45 minutes on the Inner Harbor

About this experience

Cruises on the Bay by Watermark runs this one from the Finger Piers at 555 Light Street, on the west shore of the Inner Harbor, a short walk from the Maryland Science Center. Look for the red umbrella, as Watermark puts it. You check in 15 minutes before your departure, per the listing, board the boat and sail out on a 45-minute loop of the harbor, then come back to the same pier.

All 45 minutes are on the water. The route, per the listing, takes in USS Constellation, the 1854 sloop-of-war with her tall masts at Pier 1, the National Aquarium and its glass pyramids, the Under Armour headquarters, the Domino Sugars sign and the view toward Fort McHenry, where the 1814 bombardment inspired "The Star-Spangled Banner." Recorded narration covers the harbor's history and how the old industrial waterfront turned into the promenade you see today. One guest describes covered space below and open space above: the top deck is the place for photos with the skyline behind you.

Included, per the listing: the 45-minute cruise and the recorded narration. Not included: drinks and snacks, which you can buy at the full-service bar on board, and parking. The listing says it is not suitable for people prone to seasickness, and boat assignments and routes can change. A friendly tip: grab a seat on the open deck first and buy your drink once the boat is moving.

• 45 minutes on the water, the whole booking spent on the boat
• USS Constellation's masts and the National Aquarium from the harbor
• The Domino Sugars sign and the view toward Fort McHenry
• Recorded narration on Baltimore's waterfront and its history
• An open top deck with the skyline behind you
• A full-service bar on board, drinks for sale

How the day runs

1. 15 minutes beforeCheck in at 555 Light St

   Find the Finger Piers on the west shore and check in at the Watermark kiosk. Check the departure times for your date.

2. BoardingPick your deck

   Covered seats below or the open deck above, with the Light Street skyline at your back.

3. On the waterThe Inner Harbor loop

   Past USS Constellation, the National Aquarium and the Under Armour headquarters, with the narration running.

4. Along the wayDomino Sugars and Fort McHenry

   The boat swings past the Domino Sugars sign with views toward Fort McHenry, per the listing.

5. 45 minutesBack at Light Street

   The cruise ends at the pier where it started, steps from the promenade and West Shore Park.

What's included

Who it suits

What guests say

Tips before you book

• Check in 15 minutes before the departure, as the listing asks. The kiosk sits on the Finger Piers at 555 Light Street.
• Watermark's own FAQ says the cruises run rain or shine, that payment on board is by card or contactless only, and that the boats have climate-controlled interiors with open-air top decks.
• Leave the cooler at the hotel: the listing does not allow coolers, outside alcohol or vaping on board.
• Parking is extra. The Royal Sonesta Harbor Court garage and the 414 Light Street garage are both close to the pier.
• Planning the rest of the day? Our things to do around the Inner Harbor guide lists the ships, the Aquarium and Federal Hill with prices.

Read next:

• Baltimore harbor cruises
• Things to do in the Inner Harbor
• Is the Inner Harbor worth it?

Frequently asked questions

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