vessel collecting images that would be used to figure out how to carefully and safely remove the steel and concrete.

Moore once again declined to offer a timeline to recover from the disaster, as he and other officials have repeatedly done in the days after the disaster.

“It is not going to be days or weeks or months,” he said. “This is going to take time.”

He and other state and federal officials spoke at a windswept news conference near the towering Chesapeake 1000 at Tradepoint Atlantic, a deepwater port that is the only shipping site still accessible by water in the Port of Baltimore. Officials said they hope to tap it more extensively while the rest of the port remains inaccessible.

During the update, an official from the Environmental Protection Agency addressed one of the most pressing concerns about the Dali: its 764 tons of hazardous materials that remain onboard. Earlier in the week, an official from the National Transportation Safety Board said some of the 56 cargo containers containing corrosives, flammable liquids and lithium ion batteries had broken open, and she had noticed a sheen on the Patapsco.

Adam Ortiz, the EPA’s Mid-Atlantic regional administrator, said testing of the water did not show major issues.

“At this time, there is no indication of active releases from the vessel nor is there presence of materials that are hazardous to human health in the water,” Ortiz said.

Coast Guard Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said at the news conference the recovery will move forward in three phases — clearing the channel so the port can resume some shipping, freeing the Dali and moving it, and finally clearing the remaining debris from the river and its bed.

Gilreath said that includes breaking “the bridge up into right-size pieces that we can lift.” Moore said the section of the Key Bridge resting on the Dali weighs between 3,000 and 4,000 tons , illustrating the challenge that lies ahead.

Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. of the Maryland State Police said divers are on standby to recover the bodies of bridge workers who were lost in the Patapsco River once conditions permit and the cleanup reaches the right point. Two of the six workers have been recovered. Officials said Wednesday night they had discovered what appeared to be a large vehicle stuck in the wreckage of the bridge at the bottom of the Patapsco.

Meanwhile, President Biden told reporters Friday that he plans to visit Baltimore next week with Moore.

Andrew Middleton, the director of a Christian ministry in Dundalk, Md., said he had been in touch with crew members aboard the Dali on Friday morning. The 21-member crew, most of whom are Indian, will remain on the ship.

Middleton said Friday that the crew requested WiFi and new SIM cards to communicate with family back home. The ministry director said he knows the crew has a TV on board but was trying to figure out whether they had access to live local programming.

Middleton said he is coordinating with other ministries and local companies to get WiFi, SIM cards and antennae to the crew members. He expected the first delivery to go out Saturday.

After federal officials allocated $60 million in emergency funding for bridge recovery Thursday, former Maryland governor and current Republican U.S. Senate candidate Larry Hogan said in an interview with Fox News that he would “push” his party to fully fund the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

“I’m going to push them as hard as I can,” he said. “I already called a couple of Republican Senate leaders. I started working them.”

Emily Davies contributed to this report.

How it happened: Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship . The container ship lost power shortly before hitting the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said. Video shows the bridge collapse in under 40 seconds.

Victims: Divers have recovered the bodies of two construction workers , officials said. They were fathers, husbands and hard workers . A mayday call from the ship prompted first responders to shut down traffic on the four-lane bridge, saving lives.

Economic impact: The collapse of the bridge severed ocean links to the Port of Baltimore, which provides about 20,000 jobs to the area . See how the collapse will disrupt the supply of cars, coal and other goods .

Rebuilding: The bridge, built in the 1970s , will probably take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars to rebuild , experts said.

Watch CBS News

Who owns the ship that struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore?

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: March 26, 2024 / 5:05 PM EDT / CBS News

The collapse of  Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday after being struck by a cargo ship has raised questions about who owns and manages the ship, as well as on the potential impact on one the busiest ports in the U.S.

Called the Dali, the 948-foot vessel that hit the bridge is managed by Synergy Marine Group, a Singapore-based company with over 660 ships under management worldwide, according to its website . The group said the ship was operated by charter vessel company Synergy Group and chartered by Danish shipping giant Maersk at the time of the incident, which sent vehicles and people tumbling into the Patapsco River.

"We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected," Maersk said in a statement to CBS News on Tuesday, in which it also confirmed the ship was carrying cargo for Maersk customers. The company had no crew or personnel aboard the ship.

The Dali, which can carry up to 10,000 twenty-foot equivalent units, or TEUs, was carrying nearly 4,700 containers at the time of the collision. It was operated by a 22-person, Indian crew. It was not immediately clear what kind of cargo the ship was carrying. 

Who owns and manages the Dali?

The Dali is owned by Grace Ocean Private, a Singapore-based company that provides water transportation services. The ship was chartered by Danish container shipping company Maersk at the time of the collision.

Synergy Marine, founded in 2006, provides a range of ship management services, including managing ships' technical components and their crews and overseeing safety, according to S&P Capital IQ. Its parent company, Unity Group Holdings International, an investment holding company, was founded in 2008 and is based in Hong Kong.

Where was the ship headed?

The outbound ship had left Baltimore and was headed for Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, Synergy Marine Group said in a  press release . 

How busy is the Port of Baltimore?

In 2023, the Port of Baltimore handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo, worth $80 billion, according  to the office of Maryland Gov. Wes Moore. The port is also a significant provider of local jobs. 

The top port in the U.S. for sugar and gypsum imports, it is the ninth busiest U.S. port by the total volume and value of foreign cargo handled. All vessel traffic into and out of the facility is currently suspended, although the port remains open and trucks continue to be processed within its terminals, according to a statement released by Port of Baltimore officials. 

What is the potential local economic impact?

Directly, the port supports 15,300 jobs, while another 140,000 in the area are related to port activities. The jobs provide a combined $3.3 billion in personal income, according to a CBS News report . The Port of Baltimore said Tuesday that it is unclear how long ship traffic will be suspended.

The disaster also caused chaos for local drivers. The Maryland Transportation Authority said all lanes were closed in both directions on I-695, with traffic being detoured to I-95 and I-895.

How could the bridge collapse affect consumers and businesses?

Experts say the bridge collapse could cause significant supply chain disruptions.

"While Baltimore is not one of the largest U.S. East Coast ports, it still imports and exports more than 1 million containers each year, so there is the potential for this to cause significant disruption to supply chains," Emily Stausbøll, a market analyst at Xeneta, an ocean and air freight analytics platform, said in a statement. 

She added that freight services from Asia to the East Coast in the U.S. have already been hampered by drought in the Panama Canal, as well as risks related to conflict in the Red Sea. Nearby ports, including those in New York, New Jersey and Virginia, will be relied on to handle more shipments if Baltimore remains inaccessible. 

Whether ocean freight shipping rates will rise dramatically, potentially affecting consumers as retailers pass along higher costs, will depend on how much extra capacity the alternate ports can handle, Stausbøll said. "However, there is only so much port capacity available and this will leave supply chains vulnerable to any further pressure."

Marty Durbin, senior vice president of policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said that the bridge is a critical connector of "people, businesses, and communities."

"Unfortunately, its prolonged closure will likely disrupt commercial activities and supply chains that rely on the bridge and Port of Baltimore each day," he said in a statement.

What other industries could be affected?

Trucking companies could be severely affected by the disaster. 

"Aside from the obvious tragedy, this incident will have significant and long-lasting impacts on the region," American Trucking Associations spokesperson Jessica Gail said, calling Key Bridge and Baltimore's port "critical components'' of the nation's infrastructure.

Gail noted that 1.3 million trucks cross the bridge every year — 3,600 a day. Trucks that carry hazardous materials will now have to make 30 miles of detours around Baltimore because they are prohibited from using the city's tunnels, she said, adding to delays and increasing fuel costs.

"Time-wise, it's going to hurt us a lot," added Russell Brehm, the terminal manager in Baltimore for Lee Transport, which trucks hazardous materials such as petroleum products and chemicals. The loss of the bridge will double to two hours the time it takes Lee to get loads from its terminal in Baltimore's Curtis Bay to the BJ's gasoline station in the waterfront neighborhood of Canton, he estimated.

Cruise operators are also being affected. A Carnival cruise ship that set off Sunday for the Bahamas had been scheduled to return to Baltimore on March 31. Carnival said Tuesday that it is "currently evaluating options for Carnival Legend's scheduled return on Sunday." The company also has cruises scheduled to set sail from Baltimore through the summer. 

Norwegian Cruise Line last year introduced new routes departing from the Port of Baltimore. Its sailings are scheduled for late this year. The company said the Key Bridge collapse doesn't immediately require it to reroute any ships.

Who will pay to rebuild the bridge?

President Biden said Tuesday that the federal government, with congressional support, would pay to rebuild the bridge.

"We're going to work with our partners in Congress to make sure the state gets the support it needs. It's my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge," Biden said in comments from the White House. "And I expect the Congress to support my effort. This is going to take some time. The people of Baltimore can count on us though, to stick with them, at every step of the way, till the port is reopened and the bridge is rebuilt."

—The Associated Press contributed to this report.

• Francis Scott Key Bridge
• Bridge Collapse
• Patapsco River

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News Streaming to discuss her reporting.

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