baltimore yacht club fuel

4 Great Boat Clubs in Baltimore (Must-See!)

Do you wish that you could spend more time on the water but don’t own a boat?

Boat clubs can help!

A boat club allows individuals to borrow their boats for a set membership fee, giving you the freedom to sail without the hassle of owning and maintaining a boat.

Baltimore has a few major boat clubs that you should be aware of if you think you want to give this a spin.

Here are four of the top boat clubs in Baltimore that you should look into:

Table of Contents

Baltimore Dragon Boat Club

While many people picture a fleet of boats available for rent, some people are searching for something more from their time on the water.

They long for camaraderie, friendship, and connection to those around them. If this describes you, then the Baltimore Dragon Boat Club is the right fit for you.

Their mission is to promote and develop the sport of dragon boating in Baltimore communities.

They want to focus on team building programs and cross-cultural understanding with dragon boating as the common feature that all people share.

For more than twelve years, they have been successfully promoting their mission in the Baltimore area.

In addition to spending time on the water with your teammates, you can also participate in their off-season land training programs. They meet on Tuesdays and Saturdays at a local fitness facility to work on strength building and endurance.

Baltimore Dragon Boat Club Membership & Fees

One of the many reasons why people choose to participate in the programs at Baltimore Dragon Boat Club is because of their community outreach.

They have a program dedicated to raising community awareness about dragon boating as a sport for breast cancer survivors. Team building programs are available, as well as youth programs.

Membership into the Dragon Boat Club is relatively affordable at just $125 per member.

If you wait until the season’s midpoint, it usually drops to around $75 per person. Participants who are on the fence about joining can participate in the fun for $5 per practice session.

Keep in mind that entrance fees for races will be separate and will cost roughly $65 each. Also, you will need to cover your transportation, lodging, and food when necessary.

Freedom Boat Club

If you want the security of signing up with a major chain, then Freedom Boat Club might be the perfect option for you.

They have two locations in the Baltimore area, and members can frequent both establishments. Additionally, you have reciprocal privileges at any of their locations around the world. This is great for boaters who believe that they will be doing a bit of traveling but don’t want to sacrifice their time on the water.

Membership options can vary at Freedom. You have a lot of flexibility to find a plan that works best for you and your family.

If you only want to sail during the spring and summer seasons, a seasonal pass would be the best option for you. Consider a weekday pass for less crowded sailing times or a special friends and family option if you want to keep the whole gang together.

Reservations can be made up to six months in advance, but your use of the boats is completely unlimited. As long as there are boats available, you are free to spend an afternoon soaking up the sun on the Baltimore waters.

Freedom Boat Club Membership & Fleet

One of the reasons people like reserving their boats from Freedom is because they never rent or charter their boats out to non-members.

Even during slow seasons, when few people are making reservations, the entire fleet remains available to members. You always have a wide selection to choose from.

Each location will have a different selection of boats to choose from.

For example, the Harbor East will have an assortment of the following:

• Lexington 521 Pontoon
• Wellcraft 180 Fisherman Center Console
• 2018 Wellcraft 202 Scarab Fisherman Center Console
• Glastron GTD200

If you choose to spend a weekend at the other Baltimore location in Middle River, you can choose from boats like:

• 2017 Glastron GTS200 Bowrider
• 2017 Welcraft 222 Fisherman
• Campion Allante 635

Freedom Boat Club is ideal for those who are just starting to earn their sea legs. They feature a lot of on-the-water training to help you feel confident about your boating abilities, even if you are a complete beginner.

Carefree Boat Club

Are you interested in a luxury experience from your boat club?

Carefree Boat Club has the Baltimore Marine Center at Lighthouse Point located directly in front of Canton and Inner Harbor near Fells Point. It makes for quick and easy access to everything you can do in and around the Chesapeake Bay.

Carefree Boat Club is another option that allows you reciprocal benefits all across the United States and Canada.

Whether you plan to stay in Baltimore or do a bit of traveling, you will have access to a boat no matter where you go. Furthermore, you even have excellent selection because they keep the member to boat ratio as low as possible.

It is mostly recommended that you use the online portal to make reservations in advance if you know that you want to spend a day on the water with a specific boat. You can make up to four reservations at a time.

However, they often have available boats that you can take out on the spur of the moment. It just depends on how busy they are on that particular day as boats can be used on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Carefree Boat Club Fleet & Membership

Much like Freedom Boat Club, Carefree Boat Club boasts a wide variety of boats. They include lengths from 18 feet to 27 feet with styles such as cruisers, deck boats, bowriders, pontoons, fishing, ski boats, sailboats, and more.

While they do not release their specific membership rates, they claim that signing up for their boat club costs less than one-third of the cost of owning a boat.

Plus, you can avoid extra fees like slip fees, insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, towing, and winterization. Fees consist of a one-time initiation fee and an annual membership. Contracts are available for as short a period as one year.

All members will receive the same type of training, regardless of your level of experience. You will be given a training manual, and you must attend one classroom session.

This will be followed by on-the-water training with the local dockmaster to cover topics like CBC processes, general navigation, docking, and boating safety. New members can typically get onto the water in as little as five to fourteen days.

As a bonus, insurance is included. The only time that members may be asked to pay is to cover the deductible that applies if they damage the boat.

The Baltimore facility itself boasts amenities like:

• Fuel dock and pump-out station
• Concrete floating piers
• Pool, hot tub, and wading pool
• Bath facilities with lockers
• Laundry facilities

Baltimore Yacht Club

Located on a small grassy hill atop Sue Island and at the very mouth of Middle River, the Baltimore Yacht Club is a prestigious group to join.

It has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s when a team of yachtsmen met to discuss their equal love of being on the water.

Several others quickly joined their ranks, and together they purchased their first tract of land. The location has changed over the years, but the love of boating most certainly has not.

If you want friendship along with a love of sailing, then this high-class establishment is most certainly going to be a great fit for you.

They have regular cruises scheduled, festivals, dances, and even parades. Parties are a regular thing for the members of this club. Each month, there are several events that you can attend to spend time with your new friends.

Membership & Amenities

In addition to attending the events and spending time on the water, you can relax around some of their amenities.

They have a beautiful pool area that overlooks the water, complete with a children’s playground and a snack bar. Unfortunately, outside food and beverages are not permitted, forcing you to purchase from their supply.

Spend your afternoon or evening at their fine dining establishment with entrees that range from fresh seafood to braised lamb. There is no shortage of options when it comes to their extensive menus. Even the pickiest eater will be able to find something to satisfy.

They also have a fuel dock station. They offer ten cents off per gallon with a current Boat US membership.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to participate in a new sport or make new friends, there is a boat club for you somewhere in Baltimore.

These top four options give you a lot of variety and can help you to spend more time on the water.

No matter what you choose, you are bound to find yourself unwinding and relaxing on the sparkling blue waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

Freedom Boat Club Harbor East

Freedom Boat Club Middle River

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Chesapeake Bay Anchorages

Explore 25 exceptional chesapeake anchorages.

T HE CHESAPEAKE BAY'S 11,684 miles of shoreline are packed with great places to drop the anchor, turn off your engine and kick back to enjoy the view. Whether you're seeking a place to take a refreshing dip in the water, drop a line to catch dinner, hook up with friends or take the dinghy ashore to hike trails or grab provisions, the following 25 Chesapeake Bay anchorages rank among our favorite destinations for a day trip or overnight stay.

1. Woodland Creek , Sassafras River, MD

Coordinates: 39°21.651' N 75°55.282' W Depth: 4-7 feet Protection: Slight exposure to north winds Description: Great Chesapeake Bay Anchorages near the entrance for drafts of 6 to 7 feet; farther south into the cove it's 4 to 5 feet. Wind protection from all directions. Soft mud and clay for excellent anchor holding in 30 knots or more. It's a 1.5-mile dinghy ride to nearby marinas, restaurants and marine stores.

2. Sue Creek , Middle River, MD

Coordinates: 39°17.159' N 76°24.309' W Depth: 4-5 feet Protection: All around Description: A protected anchorage that can get crowded on weekends. Baltimore Yacht Club fuel dock is at the entrance of the creek, so many boats may be circling and waiting to dock. Depth can be an issue if you draw 4+ feet, especially at low tide. Stay to the north side of the creek after rounding the point past the fuel dock; most boats anchor on the south side for decent depth. Holding is good even though the bottom is very soft.

3. Worton Creek , Eastern Shore, MD

Coordinates: 39°17.629' N 76°10.247' W Depth: 6-8 feet Protection: Exposed to west winds Description: Easy in and out but watch out for the crab pots. On weekdays, you're likely to have the anchorage all to yourself; peaceful with spectacular sunsets. Very little boat traffic. Would not recommend in a west wind as very exposed to that side. Anchor came clean up with little mud.

4. Hart Miller Island , Middle River, MD

Coordinates: 39°15.379' N 76°22.381' W Depth: 8-10 feet Protection: Exposed to north and northwest winds Description: Visit this nature area on a man-made spoil island. Access at main beach near the tower that's manned Thursday-Sunday. You can find bicycle rentals to tour nature loops or walk amidst surprisingly beautiful scenery. The inner loop offers better views. Anchorage can be busy on weekends.

5. Fairlee Creek , Eastern Shore, MD

Coordinates: 39°15.827' N 76°12.442' W Depth: 5-6 feet Protection: All around Description: This place changes character from weekends to weekdays. On some weekends, it's packed with boats. Anchoring in close quarters is not a problem, because it is sheltered from current and wave action. The little tiki bar, Jelly Fish Joels , is right on the beach. On weekdays, it has just a few boats. Absolutely quiet. Take photos of the bald eagles fishing. Yes, it's tight, but navigating 38-foot catamaran with a 21.5-foot beam is no problem. Stay a little left of center between Shell Point and the northern shore. Little tip: If you come in when there is a slight current, you can see the ripples of the shallow water.

6. Swan Creek , Rock Hall, MD

Coordinates: 39°9.146' N 76°15.235' W Depth: 5-7 feet Protection: All around Description: This can be a very popular place on the weekends with lots of boats, but it's quieter on weekdays. Good holding. A few public dinghy docks. Take the trolley (in season) or a short one-mile walk into Rock Hall for groceries and supplies. Very scenic.

7. Langford Creek , Cacaway Island, Chester River, MD

Coordinates: 39°7.451' N 76°9.742' W Depth: 9-16 feet Protection: Somewhat exposed to southwest winds Description: Beautiful Chesapeake Bay anchorage. Good holding in sand and mud. Open enough to catch an evening breeze. Protected by the island if a thunderstorm rolls through. The island is private, and visitors tend to respect that, generally staying below the high tide line in the public land. Lots of places to explore by dinghy. Marine supplies, fuel water and pump out are available at the nearby marina.

8. Corsica River , Centreville, MD

Coordinates: Long: 39°4.836' N 76°6.534' W Depth: 8-9 feet Protection: Somewhat exposed to west winds Description: A favorite anchorage for locals with some traffic on the river and boat wakes. Good scenery, quiet river after dark and convenient beaches for the dog's shore leave. It's not a problem during the week but can get busy on weekends.

9. Eagle Cove , Magothy River, MD

Coordinates: 39°5.338' N 76°26.079' W Depth: 8-9 feet Protection: Somewhat exposed to west winds Description: Great anchorage on the north shore. A large horse farm overlooks the anchorage. It's usually very quiet and is in a no-wake zone on weekends and holidays. Great scenery and swimming. Throw over a few lines with attached chicken necks, and you'll usually catch enough crabs for a meal.

10. Dobbins Island , Magothy River, MD

C oordinates: 39°04.791' N 76°27.767' W Depth: 9-10 feet Protection: Somewhat exposed to north and northeast winds Description: Popular weekend spot. Plenty of depth 30 feet from the northern side of the island. At low tide, the sand bar to the west is awash and lots of fun for the kids.

11. Dividing Creek , Wye River, MD

Coordinates: 38°53.099' N 76°9.374' W Depth: 7-10 feet Protection: Somewhat exposed to south winds Description: All of Wye River is lovely; Dividing Creek is especially so. Easy navigation, with accurate charted depths. With many places to anchor along the river, choose your spot based on predicted wind. The holding is great with an instant set. Beautiful in the fall with colored leaves.

12. Shaw Bay , Wye River, MD

Coordinates: 38° 51.235' N 76° 11.012' W Depth: 12-18 feet Protection: Exposed to north winds Description: Gorgeous, huge anchorage. Deep water for power or sail. Great base for exploring Wye River. It's a nice place to stay cool on a hot summer night with a south breeze. The shoreline is mostly privately owned, so you find no shopping or restaurants nearby. Just a pleasant, quiet anchorage.

13. Harness Creek , South River, MD

Coordinates: 38°56.111' N 76°30.555' W Depth: 8-11 feet Protection: Somewhat exposed to south winds Description: Perfect for those with dogs and an easy dinghy ride to the public dock where small watercraft are rented. No issues leaving the dinghy there for a 1.5-mile walk through a beautiful park to shopping that includes a West Marine and a grocery store.

14. Flat and High Islands , Rhode River, MD

Coordinates: 38°52.969' N 76°31.996' W Depth: 9-10 feet Protection: All around Description: Great spot surrounded by undeveloped land. Surroundings are part of the Smithsonian Center doing ecological research. Crowded on summer weekends. Very beautiful, scenic anchorage with excellent wind protection and good holding.

15. South Creek, East Chalk Point , West River, Galesville, MD

Coordinates: 38°50.185' N 76°32.063' W Depth: 7-8 feet Protection: Open northeast Description: Room for many boats. Easy dinghy ride to two or three restaurants. Lots of marinas in the area if you need fuel or to have work done. Some wakes from passing boats if you are near the channel. Good protection from southerly winds but could be more exposed in north winds. Easy access to Galesville.

16. Dun Cove , Harris Creek, Choptank River, MD

Coordinates: 38°44.415' N 76°19.161' W Depth: 7-10 feet Protection: Exposed to east winds Description: Good protection from fresh southerly breezes. Scenic, but popular. Good anchorage well into the cove. Nice spot to watch bald eagles and osprey.

17. Boby Owl Cove , Broad Creek, Choptank River, MD

Coordinates: 38°44.726' N 76°16.191' W Depth: 8-9 feet Protection: All around protection Description: A smallish bowl-shaped creek with room for 15 small boats or rafting. Very well sheltered from the north and well sheltered from the south, almost a hurricane hole.

18. Mill Creek , Solomons, MD

Coordinates: 38°20.152' N 76°26.161' W Depth: 12-16 feet Protection: All around Description: Good, secure, pretty anchorage with room for several boats. Moderate but easy dinghy ride to the Holiday Inn dock on Back Creek, where you can dock all day for $2 and explore the town. Great marine museum. You can walk from the dock to buy groceries at a Food Lion. At the nearby shopping center, you can get a haircut or a sandwich and go to the post office.

19. Ellyson Cove , Little Wicomico River, VA

Coordinates: 37°53.609' N 76°15.774' W Depth: 6-8 feet Protection: All around Description: This is an excellent anchorage, protected from everything winds, waves, even wake, give or take local fishermen. Plenty of room to anchor on a mud bottom in 6-8 feet depth. Just place yourself between the crab buoys.

20. Back Creek , Reedville, VA

Coordinates: 37°50.411' N 76°16.351' W Depth: 8-11 feet Protection: All around Description: This anchorage offers good shore access to the seafood store, boatyard, Tommy's Restaurant and the Crazy Crab . Not many serene anchorages such as this one, where you can dinghy ashore for ice cream after dinner.

21. Head of Onancock Creek , Onancock, VA

Coordinates: 37°42.643' N 75°45.479' W Depth: 6 feet Protection: All around Description: Cozy but tranquil. Only a few hundred yards to town dinghy dock. Room for maybe six boats. The river is dredged for barges; never see less than 15 feet at low tide. The river is scenic and well protected. Local volunteers provide free transportation for grocery and other needs.

22. Corrotoman River , Eastern Branch, Kilmarnock, VA

Coordinates: 37°42.757' N 76°27.293' W Depth: 9-13 feet Protection: All around Description: Nice place to drop the hook, especially with kids and a dog. Beach is small but clean. Deep water up to the beach on the eastern side. Excellent overnight anchorage. Very good protection from all directions with high bluffs on the north and south sides of the basin. Good holding in soft mud. Bald eagles nest nearby. Deep water (10-14 feet) up close to the bluffs.

23. Godfrey Bay , Piankatank River, VA

Coordinates: 37°30.564' N 76°21.034' W Depth: 9-13 feet Protection: Exposed to east and northeast winds Description: This is a quality anchorage on a beautiful river. It is large with room for a multitude of boats. Good holding and good protection from southern winds. Also, it is relatively close to the Bay.

24. Hampton Creek , North River, Mobjack Bay, VA

Coordinates: 37°25.923' N 76°26.928' W Depth: 6-10 feet Protection: Exposed to south winds Description: Great place to anchor in front of gorgeous homes and deep woods. No bugs, nice breeze and well protected. One of many relaxing spots in Mobjack Bay.

25. Sunset Beach , Cape Charles, VA

Coordinates: 37°8.235' N 75°58.359' W Depth: 5-8 feet Protection: Protection only from east winds

Description: Local anchorage large enough for many boats on the weekend. Beautiful beaches with good Internet from the restaurant. If winds switch southwest, you can get protection behind the breakwater of the cement ships three miles north at Kiptopeke State Park . Dinghy exploration is great; go through the bridge and up to the north.

Many of the anchorage descriptions are provided by the ActiveCaptain Community.

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