Ways to Get on the Water in Maryland If You Don’t Own a Boat

Maryland has 3,190 miles of coastline, and you don’t have to own a boat to enjoy a day on the water. Maryland is a treasure trove of waterways, offering lakes, rivers, and the stunning Chesapeake Bay, making it an ideal destination for water enthusiasts. However, not everyone has access to a boat, which can make enjoying these beautiful aquatic landscapes seem daunting. 

Fortunately, numerous ways exist to get on the water without owning a boat. From rental services and guided tours to public access points and community programs, this guide will explore the options available for those looking to experience Maryland’s rich maritime culture. Whether you’re interested in kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying a scenic cruise, you’ll find that adventure awaits just beyond the shore.

Boat Rentals in Maryland

Renting a boat is similar to renting a car. Boat options range from big to small, and some places even rent accompanying watersports equipment for an additional fee, such as tubes, wakeboards, and skis. There are hundreds of boat rental businesses in Maryland. Your best bet is to decide where you want to enjoy your outing and find a rental nearby. 

To drive/captain a power boat, you must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license and have good experience driving boats and/or with a Maryland Boating Safety Certificate. (necessary if born on or after June 1, 1972, and a resident of the State of MD.)

Water Taxis in Maryland

Water Taxis are a great way to travel around cities on a waterway. You avoid busy road traffic and instead can take advantage of relaxing short jaunts across the water from one destination to another. 

Annapolis – Watermark Cruises: Operates the Annapolis Water Taxi throughout Annapolis, including Spa and Back Creeks. $

Baltimore: Baltimore has a free public transit system called the Harbor Connector, which connects four key waterfront locations. Free

National Harbor: City Cruises offers water taxi service between National Harbor, Georgetown, The Wharf, and Old Town Alexandria. $

Ocean City: OC Bay Hopper: Provides water taxi service in Ocean City, and a shuttle service that runs like a bus with established routes. 

Sailing Adventures in Maryland

Enjoy a sailing trip on the Bay. Help raise the sails and steer the boat, or sit back and relax. 

Woodwind Sailing Cruises out of  Annapolis are the perfect way to get away. 

The Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons 
River Cruises on the Wm. B. Tennison. Enjoy a leisurely hour on the river with a relaxing sightseeing cruise.

Chronic Sailing, Annapolis
Spend a few hours on a half-day sail, a full day and evening aboard your private yacht, or multiple days and nights for an extended adventure. Watch the sunset, celebrate a birthday or anniversary with a special cruise, or simply relax and enjoy the view. Bring your snacks & drinks or have a meal delivered or catered on board. Arrive in style at your favorite dock bar. Go for a swim.

We want you to have your perfect day on the Bay, whatever that means to you. That’s why we’ve created various itinerary options. Have something specific in mind? Just ask!

Pride of Baltimore II – Epic Adventure, and a unique experience sailing on a wood topsail schooner.

Shardana Sailing Charters, full and half-day experiences leaving from Rock Hall. Most of the sailing is done at the mouth of the Chester River and the main bay, not far from Annapolis, Baltimore, and the Magothy River.

Wilma Lee, a historic Skipjack based at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Watch the Wednesday night sailboat races, go on a Sunset or Heritage Cruise, or book a 2-hour private charter. 

Historic Workboat Experience 45-minute cruise aboard a historic boat in CBMM’s floating fleet. Try your hand at different tools and harvest techniques while learning about different fisheries, including oysters and blue crabs.

Maryland Tours by Water

Watermark offers a variety of water access from water taxis to larger boats to take you across the bay to Saint Michaels or a Thomas Point Lighthouse Cruise.

Chesapeake Maritime Museum
Guests of all ages will delight in learning local history while experiencing breathtaking views of the Miles River aboard PATRIOT. A St. Michaels tradition since 1969, the 65-foot, 149-passenger vessel built to resemble a traditional Chesapeake Bay steamboat offers both 70-minute Narrated Historical Cruises and 90-minute Happy Hour Cruises during its cruising season.