A day trip in and around Baltimore doesn't necessarily require a car. How about enjoying the day on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay by boat? Talk about going off the beaten path. The inner Harbor is great to look at but it's even better to sail out of.
Boat for Charter — Photo courtesy of T. Browne Smith
Baltimore has the unique privilege of being a city with easy accessibility to local waters. Cruise ships have started leaving from its ports in recent years, but private boaters have been utilizing its waterways for centuries. The maritime community in and around Baltimore is active, and many boat owners make a trip out of riding through the waters just outside the Inner Harbor.
Smooth Sailing — Photo courtesy of T. Browne Smith
If you don't own a boat (or have a friend that owns a boat), you still have plenty of ways to get out on the water. If you're limited on time and don't actually have a full day to enjoy the water, you can still get your fill on either a day cruise or a 90 minute sightseeing cruise. For an afternoon or evening of wining, dining and entertainment with a significant other or friends, Spirit Cruises can give you a ride at a reasonable price. There's no fuss on your end - all you have to do is show up on time and be ready to enjoy yourself and the tour.
Ft. Howard — Photo courtesy of T. Browne Smith
Another option for enjoying some time on the water is chartering a boat to take you around the Inner and outer Harbor area. If you're not on a vessel equipped with something to eat, no worries. Fell's Point makes for a great stop if you don't start there. Don't forget to grab a beverage and a bite to eat if you dock or just bring it back to your vessel and dock in the water for a couple of hours. Wherever you depart from, you'll have a unique view of the city's attractions and also have an opportunity to sail past famous points of interest like Fort McHenry and the Francis Scott Key Bridge under sails or on a motorized boat.
The Key Bridge — Photo courtesy of T. Browne Smith
Longer cruises allow you the opportunity to venture further out into neighboring water communities such as those of nearby Annapolis and other smaller towns like Pasadena. These ventures come at a higher price than other outings but a sunny day on the Chesapeake can't be beat when you're cruising through its waters at a relaxing 15 knots.
