Watermark Cruises and Tours
Watermark Cruises and Tours
4.5
Ghost & Vampire Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Boat Tours • Walking Tours • Sightseeing Tours
Read more
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Full view
About
Watermark is your destination for fun on land and sea in Annapolis through sightseeing cruises and walking tours. Come enjoy a 40 minute cruise on the iconic Harbor Queen or take a walking tour with our Colonial guides. Choose from our variety of regularly offered cruises, walking tours and special events. Watermark offers many ways to have fun in Annapolis! We also offer group tours, field trips and private events on our yachts.
Annapolis, Maryland
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2023
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingSimilar Experiences
Watermark Cruises and Tours
Booking unavailable on Tripadvisor
Want other options you can book now?
Show optionsTravelers talk about
(50 reviews)
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,116 reviews
Excellent
845
Very good
185
Average
38
Poor
26
Terrible
23
keithc101197
348 contributions
Feb 2020
We were in town for the first time attending our son's college swim meet at the Naval Academy and this gave us a great feel for the area. We enjoyed the State House the most. Raphael was both knowledgeable and friendly. Also got a good feel for the Naval Academy but that portion of the tour was a bit rushed and ended abruptly leaving us on the base rather than at the original meeting point.
There is nearly equal outdoor & indoor time on this tour and opportunity to use the restroom if needed.
Did not care for the non refundable policy; we noted at booking there was a good chance our son wouldn't be able to come with us as competition schedules are given to change and our concern was never addressed so we paid $22 with the transaction fee for him that was lost. Two ladies walked up the day of our tour and we felt it would have been a nice gesture if we could have given one of them our son's prepaid ticket and gotten the cash she gave to Raphael instead who was aware of our situation. The policy discourages people from pre-booking and without a pre-booked appointment the opportunity would not have been there for the walk ups.
There is nearly equal outdoor & indoor time on this tour and opportunity to use the restroom if needed.
Did not care for the non refundable policy; we noted at booking there was a good chance our son wouldn't be able to come with us as competition schedules are given to change and our concern was never addressed so we paid $22 with the transaction fee for him that was lost. Two ladies walked up the day of our tour and we felt it would have been a nice gesture if we could have given one of them our son's prepaid ticket and gotten the cash she gave to Raphael instead who was aware of our situation. The policy discourages people from pre-booking and without a pre-booked appointment the opportunity would not have been there for the walk ups.
Written February 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mgnelu
Rockville, MD239 contributions
Jul 2021
I was concerned about taking a cruise during the day because the sun can be ruthless. It turns out that taking the sunset cruise was a safe bet. Even though the company suggests arriving 15 minutes early, we were at the dock 30 minutes before sailing. There was a significant line of people already waiting and those who waited longer got better seats on the ship. I was hoping to learn more about the different buildings that we were seeing, but no narrative (not even pre-recorded) came through the speakers. Since it was overcast, we didn't have the picture-perfect sunset, but we could still see some of the sunset colors through the clouds. The rain could have ruined the cruise, but the weather cooperated for us. It was a pleasant experience overall.
Written August 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're so glad the rain held off! Our Annapolis Sunset Cruise has a fun music playlist, but we have many narrated cruises that you may enjoy. You can find our different cruises at CruisesOnTheBay.com.
Written August 6, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Danielle D
New York City, NY4 contributions
Aug 2021 • Friends
The Day on the Bay Cruise is the perfect way to get out on the Chesapeake with zero sailing experience. The crew were very kind and friendly and made sure that everyone on board was safe and comfortable throughout the trip. We passed Thomas Point Lighthouse (at a distance) on the way out and Bloody Point Lighthouse on the way out and back. The cruise by the Bay Bridge is beautiful and we saw every type of ship imaginable, from sailboats to massive barges.
We had a little less than 3 hours on St. Michaels, which was the perfect amount of time to explore Talbot Street and the adorable neighborhood around it and grab lunch at The Crab Claw. My mom and I both really enjoyed it.
People lined up early to board in Annapolis, and I recommend doing this if you have a strong preference for where you want to sit on the boat.
We had a little less than 3 hours on St. Michaels, which was the perfect amount of time to explore Talbot Street and the adorable neighborhood around it and grab lunch at The Crab Claw. My mom and I both really enjoyed it.
People lined up early to board in Annapolis, and I recommend doing this if you have a strong preference for where you want to sit on the boat.
Written August 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're so glad you enjoyed Day on the Bay and hope you'll join us again soon!
Written August 24, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bonnie B
Olney, MD254 contributions
Oct 2020
We were on the Miss Ann Spa Creek tour on Friday, October 9 with Captain Mel. The Watermark website has a lengthy list of COVID-19 precautions in place. Key measures were not followed. There were 15 passengers on the boat. The distance between one group and the nearest other passenger was about 18 inches. Everyone had a mask in place as we boarded. Then Captain Mel started making her announcements. Every time she talked, she pulled her mask down to completely uncover her mouth and nose. When one passenger removed her mask during the trip, Captain Mel made no comment.
I have reported this to the Anne Arundel Health Department and hope they follow up.
I have reported this to the Anne Arundel Health Department and hope they follow up.
Written October 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We share and appreciate your concern for the safety of our guests and our team. We have reached out to you privately in the hopes of remedying the situation.
Written October 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marci J
Pennsylvania34 contributions
Jul 2020
My husband and I were in Annapolis for a weekend. We decided to take a cruise on Harbor Queen. We liked that it was inexpensive and a great way to take in some Annapolis history. The tour was very informative although it would've been nice to have another 15 minutes on board - 45 minutes seemed just a bit short. We did indulge in some alcoholic beverages while on board which were very good - a little expensive, but considering the cruise tickets were not, it was to be expected. We would definitely recommend. (In addition, it should be noted that we watched them sanitize the entire boat and all the chairs and points of contact between cruises and all employees wore masks for the entirety of the cruise although guests were not made to keep masks on during the duration - only if they were walking around on the boat)
Written July 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your experience and our safety measures. So glad you enjoyed Harbor Queen! We have longer cruises on the weekends, if that interests you!
Written July 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MikeandJo
1 contribution
Oct 2021
Annapolis Ghost Tour... Derrick Radcliff did an outstanding job of shepherding a large number of us around Annapolis on a blustery October evening, filling our heads with stories of those who just weren't ready to pass on to the next life. The sound of his crutch on the cobblestones of Annapolis will always haunt our memories and remind us that Annapolis is not all that it seems to be today... that there were many, many lives before us, some of whom still visit us today. And thanks also to Mercy for her stories about the Phantom Mob on East Street and life in the barracks of old. All in all, it was a fantastic evening. Thanks especially to Derrick, and to Mercy and everyone at Watermark.
Written October 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour! Thank you for sharing, and we hope to see you again soon!
Written November 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michael
7 contributions
Sep 2020
What an absolutely fun day cruising the Bay to St. Michael's. It was somehow both relaxing and adventurous at the same time. Took roughly 2 hours to get there and provided rare views of the Chesapeake. The ship docked at The Chesapeake Maritime Museum, so we ate next door at The Crab Claw. The 3 hours in St. Michael's was enough to walk around, eat, drink, shop, and tour the maritime museum. The 2 hours back was perfect to unwind. Capt. Lee was amazing; he can turn that ship on a dime!
Written September 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So glad you enjoyed your Day on the Bay! We hope to see you again soon!
Written September 8, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Justin W
Columbia, MD50 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
I was born & raised in Maryland and have been to Annapolis many times; however I’ve never taken a cruise around the Severn river until today. I booked a 40 minute cruise with my funny little hunny, who is from California and I thought she might enjoy a little excursion while learning about what was at one point the nation’s capital.
Parking by the water was a bit of a challenge as it was a beautiful sunny Saturday morning and I was driving myself nuts trying to navigate all of the one-way streets in the nearby neighborhood, so I just opted to pay the $30 for public parking. The walk to the harbor was no big deal, we made it to the check-on spot, got our tickets, got in line, then in single file, they granted us access onto the boat. We made our way up to the top deck, found a bench next to the captain’s wheelhouse, and I chatted it up with the captain with some small talk before we set sail. Then after a couple toots of his horn, we were off. For the next 35 or so minutes, we were treated to a nice education about the Naval academy, surrounding buildings, the Chesapeake Bay bridge and other interesting bits and pieces about Annapolis. It was a pleasant leisurely ride, and with the exception of people who came speeding by and causing waves, not too choppy (for those who might get a little woozy on a boat). There’s also a little bar for refreshments, as well as a restroom if you don’t think you can wait until you get back to the public restrooms at the harbor.
This was a really fun activity if you are entertaining guests from out of town, on a date (because there are lots of things to do in walking distance after the boat ride), or if you just want something interesting to do while learning a little trivia about the Old Line State. Next up for us will be taking the all day cruise down to St. Michael’s. I highly recommend this cruise line!
Parking by the water was a bit of a challenge as it was a beautiful sunny Saturday morning and I was driving myself nuts trying to navigate all of the one-way streets in the nearby neighborhood, so I just opted to pay the $30 for public parking. The walk to the harbor was no big deal, we made it to the check-on spot, got our tickets, got in line, then in single file, they granted us access onto the boat. We made our way up to the top deck, found a bench next to the captain’s wheelhouse, and I chatted it up with the captain with some small talk before we set sail. Then after a couple toots of his horn, we were off. For the next 35 or so minutes, we were treated to a nice education about the Naval academy, surrounding buildings, the Chesapeake Bay bridge and other interesting bits and pieces about Annapolis. It was a pleasant leisurely ride, and with the exception of people who came speeding by and causing waves, not too choppy (for those who might get a little woozy on a boat). There’s also a little bar for refreshments, as well as a restroom if you don’t think you can wait until you get back to the public restrooms at the harbor.
This was a really fun activity if you are entertaining guests from out of town, on a date (because there are lots of things to do in walking distance after the boat ride), or if you just want something interesting to do while learning a little trivia about the Old Line State. Next up for us will be taking the all day cruise down to St. Michael’s. I highly recommend this cruise line!
Written August 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is wonderful to hear! We're so glad that you enjoyed your experience and hope to see you again soon for our Day on the Bay to St. Michaels cruise. Thank you for sharing!
Written August 22, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paula D
Washington DC, DC26 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
You board the boat in the midst of historic Annapolis waterfront which is an experience itself. The staff was friendly and well organized. Suggest you reserve your seats online because this is a popular activity especially for families with children. The captain and his crew were very friendly and engaging. The weather was unpredictable and the captain showed skill and good judgement in delaying our departure. We took the 45 minutes tour. But will return for a longer journey with the Watermark Cruise.
Written July 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're so glad you enjoyed the cruise and hope you do join us again soon for a longer one! Thank you for sharing!
Written August 1, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dawn P
2 contributions
Jul 2021
WONDERFUL! Way beyond our expectations ‼️ An hour and a 1/2 tour of the Naval Academy and shore line turned out to be a highlight during our Annapolis stay👍 From the 2 very helpful young gentlemen who reassured us they would come find us (mom rested under a tree within sight of them as she has stability issues) to Summer, Grace and Willa, the lovely young women who first were at the ready to help mom walk up the gang plank and went on to be super accommodating, ready with travel suggestions to enhance our trip and were just an all around delight to talk to😊.
Our Bartender, was cordial, attentive and the perfect addition to the staff. Captain was informative and soft spoken. Booking agent was super helpful! Highly Recomend😃
Our Bartender, was cordial, attentive and the perfect addition to the staff. Captain was informative and soft spoken. Booking agent was super helpful! Highly Recomend😃
Written July 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're so glad you enjoyed your experience with us and hope to see you again soon!
Written August 2, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bec72K
Pennsylvania23 contributions
I am thinking of booking the $82 tour. Can you get "sea sick" on the boat used for that tour? I have been on a sail boat and a "party" fishing boat and got sick both times.
Thank you.
WeAreRoadWarriors
Hopewell, NJ19 contributions
Ours was a gentle ride through calm waters so it didn’t cause any queasiness at all. I wouldn’t think you’d get seasick.
JohnGobron
Boston, MA9 contributions
Can you bring a dog on this cruise?
WatermarkJourney
Annapolis, MD1 contribution
Our cruises are pet friendly. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome.
JohnGobron
Boston, MA9 contributions
Can you bring a dog on this cruise?
Luana B
3 contributions
It looks like from what others are saying, that you can. When we went, there were no dogs on board so I don't know. Just call them if you want to make sure.
Dawn H
Harrisburg, PA29 contributions
Hi,
I will be visiting Annapolis at the end of September but during the week only. Do you have any cruises available in the evening the last week of September
J M
Falls Church, VA154 contributions
Hi Dawn,
I'd go to bing or google and look up "cruises on the bay" and "annapolis" and "st michaels" (TripAdvisor won't let me put a web link) and inquire there.
albert1537
Monkton, MD6 contributions
What time do the 90 minute tours leave the dock and how much is it?
WatermarkJourney
Annapolis, MD1 contribution
Hello,
For the 2016 season, 90-minute cruise adult tickets are $27 and children's tickets are $10. The cruises depart at 12:30, 2:30 and 4:30 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. (Saturdays & Sundays only in the beginning of the season and end of the season).
You can find a detailed schedule and more information on our Cruises On the Bay website.
Thanks!
Watermark Cruises and Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Watermark Cruises and Tours Information
Excellent Reviews | 844 |
|---|---|
Very Good Reviews | 185 |
Watermark Cruises and Tours Photos | 518 |