Chesapeake Bay Cruise

Settle into your hotel and enjoy Baltimore, often called “Charm City."  This vibrant waterfront destination is known for its bustling Inner Harbor, where tall ships, world-class museums, and lively shops and restaurants create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors along the Patapsco River, which flows into the Chesapeake Bay. The city played a key role in American history, notably during the War of 1812, when Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” 

Today, Baltimore blends its maritime heritage with a thriving arts scene and renowned institutions like the National Aquarium and the American Visionary Art Museum, making it a captivating stop on any Chesapeake Bay cruise through the Mid-Atlantic region.

Step aboard and receive a warm welcome from our crew. It's the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travelers as we begin our journey along the legendary Chesapeake Bay’s historic waterways. Spend the afternoon cruising past celebrated shorelines. Take in panoramic views of Maryland’s Eastern Shore landscapes, iconic lighthouses, and passing working waterfronts. Throughout the afternoon, keep watch for graceful herons, playful ospreys, and other Chesapeake wildlife that thrive in this renowned estuary.

Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown collectively comprise Virginia’s renowned "Historic Triangle," each site echoing pivotal moments in American history.  
Led by an expert guide, explore Colonial Williamsburg’s preserved 18th-century district. Stroll through the narrow, time-worn streets that have preserved their colonial character. Engage with blacksmiths, cobblers, and other artisans practicing their crafts just as the first English colonists did.

Step back in time at the Jamestown Settlement, a comprehensive museum that brings to life 17th-century America. Here, you can uncover the story of America's first permanent English colony, founded in 1607, through meticulously recreated environments and detailed exhibits. Board the Yorktown Trolley, making convenient stops at Yorktown’s most significant sites, including the Yorktown Battlefield, where the final major conflict of the American Revolution unfolded.

Visit the American Revolution Museum, which tells the story of the nation’s founding, from the twilight of the colonial period to the dawn of the Constitution and beyond.

Historic Yorktown Walk - Complimentary Excursion
Enjoy a walking and trolley exploration of Historic Yorktown. Led by our knowledgeable guide, visit the Yorktown Victory Monument. Walk down Main Street and learn about the history and significance of Yorktown during the American Revolutionary War. Continue to the Gallery at York Hall where local artisans display their work, before boarding the Trolley for the return to the ship.  
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown - Complimentary Excursion
The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown tells the story of the nation’s founding, from the twilight of the colonial period to the dawn of the Constitution and beyond. Exciting indoor galleries feature period artifacts, immersive environments and films, including “The Siege of Yorktown,” with a 180-degree surround screen and dramatic special effects.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes

Historic Yorktown Trolley - Complimentary Excursion
Beginning at the River Walk Landing, this trolley makes convenient stops at Yorktown’s most significant sites, allowing you to explore at your own pace and comfort. Travel back in time at the Yorktown Battlefield, where the final major conflict of the American Revolution unfolded. Visit the Yorktown Visitor Center to see fascinating exhibits and learn about the pivotal events that shaped our nation. Stroll along historic buildings, where the stories of 18th-century life are brought to life through well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets. Take time to browse boutique shops and galleries offering locally crafted goods, art, and souvenirs.
Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes 

Bask in the beauty of Chesapeake Bay’s winding tidal waterways as you cruise along serene and picturesque landscapes. From the comfort of your private balcony, enjoy the opportunity to spot birds, dolphins, and other marine life native to Maryland’s estuarine coastline.  
As we voyage, onboard specialists will enrich your journey with insights into the local culture and heritage. Come evening, mingle with other guests and revel in the talents of some of the region's best entertainers.

The port of St. Michaels is a scenic harbor on Chesapeake Bay, well-known as a keystone locale in colonial history, serving as a trading post for farmers in the region.

Docking at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, once a famed shipbuilding village, get a glimpse of what life was like in the 1800s. Explore the museum’s variety of exhibits, including historic boats, artifacts, and interactive displays that highlight the area's maritime culture, shipbuilding, and environmental issues.
Visit the Classic Motor Museum, dedicated to appreciating and preserving America’s heritage of automotive innovation. Later, stroll along the waterfront of St. Michaels or explore the quaint gift shops and boutiques on the tree-lined Talbot Street.

Spend an additional day exploring St. Michaels on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. On a guided walk, visit the Historic District as you learn about 350 years of shipbuilding, classic homes, and the famous Battle of St. Michaels from the War of 1812. 

In the afternoon, board The Patriot, a replica of a 1930s steam ship, for a cruise on the Miles River. The captain will be your guide as you keep an eye out for the vibrant wildlife that calls this serene landscape home, from graceful herons to playful otters.

Add some flavor to your experience as you uncover the artistry behind one of Maryland’s most celebrated craft distilleries. Gain insight into the meticulous craftsmanship of their premium spirits and be treated to a tasting.

Let your Colonial-attired guide lead you through a vivid narrative spanning 350 exhilarating years, revealing Annapolis' stories and captivating tales. Walk in the footsteps of George Washington, where, in 1783, inside the State House, he resigned as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Continuing through the downtown area, pass many 18th-century mansions and learn about the significance of their beautiful architecture within Maryland’s historic capital district.  
Later, visit the U.S. Naval Academy. Experience “Life on the Yard” as you explore the Academy campus with a certified guide who highlights its past and present. Or, view the Academy from the water aboard the classic Harbor Queen for a narrated cruise along Annapolis Harbor on the Chesapeake Bay.

From the cobblestone streets of Fells Point to landmarks like Fort McHenry, where the national anthem was born, Baltimore offers something for everyone. 
Take a narrated cruise through the Inner Harbor, learning about the renaissance of Baltimore's waterfront as well as its fascinating maritime history, and Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay port communities.  

Visit The National Aquarium, home to thousands of marine species, including sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. Learn about animals from all over the planet, from the depths of the ocean to the canopy of the rainforest, and discover the connection they all share with water.
For a deeper understanding of Maryland’s history, explore the city’s History & Culture Center with a vast collection of artifacts and artworks.  A visit to Baltimore wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its famous seafood, especially the famous Maryland crab cakes.

The National Aquarium - Complimentary Excursion
One of the largest attractions in Maryland, The National Aquarium boasts several exhibits including the Upland Tropical Rain Forest, a multi-story Atlantic Coral Reef, an open-ocean shark tank, and many more. Learn about animals from all over the planet, from the depths of the ocean to the canopy of the rain forest, and discover the connection they all share with water.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial

Maryland Center for History & Culture - Complimentary Excursion
Visit this center, which offers a wide array of exhibits that showcase Maryland’s past and cultural legacy. Enjoy a guided tour of The Unfinished Revolution exhibition, which explores the chaos, confusion, and conflicts of the early United States as it fought to defend its newly attained freedoms. Learn about impact the French and Indian War, the American Revolutionary War, the Quasi-War, and the War of 1812 had on Maryland, and the political and economic growth of the state and the nation thereafter. Take time to explore the center’s extensive collection on your own, including artifacts, documents, and artworks that provide a deeper understanding of Maryland’s history.
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Your captivating Chesapeake Bay cruise through time wraps up in the lively city of Baltimore, where it all started. Have one last breakfast aboard the ship before you disembark to either start your journey home or to extend your stay for further exploration in Maryland’s historic harbor city.