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Sharks, Schooners & Crabs

DAY ONE

Whether your passion is cruising the waterways or learning about the creatures that inhabit them, Baltimore is the perfect choice. Start with one of the city's most visited attractions, the National Aquarium in Baltimore. One of the largest Aquariums in the country, this world famous attraction features sharks, dolphins, rays, tropical fish, and ten thousand other creatures in naturalistic exhibits. You can experience a tropical rain forest, an Atlantic coral reef, a mesmerizing shark ring, and even a fun and educational dolphin show at the Marine Mammal Pavilion.

Just a few steps from the Aquarium you can enjoy one of Harbor Cruises' trips aboard the Bay Lady or Lady Baltimore. Choose to have lunch, dinner, or maybe a Maryland crab feast as you cruise to the Francis Scott Key Bridge along the Patapsco River. If sailing is more your style, try a journey aboard the Clipper City, a replica of schooner ships built in the 1800s.

Another charter and dinner option is a replica of a 1930s Art Deco style yacht, the Black-Eyed Susan. Or, cruise in luxury aboard the Baltimore Harbor Charter's Royal Blue, a 75-foot yacht that is also available for private charter. Nautical Destinations offers yacht charters, both sail and power, all along the Eastern Shore. One last nautical stop is the Project Liberty Ship located on the south shore. This project includes the restoration and operation of the WWII Liberty Ship S.S. John W. Brown as a living memorial museum.

Just a 30-minute drive from Baltimore is Annapolis, the state capital and home to the U.S. Naval Academy. A day trip to this charming waterfront community can begin with a visit to the Academy's Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center. From there you can stroll the world famous Academy's grounds on a guided walking tour of the world famous institution. From Annapolis, join a Watermark Cruise for a trip on the Bay, sightseeing, and an historical tour of Annapolis. Another fun and unique option to select is a sunset cruise aboard one of Admiral of the Bay's schooners or yachts. Whatever your choice, you're certain to enjoy this historic and beautiful town!

DAY TWO

There are so many ways to explore Baltimore from the water! Captain Don's Fishing Charters and Sea Dove Charters offer sportfishing and sightseeing. For something different, join A-1 Schooner Nighthawk Cruises for a murder mystery cruise aboard the 19th-century style sailing schooner, Nighthawk. For a true adventure, board one of the Discovery Channel Ducks. These amphibious vehicles let you travel and enjoy the city by sea and land as you visit historic sites and neighborhoods before your "duck" plunges into the Inner Harbor for a water tour!

When this exhilarating day is over, we suggest you end your day like a local and have a Maryland crab feast at one of the city's many traditional crab houses. Don't worry, the locals are more than willing to offer tips on cracking our infamous crustaceans, and there is no better way to share a laugh and a pint of beer with your friends!