Washington DC Marinas

[swaterhouse]

We are heading back to the Chesapeake this summer for three weeks.

We would like to try to go up to DC for a couple of nights, we used to live outside DC in the early 2000's and would like to go back to bring our daughter to a couple of the spots in DC.

Looks like there is quite a bit of construction going on in the area of the Capital Yacht Club and The Wharf marinas, but looks like maybe that will be complete (at least mostly) by this summer?

Anyone know that area well and/or have any thoughts on those marinas? Looks to be a short walk to the air and space and natural history museums, and obviously the metro stops all around that area. Is there a better place to stay still being close?

We would be there in mid August.

I will also be scanning previous threads for some off the beaten path spots, but we know for sure we want to visit Baltimore, Annapolis, St Michaels, Solomon's, and DC. Ideally the rest of the stops are quite creek coves. The plan is to come south through the C&D canal and if weather allows back north up the outside with a stop in Ocean City.

 

[mrsrobinson]

The newer DC Wharf is amazing, great floating slips and walking distance to everything. Old Towne Alexandria is a great place as well, nice marina.

 

[MoonRiver]

The Navy Yard area is also nicely rebuilt and hoping with everything and metro.

 

[Mikemapva]

The Wharf area that includes the previous Gangplank marina is great now with lots more to do there than in the past.

As mentioned previously, the Navy Yard area has really improved as well. We stayed at the Yards Marina last summer for a Nats game and it was very nice.

https://www.yardsmarina.com/

 

[ranger58sb]

We are heading back to the Chesapeake this summer for three weeks.

We would like to try to go up to DC for a couple of nights, we used to live outside DC in the early 2000's and would like to go back to bring our daughter to a couple of the spots in DC.

I will also be scanning previous threads for some off the beaten path spots, but we know for sure we want to visit Baltimore, Annapolis, St Michaels, Solomon's, and DC. Ideally the rest of the stops are quite creek coves. The plan is to come south through the C&D canal and if weather allows back north up the outside with a stop in Ocean City.

That's a lot to try for, starting where you are and in only three weeks... assuming each stop won't be just a quick drive-by.

No surprise here: Getting down to Norfolk for the return outside adds lotso miles and you'd be more weather dependent for the northbound leg.

Staying inside instead, likely stops might be Cape May; Lewes (instead of Ocean City, maybe); Delaware City; Chesapeake City;, maybe a side trip to Havre De Grace; Rock Hall; Ball'mer; Annapolis; St. Michaels; maybe a stopover at Knapp's Narrows and then a sidetrip up the Choptank to Oxford and Cambridge; Deale, Rosehaven, or Chesapeake Beach; Solomons... could stop at some on the way down, others on the return.

Maybe we could find a way to quaff a beverage or two as you come through here.

-Chris

 

[Korkie]

If you stop in Solomons, Spring Cove is our favorite. Lots of amenities. Free shuttle to the many area restaurants, Free loaner car to go get groceries, very nearby West Marine (just in case you desperately need something). Pool, pool bar, some entertainment at the pool. And VERY clean to include private restrooms and showers. There are many really nice marina's in Solomons, this is just our favorite.

 

[swaterhouse]

Thanks all for the DC input and Solomons.

Yes @ranger58sb yes its a lot to pack into three weeks, and yes it would be great to catch up over a tasty beverage. We did the upper Chesapeake a few years ago. With the right weather we can make Baltimore or Norfolk in two days if we can cut the corner from MA to Atlantic City/Cape May. The will plan for three days on both ends for travel with a fourth day in reserve if needed, we need the third day if we have to use Long Island Sound. We are leaving the option open to leave a day or two earlier and stay a day or two later if needed as well.

We will likely do two nights in Baltimore, two or three in Annapolis, and three in DC. The rest will be bouncing around, hopefully mostly on anchor from one night to three depending on weather and location.

The other option not yet fully ruled out is leaving the boat in Annapolis for a while or the rest of the season/winter.

Would love to catch up with anyone in the areas. We should have our plans tightened up in the next week or two.

 

[rcmafgny]

We are heading back to the Chesapeake this summer for three weeks.

We would like to try to go up to DC for a couple of nights, we used to live outside DC in the early 2000's and would like to go back to bring our daughter to a couple of the spots in DC.

Looks like there is quite a bit of construction going on in the area of the Capital Yacht Club and The Wharf marinas, but looks like maybe that will be complete (at least mostly) by this summer?

Anyone know that area well and/or have any thoughts on those marinas? Looks to be a short walk to the air and space and natural history museums, and obviously the metro stops all around that area. Is there a better place to stay still being close?

We would be there in mid August.

I will also be scanning previous threads for some off the beaten path spots, but we know for sure we want to visit Baltimore, Annapolis, St Michaels, Solomon's, and DC. Ideally the rest of the stops are quite creek coves. The plan is to come south through the C&D canal and if weather allows back north up the outside with a stop in Ocean City.

Hey Scott,
Let us know your plans.
We moved to Delaware and plan on doing a Chesapeake run this summer.
We were looking forward to the Winter rendezvous, but with folks headed south, didn't materialize this year..........

Ron

 

[swaterhouse]

Hey Scott,
Let us know your plans.
We moved to Delaware and plan on doing a Chesapeake run this summer.
We were looking forward to the Winter rendezvous, but with folks headed south, didn't materialize this year..........

Ron

Yep the winter rendezvous weekend will be missed.

Major marina stops are now booked, now its time to fill in the gaps. Other than what is booked we know we want to get to St Michaels again but that will be on anchor.

I still need to dig through some of the other posts to gather a list of potential other spots. Ideally some will be spots we can anchor, swim and play with water toys. We have a 9 year old daughter so need ways of burning energy. Also want to find spots that are relatively close (under 3 miles) to either hiking trails or play grounds.


8/8 (approx) arrive in upper bay
??
8/11-8/14 Port Annapolis Marina
??
8/17-8/20 The Wharf DC
8/20-8/22 Solomons Yachting Center
??
8/25 (approx) start trek home

 

[ranger58sb]

Also want to find spots that are relatively close (under 3 miles) to either hiking trails or play grounds.

Anchoring in Harness Creek on the South River -- south side of Annapolis -- would give you easy access to Quiet Waters city park. Canoe/paddleboat rentals, good hiking trails, playgrounds (I think), some beachfront on the river itself, etc.

-Chris