Baltimore to Edgewood by boat

Pilotage Plan: Baltimore, Maryland to Edgewood, Maryland

Introduction

This scenic route from Baltimore to Edgewood, Maryland, presents a unique opportunity for boaters to explore the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding waterways. While safety is our priority, the journey also offers points of interest and potential shelter should the weather become unfavorable. The route is well-suited for leisure boaters, especially those looking for a short day trip filled with both relaxation and exploration.

Route Overview

Your journey will take you approximately 25 nautical miles northeast from Baltimore Harbor to Edgewood on the Bush River. This route predominantly follows the Patapsco River and the Upper Chesapeake Bay, featuring plenty of navigational aids, landmarks, and safe havens.

Start Point: Baltimore, Maryland

• Coordinates: Longitude -76.6099166667, Latitude 39.2849
• Notable Features: The historic inner harbor, with marinas that provide facilities before departure. Ensure your vessel is fueled and stocked with supplies.
• Weather Monitoring: Always check local marine weather reports, as conditions can change rapidly.

Route Directions

1.

- As you leave, heed the navigational aids marking the channels. The Baltimore Harbor contains numerous buoys and markers; keep the red buoys on your right when heading out.

2. Patapsco River Navigation - Head upstream on the Patapsco River, maintaining a lookout for the Francis Scott Key Bridge (a good landmark). Stay alert for commercial traffic which can be frequent in this area. - Hazards: Be cautious of strong currents, especially during tidal changes.

3. Approaching the Key Bridge to the Colgate Creek - After passing under the Key Bridge, you’ll have options to explore Colgate Creek, which provides sheltered anchorage spots.

4. Port Deposit & Conowingo Dam - If you have time, a detour to Port Deposit can be worthwhile. It's a picturesque spot where you could drop anchor and briefly explore the charming town. - Pay attention to the Conowingo Dam, around 14 nautical miles from Baltimore; this can influence water levels.

5. Nearing Edgewood - Continue downstream into the Bush River, keeping an eye on the buoys and ensuring you abide by any navigational restrictions in the region. - Approaching Edgewood, you will find the river widening, providing beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

Sheltering Options

In case the weather takes a turn during your journey, consider these sheltered bays:
• Colgate Creek: A wonderful stop with protection from winds and waves.
• Upper Chesapeake Bay: Consider approaching Havre de Grace if you need shelter; this area offers multiple marinas and amenities.

Navigational Aids and Safety Considerations

• Markers: Keep track of day markers and buoys along the route, such as the "No Wake" zones near populated areas.
• Local Regulations: Be aware of speed limits, especially near Port Deposit and around marinas.
• Marine Charts: Invest in updated marine charts and use apps like savvy navvy for real-time navigation support. Other recommended apps include Navionics and NOAA’s free navigation charts.

Points of Interest

• While the focus is on safety, don't miss out on:

- Historic Havre de Grace: A short detour will bring you to this quaint town known for its maritime history and lighthouse. - Conowingo Dam: A powerhouse in the region, it's fascinating for those interested in local ecology.

Conclusion

This journey from Baltimore to Edgewood is not only an excursion to explore stunning waterways but also an excellent opportunity to hone cruising skills. Ideal for calm days and suited for moderate boaters, the route is abundant in charm, but always prioritize safety and situational awareness. Enjoy your adventure on the water!