As travelers begin planning their next on-the-water adventures, BoatBooker has released its list of the 12 Best Boating Cities in the United States for 2026. For the second year in a row, Annapolis has earned a spot on the prestigious list, recognized for its deep maritime roots, vibrant boating culture, and unrivaled access to the Chesapeake Bay.
Why Annapolis made the list
Widely known as the sailing capital of the United States, Annapolis is a city where life on the water is central to its identity. Located directly on the Chesapeake Bay, the city offers a wide range of boating experiences, including sailboat charters, guided bay tours, fishing excursions, and leisurely cruises along scenic waterways.
Visitors can take hands-on sailing lessons, book fishing trips targeting striped bass and bluefish, or explore quieter creeks by kayak, where wildlife sightings are common. Whether seasoned sailors or first-time boaters, Annapolis provides accessible and memorable ways to experience the region’s waters.
Beyond the docks, the city’s historic streets, waterfront cafés, and colonial-era architecture add to its appeal. Landmarks like the United States Naval Academy further enrich the city’s character, making Annapolis a destination where boating, history, and coastal living naturally intersect.
How BoatBooker determined the rankings
As the world’s leading marketplace for booking boat tours, BoatBooker evaluates destinations based on their ability to deliver consistently high-quality boating experiences. The 2026 rankings were developed using a combination of:
- Variety and quality of boating experiences
- Customer interest and booking trends
- Accessibility of rivers, lakes, and coastal waterways
- Insights from local captains and operators
- Overall destination appeal and tourism momentum
Best U.S. Boating Cities for 2026
According to BoatBooker, the top boating destinations in the United States for 2026 are:
- Annapolis, MD
- Charleston, SC
- St. Petersburg, FL
- Newport, RI
- Galveston, TX
- South Lake Tahoe, CA
- Portland, ME
- Barnstable, MA
- Carlyle, IL
- Somerset, KY
- Wilmington, NC
- Bellingham, WA
The full list of the Best U.S. Boating Cities for 2026 is available on BoatBooker’s website.
About BoatBooker
BoatBooker is the leading platform for connecting boat captains with travelers seeking unforgettable experiences on the water. The platform currently offers more than 8,400 trips across 710 destinations worldwide, making it a go-to resource for booking boat tours, fishing charters, and sailing adventures.