Potomac River & Chesapeake Bay Cruise – American Independence

No three towns represent early American history better than Yorktown, Colonial Williamsburg, and the Jamestown Settlement. You can take the Yorktown Trolley through 9 stops throughout historic Yorktown, including battlefields and the Watermens Museum. Transportation is available to 18th century Colonial Williamsburg, once the largest British capital in the New World. From there, you can take a shuttle to the Jamestown Settlement, the first permanent English colony established in 1607. If you’d like to spend your day a little differently, head over to the Williamsburg Winery, the largest winery in Virginia.

Spend your day navigating the stunning waters of the Chesapeake Bay, North America’s most illustrious cruising grounds. Known as the largest estuary in the United States, its name, “Chesapeake,” derives from the Algonquian for “at a big river.” The Bay encompasses over 22 miles of diverse aquatic environments, including waterways, canals, lakes, and rivers. This remarkable mix of saltwater and freshwater has cultivated a vibrant ecosystem, thriving with fish and the famed blue crabs, alongside other abundant natural resources. Enjoy cruising the Chesapeake Bay and ride past the picturesque landscapes, and explore the charming, historic ports and towns scattered along the shoreline.

Explore Cambridge, a lively Chesapeake town celebrated for its historical significance and stunning architecture. Participate in a sailing adventure aboard a traditional skipjack to delve into the area’s robust nautical culture or opt for a kayak trip along the serene shores. Venture to the nearby Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, a vital habitat for migrating waterfowl and resident bald eagles, offering extensive trails for wildlife viewing. Stroll through Cambridge’s cobblestoned streets, dotted with unique art galleries and boutique shops, capturing the essence of its colonial and maritime past. Cap off your visit with a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savor local delicacies while enjoying views of the Choptank River.

Start with a walking tour of colonial St. Michaels before venturing out to explore the many options in this town. St. Michaels is home to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, and 18-acre waterfront property with 10 exhibit buildings, working boatyard and the historic lighthouse. Or take a private eco tour of the Chesapeake Bay with a naturalist to point our wildlife and landmarks as you go.

A trolley tour of Annapolis is available, giving you a good overview of the history and the town. Get your ID out for a tour of the Naval Academy, founded in 1845. Or if those don’t interest you, perhaps visit the Annapolis Maritime Museum, located in an old oyster packing building, or take an audio tour of historic Annapolis.

At the heart of this vibrant city on the Chesapeake Bay lies the iconic Inner Harbor, a bustling waterfront area filled with restaurants, shops, and historic sites. Home to a thriving culinary scene, delight in everything from fresh seafood to innovative farm-to-table dining. For art enthusiasts, the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Walters Art Museum showcase an impressive range of artworks, from classical to modern. Just a short distance away, Fort McHenry stands as a symbol of American resilience. Its successful defense during the War of 1812 inspired Francis Scott Key to pen The Star-Spangled Banner, which would eventually become our national anthem. Explore the fort’s well-preserved structures, walk the ramparts for stunning views of the harbor, and learn about its history through interactive exhibits and living history programs.