Baltimore to Deale by boat

Pilotage Plan: Boat Trip from Baltimore, MD to Deale, MD

Departure from Baltimore, Maryland

Starting your journey in Baltimore, with its rich maritime history, is a wonderful choice. Before heading out, spend some time at the Baltimore Inner Harbor, taking in the sights and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to fuel up and gather necessary supplies at local marinas like the Baltimore Marina.

Starting Coordinates: Longitude -76.6099166667, Latitude 39.2849

Route Overview

Your adventure from Baltimore to Deale covers approximately 28 nautical miles via the Patapsco River, Chesapeake Bay, and a short transit through the West River. This route offers a mix of urban scenery, beautiful waterfront views, and charming rural landscapes. It's an excellent journey for intermediate boaters but can be seasoned with various spots to anchor and explore.

Notable Points of Interest

1. Fort McHenry: As you depart from Baltimore, keep an eye out for Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine on your starboard side. This site is renowned for its role in the War of 1812 and is a great place to plot a brief stop if time allows.

2. Hammond Creek: About 4 nautical miles into your route, Hammond Creek provides a great opportunity for a sheltered anchorage. This is an ideal spot if conditions deteriorate or if you simply wish to pause and enjoy nature.

3. Deale Town’s Waterfront: Once you are closer to Deale, take a moment to enjoy the picturesque views along the waterfront. Deale is famous for its fishing and beach access.

Navigational Aids and Considerations

• Chesapeake Bay Bridge: As you enter Chesapeake Bay, the bridge will be an unmistakable landmark. Be aware of your vertical clearance depending on your vessel type; maintain a lookout for taller vessels.

• Marker Navigation: Pay close attention to the navigational markers (buoys and beacons) placed along the route. Your chartplotter or navigation app (Savvy Navvy is highly recommended) will help you stay on track.

• Tidal Current: The Chesapeake Bay experiences significant tidal currents, especially around the Bay Bridge and the Patapsco River mouth. Plan your timing according to the tides, especially if you're unfamiliar with tidal navigation, as this will greatly influence your trip duration and safety.

Local Regulations to Consider

• Speed Limits: Maintain the local speed limits when navigating through populated areas and near protected waters. The Chesapeake Bay has specific no-wake zones, especially in marinas and private docks.

• Fishing Regulations: If you plan to do any fishing, familiarize yourself with local regulations. Some areas have specific rules regarding fishing seasons and catch limits.

Shelter & Safety

The route provides several opportunities for shelter. Besides Hammond Creek, other notable areas for anchoring or seeking refuge in inclement weather include:
• Brooklyn Park: A little off-route but provides excellent protection with safe anchorage.
• Sandy Point State Park: Offers a calm area in high winds, making it a good diversion for a picnic or short hike.

Final Approach to Deale, MD

As you make your way toward Deale, the West River will guide you with beautiful surroundings. Maintain a lookout for local marine traffic, as this area can be quite busy with both recreational and commercial vessels.

Ending Coordinates: Longitude -76.56, Latitude 38.7775

As you approach the Deale area, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty and perhaps get ready to enjoy some delicious local seafood once you dock. From sailing through the iconic waters to experiencing the rich charm of the towns, this trip will be a memorable one—provided you keep safety as your key focus.

For post-trip planning, consider apps like Savvy Navvy for route tracking, navigation, and safety updates. Enjoy every moment on the water, remain vigilant, and make the most of your trip from Baltimore to Deale!