An hour was plenty of time to enjoy the Basin and Blossoms.
It took us 15 minutes to get to the MLK side, pedaling into the breeze, but once there, it was a leisurely pedal around the Basin with the wind at our backs. The boats are clean and easy to pedal, unless, you want to get across the Tidal Basin within the hour, your legs will get tired. The boats are clean and easy to pedal, unless, you want to get across the Tidal Basin within the hour, your legs will get tired. You can pay online and sign your waivers ahead of time, so check in at the dock is a breeze. During this busy season, make a reservation, there are a lot of time slots available. The employees were helpful and efficient, and we enjoyed pedaling around the basin, taking a breather from the crowds. Riding on the boat was a perfect way to view the blossoms, away from the crowds. We did our boat ride on Sunday, March 26, the day that literally a million visitors came to enjoy the cherry blossoms at their peak bloom, on the first clear, beautiful blue sky spring day. He was able to move my reservation up to an earlier time. I emailed Paul and he responded within seconds. After booking a specific time, I realized that I needed an earlier time. 70 reviews of Tidal Basin Paddle Boats 'I first paddled or peddled one of these boats several years ago to get a different perspective on the Cherry Blossoms in April and Ive been doing it every year since (you will get some great photos this way).
