Reasonable slips near South, Rhode, or West Rivers?

[JohnRPollard]

I am not sure Hartge is low cost. I've checked them out and prices were on a high side, considering the long slog to the bay (a lot more than 45 minutes on a 30+ footer), very tight docking quarters and average docks. They are an interesting and historic place, for sure.

Cost, of course, is relative. We started at Hartges back when it was $600 for our annual mooring. Prices (and our boat size) have gone up since then, but they're still pretty reasonable compared to slips in the area. Hartge's has the advantage of being one of if not the closest Bay marina to Metro DC.

As for the "long slog" to the Bay, I would not characterize it that way. There are a few choke points, but by and large there is abundant depth and breadth for good sailing. From our perspective, we are happy to have the option of sailing entirely in protected water (West/Rhode Rivers) when it's blowing snot out on the Bay. There are many locales (Deale/Herrington Harbor, for instance) where the only option is to sail the Bay -- which can limit choices if the weather is bad.

It's been a while since I was down by Solomons, but I recall that it does take a while to wend the creeks, around the flats, and then continue out the mouth of the Patuxent river to the Bay proper. But that was one of the things I always liked about the area.

[josrulz]

Thanks again everyone for all the info! We'll eventually have a slip in our community, and when we do, we won't be any closer to the Bay than Hartge, so we're not too concerned about that part--we need to get used to it! I'm familiar with the Rhode and West rivers, and I don't mind the trip to the Bay from there. I wouldn't want to be any further, but it's OK, and I agree about the protection.

I called Hartge yesterday and they were very nice/helpful. Once we have the boat, we'll see what specific slips/morrings are actually available (from Hartge and from others) and make our decision on the best option to take.

As always, you all have been very helpful, and I thank you very much!