Upper Chesapeake Bay Cruise | Ditch Hag Charters

Cruise & Dine: Chesapeake Bay's Hidden Gems

Ready for a laid-back day on the water with some killer eats? Hop aboard the Ditch Hag for a half-day cruise that'll take you to some of the best waterfront grub spots on the upper Chesapeake. We're talking views for days, a chill ride, and the kind of food that'll have you coming back for seconds. Whether you're in the mood for a no-frills crab shack or want to get fancy with white tablecloths, we've got you covered. This trip is all about kicking back, enjoying the scenery, and letting someone else do the driving while you focus on the important stuff – good food and even better company.

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You and your crew (up to 5 total) climb aboard our trusty vessel, the Ditch Hag. As we pull away from the dock, you'll feel the stress melt away with each passing wave. We'll cruise along the shoreline, giving you a front-row seat to some of the prettiest views the Bay has to offer. No need to worry about navigation or parking – our experienced crew's got all that covered. Your job? Sit back, relax, and work up an appetite. We'll drop you off right at the dock of your chosen restaurant, where you can indulge in some of the freshest seafood around. After you've had your fill, we'll be waiting to whisk you back home. It's the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or just treat yourself to a day out on the water.

Smooth Sailing, Full Bellies

This ain't your average booze cruise. We're all about comfort and getting you to your destination in style. The Ditch Hag is set up for easy cruising, with plenty of seating and shade to keep you comfy. As we make our way to your chosen eatery, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife – you might spot ospreys diving for fish or even a bald eagle if you're lucky. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, so feel free to pick their brains about the area's history or the best menu items at our destination. And don't worry about rushing through your meal – we'll work with you to make sure you've got plenty of time to savor every bite before we head back.

Grub Spots Worth Writing Home About

Look, we're not here to tell you where to eat – that's part of the fun of this trip. But we've got the inside scoop on some real gems. Want a place where you can crack crabs right on the paper-covered tables? We know a joint. Looking for somewhere to impress your date with white linens and fancy wine lists? We've got you covered there too. From hole-in-the-wall local favorites to upscale seafood houses, the upper Chesapeake's got it all. And the best part? Rolling up to these spots by boat. Trust us, there's nothing like pulling up to the dock, stepping off, and walking straight to your table. It's the kind of entrance that'll make you feel like a million bucks.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

This trip's a hit for all sorts of reasons. For some, it's the perfect low-key date night – because nothing says romance like a sunset cruise and a great meal. For others, it's a chance to get the whole family together without anyone having to play designated driver. We've had folks celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and even pop the question on board (pro tip: wait until after the meal for that one, less chance of dropping the ring overboard). But honestly? Most people just love the chance to see the Bay from a different angle and enjoy some top-notch food without having to deal with traffic or parking. It's the kind of easy, breezy day out that'll have you wondering why you don't do this more often.

Bonus Round: Fishing on the Side

Now, we know this trip's all about the eats, but if you're itching to wet a line, we can make that happen too. The upper Chesapeake's teeming with fish, and if you're up for it, we can do a bit of casual fishing on the way to or from the restaurant. We're talking about the chance to hook into some striped bass, white perch, or even some hardhead sea catfish. It's not the main event, but it's a fun way to work up an appetite or burn off some of those calories on the way back. Just let us know when you book, and we'll make sure to have some rods and bait on board.

Local Catches You Might Hook

Striped Bass: These bad boys are the rockstars of the Chesapeake. Also known as rockfish, they're hard-fighting and even better eating. They can grow to impressive sizes, with some topping 40 pounds. Spring and fall are prime times to target them, but you can find keepers year-round. There's nothing quite like the thrill of feeling a big striper hit your line – it's the kind of rush that keeps anglers coming back year after year.

White Perch: Don't let their size fool you – these little guys pack a punch in both fight and flavor. They're abundant in the Bay and make for some of the best fish fries you'll ever have. You can catch them pretty much year-round, but they're especially active in the warmer months. They're perfect for kids or anyone who wants to experience the joy of reeling in fish after fish.

Hardhead Sea Catfish: These whiskered critters might not win any beauty contests, but they're fun to catch and tasty to boot. They're bottom feeders, so you'll want to use bait on the floor of the Bay. Late spring through early fall is your best bet for hooking into these guys. Don't let their size fool you – even a small hardhead can put up a surprisingly good fight.

Ready to Set Sail?

Alright, here's the deal – this trip's a fan favorite, and spots fill up fast, especially on weekends. If you're thinking about treating yourself (and your taste buds) to a day out on the Bay, don't wait too long to book. Remember, we can take up to 5 guests, so it's perfect for a double date, family outing, or just getting the gang together for some good food and even better views. And hey, that deposit? It's non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you lock it in. Trust us, once you experience the Chesapeake this way, you'll be planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock. So what are you waiting for? Give us a shout, and let's get you out on the water for a meal you won't forget.