Pilotage Plan: From Solomons, Maryland to Baltimore, Maryland
Overview
This route takes you from Solomons, a picturesque town nestled along the Patuxent River, to the bustling city of Baltimore, an urban oasis rich in maritime heritage. This journey of approximately 40 nautical miles offers a mix of attractive sights and potential shelters while ensuring safety is paramount.
Starting Point: Solomons, Maryland
As you prepare to leave the charming harbor of Solomons, ensure your vessel is well-equipped with safety gear, navigational charts, and communication devices. The waters here are familiar to many boaters, providing a welcoming atmosphere with access to various amenities should you need to stock up. Before you set off, make sure to take a moment to appreciate the beautiful views at the Solomons Island Boardwalk or the Calvert Marine Museum, which showcases the area's rich maritime history.
Navigation Aids and Hazards
- Chesapeake Bay Entrance: Once you depart Solomons, you’ll navigate the Patuxent River towards its confluence with the Chesapeake Bay. Keep an eye on the channel markers as you approach the bay.
- Point Patience: Note this green buoy mark near Point Patience; it’s a critical reference point. Ensure you stay clear of the shallows; a typical hazard in this area, especially during low tide.
- Fishing and Marine Traffic: Be aware of local fishing vessels and recreational boaters on weekends, particularly near the mouth of the Patuxent where they congregate. Maintain a vigilant lookout and adhere to speed limits.
Route to Baltimore
Leaving Solomons, follow the Patuxent River north into the Chesapeake Bay. The route will generally take you northeast, hugging the western shore of the bay.
- Crossing the Bay: As you enter into the Chesapeake Bay, you should be prepared for varying water conditions. This stretch offers wide-open views but can be exposed to winds and seas.
- Sandy Point State Park: Approximately halfway through your journey, you’ll pass close to Sandy Point State Park, a perfect area for a brief stop. It’s an ideal backing off point if the weather takes a turn, as the nearby waters can provide sanctuary. This location is suitable for picnic breaks, and you may find other recreational boaters enjoying the sandy beaches or trails.
Nearby Bays for Shelter
If the weather does become challenging, consider heading to:- Herring Bay: Located on the way, this bay provides a good shelter with rocky and sandy bottom options for anchorage. Keep an eye out for the Herring Bay Marker.
- South River: A little further along and eastward, this river offers a wider area for shelter and numerous marinas if you need to dock.
Approaching Baltimore
As you navigate into the approach towards Baltimore, ensure you are vigilant about:- Harbor Traffic: The Patapsco River is a busy area, and you will encounter larger commercial vessels. Use caution when transiting the marked channels.
- Navigation Aids: Pay attention to the buoys marking the shipping channels and be aware of the ship traffic on your left as you come into the Baltimore harbor.
Points of Interest
Once you reach Baltimore, the Inner Harbor presents numerous attractions:- You can treat yourself to a visit to the National Aquarium or indulge in the vibrant local cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Safety Precautions
- Always carry essential personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each passenger onboard.
- Utilize your VHF radio for communication, especially when entering busy channels.
- Keep your navigation apps handy; Savvy Navvy is an excellent choice for real-time weather updates and route planning. Also consider dedicated marine apps like Navionics or iNavigo to assist in safely navigating the busy waters.
Conclusion
This journey from Solomons to Baltimore is not only navigable for the experienced boater but also inviting for those looking to blend recreation with safe, enjoyable navigation. Rich with sights, shelter options, and vibrant cities, this route can be tailored for both adrenaline-seeking adventurers and those seeking a calm day on the water. Stay alert, enjoy the journey, and let the Chesapeake Bay unfold its charms along the way.
