Marina Spotlight: Somers Cove Marina

By September 30, 2022Dock, Explore
Crisfield, the southernmost town in Maryland, is a unique and wonderful waterside community. It was built by boaters, fisherfolk, and those who love the water. It’s also home to Somers Cove Marina, the ultimate port for sailing, fishing and cruising in the Chesapeake Bay.

A town built on oyster shells

 

The town of Crisfield was built on piles oyster shells. It’s true! Early homes in this maritime town were constructed on pilings on very marshy land. But through the years the clever residents filled the low-lying marshland with oyster shells. Today, from mid-town to the town docks, and land where many of the packing houses are located, is actually sitting on a man-made bed of shells.  

Speaking of oysters, Crisfield is famous for its seafood – especially the renowned Maryland blue crab. If you’re there around Labor Day weekend, you don’t want to miss the annual National Hard Crab Derby. It’s a popular and famed event! Crisfield is also known for its generations of watermen, abundant wildlife, natural beauty, simple lifestyle, and deep sense of community. Its history is immersed in the seafood industry, and some of the best seafood you’ll find anywhere is in the kitchens of its many restaurants.

Crisfield’s favorite marina

 

The Somers Cove Marina is an impressive marina with over 500 slips, and amenities to match. It’s an ideal stop for boaters on their way up and down the coast. The marina can accommodate boats up to 125 feet LOA with beams up to 30 feet and drafts up to 10 feet. 

Guests appreciate the fuel and pump out dock. They also enjoy the nicely appointed bathhouses and laundry rooms. On site, there is a pool, grills, entertaining pavilions, lawn games and a great playground for the kiddos! Last, but not least, Somers Cove Marina is famous for its fantastic events, most notably the Tawes Crab and Clam Bake. It’s an annual all-you-can-eat seafood extravaganza featuring fish, crabs, clams, corn on the cob, and a few local politicians. 

Close to downtown, the marina is only a short walk to restaurants, shopping, and bars.

Best things to do in Crisfield, Maryland

 

Crisfield, known as the “Seafood Capital of the World” for its delicious seafood restaurants and daily catch markets, is a truly charming town. But there is far more to do there than eat mouth-watering seafood. You can explore maritime history at the J. Millard Twes Historical Museum or learn the time-honored tradition of decoy carving at the Ward Brothers Workshop

To appreciate the breathtaking beauty of this region you’ll want to visit Janes Island State Park. It’s a public recreation area located along the waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

When you’re ready for the seafood that made this town famous, you’ll want to head to Fisherman’s Grill. The name says it all. It specializes in fresh, authentic, and delicious. Other favorite stops for grub are Water’s Edge Café and From Scratch Restaurant.

Cruising around Crisfield, Maryland

 

With Crisfield as your port, you can explore the stunning Chesapeake Bay and Tangier Sound regions. A favorite cruise is the 14 miles to the picturesque island of Tangier. Largely unchanged since the late 17th century, it remains home to descendants of notable American families like the Crocketts and Pruitts. Once on the island, visitors can explore the quaint historic district and view historically preserved sites such as the island’s one-room schoolhouse. While there you can even rent a golf cart and leisurely explore for yourself. And, at the Tangier History Museum you can sit on chairs shaped like crabs! 

One of the most famed island destinations within the Chesapeake Bay is Smith Island just 12 miles away. It’s one of the region’s oldest English-speaking areas and is known around the world for its delicious Smith Island cake. The iconic Smith Island cake is easy to spot with its up to 15 thin creme-filled layers. While there you’ll want to visit the Smith Island Museum, which showcases exhibits on the region’s social and cultural history. Also be sure to eat, drink and be merry in the many delightful restaurants like the famed Bayside Inn, known for its traditional American family-style fare.

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Jo

Author Jo

Jo is a lifelong boat lover and writer. She learned the ropes of boating on her family’s 36’ Carver at the Jersey (joy-see) shore. With over 30 years of writing under her belt, she delights in seeking out, and sharing, the things most important to fellow boating enthusiasts. Jo now lives in Connecticut, near the water she adores, with her husband, two children and large, hairy dog. She is over the moon to be part of the Snag-A-Slip crew!

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