Sailing on the Chesapeake

Of course, one of the main attractions of Annapolis is the Bay itself. Short of owning your own boat, there are many ways for visitors to sample the sailing life on the Chesapeake. Many cruises—from as short as 40 minutes to as long as the entire day—leave from the City Dock. Watermark Cruises (City Dock, Historic District. 410/268-7601. www.watermarkcruises.com) is Annapolis's biggest charter and tour service, with many themed tours of varying lengths. Children might especially enjoy Watermark's "Pirates of the Chesapeake" cruise. This "high-seas adventure" is good for short attention spans and is just one hour. Private charters are also available from Watermark. Probably the most economical way to get out on the water is on the Water Taxi (City Dock, Historic District. 410/263-0033) that runs from Annapolis Harbor to Back Creek. For less than $5 per person you can get out on the water for a short trip. For a long trip, consider a Boat & Breakfast on the Schooner Woodwind (80 Compromise St., at the Annapolis Marriot Waterfront Hotel. 410/263-7837. www.schoonerwoodwind.com).Take a two-hour sail and then spend the night dockside in double-berth staterooms. A comprehensive listing of all of the sailing possibilities is available on the Visitors Bureau Web site www.visitannapolis.org.