Chesapeake Bay Boating Destination

Virginia’s River Realm’s prime location at the mouth of the Rappahannock River where it meets the Chesapeake Bay makes it the perfect spot to tie up at a marina for a long weekend or anchor off in a protected creek during a trip up or down the Bay. With 25+ marinas along our 465 miles of shoreline, you can find haven within strolling or biking distance of our 8 Great Small Towns for dining, shopping, and entertainment on your transient stay.

Planning Your STAY ABOARD

Virginia’s River Realm is unlike other boating destinations on the bay! You’ll find peace and serenity along our shorelines, with all of the essentials for a fun stay inland.

Waterfront restaurants where you can dock & dine, service yards & outfitters for your boat, and places to dock or anchor are plentiful throughout the Realm.

─ Tie Up or Anchor Out ─

Find Your Marina or Anchorage

Our numerous marinas offer many different experiences for your transient stay in the River Realm. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort atmosphere or a quiet creek to escape to, we have your perfect place to anchor out or tie up for a long weekend stay.

─Get some work done on your stay─

Boatyards & Services

Life aboard a boat can come with repairs and upgrades. Our award-winning service yards are here to help, and if you need a place to lay your head while the work is being done, there’s plenty of ways to stay on land, as well.

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─ Dock & Dine ─

Waterfront Restaurants You Can Reach By Boat

There are a number of restaurants you can reach by boat (or by dinghy) along our shorelines. You can embrace local flavor, and enjoy gorgeous waterfront views from your table while you dine.

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─ All Of Your Boating Essentials ─

Retailers & Outfitters

New lines, fenders, life jackets….. whatever you need, our retailers & outfitters have your back with all the boating gear.

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─ borrow a boat for the weekend ─

Boat Rentals & Charters

It doesn’t have to be a BYOB (bring your own boat) experience in the River Realm. Boat rentals, bareboat charters, and licensed captains are at the ready to take you out for a day (or more) of exploration on the Rappahannock River & Chesapeake Bay.

Norton’s Sailboat Charters

The world’s best sailing is on the Chesapeake Bay (and we’re not biased a bit). Norton’s Sailing Charters invites you to come see for yourself. Norton’s Sailboat Charters is on of the only sailing charter companies in the lower Chesapeake Bay, and their location on Broad Creek marina at the mouth of the Rappahannock River is an easy half-days sail to dozens of anchorages and destinations.

Rappahannock River Charters

Escape the traffic and enjoy the beauty of the Rappahannock River with your friends and loved ones. Experience a breath-taking sunset cruise aboard Miss Nicole. There’s so much to see while on the cruise: wildlife and fishing, the beautiful landscape of the Northern Neck – all while cruising on our historic Rappahannock River. Captain William Saunders has over 31 years of successful operating experience and is renowned for his attention to detail, safety and excellent service. They’re moored on Carter’s Creek in the beautiful Town of Irvington, and offer fishing tours, as well as scenic day and sunset cruises.

Urbanna Cruises

You never know what you’ll discover exploring the uniquely beautiful waterways of the Middle Peninsula. Every cruise brings a new experience. Urbanna Cruises’ Captain Phil Loftis is your host on the waterways of the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck, Virginia aboard our comfortable and stable 24’ pontoon boat with 360° viewing.

Sail and Surf Adventures

Sunset cruises, full-day sailing adventures or epic surf trips – Sail & Surf Adventures has a coastal Virginia adventure to suit you! They aim to provide an atmosphere that allows for reflection and rejuvenation from busy life ashore. Step aboard their 36’ fully refitted sailboat, Galene, and immerse your senses in life at sea.  They sail to off-the-beaten-path islands and islets where nature abounds. Keep your eyes peeled for ospreys, bald eagles and even dolphins!

Start Planning Your Family Vacation To Virginia's River Realm

Family Vacation Itinerary Planner

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Itinerary Planner

Design your own ideal family vacation from our suggestions above! Decide where your “home-base” will be from the many ways to stay throughout the River Realm, and plan all of the things you will see, eat, and do while you’re here!

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