5 Ways to Enjoy Baltimore by Water

Baltimore's Inner Harbor is one of America's oldest seaports. Once a center for shipbuilding, it's now a destination for fun and home to some of the city's best attractions – the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, Port Discovery Children's Museum and Harborplace. When you stay with us at Rachael's Dowry Bed & Breakfast, you are just minutes from the waterfront and all that it has to offer.

Whether cruising on a sightseeing tour, paddling in a kayak or sailing on a schooner, there’s a boat waiting for you in our harbor. Here are five ways to take in the stunning views of the famed Chesapeake Bay from the water. Adventure awaits!

1. Sailing
Summer is the perfect time to sail away on the Inner Harbor – on a schooner, catamaran or classic sailboat. There are several sailing tours to choose from, depending on your interests. Daytime sightseeing tours take you around the harbor to see popular attractions including the U.S.S. Constellation, Federal Hill, Fell's Point, Fort McHenry and more. For romantic sunset sails and moonlight cruises, cuddle up as you watch the sun fade over the horizon and the skyline light up before your eyes. If relaxing on a sailboat sounds good to you, book well in advance with one of these tour providers: American Sailing Tours, Sea Baltimore and Harbor Sail.

2. Sightseeing Cruise
Cruise the Inner Harbor and the Patapsco River for incredible views and a narrated tour of Baltimore's historic waterfront and its maritime history. Hornblower Cruises is known for delectable brunch, lunch and dinner cruises. Or take a sightseeing tour and enjoy a cocktail from the bar as you enjoy stunning views of the shoreline along the voyage. Unforgettable journeys await with Watermark Cruises. Most excursions are 90 minutes, but for the perfect introduction to Baltimore's neighborhoods and attractions, sign up for the 45-minute Baltimore Harbor Cruise. If you're looking for a more adventurous cruise on the high seas, Urban Pirate Ship's "Bring Your Own Grog" voyage might be your ticket to fun.

3. Kayaking
For an outdoor adventure where you're the captain of your own vessel, take a kayak tour of Inner Harbor. The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore and Baltimore City Recreation and Parks have teamed up to offer guided paddling tours on Sunday mornings and afternoons departing from the Maryland Science Center. These treks are for experienced kayakers and give participants a one-of-a-kind view of the city's skyline, historic ships and floating restoration projects. There also are sunset kayaking trips on Friday evenings that leave from Middle Branch Park.

4. Paddle boats
Scotland may have the Loch Ness Monster, but Chessie Dragon finds its home in the waters of the Chesapeake. The kid in you will enjoy these themed pedal-powered paddleboats (say that three times fast), operated by the Living Classrooms Foundation. The foundation serves more than 30,000 children, youth and adults yearly through hands-on education and training programs. Opt for the equally unique electric-powered Pirate Ships of Baltimore if you're not up for a self-propelled ride.

5. Water Taxi
Getting from Point A to Point B has never been as fun as when you take the Baltimore Water Taxi to get to your next destination. The trip is part of the adventure! Commute across the harbor as you explore Baltimore's historic neighborhoods and popular attractions. Grab a one-way ticket or all-day pass for the seasonal ferry – or book a ride on a 1-hour twilight or sunset BYO Cruise that departs from Fell's Point.