Darling Charters Annapolis

An Elevated Yachting Experience on the Historic Annapolis Waterfront
You deserve the best!

Welcome aboard Darling, a classic lobster yacht built on Martha’s Vineyard

Often referred to as “The Original Picnic Boat” this beauty is the perfect yacht to enjoy Annapolis the best way - from the water.  When you charter Darling, the entire boat is completely yours.  This private yacht charter experience allows our captain to ensure you and your guests have the most memorable cruise.  

We have curated three cruises that have proven to be very popular with our clients looking for a stylish & elegant way to experience Annapolis.

In addition, we are pleased to speak with you to design a unique day on the water.  We think we are the ultimate way to arrive at your special event or wedding, spectator boat for a regatta, or celebrate that special occasion with your friends, family or clients. Contact us to find out how we can bring that added classic elegance to your next event.

Cruises

Morning

Perfect for those early risers, or for when you have an action packed day and want to fit it all in.

Good Morning Beautiful! Put on that fabulous hat & "Jackie O" sunglasses and start your day in style. Perfect for those early risers, or for when you have an action packed day and want to fit it all in. Sit back and enjoy the highlights of Annapolis, the Naval Academy, Spa Creek and cruise into the heart of historic downtown down Ego Alley. Typically this time of the day has calm waters, light winds, and a quieter time on the water. Includes a selection of cold beverages, fresh pastries, decadent donuts & fruit to round out the perfect start to your day.
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9:30 am
2 hours
$700 includes up to six guests on board

Harbor Cruise

This cruise will make you feel like a local and discover all that Annapolis has to offer from the water.

Our most popular cruise to truly experience Annapolis! Highlights include Ego Alley, Spa Creek, the Naval Academy, as well as cruising up the Severn River and nearby creeks that will make you feel like a local and discover all that Annapolis has to offer from the water. This cruise includes our signature picnic basket with a lovely charcuterie plate and a selection of cold beverages.
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1:00pm
2 hours 30 mins
$875 includes up to six guests on board

Sunset

Sit back and enjoy this cruise around the harbor, and watch as Annapolis lights up with the setting sun.

The most magical time of the day is enhanced when enjoyed from the cockpit of our classic Darling. Sit back and enjoy this cruise around the harbor, and watch as Annapolis lights up with the setting sun. The perfect setting for a romantic evening or celebration with friends and family. Included is our signature picnic basket with a lovely charcuterie plate and a selection of cold beverages.
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Start times range seasonally from 5:00pm to 6:30pm (2 hours prior to sunset)
2 hours
$800- includes up to six guests on board
Wedding on the water photo

Special Event

We are pleased to speak with you to design a unique day on the water.  We think we are the ultimate way to arrive at your special event or wedding , spectator boat for a regatta, or celebrate that special occasion with your friends, family or clients.
Contact us to find out how we can bring that added classic elegance to your next event.

Blog Posts

FAQ

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Weather

Your safety and comfort is our number one priority and in the event of inclement weather, we will offer you a full refund.  The captain will make that decision and we will contact you prior to the cruise departure.
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Restroom

Darling does have a very small restroom (head) onboard however we encourage you to use the facilities prior to boarding.
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What to Bring

Sunscreen, hat, light jacket, sunglasses, camera.  Darling is a mostly open boat so please plan accordingly.  We also ask that spray sunscreen not be applied while on the boat to prevent surfaces becoming slippery.  In the event of cooler weather, we have a selection of cashmere throws on board to keep you comfortable.
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What to wear 

Soft soled shoes are preferred but we know that shoes can make the outfit.  We will ask that you remove any shoes with heels while boarding to ensure your safety, and know that your pedicured toes will enjoy the feel of our teak cabin sole (floor).
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Refreshments

Darling Charters is pleased to provide elegant snacks and a select of cold beverages for all guests.. We are happy to speak with you about additional catering options if desired.
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Safety

Your safety is very important to us.  Life jackets and all safety equipment is on board.  In addition, we require children under the age of 13 wear a lifejacket while on board. Children sized life vests will be provided, or you are welcome to bring your own if that is more familiar for your child.  Your Captain is a US Coast Guard certified captain and very experienced yachtsman and lifelong sailor.
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Cancellation Policy

All cruises are fully refundable up to 72 hours prior to departure.  In the event of inclement weather, your cruise is fully refundable (this includes rain, high winds, or any weather that the captain deems is not safe to leave the dock). If you need to cancel within 24 to 72 hours prior to departure, there is 50% cancellation fee.  Within 24 hours, you are responsible for the full charge of the cruise.
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Departure & Arrival

Cruises operate from our convenient Eastport location near many great restaurants and bars. We can also arrange to pick up/drop off from a private residence/business in the Annapolis area, or from the Annapolis city dock (for a small added charge).
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Terms and Conditions

In order to embark on a charter with Darling Charters LLC, you agree to the foregoing TERMS AND CONDITIONS.  Please read this important information carefully and review with all guests who will attend prior to charter. 

Number of Guests:
The Coast Guard sets this limit and the maximum number of guests we are allowed is six (6), in addition to the Captain (and crew if applicable).  Children (regardless of age) are included in this total. 

Life vests: Life vests are provided for all guests. In addition, children under the age of 13 must wear a life vest at all times.  We have children sized life vests on board, but feel free to bring your own USGA approved life vest if your child will be more comfortable with that. 

Cancellation: Your charter is booked for a specific date and time.  We appreciate that sometimes plans change.  If you need to cancel, your charter fee is fully refundable if cancelled 72 hours of more before your charter.  If cancelled within 24 & 48 hours, we will refund 50% of your charter fee.  There are no refunds if cancelled within 24 hours of your charter. 

Weather:
Your charter will occur rain or shine. However, if we need to cancel the charter due to hazardous weather conditions such thunderstorms, heavy rain or high winds, we will happily reschedule your charter or provide a 100% refund.  The Captain will make the final decision as to any cancellation and advise you as soon as possible.     

Personal Responsibility:

All guests on Darling Charters agree to abide by the directions and safety instructions of the Captain at all times. Each guest is responsible for their own personal safety, health and general well-being during the charter. If a guest feels they are prone to motion sickness, they must take responsibility for their own preventative measures.  

Liability and Release: All charter guests release and hold Darling Charters LLC and its Captain harmless from any liability occurring or arising from the charter. All decisions relating to the charter and operation of the vessel shall be made by the Captain, at their sole discretion. The Captain of the vessel reserves the right to disembark any guest for reckless behavior, intoxication, or if posing danger to themselves or other charter guests.  Charter guests understand that no health insurance or travel insurance will be provided by the charter company, and, if they wish to be insured, they must take personal responsibility for securing their own coverage.  

The fine print

We know those little details can make all the difference and want to ensure your charter is the best it can be.  Please let us know if this is a special occasion (yes we can keep a secret if you are planning to ask a certain question) and we will do all that we can to help make this the most memorable experience.

Gratuities – Tips are never expected but always appreciated.  Thank you!

Testimonials

“The prettiest boat in Annapolis"

Charlotte
St. Thomas, USVI

"Wonderful captain, conversation, sights, boat & charcuterie board!

I would do it again!

Mike M
Annapolis, MD

“ l loved being out on the water on a beautiful August afternoon. It was the perfect way to entertain three of my close friends. We enjoyed Champagne, sunshine and a guided tour of Annapolis area creeks and the Chesapeake Bay. We all agreed that our time on the picnic boat was greatly enhanced because of our captain Alexandra"

Debra
Annapolis, MD

About the Boat

Darling is a 1973 Wasque 32 (pronounced “Way-squee”) named after Wasque point on Martha’s Vineyard.  She is a much loved classic and one of only 50 built by Martha’s Vineyard Boatworks.    
Based on the lobster boat hulls of Maine, she was designed to be a fishing boat for the often challenging waters around the Vineyard and Buzzards Bay. As result she is a seaworthy vessel, cruising smoothly on the near full length keel.
Darling had a major refit in the early 2000s that included the hard top and a new engine, and has continued to be upgraded to keep her in great shape. She is a very sea worthy design and also provides a wonderful open cockpit - the perfect setting for your next cruise.

Darling Charters Boat Cruising In Annapolis Maryland

About us

Founded by two lifelong sailors, we wanted to share our love of the water with you and provide the ultimate way to experience Annapolis!

When we found Darling it was love at first sight - book your cruise today to find out why!

Cute Lab Dog Looking Right
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