Chesapeake Bay Cruise Ship Sets Sail This Spring

Cruise passengers will discover the beauty and heritage of the Chesapeake Bay when Delta Queen Coastal Voyages’ first ship, the cv Cape May Light, sets sail on a series of 7-night journeys into America’s yachtsmen’s paradise starting May 5, 2001. The voyages between Norfolk, Va., and Philadelphia, Pa., are among nine inaugural itineraries announced thus far for the 226-passenger coastal ship and its sister vessel, the cv Cape Cod Light, also debuting in 2001.

As the Charms of the Chesapeake Bay voyage unfolds, passengers can walk in the footsteps of historic patriots in cities such as Jamestown, Williamsburg, Alexandria and Mt. Vernon, Va.; visit the current seat of political power in Washington, D.C.; explore famous attractions in Cambridge, St. Michaels and Annapolis, Md.; and succumb to the contemporary pleasures of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The vacation includes numerous shore adventures and ample time to explore on one’s own.

Highlights of the Charms of the Chesapeake Bay itinerary include:

Norfolk, Va. – The grandeur of the mighty warships in Norfolk’s harbor will be silhouetted in soft shadows during an evening cruise on the day passengers board the Cape May Light.

Jamestown, Va. – A cruise along the serene James River will culminate in a visit to Jamestown Settlement, where passengers will experience a recreation of the first settlers’ four-month trip to the New World.

Williamsburg, Va. – Explorers from the Cape May Light will experience an eye-opening re-enactment of life in the busy colonial capital on the eve of the American Revolution.

Cambridge, Md. – In Cambridge, one of Maryland’s oldest settlements, coastal ship passengers can stroll brick-lined streets and narrow alleyways past Georgian, Queen Anne and Colonial Revival homes.

St. Michaels, Md. – During the War of 1812, residents of St. Michaels foiled the enemy by placing lanterns in the fog to simulate the lights of the town, sparing its destruction and saving it for posterity. Delta Queen Coastal Voyages’ passengers can explore the area’s heritage at the renowned Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, including the Hooper Strait Light (dating back to 1879) and experience present-day ambiance during a succulent repast that Marylanders call the “crab feast.”

Alexandria, Va. – Alexandria, Va., sprawling across the placid Potomac River from Washington, D.C., is one of America’s most important colonial ports. The community features well-preserved 18th and 19th century buildings that house exquisite galleries, cozy pubs and intimate restaurants. Cape May Light passengers can stop by an apothecary once frequented by George Washington, let their senses “soak in” the culture of local artists, or shop till they drop in fashionable boutiques.

Washington, D.C. – From the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol to the glistening White House, America’s military and political history prevails in this omnipotent capital. Passengers can visit the Vietnam War Memorial with guests from their coastal ship, or privately pay their respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. They can also peek into the glamour of the Kennedy Camelot years; view Hollywood memorabilia, including Dorothy’s ruby slippers at one of the Smithsonian Museums; or observe the Wright Brothers’ famous craft at the National Air and Space Museum. Other sites include the Ford Theater, the scene of Lincoln’s fatal shooting, and the home across the street, where he died. There’s also time to stroll the Mall for an overview of the city, and to browse through the restored Union Station, bursting with snazzy shops and unique eateries.

Mt. Vernon, Va. – History comes alive at the sumptuous estate that George and Martha Washington called home. Visitors can wend their way through manicured gardens overlooking the winding Potomac, and immerse themselves in the scenic splendor of the plantation while contemplating the private life of the “Father of our Country.”

Annapolis, Md. – Nestled on the banks of the Severn River is the United States Naval Academy, home to 4,000 midshipmen. John Paul Jones’ stirring words, “I have not yet begun to fight,” echo throughout the venerable campus to this day, as cadets enmesh themselves in naval tradition. Nearby, scenic Annapolis is dotted with shops, pubs, art galleries and intimate restaurants. Sailboats, yachts and other craft bob in the magnificent pre-Revolutionary seaport.

Baltimore, Md. – Named for Lord Baltimore, founder of Maryland, this beautiful city was chartered in 1729 and has evolved from a colonial town into a world-class entertainment capital. Cape May Light passengers can view Fort McHenry, where Francis Scott Key was inspired to pen the “Star Spangled Banner,” explore the Inner Harbor where dolphin shows entertain at the National Aquarium, review the fleet at the Baltimore Maritime Museum, and delve into the myriad wonders of the shops at Harborplace.

Philadelphia, Pa. – Delta Queen Coastal Voyages’ passengers can extend their vacation with an optional post-cruise hotel stay to give them ample time to experience American history in its birthplace, Philadelphia -- the home of the Liberty Bell; Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were drafted; and Betsy Ross’ House, where the first flag was fashioned. Passengers can also indulge in the amenities of modern-day “Philly” – fine dining, performing arts and exceptional shopping.

Delta Queen Coastal Voyages’ cv Cape May Light and cv Cape Cod Light are currently under construction at Atlantic Marine, Inc., in Jacksonville, Fla. They are named for historic lighthouses and designed to resemble classic coastal ships.

The Cape May Light’s Charms of the Chesapeake Bay voyages depart May 5, 12, 19 and 26; June 2; Oct. 20 and 27; Nov. 3 and Nov. 10, 2001. Fares start at $2,585 per person, based on double occupancy. An “Early Booking Bonus” offers a savings of $800 per couple on the voyages when booked 6 months or more in advance, subject to certain restrictions. Fares include regularly scheduled shore excursions at each port, with optional excursions also available. Competitively priced air transportation is available from 80 U.S. gateway cities.

For Delta Queen Coastal Voyages reservations, call your travel agent. To request a free full-color brochure and information, call Delta Queen Coastal Voyages toll-free at 800-846-8000 or visit the Web site at www.coastalvoyages.com

Posted: 2-16-2001