COME SAIL AWAY

Looking for a vacation that is more of an adventure than simply sitting on the beach? If you love the water and love a challenge, nothing is quite as fun as sailing. To get started take lessons and get certified. A great weekend getaway is to venture to Annapolis, the sailing capital of the world and home of the United States Naval Academy, to take sailing lessons with those who live to sail. You can travel on Southwest to BWI airport and rent a car to drive the short 20 minutes to Annapolis. Unless you have an aunt and uncle who live in a beautiful house across from the Naval Academy on the Severn River, you should opt to stay downtown among the cobblestone streets and unique shops. The Annapolis Sailing School is a quick drive from all points in Annapolis. The weekend course is Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 4pm and consists of mainly time on the water. You will learn your sailing vocabulary and pretty soon you will be saying Port and Starboard while tacking, bringing alive your inner sailor. Don't forget to get a taste of Annapolis known for their blue crabs and Maryland style broiled crab cakes full of large lump crab meat. Sam's Waterfront Cafe located near the Annapolis Sailing School with a great view of the water is noted by Zagat's and Wine Spectator and boasts incredible food and live jazz. The Annapolis Yacht Club has the most amazing crab cakes and is located right in downtown Annapolis with great views of gorgeous sailboats.
You can also continue your sailing instructions back home as almost every lake has a sailing club. When you feel you need a new nautical challenge, set your sights on a vacation in the Bitter End (named for the end of a rope) in the British Virgin Islands, another beautiful place to get your sea legs. Of course, don't forget another plus of sailing - showing off your nautical style!