Kristian Ferrell
With over 11,000 miles of coastline to explore, there are plenty of places to dock your boat in the Chesapeake Bay. The bay spans more than 64,000 square miles and is surrounded by Maryland and Virginia, with waterways leading to cities like Baltimore, Annapolis, and Washington D.C. As one of the most iconic boating locations on the East Coast, Chesapeake Bay offers breathtaking sunsets, abundant fishing grounds, and a rich nautical history. Annapolis, known as the sailboat capital of the world, offers a variety of marinas and attractions for visitors. For a peaceful escape, boaters can head to Herring Bay, which offers protected waters and a luxurious marina resort experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Chesapeake Bay, spanning more than 64,000 square miles and surrounded by Maryland and Virginia |
| Waterways | Lead to cities like Baltimore, Annapolis, and Washington D.C. |
| Rivers | Susquehanna, Potomac, and James |
| Coastline | Over 11,000 miles |
| Reputation | Iconic boating location on the East Coast, known for sunsets, fishing grounds, and nautical history |
| Attractions | Live music, tiki bars, sightseeing, historical sites, crab shacks, boutiques, restaurants, etc. |
| Marinas | Port Annapolis Marina, Eastport Yacht Center, Cove of Cork Private Slips, Atlantic Marina Resort, North East River Yacht Club, Nomad Shelter Cove Yacht Basin, Baltimore Yacht Basin, Port Covington Marina, National Harbor Marina, Herrington Harbour Marina Resorts, etc. |
| Docking Fees | Vary by marina and duration of stay, e.g., $2.25-$3 per foot for CBMM members, $4000-$5500/season for Private Slips off of Whitehall Bay |
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What You'll Learn
Marinas in Annapolis
With over 11,000 miles of coastline, Chesapeake Bay is a boater's paradise. Surrounded by Maryland and Virginia, the Chesapeake's waterways lead to bustling cities like Baltimore, Annapolis, and Washington, D.C.
Annapolis, known as the sailboat capital of the world, offers a wide range of marinas catering to both small and large boats. Here is a detailed list of some of the top marinas in Annapolis:
Annapolis Landing Marina
Annapolis Landing Marina is conveniently located in the heart of Annapolis, providing docking facilities for vessels of all sizes. They offer top-tier amenities, including power hook-ups, clean restrooms, laundry services, and a swimming pool. The marina also features sturdy stationary docks, strategically placed dock lights, and quick refuelling options, making it a seamless and comfortable experience for boaters.
Eastport Yacht Center
The Eastport Yacht Center is another excellent option for boaters. Located in Annapolis, it offers a range of services and facilities to meet the needs of its patrons.
Port Annapolis Marina
Port Annapolis Marina is a well-known marina in Annapolis, providing docking facilities and various amenities for boaters.
Chesapeake Harbour Marina
Chesapeake Harbour Marina is conveniently located in Annapolis, offering easy access to the city's attractions. It provides docking facilities and various amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for boaters.
Annapolis City Marina
Annapolis City Marina is a convenient option for boaters looking to explore Annapolis. It offers docking facilities and is located close to the city's attractions and amenities.
In addition to these featured marinas, Annapolis also boasts several other options, including the Annapolis Yacht Club, Bert Jabin's Yacht Yard, Squires J & K Marina, and many more. Each marina offers its unique set of amenities and services, catering to different needs and preferences.
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Upper Chesapeake Bay boating towns
The Upper Chesapeake Bay is a boating paradise, with quaint towns, picturesque creeks, and a vibrant boating community. Here are some of the must-visit boating towns in the Upper Chesapeake Bay:
Havre de Grace
Havre de Grace is a charming town nestled at the mouth of the Susquehanna River. It offers a beautiful waterfront promenade, historic museums, neat little stores, and street fairs. The town is known for its deep-water channel, with plenty of marinas offering easy access to the water. The Concord Point Lighthouse and Keeper's Museum, as well as the Maritime Museum and Lock House Museum, are popular attractions for sailors. The town also hosts a spectacular 4th of July parade and vibrant First Friday street festivals in August and September.
Rock Hall
Rock Hall is a jewel of the Upper Eastern Shore and a hub for Kent County's maritime industry. It boasts over a dozen marinas, various charters, and boat rentals, making it a perfect destination for boating enthusiasts. The town has a strong sailing community and offers both public docks and waterfront dining options. Rock Hall is also known for its annual Pirates and Wenches Fantasy Weekend, a popular event for cruising sailors.
Chestertown
Chestertown, once one of the six Royal Ports of Entry, is located along the scenic Chester River. It offers a range of historic attractions, quiet streets, and a vibrant college town atmosphere, as it is home to Washington College. Chestertown is known for its annual festivals, such as the Chestertown Tea Party on Memorial Day Weekend and the Sultana Downrigging Weekend around Halloween. The town provides unique access to the Eastern Bay, Chester River, and the heart of the Chesapeake Bay.
Annapolis
Annapolis, known as the "sailboat capital of the world," is a vibrant boating town with plenty of marinas and attractions. It is home to the Naval Academy and the National Sailing Hall of Fame. Annapolis offers a range of experiences, from walking tours of the Naval Academy to exploring the downtown district and browsing the boutiques of Main Street. The area is also known for its dockside bars and restaurants, providing a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment.
Baltimore
Baltimore, one of the vibrant port cities gracing the Upper Chesapeake Bay, offers a unique boating experience. Its Historic Inner Harbor, at the mouth of the Patapsco River, provides access to numerous marinas and waterfront attractions. Boaters can enjoy stunning views of historic Federal Hill and Fort McHenry while cruising. Baltimore also boasts a vibrant dining scene, with options like Bo Brooks Crab House, known for its legendary Maryland crab soup.
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Baltimore marinas
Baltimore, on the Chesapeake Bay, is a sightseer's dream. The city is brimming with activities, including a visit to Fort McHenry where you can partake in the Baltimore tradition of placing a penny on Edgar Allen Poe's grave. The National Aquarium, the Science Centre, and Port Discovery are also great attractions for kids. Baltimore also has a vibrant nightlife, with hip corner bars in Federal Hill, Fells Point, and Canton, as well as fine dining restaurants and lounges in Harbor East.
For boaters, Baltimore offers a range of convenient stops and marinas. Here is some information on a few of them:
Inner Harbor Marina
Inner Harbor Marina is located in downtown Baltimore, in the heart of the city. It is just a short walk from top restaurants, shopping, museums, and more. The National Aquarium is across the street, and Camden Yards is just minutes away. Inner Harbor Marina offers a wonderful experience for guests passing through or staying for the season.
Harbor East Marina
Harbor East Marina is located in Baltimore's famed Inner Harbor. It offers spectacular views, refined amenities, and access to the prestigious Harbor East neighbourhood. Luxury hotels, 5-star restaurants, lively bars and lounges, and high-end shops are just steps away. The marina has 184 boat slips and 900 feet of alongside dockage. It features brand-new floating docks, wider slips and finger piers, enhanced shore power, and renovated amenities.
Port Covington Marina
This marina is a known jumping-off spot to and from the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway).
Baltimore Yacht Basin
Baltimore Yacht Basin is a great choice for boaters cruising up and down the East Coast.
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Lower Chesapeake Bay marinas
The Lower Chesapeake Bay, stretching from the Potomac River to Virginia Beach, is home to several charming towns and cities with ports that attract boaters from all over. Here are some of the best marinas in the Lower Chesapeake Bay:
Cape Charles Yacht Center
Located in the quaint historic town of Cape Charles, Virginia, this full-service marina is the perfect stop for boaters exploring the Lower Chesapeake. Cape Charles offers a delightful mix of history and energy, with its shops, restaurants, museums, and events. The Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery is a popular spot for upscale dining, while Cape Charles Beach provides a relaxing beach experience.
Deltaville, Virginia
Known as the "Boating Capital of the Chesapeake," Deltaville boasts more boats than people. Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park is a great place to learn about the town's maritime history and explore nature. The town also offers art galleries, shops, fish markets, and nature parks. Deltaville Tap & Raw Bar is a popular dining spot, and the annual Deltaville Seafood Festival and Crab Feast are not-to-be-missed events.
Norview Marina, Deltaville VA
Norview Marina is the largest full-service marina in Deltaville, offering a range of amenities for boaters.
Coles Point Marina, Hague VA
Coles Point Marina & RV Resort is a full-service marina located in Hague, a serene town nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers. Hague offers a slower pace of life, excellent vineyards, and restaurants like Tim's at Coles Point and Coles Point Tavern, known for their generous drinks and live music. The Piney Point Lighthouse Museum & Historic Park and the St. Clement's Island Museum provide a glimpse into the area's rich history.
York River Yacht Haven
This marina is located in Gloucester Point, Virginia, offering easy access to the Chesapeake Bay.
Chesapeake Yacht Club
The Chesapeake Yacht Club has locations in Shady Side, Maryland, and Solomons, Maryland, providing a social and nautical experience for its members.
Regent Point Marina & Boatyard
Located in Topping, Virginia, this marina offers a range of services and amenities for boaters exploring the Lower Chesapeake Bay.
Additional Marinas
Other notable marinas in the Lower Chesapeake Bay include the Windmill Point Yachting and Fishing Center in White Stone, Virginia, and the Corinthian Yacht Club of the Chesapeake in Ridge, Maryland. The Lower Chesapeake Bay offers a unique blend of natural beauty, charming towns, and convenient access to major cities, making it a popular destination for boaters.
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Kent Island marinas
Kent Island, the largest island in the Chesapeake Bay, is a boater's paradise. It is home to the famous Kent Narrows, a 270-acre nature park, and some of the best fishing and crabbing spots in the Bay. For those seeking a lively night out, Kent Island also offers an abundance of dining options, bars, and music venues to dance the night away.
When it comes to marinas, Kent Island has several excellent options to choose from:
Bay Bridge Marina
Conveniently located at the base of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge on Kent Island, Bay Bridge Marina has established itself as the premier marina in the region. With slips accommodating yachts ranging from 30' to 70', resort-level amenities, and a friendly staff, it has become a home for a community of boaters and marine professionals. The marina offers indoor and outdoor dining options with stunning views of the Bay and breathtaking sunsets. It provides accommodations for annual, seasonal, and transient visits, as well as yacht group rendezvous cruises. Bay Bridge Marina is just a short cruise from Baltimore and Annapolis, making it an ideal destination for boaters exploring the Chesapeake Bay.
Piney Narrows Yacht Haven
Nestled along the banks of the Kent Narrows, Piney Narrows Yacht Haven is a sheltered marina offering easy access to major metropolitan areas like Annapolis, Philadelphia, Wilmington, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. With over 270 open and covered slips accommodating vessels up to 67' in length, this year-round recreational facility provides a range of amenities, including a pool, lounge, yacht repair services, and a fuel dock with gas and diesel. Piney Narrows Yacht Haven welcomes transient boaters and offers a sparkling pool, picnic areas, a boater's lounge, and a marine supply store, making it an ideal stop for a day or even a lifetime.
Safe Harbor Narrows Point North
Safe Harbor Narrows Point North is located on beautifully landscaped grounds, offering stunning views of Kent Narrows and the Chester River. This marina provides seasonal wet slips, winter storage, charter boats, a fuel dock, boat brokerage, and a waterside restaurant. It also features an Olympic-size swimming pool and a state-of-the-art fitness facility. By joining Safe Harbor, boaters become part of the world's largest boating network, granting them access to over 100 locations and their exclusive privileges.
Kent Island Yacht Club
The Kent Island Yacht Club is situated at 117 Yacht Club Drive and offers a range of amenities and services for yacht owners and enthusiasts. While specific details about this location are scarce, it is likely to provide docking facilities, storage, and other conveniences for its members.
With these exceptional marinas, Kent Island ensures that boaters have the necessary support and amenities to fully enjoy their time on the picturesque Chesapeake Bay.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many docking options in Chesapeake Bay, including the Upper Chesapeake, the Middle Chesapeake, Kent Island, Baltimore, Annapolis, the Lower Chesapeake, the Potomac, and the DelMarVa Coast.
The Upper Chesapeake Bay includes the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to the mouth of the Susquehanna River and is home to boating towns such as Havre de Grace, Rock Hall, and Chestertown. Some marinas in this area include the Atlantic Marina Resort in Pasadena and Rock Hall, Maryland, and the North East River Yacht Club in North East, Maryland.
The Middle Chesapeake Bay includes the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to the Potomac River and features boating towns such as St. Michaels, Oxford, Deale, and North Beach. Some marinas in this area include the Slaughter Creek Marina in Taylors Island, Maryland, and the Easton, Edgewater, and St. Leonard marinas in Maryland.
