Historic Chesapeake Bay (Grande Marine)

Description

Beauty and history are the hallmarks of this cruise that starts in Philadelphia and ends in Baltimore, but not before taking in the entire length and breadth of Chesapeake Bay. Meet us in Philadelphia, the “Cradle of Liberty.” You can even opt to board the ship a day sooner, settle into your cabin, and explore the city.

We’ll visit the quaint little coastal towns of Saint Michaels, Oxford, Cambridge and Crisfield, MD, each with its own fun shopping and dining experiences, plus panoramic water views. Of course, your ship is a great place for viewing too! And so, sailing we go, south to Norfolk, VA, and the world’s largest naval base.

When we dock at Yorktown, VA, you may feel like you’re connecting the dots of American history—from Philadelphia where the Declaration of Independence was signed, to the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Beauty and history continue Alexandria, VA, just minutes from Washington D.C.

Annapolis, MD, you probably know as home to the U.S. Naval Academy. But did you know it served as the capital of the United States in 1783–1784? It was here that George Washington resigned as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army.

Our final destination is Baltimore, MD. And what a fabulous finish it is. Our vessel docks in the Inner Harbor, the heart of this vibrant city. World famous crab shacks seem to appear on every corner. And you’re within walking distance of the warship USS Constellation and the National Aquarium.

Trip Name

Historic Chesapeake Bay (Grande Marine)

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Small Ship Cruise Length: 56m Passenger Capacity: 88 Built/ Refurbished : 1998 / 2010 She was refurbished in 2010, with totally new cabin configurations including new décor, new bathrooms, new furniture in the cabins, a renovated lounge, new décor, and brand new furniture. So if you want to take in a few rays on the sun deck, relax and enjoy the vista-view lounge, or just have a few quiet moments in your cabin as the sea drifts past your open picture window, the Grande Mariner is ready.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Philadelphia, PA

Best known as the first city of the colonists, Philadelphia is often called the “Cradle of Liberty” for being one of the country’s most historic cities. Revolutionary and Civil War buffs can enjoy exploring heritage trails and museums.

Day 2 - Saint Michaels, MD

The “Heart of the Chesapeake,” was named for the parish that established here in 1677. By the War of 1812, this was an established shipbuilding town known for producing fast schooners. These ships adapted to evading blockades and outrunning pirates at sea! Today, visit the idyllic harbor with tastefully restored buildings and interesting waterside museum.

Day 3 - Oxford, MD

Tiny Oxford is home to parks that run to the bay, where every promenade produces incredible views of the sea. This tiny town is one of the oldest in Maryland and was one of two ports of entry for all of Maryland in 1694.

Day 4 - Cambridge, MD & Crisfield, MD

Settled by England colonists in 1684, Cambridge is one of the oldest colonial cities in Maryland. Then visit Crisfield, “Crab Capitol of the World” and southern most city in Maryland, witness the local ‘farming’ communities along the Chesapeake Bay.

Day 5 - Norfolk, VA

Home to the world’s largest naval base, Norfolk remains a stopping-off point for nearly 30,000 naval personnel destined for ships and stations overseas each year.

Day 6 - Yorktown, VA

Site of the final battle of the American Revolution in 1781, the Battle of Yorktown was successfully lead by General George Washington. Today, it is a charming riverfront town offering boutique shopping. You may opt to tour Colonial Williamsburg, the world’s largest living history museum.

Day 7 - Alexandria, VA

Explore Alexandria, a bustling city just minutes from Washington, D.C. Travel back in time to Old Town where over 2,000 buildings predate 1899 or enjoy a tankard of ale at the famed Gadsby’s Tavern where the Founding Fathers would arrange meetings.

Day 8 - Annapolis, MD

Situated on the Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the Severn River, Annapolis is a genteel city of elegant mansions and stately parks. Here, the Maryland State House has been in continuous legislative use since 1772. You may also opt to visit the prestigious U.S. Naval Academy.

Day 9 - Baltimore, MD

The cultural and economic hub of Maryland and hometown to the legendary Babe Ruth, scout out the Inner Harbor and renowned National Aquarium. A visit to Fort McHenry and the USS Constellation may also be available!

Day 10 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Ports Visited
Baltimore, St. Michaels, Oxford, Cambridge, Crisfield, Norfolk, Yorktown, Alexandria, Annapolis, Philadelphia