For Baltimore boaters, it’s been a rough spring. With the destruction of the Key Bridge and the closure of the shipping channel, Baltimore’s maritime industry has taken a significant hit. But with the gradual re-opening of the channel earlier and more chances for recreational boaters to pass, Baltimore is ready to once again win hearts over as one of the best cruising destinations on the Chesapeake.
The beauty of cruising Baltimore lies in the myriad of opportunities you have once you dock the boat. There are museums within walking distance and sporting events so close you can practically hear the ump call, “Strike!” Don’t forget about the incredible dining and summertime festivals that will entertain all ages. Within the last decade, Baltimore’s waterfront has adapted to accommodate the needs of boaters of all lengths and drafts, and today there’s no reason to worry about parking considering the incredible services Charm City marinas offer.
One of our first stops this summer will be Drift Bar, a new floating tiki bar that recently opened in Lighthouse Point Marina along the Canton waterfront. Drift Bar opened in 2023 and is celebrating the start of its second season with a Sip & Support event on June 13, with all net proceeds benefitting the Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong Key Bridge Fund that has been established to support port communities’ recovery.
Drift Bar’s Sip and Support comes just at the beginning of Maryland Fleet Week and Flyover Baltimore, a weeklong event with ship tours, historic military aircraft, festivals, and much more.
You might head up for the vintage aircraft, but stay for the crab soup cookoffs, bluegrass bands, and rum punch tours. The welcome ceremony kicks off on Wednesday, June 12, at 4 p.m. in the Inner Harbor Amphitheater and runs through Monday, June 17, at 6 p.m. This event is fun for all ages, with programming for kids and adults alike. If you want to check out the event by boat, however, be sure to check out our Marina Guide for docking opportunities.
If you’re interested in cruising Charm City’s waters but don’t have a yacht of your own, the next best thing is Other People’s Boats. And in this case, we’re huge fans of Reveur Savage, a luxury private yacht club and charter business that offers charter experiences out of Port Covington. Reveur Savage operates a 42-foot Silverton that can accommodate 13 passengers plus the captain and first mate, and offers some of the best charter rates you’ll find on the Chesapeake. Their grand opening, to be held on June 15, is a fantastic night of Baltimore waterfront entertaining with champagne, hors d’oeuvres, a live DJ, and much more.
