See the Bay ##American lotuses in bloom on Lloyd Creek near the mouth of the Sassafras.
Rivers Eastern Shore
“W
e’re heading over to the Shore for the weekend” is a common phrase among Chesapeake cruising sailors in the Mid to Northern Bay, not to be confused with “going downy ocean,” a completely different vibe. For the uninitiated sailor, there are more quiet anchorages and coves to explore on the Eastern Shore than one could visit in a lifetime. A cruiser could spend a week discovering each of the rivers described here, anchoring in a different place every night, and still not put the hook down in every cove. They’re all worth exploring!
Sassafras River
Size: 20 miles long, 97.2-square-mile watershed. Character: Fresh to slightly brackish. Largely rural, with historic towns such as Georgetown and Fredericktown. What sailors seek there: The blooming of the American lotuses in mid to late July into August. Mount Harmon Plantation plans a Lotus Blossom Festival in August (see updates on mountharmon.org).
Elle Bassett, Miles and Wye Riverkeeper
What makes your river unique? The Miles and Wye Rivers are unique in that you can find both a hidden spot surrounded only by nature and a historic and picturesque town with waterfront restaurants, shopping, and attractions: the best of both worlds! When you’re out on a boat on the river, what things about it still amaze you? Lately, we’ve seen a resurgence of underwater grasses, transitioning the river to look more like an aquarium—clear water teeming with fish. It’s incredible to see! Favorite wildlife sightings? We rescued a Kemp’s ridley sea turtle in the St. Michaels Harbor last year: a critically endangered species. Other favorites include dolphins and blue heron rookeries. ##Photo couresy of Elle Bessett What do you wish more sailors knew about your river? Pump, don’t dump! ShoreRivers operates a pumpout boat that is a free service to boaters on the Miles and Wye. Call (410) 829-4352 or VHF Channel 9.
Chester River
Size: 43 miles long, 368-square-mile watershed Character: Brackish. Dominated by agricultural land with small towns and villages, such as Chestertown. What sailors seek there: Quiet coves and a feeling of going back in time. Chestertown Tea Party (usually held Memorial Day weekend) and Sultana Downrigging Weekend, also in Chestertown (around Halloween).
Miles River
Size: 12 miles long, 54-square-mile watershed. Character: Brackish. Mostly rural with historic St. Michaels as a highlight. What sailors seek there: The quaint town of St. Michaels, Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum events (such as the Charity Boat Auction Labor Day weekend), log canoe races, and quiet coves.
##The Sultana Downrigging Festival in Chestertown. Photo by Eric Moseson
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