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hanowellj · 12-06-2014, 10:21

Hi Folks -

I am planning a 5 day trip with my family around the Chesapeake Bay. We have a 27' power boat and are looking for route recommendations. We are really open to anything as the information on this area is overwhelming. Looking to have moderate boating time and would like to spend the majority of the time with the boat docked at various marinas to explore places on foot.
Thanks for the help!

xxuxx · 12-06-2014, 10:42

I have 2 great, do not miss stops for you. the first is the Cape Charles Yacht Club. It has great amenities and an even better restaurant. You can take a golf cart to explore the area. The second is the location where "The Wedding Crashers" was filmed, The Inn at Perry Cabin which has a nice docking area as well. These are upscale suggestions that I know the family would love. there is one more on the west side on the chesapeake but I can't remember the name but it is near the rappahanock. Best of luck.

Badsanta · 12-06-2014, 11:23

Where are you starting from. You can't see everything in a week. Just trying to narrow down the route.

ranger58sb · 12-06-2014, 11:25

Yep, starting where? Around here, it's easy to come up with 10-15 places worth visiting on your first trip... although you'll actually want to stop and smell some coffee at some of 'em along the way

And/or is it a trailer boat, with flexibility for start/end points?

-Chris

hanowellj · 12-06-2014, 11:38

No set starting point - very flexible. We have explored Virginia plenty, so looking for MD recommendations in the Bay. Possibly considering starting at Harve de Grace as I've heard that's beautiful. Boat can be trailered, so can put in/out anywhere there is a decent ramp and start/end point don't need to be the same. Just looking for recommendations on a good route to take as it seems there are tons. thanks again for the help!

ranger58sb · 12-06-2014, 12:12

OK, come to Annapolis, put in at Sandy Point State Park.

Cruise to St. Michaels on the Miles River using the route around the south end (Bloody Point) of Kent Island and stay over at least one day. Include the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum as quality time at St. M's.

Cruise to Kent Narrows, on the east side of Kent Island, stay for lunch or even overnight; several good restaurants in the area.

Cruise to Rock Hall, north of Kent Island (past Love Point) and stay over at least one night. Stay in either the main harbor or the Swan Point side, enjoy the restaurants. Main Harbor a bit more partying type, you'll want to honor the day marks around the horsehoe upon entry.

Cruise to Fairlee Creek, further north on the eastern side, and stay over a night. Anchor out if you like, but enjoy the tiki bar.

Come back to Annapolis and stay in the harbor area -- slips in Ego Alley, on the moorings (water taxi service is easy), or at one of the other marinas. Sta over one night and party in downtown Annapolis.

Run back to Sandy Point for departure.

I can modify all that easily, with stops in Deale, Chesapeake Beach, Solomons, Cambridge, Oxford, Georgetown, Baltimore, Havre d'Grace, Chesapeake City... and/or lots of decent anchorages.

But you'll want time to do stuff when you get to places, and you'll probably want some "hang out" time... so this was just a start for initial consideration.

-Chris

hanowellj · 12-06-2014, 12:59

this is a big help - thank you!

Badsanta · 12-06-2014, 13:22

I would pick one or two places and spend several day's each or pick one place and do day trips and return to the same place. Especially if you are staying at a hotel. Saves unpacking. You want to be invigorated and refreshed. Not exhausted and frazzled with breakdowns or bad weather. If you don't watch the weather you could cross the bay and not get back for several days. Have a great trip.