Upper Chesapeake deep trailer launch?

exkma367 · #1 (**permalink**) 12-30-2009

I have a 1966 Columbia 26 that I restored and have been trailering to the local lake here in the middle of PA. I am planning my first sail on the Chesapeake for the first two weeks in June. I am looking for a deep ramp where I can launch and a place to leave the truck and trailer for a couple of weeks. Any recomendations? I need to get the trailer into about five feet of water to get her on and off. She has 4.5 feet of draft. I have a detatchable fifth wheel on the front of the trailer. I usually back up to the waters edge, disconnect, drop the wheel, attach 15 feet of chain and then get her wet. The ramp is not as big a concern as being able to leave the truck and trailer and have it be there when I get back. Thanks

nickmerc · #2 (**permalink**) 12-30-2009

I am not sure about access for non-military but the old naval research center (David Taylor Research Center) on the north side of the Severn River across from the Naval Academy has an old sea plane ramp they use to launch and retreive keel boats. I do not know who to contact, but a google search may provide some answers. I have never been hasseled when driving there. I am not sure how they will take to leaving the trailer there for a while. Let us know how it works out.
________
Volcano vaporizers

scottyt · #3 (**permalink**) 12-30-2009

the ramp on boston street in baltimore is deep enough and has plenty of parking. the only drawback is its 2 to 3 hours from open bay. if you need more info just pm me

google 3100 boston street baltimore, md 21224. it will be visible on the satellite shot

blt2ski · #4 (**permalink**) 12-30-2009

If it were me, I would look also for a place with a lift. Then you do not need to worry about a chain etc. And if a place has a lift, they usually have parking for 2 weeks also. At least the places where I am in Puget sound are this way! I would assume back east is similar.

marty

MJBrown · #5 (**permalink**) 12-30-2009

Check out Duffy's Marina on the Sassafras in Georgetown, MD. They have a double ramp but I'm not sure what the depths are so call them. Once you're in they'll let you leave the truck and trailer there for a small fee. It will take you an hour and a half to get out to the bay although the river opens up apx 45 mins out. From that point, depending on winds, you can sail the remainder of the way out. The Sassafras is a beautiful river with a number of places to drop the hook. If you want to explore it do so mid week as weekends get very busy with power boat traffic. BTW if Duffy's doesn't work try looking on the Bohemia River. Good luck!

Quickstep192 · #6 (**permalink**) 12-31-2009

Fairwinds Marina has a ramp that's deep and steep. I've never launched a boat of that draft there, but the guys that run the place would know for sure. They also have pretty ample parking. High tide might help also.

1000 Fairwinds Drive
Annapolis, MD 21409-4799
(410) 974-0758

exkma367 · #7 (**permalink**) 12-31-2009

Thanks for the info. I,ll make a few calls and post what I find.

smillinjack · #8 (**permalink**) 12-31-2009

You could have someone drive the truck and trailer back home, then if it comes up missing your home owners insurance will pay for it .Then you have to be able to call them to bring it back. It should make for less worries when you are out sailing and having fun.