Boating in Chesapeake Bay

Boating in Chesapeake Bay

Boating in Chesapeake Bay is an exciting and adventurous activity that offers a range of opportunities for boating enthusiasts. The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States and spans over 200 miles, providing ample space for boaters to explore. In this article, we’ll cover some of the top things to do while boating in Chesapeake Bay.

Visit Annapolis

Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and is known as the “Sailing Capital of the World.” It’s home to the United States Naval Academy and is a beautiful city with a rich history. When you visit Annapolis, be sure to take a stroll down Ego Alley, where you can watch the boats come and go while enjoying a bite to eat at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Explore the Eastern Shore

The Eastern Shore of Chesapeake Bay is a picturesque area that’s home to charming towns and beautiful landscapes. It’s an excellent place to go boating, with many marinas and waterfront restaurants to visit. Be sure to explore St. Michaels, a town known for its maritime history and beautiful Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum.

Fish for Blue Crabs

Fishing for blue crabs is a favorite pastime for many boaters in Chesapeake Bay. The best time to catch blue crabs is from April to November, and there are plenty of areas in the bay where you can drop your crab pots. Make sure to get a license before you go crabbing, and follow the regulations to ensure you’re fishing legally.

Visit Tangier Island

Tangier Island is a unique destination that’s only accessible by boat or plane. It’s a small island in the middle of Chesapeake Bay that’s home to a tight-knit community of watermen. When you visit Tangier Island, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The island has no cars, and the locals speak with a distinctive accent that’s a mix of English and a language that’s evolved over centuries of isolation.

Sail the Bay

Chesapeake Bay is known for its sailing opportunities, and there’s no better way to explore the bay than by sailboat. If you don’t have a sailboat of your own, there are plenty of companies that offer sailing charters. Be sure to sail to the mouth of the bay, where you can see the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Visit Assateague Island

Assateague Island is a beautiful barrier island that’s home to wild ponies, sandy beaches, and miles of hiking trails. It’s accessible by boat or car and is an excellent place to anchor and spend the day. You can explore the island’s hiking trails, go swimming in the ocean, or just relax on the beach.

In conclusion, there’s no shortage of things to do when boating in Chesapeake Bay. Whether you’re interested in history, fishing, sailing, or just soaking up the sun, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to explore all that the bay has to offer, and you’ll have a boating experience you’ll never forget.