Annapolis, one of the sailing capitals of the world, did not disappoint. We came into the marina in the midst of a regatta!
Of course, we stopped and watched Melges, J-boats, of all classes posturing for position. On their return, bright spinnakers danced across the water like strutting peacocks. It was breathtaking!
Annapolis which is probably best known for the Naval Academy (ahem…and sailing) served as our nation's first peacetime capital. A walk down the brick-lined streets and Sailors donning full-white uniforms puts you in touch with four centuries of history, pride, and architecture. It was a privilege to be in Annapolis on the day Senator John McCain was laid to rest at the Annapolis Naval Academy where he graduated in ’58. Witnessing the fly-over, we were proud to honor him.
The town of Annapolis, which lies on the north shore of the Severn River and middle Western Shore of the Chesapeake Bay was founded by Puritan exiles in 1649 and named "Providence". It was later called "Anne Arundel's Towne" after the wife of Lord Baltimore, who owned the proprietary colony. In 1694 the town was named Annapolis, after Queen Anne of Great Britain (1665 - 1714). There are more 18th-century brick homes in Annapolis than any other city in the nation, making it a true walk down memory lane.
And, because it’s not always about the destination, check out these lighthouses we passed on the journey! I added a bit of history to each picture.
Bloody Pt. Bar Lighthouse, also called a Sparkplug lighthouse, stands 37’ out of the water near Kent Island. It was requested in 1865 but not funded until 1881. It was manned from inception until 1960 when an electrical fire destroyed the interior. Narrowly escaping, the two coast guardsmen stationed at the time were forced to their post before the lights’ fuel tanks exploded. The interior of the light, including the lens, was a total loss, and it was completely gutted and automated with a new acrylic lens the following year.
In 2006 the light, like many others on the bay, was offered at auction, and it was purchased by a Nevada-based lawyer who announced plans to renovate the interior. Nothing was ever done though to rehabilitate or stabilize the lighthouse.
The Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse stands at the confluence of the South River and the Chesapeake Bay. The distinctive lighthouse, is a National Historic Landmark and unlike the lost sparkplug lighthouses, underwent a 11-year, $500,000 restoration. It reminds me of the Drum Point Lighthouse which we will visit soon.
Yacht Basin Marina Nice marina, very helpful and friendly staff
Amenities:
Fuel
Pump Out
Water
WiFi – couldn’t hook up to it
Laundry/showers