Annapolis, MD

If you love boating, you’ll absolutely love Annapolis, MD. This charming city on the Chesapeake Bay is known as America’s Sailing Capital, and for good reason - Annapolis offers a variety of boating options, from sailing and fishing charters to boat rentals and cruises. Whether you want to rent a yacht in Annapolis with captain, explore the bay, enjoy the scenery, or experience the local culture, Annapolis has something in store for you. Read on for the full scoop!

Pick your on-the-water adventure in Annapolis

Sail on a schooner. You don’t get to sail on a historic wooden schooner every other day, so you might want to do so when in Annapolis, by joining a public sail or booking a Annapolis boat rental for you and your party. You’ll get to see the sights of Annapolis sailing, such as the Naval Academy and the Thomas Point Lighthouse, and learn about the. history and ecology of the bay. You might even spot some wildlife, such as dolphins, ospreys, and bald eagles.

Fish on a charter. If you’re looking for some angler action, hop on one of the many yacht charters in Annapolis, MD and try your luck at catching some of the bay’s bounty. Annapolis also has many fishing charters to choose from, offering trips for all skill levels and preferences. There’s a wide variety of fish in these waters and if you get your own charter you could ask the owner if equipment, bait, and licenses are provided, as most charters in the area come already equipped. Before that, make sure to check Annapolis boat rentals prices and see what fits your interests. While relaxing on your fishing trip you can also enjoy a scenic cruise along the way, and admire the beautiful views of the bay and its islands.

Rent a boat. If you want more freedom and flexibility, you can look for Annapolis yacht rentals or catamaran rentals in Annapolis MD and explore the bay at your own pace. There are plenty of boat rentals in Annapolis, MD to choose from, and you can hire a yacht in Annapolis, MD by the hour or by the day, depending on your needs. Pro-tip: look for a catamaran rental in Annapolis if you want to surprise your group, or go the extra mile and get a party boat rental in Annapolis! Don’t forget to ask the owners for any local tips and tricks, and prepare to be surprised.

Cruise on a water taxi. If you’re short on time or just want a quick ride on the water, take a water taxi around Annapolis. Water taxis are a fun and affordable way to enjoy the breeze and get from one point to another, or to see some of the attractions along the waterfront. You can hop on and off at various stops, such as City Dock, Eastport, Spa Creek, and Back Creek.

Hop off your boat and go see Annapolis up close

Annapolis is not only a great place to boat around to, but also to visit. The city has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a charming downtown. Here are some of the things you can do on land here, after you dock your sailboat rental in Annapolis:

Visit the Naval Academy. The United States Naval Academy is one of the most prestigious military academies in the world and a major attraction in Annapolis. You can take a guided tour of the campus and see some of its highlights, such as Bancroft Hall, Memorial Hall, Chapel Dome, and Herndon Monument. You can also watch the noon formation of midshipmen or catch a sporting event or a musical performance.

Explore the historic district. Annapolis has one of the best-preserved historic districts in the country, dating back to the 18th century. You can stroll along the brick-lined streets and admire the colonial architecture and landmarks, or visit some of the museums and historic sites, such as the Maryland State House, Hammond-Harwood House, William Paca House and Garden, and Banneker-Douglass Museum.

Shop and dine at City Dock. City Dock is the heart of Annapolis’ waterfront and a popular spot for shopping and dining. You will find everything from souvenirs and antiques to art and jewelry at the various shops and boutiques, and when you’re done shopping we suggest you enjoy some of the best seafood and local cuisine at the restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss the world-famous crab cakes, have a go at oyster dishes, and finish with a delightful ice cream.

Take some time off at the beach

Sandy Point State Park. This is one of the most popular beaches in Annapolis, thanks to its breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. The park has a large sandy beach that stretches for an approximate two miles, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, and if you’re around you can also take your pick at the various water activities present here, starting with fishing, all the way to boating in private boat charters in Annapolis, MD, and also kayaking.

Quiet Waters Park. Another fantastic beach in Annapolis is Quiet Waters Park. The park is located along the South River, offering a serene and peaceful environment for everyone. The beach has calm waters almost all year round, making it perfect for families with young children who want to swim or play here. The park also features several amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, making it a great place for a day out with family or friends.

Mayo Beach Park. If you are looking for a more quieter and secluded beach experience, Mayo Beach Park is the perfect spot. Located on the Mayo Peninsula, the park has a small beach area that offers a more relaxed environment away from the crowds. The beach has a reputation for being always clean, quiet, and perfect for sunbathing or reading a book. While here, you can also enjoy various other activities, such as  paddleboarding, kayaking or simply gaze at the boats sailing by.

Bay Ridge Beach. Another must-visit spot in Annapolis is Bay Ridge Beach on the Chesapeake Bay, offering a great view of the bay, its boat rentals in Maryland, and the surrounding area. Bay Ridge Beach is clean and well-maintained, making it perfect for swimming or just relaxing on the soft sand. Several amenities are also present, including a playground, picnic areas, and a boat ramp fit for your luxury yacht rental in Annapolis MD.

Where to cruise around Annapolis

If you’re looking for an extended trip, you can also take your boat to some of the nearby destinations. Here’s where you should charter to:

St. Michaels. This quaint town is a short boat ride away from Annapolis and is a popular destination for boaters. St. Michaels has a charming historic district, a world-class maritime museum, and a variety of shops and restaurants. You can also enjoy some of the best boat tours and water sports with a boat rental in St Michaels, MD, such as sailing on a skipjack, cruising on a patriot, or fishing on a charter. Don’t worry about docking, as you can there are many marinas around, and you can also anchor in the harbor and take the water taxi to town.

Kent Island. This island is the largest in the Chesapeake Bay and a great place to visit with a Solomons Island boat rental. Kent Island has some of the best beaches in the area, namely Matapeake Beach and Terrapin Beach Park, where you can swim, sunbathe, or picnic. You can dock your boat rental in Edgewater, MD at one of the marinas or anchorages on the island, or use one of the public boat ramps to access the land, and afterwards explore some of the trails and parks on the island.

Baltimore. If you’re looking for a bigger city experience, you can take your boat to Baltimore, which is a cruise of 30 miles north of Annapolis. Baltimore is a vibrant and diverse city with a lot on display, such as museums, art galleries, sports venues, and an active nightlife, which is sometimes best seen on a party boat in Maryland. You can also visit some of the famous attractions on the waterfront, such as the Inner Harbor, Fort McHenry, and Fells Point. You can dock your boat rental in Baltimore at one of the many marinas or anchorages here or use a water taxi to get around.

Final thoughts

As you can see, Annapolis is a boater’s paradise that offers endless possibilities for fun and adventure on the water. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, a cultural immersion, or a thrilling excursion, you’ll find it in Annapolis and its surroundings. Book your boat rental or charter today and discover why Annapolis is one of the best boating destinations in the country.