By Mary Gallagher
Discovering a great weather forecast one Saturday, a friend and I decided to drive over to Annapolis from Northern Virginia for a boat ride. A word to the wise–get to Annapolis early, not only to take advantage of the many things to do, but also to find parking and avoid the long lines to attractions and restaurants.
On the 74 ft wooden schooner “Woodwind” we enjoyed a 2-hour sailing cruise into the Chesapeake Bay. Our Captain Ken Kaye made the trip educational, interesting, and great fun. Groaning at his jokes is allowed. Everyone who wanted could hoist sails or take the big wheel and try his hand at being captain.
Combine spectacular blue skies, perfect wind, and a colorful spinnaker race around us, one couldn’t have asked for a better or more memorable day. It’s quite easy to navigate the Woodwind’s very comprehensive website that also lists special events – some (like their Fathers Day Brunch) sail sell out early. Ordering tickets online or calling to reserve is a good idea.
We were quite happy with our excursion on the Woodwind, but there are also many all-day, hourly, or every-few-hour schedules for all the ships in Annapolis, especially on warm weather weekends. Everything from 40 minutes (average $16pp) to all day ($100 plus) cruises are available.
Although the day we sailed was quite calm with an even wind, if you are a bit queasy on the seas perhaps one of the yachts or flatter bottom boats would be a good alternative to not going at all. I’ve also done those in the past and thoroughly enjoyed the trips. All in all you’ll have a spectacular time and this is an activity appropriate for multigenerational families. Wear a hat that stays on in wind and reapply sun screen several times.
Schooner Woodwind
Sailing Season resumes April 16, 2011.
80 Compromise Street
Annapolis, MD 21403
410 263 7837
www.schooner-woodwind.com
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