Embarking on a cruise from Baltimore to Lusby offers a perfect blend of serene waterways, engaging local attractions, and essential safety considerations. This trip is ideal for experienced cruisers looking to enjoy the unique beauty of the Chesapeake Bay while keeping safety as their utmost priority.
Starting from Baltimore, weave your way through the Patapsco River and out into the expansive Chesapeake Bay. The journey is approximately 60 nautical miles and can be plotted with ease for day cruising. The route offers opportunities to take shelter, enjoy points of interest, and provides crucial navigational aids to ensure a safe passage.
Local Considerations:As you depart from Baltimore, familiarize yourself with the busy inner harbor and the bustling water traffic which includes ferries and pleasure boats. It’s essential to keep a close watch on your radar and lookout for navigational hazards such as submerged piers and ferry lanes. Ensure to adhere to local regulations regarding speed limits, particularly in densely populated areas.
Points of Interest:Before you set sail, consider a quick stop at the National Aquarium to marvel at marine life before hitting the open waters.
Leaving the Inner Harbor, you'll head downstream on the Patapsco River. The river can be quite busy with commercial shipping, so maintain a vigilant lookout for large vessels and follow any designated shipping channels.
Upon exiting the Patapsco River into Chesapeake Bay, you’ll immediately notice the vastness of this magnificent waterway. The bay is home to various islands and creeks which can serve as potential shelters.
Hazards:Be cautious of tidal currents and shifts as you transition into the bay. Always check updated tide tables and be mindful of weather forecasts to avoid sudden storms.
1. Fort McHenry National Monument - Located just offshore in Baltimore, it serves as a historical landmark where the Star-Spangled Banner was penned.
2. Sandy Point State Park - A great place to anchor for a picnic or break. The park features walking trails and views of the bay.
3. Bayside Park - If you desire some leisurely time on land, this waterfront park offers scenic views, trails, and picnic areas.
4. Horseshoe Bend - A sizable bend in the Patuxent River that provides excellent anchorage should conditions turn unfavorable.
As you navigate towards Lusby, you will enter the Patuxent River, where you can expect to encounter more recreational and smaller vessel traffic. Maintain your awareness for local sailing areas and keep a keen eye on navigational aids.
Final Approach:Your destination, Lusby, is located on the western shore of the Patuxent River, just south of the route’s primary channel. The Lusby area can be easily recognized by its distinctive waterfront and marina facilities.
Bays for Shelter:
For navigational support, utilize marine apps like Savvy Navvy, along with other robust navigation tools such as Navionics or OpenCPN. Each of these will help you track your course and avoid navigational hazards throughout your journey.
This route from Baltimore to Lusby offers a splendid mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and safe travel, making it a delightful choice for any experienced boater ready to set sail. Enjoy smooth sailing!