Only a handful of waterways in the world can match the Chesapeake Bay for sheer sailing pleasure, and Annapolis is right in the heart of this sailing paradise. At about 200 miles long, it’s the largest estuary in the United States with thousands of miles of shoreline to explore. It offers sailors protected waters, great anchorages, gorgeous natural scenery, and unique towns and villages steeped in history.
Before embarking, seeing the sights of Annapolis is a must. Stroll down to “Ego Alley” at Annapolis Harbor, and then grab a sandwich at Chick & Ruth’s Delly on Main Street. Visit the Maryland State House – the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use topped by the largest wooden dome in the nation.
The Chesapeake Bay takes its name from a Powhatan word, “Chesepioc,” or “Great Shellfish Bay.” The French founded Annapolis as a settlement called Port Royal in 1605, and Captain John Smith became the first European to explore and thoroughly map the Chesapeake Bay in 1609, writing in his journal that “heaven and earth have never agreed better to frame a place for man’s habitation.”
With so many delightful creeks, coves, rivers, towns and villages to visit, Annapolis makes for a dream sailing vacation.
