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Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, is known as a historic district thanks to its old-timey brick walls, stained glass windows, and 18th-century houses and churches. Besides the architecture, the city has plenty of museums that pay homage to the past.
Many don’t know this, but Annapolis is also known as the “Sailing Capital of the U.S.” It is home to the U.S. Naval Academy. Naturally, the city’s maritime heritage has made it a destination unlike any other. While visitors can tour the place on foot, sailing the sea can be a unique experience and even fish from the boats. Here’s why.
Why Rent a Boat In Annapolis?
Annapolis is the sailing capital of Maryland. Unsurprisingly, there are many things to do by boat. The sunset and the city’s skyline are the perfect backdrop for romantic dates aboard a cruise or yacht.
Annapolis boat rentals also give you the freedom and convenience to visit places like the Chesapeake Bay while you enjoy the beautiful views. Travelers can also ride a rental boat to historic Kent Island where you can explore the wineries, enjoy seafood, and sunbathe at the beaches.
The city is also home to the U.S. Naval Academy. As a result, you’ll find many sailing schools. So, novice and seasoned sailors alike will enjoy visiting this place to hone their skills.
If all of this sounds good and you’re looking forward to visiting Annapolis, here are some boat rental services you may want to consider.
Boat Rental Companies In Annapolis
Take a look at some of these highly-rated boat rental companies in Annapolis. These companies have been in business for quite some time and offer other amenities.
Annapolis Sailing School
Along with teaching sailing to adults and youths, Annapolis Sailing School also has boat and yacht rentals in Annapolis. The company has Rainbow 24s in its fleet for anyone looking to relax with a day on the water. They even allow you to bring your own food so you can host a party or a small get-together.
However, when renting from them, ensure that at least one person in your party has been ASA 101-certified or earned its equivalent. New customers without accreditation must accomplish an evaluation for sailing competency with the company before their first rental. This ensures maximum safety for customers.
The charges are competitive, starting at $158 (+ taxes) on weekdays for an entire day or any fraction of it between 9 am and 4 pm. During holidays and weekends, prices go up to $225 (+ taxes) for half-day sessions that last from either 9 am to 12 pm or 1 pm to 4 pm. Late and cancellation fees may apply. Additionally, no children below the age of 5 are allowed. Alcohol, pets, and swimming off the boats are prohibited as well.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 am to 4 pm, Saturday & Sunday – Closed
- Address: 7001 Bembe Beach Road, Annapolis MD 21403
- Phone: 410 267 7205
- Email: Undisclosed but you can send them a message
- Website: annapolissailing.com
Annapolis Electric Boat Rentals
Annapolis Electric Boat Rentals offers a unique and exciting way to tour Annapolis. Their eco-friendly vessels are battery-operated, silent, and luxurious. Plus, you can drive them yourself.
With a top speed of 5 miles an hour, the boats are an excellent way to explore and observe the beauty of the water safely. The charges are as follows:
- 1-Hour Rental (For up to 10 people) – $200
- 2-Hour Rental (For up to 10 people) – $375
- 3-Hour Rental (For up to 10 people) – $500
This Annapolis boat rental company is a great way to have a good time while being environmentally conscious. The stunning waterfront homes, diverse array of boats, beautiful sunset, and impressive skyline make it even better.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 am to 5 pm
- Address: 300 Second St, Annapolis, MD 21403, United States
- Phone: +1 443-433-2129
- Email: info@aebrentals.com
- Website: aebrentals.com
Chronic Sailing
Chronic Sailing is all about quality. Whether you’re chartering a boat, are learning to sail, or are buying a boat from them, you’ll experience the finest of services. Captain Shawn Owen, Annapolis’ renowned captain, teaches sailing. Soon, with the help of other captains, it will also provide the public with boutique charters.
Unlike other boat rental places, this Annapolis boat rental company provides boat rental with a captain. However, you will have to negotiate and pay the captain’s fee plus tip separately at the end of your trip. When boat or yacht renting in Annapolis with Chronic Sailing, amenities like restrooms, showers, parking, and access to the marina pool are all included in the rental price. Fuel is also part of the single-day fee. For multi-day charters, the customer will need to shoulder the cost of refueling.
Chronic Sailing has multiple packages, from renting for a few hours to multiple-day packages. The prices vary based on the package you choose.
- Operating Hours: Undisclosed
- Address: 7082 Bembe Beach Rd #204, Annapolis, MD 21403, United States
- Phone: 443 333 9113
- Email: Undisclosed, however, you can send them a message
- Website: chronicsailing.com
Annapolis Bay Charters
Annapolis Bay Charters is so much more than an everyday boat rental company. They have an impressive fleet of sailboats and powerboats, a service-oriented staff, and a yacht charter location, which makes visiting Chesapeake Bay’s hidden gems easy.
Did we mention that Annapolis Bay Charters’ staff has over thirty years of experience? This helps them match guests with the right boat for their cruising vacations. You can also use their additional services like itinerary planning, sailing lessons with the NauticEd Sailing School, and provisioning.
Although boat rentals with captains aren’t an option here, Annapolis Bay Charter can recommend a few people. However, you will have to negotiate your transactions with the captain on your own. Prices vary based on the charter and duration so contact them for the best deal.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8:30 am to 5 pm, Saturday & Sunday – Closed
- Address: 7080 Bembe Beach Rd #211A, Annapolis, MD 21403
- Phone: 443 333 9113
- Email: info@annapolisbaycharters.net
- Website: annapolisbaycharters.net
Experience Annapolis From the Water With These Boat Rental Companies
Annapolis is a place of wonder, relaxation, and beautiful historical monuments. Make the most of your trip by choosing the best Annapolis boat rental companies. Stunning sunsets and Maryland’s coastal area are a different experience compared to exploring the place on foot.
If you want to learn sailing or operate a boat, consider the Annapolis Sailing School. On the other hand, Annapolis Electric Boat Rentals is an excellent option for an environmentally conscious alternative. Other companies like Chronic Sailing and Annapolis Bay Charters also offer great services for those who want to navigate Annapolis by water.
For more helpful guides like this, explore our blog section!
Before you launch
Official sources and verification
Maryland boating information
U.S. Coast Guard boating safety
