Jenye Stanley, a Stevenson University student, took one of Baltimore Heritage’s first boat tours. Baltimore Heritage will be offering more boat tours in 2025. Please join our mailing list to receive updates. Here are Jenye’s impressions:  

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Charm City, the Baltimore by Boat Inner Harbor Tour is truly a sight to see. Recently, I had the pleasure of embarking upon Baltimore Heritage’s new boat tours. This 75-minute tour details the rich 300-year history of Baltimore and its harbor as it is brought to life by the knowledgeable volunteer guide of Baltimore Heritage. The experience was not just about the beautiful views but an engaging narration of the city’s past, present, and future.

As we set sail on a brisk Saturday morning, with a refreshing breeze off the water, we boarded the boat and set off at 9 AM. The weather was beautiful, making it the perfect start to our adventure. As the boat glided along the harbor, the fresh scent of the water filled the air, instantly rejuvenating everyone on board.

The boat followed a steady pace, allowing us passengers to process every sight along with the history tidbits that came along. Each building and structure along the harbor were unique, showcasing a vibrant array of shapes and colors that reflect Baltimore’s one-of-a-kind character. From the iconic Domino Sugars sign—measuring a staggering 70 by 120 feet—to the stunning 68-foot guitar at the top of the Hard Rock Cafe, every sight added to the charm of the city’s history.

One of the highlights was learning how Baltimore pioneered harbor tourism. The city’s revolutionary spirit showcases historical landmarks like the first streetlight and various innovations that other harbors have since replicated. During the tour, we also learned about other Baltimore Heritage tours, like a tour of Federal Hill. It was a great reminder that there’s always more to explore in this vibrant city. As we approached closer to the Domino Sugar factory, the sweet smell of raw sugar wafted through the air. We could see crane machine in action as it unloaded the sugar off of the boat into crates to later become the sugar we use.

The small yet impactful star of the Inner Harbor was the celebrated Mr. Trash Wheel. This quirky hero plays a vital role in keeping the harbor clean and beautiful, and it displays Baltimore’s commitment to sustainability and the environment. We even got to see a small figurine of Mr. Trash Wheel and his googly eyes. Thanks to this guy and the Waterfront Partnership this harbor is safe swimming and fishing as of June 2024. For those who may be concerned about seasickness, the boat was incredibly stable, with little to no shaking throughout the ride. I typically don’t experience much seasickness, but I can confidently say that even the most sensitive passengers would feel comfortable on this ride. As a tip, with early morning boat rides, the water can generate breeze, as it is refreshing can become a bit chilly. It’s recommended to bring a coat or windbreaker to brace the winds that may come.

Baltimore Heritage’s Baltimore by Boat Tour of the Inner Harbor, brought to you by PNC, encourages you to keep exploring the harbor. With a capacity of 49 passengers, it still felt intimate and personalized. Bring along friends and family to celebrate Baltimore’s rich heritage. If you’re in Baltimore, don’t miss the chance to embark on this remarkable boat tour. It’s not just about the sights—it’s about the stories, the people, and the heritage that comes with being present in the city. Grab your coat, enjoy the sweet-smelling breeze, and book your historic experience on Baltimore’s Inner Harbor today!

–Jenye Stanley