Annapolis Chesapeake Bay Bridge Cruise: 90 minutes under the span

The bridge rises high above you as the boat passes underneath its twin spans.

A 90-minute cruise departing downtown Annapolis passes the United States Naval Academy seawall, then travels under the Chesapeake Bay Bridge (one of the longest over-water structures in the world), while crossing the largest estuary in the United States. The vessel includes an air-conditioned cabin and restroom. An English audio guide narrates the route. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase at the onboard bar.

Step-by-step itinerary

Scenic Chesapeake Bay Bridge cruise

• Depart dock in downtown Annapolis
• Cruise along U.S. Naval Academy seawall
• Navigate open water toward Chesapeake Bay Bridge
• Pass under twin spans of Chesapeake Bay Bridge
• Observe local wildlife like osprey and dolphins
• Enjoy views of Annapolis waterfront

The experience

The boat leaves the dock in downtown Annapolis and immediately runs along the seawall of the U.S. Naval Academy, where you see the waterfront of this historic institution from the water before heading into open water. From there, the route crosses the Chesapeake Bay (the largest estuary in the United States) toward the 4.3-mile Chesapeake Bay Bridge, which connects Maryland's Eastern and Western shores. The entire journey takes 90 minutes.

As the vessel approaches and passes under the bridge's twin spans, you're positioned to watch this massive structure from directly below. The route is built around wildlife viewing: keep watch for osprey, bald eagles, cow-nosed rays, and occasionally dolphins moving through the bay. The boat has an air-conditioned cabin and an onboard restroom, and an English audio guide provides context throughout the cruise. Soft drinks, beer, and wine are available for purchase at the bar.

The cruise concludes with views of Annapolis itself, known as America's Sailing Capital, situated where the Severn River meets the Chesapeake Bay. The route is wheelchair accessible, and the boat accommodates strollers and service animals.

What’s included

• Air-conditioned cabin.
• onboard restroom.
• English audio guide narrating the route and sights.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 10 Apr 2027

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (3 to 11 years) · Infant (under 3): free

GroupUp to 80

Audio guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 13 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Watermark Harbor Cruise

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a guided narrated tour rather than steering your own boat, and need something that fits a morning or afternoon without consuming your whole day.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 11 years); Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge cruise?

The cruise lasts 90 minutes from departure at the downtown Annapolis dock through the Naval Academy seawall, across the bay, and under the bridge before returning.

What wildlife might I see on the Chesapeake Bay?

The bay is home to osprey, bald eagles, cow-nosed rays, and occasionally dolphins. The audio guide helps identify what you're watching as the boat moves through the water.

Does the boat go all the way across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge?

The boat passes under the bridge's twin spans rather than crossing it. You view the 4.3-mile structure from the water as the vessel travels beneath it.

What's included on the cruise?

The cruise includes an air-conditioned cabin, an onboard restroom, and an English audio guide. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase at the onboard bar.

Is the cruise accessible for people with mobility needs?

Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible. Strollers and service animals are also permitted onboard.