Cruise the Patuxent on the Historic, Wm. B. Tennison

SOLOMONS - 8/2/2009

When in search of something unique and different this summer, try a relaxing and entertaining cruise on the Calvert Marine Museum’s 109 year-old bugeye yacht, the Wm. B. Tennison. Enthusiasts have described the experience as the perfect way to explore the sights and sounds of the Patuxent River.

One-hour cruises aboard the Tennison are available from May through October every Wednesday through Sunday at 2 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday in July and August, there is also a 12:30 p.m. cruise. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children 5 to 12 years old. Children under five are free. Tickets are available at the admissions desk.

Built in 1899, the Wm. B. Tennison is one of the oldest Coast Guard inspected passenger vessels in the country. The sailing bugeye was originally built with the hull of nine logs, and only two other log-built bugeyes are still in existence.

In 1945, J.C. Lore & Sons of Solomons purchased the vessel and used it for oyster dredging and as a buyboat.  Today, the Tennison runs on engine power and carries 47 passengers as part of the museum’s maritime history collection.

On Saturday, August 15, The CMM hosts an elegant sunset cruise aboard the Tennison. The cruise takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and is a perfect way to escape the heat and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Patuxent River. Those on the cruise will be treated to delectable hors d’oeuvres; all for only $30 for adults. The highly popular cruise requires advance registration on or before Wednesday, August 12.

Another great experience, this year on Sunday, September 13, is the Annual Dinner Cruise. Cruisers are treated to a great meal of crab cakes out on the water from 5 to 7 p.m. The price for the dinner cruise is $30 for adults. Advance registration is required because of limited capacity and high demand. Register on or before Wednesday, September 9 to ensure a great seat and a scrumptious traditional Southern Maryland cuisine.

On Saturday, September 19, the Wm. B. Tennison again is the place for great fun on its Picnic Cruise. Those taking the cruise bring along their picnic baskets and munch away while relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Tickets must be purchased on or before Friday, September 18 to reserve a seat on board. Admission is only $15 for adults and only $10 for children 12 and under.

Then the final cruise of the season may be the most fun of all. On Saturday, October 31 CMM hosts its eighth annual Monster Mash Cruise and Costume Contest aboard the Tennison. The cruise starts at 4:30 p.m. and lasts until 5:30 p.m. for all the costumed little goblins and their families. Tickets for the great experience are only $7 for adults and $6 for children between 5 and 12. Children 4 and under are only $4.
 
For more information or to purchase cruise tickets, please contact Melissa McCormick at (410) 326-2042 ext. 41 or email her at mccormmj@co.cal.md.us. All cruise cancellations must be received no later than five days before each cruise for a refund.