1
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
12 miles from National Harbor. Open 365 days a year. mountvernon.org
FISHING • BOATING • HIKING • GUIDED TOURS • GEOCACHING • FARM ANIMALS Explore your neighborhood national park today! Located on the Potomac in Accokeek, Maryland Plan your visit at www.accokeek.org
1
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
NATIONAL HARBOR MARINA
CONTENTS 4 Marina Rates 5 Marina Map 6 Team Bios 7 Rules & Regulations 9 Waterfront Disctrict Map 10 Helpful Info, Attractions & Amenities 11 Port Personality Kenny Repka, General Manager 13 National Harbor The Pride of the Potomac 16 Bass Fishing & Cherry Blossoms
Welcome to National Harbor We are so pleased you have chosen the National Harbor Marina!
This iconic, all-American, must-see waterfront destination is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the Potomac River. Whether you are docking for a short time or are with us as an annual slip holder, our team is committed to making your stay memorable. Our focus is to deliver a world-class customer service experience with a never-ending variety of things to do.
Marinalife at National Harbor magazine gives you a guide to our facility, including a marina map and description of the amenities we offer on-site to our guests. Your welcome package provides you with all you’ll need to know and how to contact us 24/7. We are dedicated to providing you with the best experience on the Chesapeake Bay. Immerse yourself in the sights, scents and sounds of our unique waterfront.
168 National Plaza Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-749-1582 nationalharbor.com/about/marina EDITOR IN CHIEF Susan Elnicki Wade ASSOCIATE EDITOR Alexa Zizzi PUBLISHER EMERITUS Joy McPeters DIRECTOR OF SALES Natasha Lee-Putnam 860-227-9190 DESIGN & PRODUCTION Tom Couteau, Undertow Creative, LLC
MARINALIFE, LLC
Best Wishes,
125 West Street, Suite 201 Annapolis, MD 21401 410-752-0505
Kent S. Digby
www.marinalife.com info@marinalife.com
Executive Vice President, Asset Management & Operation
2
NATIONAL HARBOR MARINA
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
Marinalife at National Harbor is published by Marinalife, LLC, 125 West Street, Suite 201, Annapolis, MD 21230 410-752-0505
KNOW THE NAME. LOVE YOUR LOOK.
Save up to 70% on 85 Designer Brands
FREE $10 G I F T CA R D
& Savings Book Simply present this ad at Tanger Shopper Services. Limit one gift card per household. Expires 12/31/2021 Code 5712021
57120 NAT Marina Life Mag_May.indd 1
National Harbor, MD | (301) 567-3880 I-95 & I-295 | 6800 Oxon Hill RD. TangerOutlets.com
3/18/21 3:55 PM
2021 Marina Rates Annual Rates
Monthly Rates
Hourly Dockage
Up to 40 feet (minimum rate) $7,700 41-45 feet $8,640 46-50 feet $9,600 51-55 feet $10,560 56-60 feet $11,520 61 feet and above see manager for details
Up to 50’ (minimum rate) $1,200 51’ and above slip $30/foot
$30 for 3 hours (minimum) $10/additional hour
Reduced by $80/month for every extra month
Holidays & Special Rates
Annual & Monthly – metered electric
Daily Rates 40 feet minimum rate Check in: 12 noon Check out: 11:30 a.m. Sun.-Thur.: $3.00/foot Fri. & Sat.: $3.50/foot $4/foot for 61’+ Electric Single 30 - $10/day Double 30 – $15/day Single 50 - $15/day Double 50 - $25/day
Two-night minimum at Fri. & Sat. rate Memorial Day, May 31 July 4th Labor Day, Sept. 6
Cancellation Policy
Normally, 48 hours Weather conditions, ASAP Holiday, 1 week
Liveaboard Rates Double the annual rate of corresponding LOA
Proud to Be Green and Clean! Marinas located in busy urban areas often face challenges keeping their waterways in tip-top shape. So, when the District of Columbia started moving in a more environmentally mindful direction, National Harbor was quick to join its efforts. Its Green Initiative started with the Potomac River Keepers, stewards of the local waters who detect trouble spots and find sustainable solutions. National Harbor guests can look beyond the docks to see the keepers cruising around the basin, taking water samples and testing them in the onboard laboratory. It’s like giving the Potomac a regular check-up to make sure it’s healthy and meets quality standards. Next came a monthly community clean-up effort to pick up trash along the shoreline from May to October. What began as a group of six volunteers has blossomed into a legion of 70 collectors who fill garbage bags with everything from water bottles and plastic straws to tennis balls and hubcaps. As they share their conservation success stories with friends and neighbors, the number of helpers continues to grow. The most unique green program at National Harbor addresses water pollution with a solution found in nature — mussels. Most people think of them as a delicious dish
4
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
steamed in herbs and wine. But when these black bivalves live in waterways, they filter out organisms and pollutants. They can filter gallons of water every day, and because they’re indigenous to the region, they don’t disrupt the habitat. Along the docks at National Harbor, special cages are acting as incubators for young mussels that help clean the water. The marina hopes to plant 5 million mussels in its water over the next 10 years. During your next visit, check out the new babies!
5
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
Team Bios Kenny Repka
GENERAL MANAGER For more than 15 years, Kenny has excelled in the hospitality industry. He began serving the National Harbor Marina in October 2018. Kenny’s goal is to create a fun and energetic atmosphere at the marina, while maintaining the highest level of customer service on the Potomac River. When not at the marina, Kenny typically enjoys family time with his wife and son. Kenny also loves the outdoors, hunting and fishing.
Matt Luigi
MARINE SERVICE ASSOCIATE Matt has been boating on the Potomac River his whole life: tubing, waterskiing and going to restaurants. He’s been with Oasis at National Harbor and the Wharf Marina for a year. The most fun part of his job is the fast-paced energy during the summer. He enjoys encountering different situations every day and when the unexpected comes his way. Matt also likes the positivity around the marina. Nobody is forced to be on a boat. Instead, everyone who boats on weekends is here to enjoy themselves, which creates an upbeat atmosphere. The marina is very hands-on and a great place to learn about how fuel systems work and how to construct things, take things apart and be creative. On days off, he likes to run and hang out with friends. His perfect meal would be eating his Grandma’s enchiladas with rice and beans in her kitchen, which is always a good place to be.
6
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
Superyachts National Harbor Marina is a wonderful destination, with more than 400 feet of alongside dockage making it an ideal stop for superyachts on the Potomac River. Captains and boat owners love to dock with ease, while they stay and enjoy everything that National Harbor has to offer. The attentive marina staff will be on-site to assist with all of our service offerings, and can coordinate provisioning, restaurant and hotel reservations, and local transportation.
Rules & Regulations 1. Swimming. Swimming, fishing, and crabbing are strictly prohibited. This includes traps and pens secured within the slips. 2. Pets. Pets must be leashed at all times. Pets must be cleaned up after. Bags are available for your convenience. 3. Navigation. All boats must adhere to navigation rules of right of way and operate with no wake. 4. Noise. Music and other noises must be limited to a range of 50’. Marina quiet hours during the weekdays are from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. and during the weekends from midnight to 9 a.m. Power tools, such as buffers, sanders, and saws, may only be operated between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays. 5. Gates. Do not prop open gates. If the gates malfunction, please contact the Marina Office. 6. Outside contractors. With the exception of emergencies, contractors are only permitted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, except holidays. Exceptions must be approved by the Marina Office. Contractors must sign in and provide insurance information. 7. Type of work. Spray painting, fiberglass work, heavy engine service, or any other work that results in debris or debris entering the water, docks, or neighboring vessels is prohibited. 8. Sewage. Absolutely no overboard discharge of sewage, including sewage treated with Type I or II MSDs. Pumpout is located on the outside of A dock, and the Marina Office has contact information for mobile pumpout operators. 7
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
9. Hazardous materials. Flammables, toxics, and pollutants must be properly stored and disposed of. Absolutely do not dump in marina garbage or store any on the docks. The nearest disposal site for such materials is Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill, 11611 White House Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772. 10. Grills. No charcoal grilling is permitted. Electric grills may be used on the piers, but they must be attended at all times. 11. Heaters. Unattended space heaters are not permitted. 12. Storage. Dock boxes are not permitted. Storage of furniture, equipment, plants, bicycles, watercraft, fuel and other chemicals on the piers is prohibited. All areas are to be kept free of tripping hazards and clutter. Storage is available upon request for a moderate fee. 13. Stairs. Must meet the following criteria and be approved by the marina. Stairs must not exceed 24” in width, must not restrict access to any part of the docks, must be easily removed and must not double as storage. 14. Laundry. Do not hang laundry on the rigging, lifelines or other parts of the exterior of the vessel. Washers and dryers are available in the Marina Office. 15. Commercial activity. All commercial activities must be approved in writing by the marina. 16. Signage. Vessels for sale are permitted one sign, limited to 18”x24” and hung on the transom or aft deck. All other signage is prohibited. National Harbor Marina
7
Experience
NEW HEIGHTS! Open 365 Days a Year Climate-Controlled Gondolas
AT T H E C A P I TA L W H E E L
Enjoy our seasonal outdoor lounge!
Purchase tickets online at thecapitalwheel.com 141 American Way, National Harbor, MD 20745 • 301-842-8650 •
fti
THE HAVEN
T H E PL AT E AU
113
S T. G E O R G E B O U L E VA R D
S
PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICE
P
PU B L I C PA R K I N G
R
PUBLIC RESTROOMS
N AT I O N A L H A R B O R B O U L E VA R D
M E T RO B U S/C I RC U L ATO R S TO P 308
307
P
P
HANDICAP RAMP
313
$
300
AT M E V C H A RG I N G S TAT I O N
S 304 303
309
R
306
311
305
312
314
$
310
301
FLEET STREET
WAT E R F RO N T S T R E E T
238
237
WAT E R M A N PA S S AG E 235
234
233
232
231
P 230
226
R
229
251
$
239
240
243
244
245
242 M A R I N E R PA S S AG E
A M E R I C A N WAY
241
250
212
211
213
249
228
224 225
248
227
214
210
P OTO M AC PA S S AG E
217 216 215
209
208
207
206
205
204
203
202
201
P
222 223
P
P
247
218
R
401
246
219
220
221
P
CLOTHING, SHOES & ACCESSORIES 234 Alex and Ani 212 A Beautiful Closet 211 Carhartt 217 Cariloha Bamboo 231 Comfort One Shoes 216 Del Sol Color Change 223 House of JonLei Atelier 209 Miguel Wilson Collection 125 ZAAF
P
302
236
125
R
124
123
122
121
120
119
118
114
107
116
117 112
106
111
108 105
109 104
110 103
102
WAT E R F RO N T S T R E E T 101
SUNSET POINTE
127
126
N AT I O N A L PL A Z A 128
THE PLAZA
N AT
THE CAROUSEL M ION GM AL HAR HA BOR RBO R T RA IL
POINTE
POTOMAC RIVER THE AWAKENING
TOPGOLF
TA N G E R OUTLETS
THE MARINA MGM N ATI O N A L HARBOR
402
NORTH COVE PLAZA
WATE R FRO NT DISTRICT
T H E C A PI TA L W H E E L
M
EN
A
TI
N TA G I N L BO DC A T & TO U
RS
WAT E R TA X I S , D I N N E R C R U I S E S
C A PI TA L C A N O PY
BO
SOUTH
HARBOR TRAIL
129
P
Be Co Ke Na Pa Pie Re Ri
MGM Na
Gi Na
DINING & ENTERTAINMENT Ta Vo 311 Bobby McKey’s 313 Ha Dueling Piano Bar 101 Hy 106 Bond 45 237 Re 310 Brass Tap 120 W 239 Brother Jimmy’s BBQ Sa 312 Cadillac Ranch 305 W 241 Capital Wheel Business Center 118 Fiorella Italian Kitchen PERSONAL 236 Grace’s Mandarin 225 Be 240 Irish Whisper Pub 105 Br 128 McCormick & Schmick’s 305 CV 206 Muse Paintbar 221 Di 238 Public House 247 G 129 Redstone American Grill 243 Ha 112 Rosa Mexicano 309 Ha 235 Succotash Ur 249 Thai Pavilion 224 Ha 226 Walrus Oyster & Ale House 114 M 300 M FAST CASUAL DINING 207 Ro 242 BurgerFi 402 Su 116 Chipotle Mexican Grill 220 Th 109 Crab Cake Cafe 201 Elevation Burger RESIDENTI 117 Mason’s Lobster Rolls 304 Th 402 McDonald’s 245 Fl 108 Mezeh Mediterranean Grill 113 Ha 246 Nando’s Peri-Peri 222 O 107 Potbelly Sandwich Shop 103 W 202 Subway SPECIALTY 402 Subway (at Sunoco) 110 Be GIFTS & HOME GOODS 130 Fl 122 AMERICA! 218 Th 121 Build-A-Bear Workshop 123 G 251 MahoganyBooks Co 219 Potomac Gourmet Market 124 M 111 Washington Nationals 104 Pa Team Store 214 Pe 219 Po HOTELS 215 Sa 227 AC Hotel by Marriott 119 St AC Kitchen
M
O
N
U
AC Lounge
FREEDOM PIER
CLOTHING SHOES & ACCESSORIES 234 Alex and Ani 212 A Beautiful Closet 211 Carhartt 217 Cariloha Bamboo 231 Comfort One Shoes 216 Del Sol Color Change 223 House of JonLei Atelier 209 Miguel Wilson Collection 125 ZAAF
DINING & ENTERTAINMENT 311 Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar 106 Bond 45 310 Brass Tap 239 Brother Jimmy’s BBQ 312 Cadillac Ranch 241 Capital Wheel Business Center 118 Fiorella Italian Kitchen 236 Grace’s Mandarin 240 Irish Whisper Pub 128 McCormick & Schmick’s 206 Muse Paintbar 238 Public House 129 Redstone American Grill 112 Rosa Mexicano
9
G AY L O R D N ATI O N A L RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
401 G Re
C A PI TA L PI E R
130
235 Succotash 249 Thai Pavilion 226 Walrus Oyster & Ale House
FAST CASUAL DINING 242 BurgerFi 116 Chipotle Mexican Grill 109 Crab Cake Cafe 201 Elevation Burger 117 Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls 402 McDonald’s 108 Mezeh Mediterranean Grill 246 Nando’s Peri-Peri 107 Potbelly Sandwich Shop 202 Subway 402 Subway (at Sunoco)
GIFTS & HOME GOODS 122 AMERICA! 121 Build-A-Bear Workshop 251 MahoganyBooks 219 Potomac Gourmet Market 111 Washington Nationals Team Store
HOTELS 227 AC Hotel by Marriott AC Kitchen AC Lounge 401 Gaylord National
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
Resort & Convention Center Belvedere Lobby Bar Cocoa Bean Key Provisions National Pastime Sports Bar & Grill Paisley’s Accessories & More Pienza Italian Market Relâche Spa RiverView Ballroom MGM National Harbor Ginger National Market Tap Sports Bar Voltaggio Brothers Steak House 313 Hampton Inn & Suites 101 Hyatt Place 237 Residence Inn by Marriott 120 Westin Sauciety 305 Wyndham Vacation Resorts
PERSONAL CARE & SERVICES 225 Bella Cosmetic Surgery 105 BrookieGirl 305 CVS Pharmacy 221 Divine Nail Spa
247 GIRLKIN Lashes 243 Harbor Cleaners 309 Harbor Medical Center & Urgent Care 224 Harborside Surgery Center 114 Marina Office 300 Medical Pavilion 207 Roll By Goodyear 402 Sunoco 220 The UPS Store
RESIDENTIAL & SALES 304 The Esplanade 245 Fleet Street 113 Haven Sales Office 222 One National Harbor 103 Waterfront Street Condos
SPECIALTY FOOD & BEVERAGE 110 Ben & Jerry’s 130 Flight Deck 218 The Furlough Cheesecake 123 Georgetown Olive Oil Co. 124 Messy Treatz 104 Panda Tea House 214 Pepper Palace 219 Potomac Gourmet Market 215 Savannah’s Candy Kitchen 119 Starbucks National Harbor Marina
9
Helpful Information
Nearby Attractions
• Check In: 12:00 noon • Check Out: 11:30 a.m. • Approach and Docking: As you approach Marker 4, hail us on Channel 72 or 16. • Electrical Hook-Up: Each slip is equipped with either a 30, 50, or 100 amp service. • Restroom and Showers: Located in the marina office, use the access code to enter after hours. • Recycling: Trash and recycling are located outside of the gates on the concrete main pier. • For info about safety, social distancing, transportation and more, visit nationalharbor.com/faq
Washington D.C. (only 15 minutes away) The Capital Wheel Boating in D.C. paddle boats Tanger Outlets MGM National Harbor Nationals Park Oxon Hill Manor Old Town Alexandria Mt. Vernon National Colonial Farm at Piscataway Park Topgolf
Amenities • Floating docks with full length finger piers • Complimentary cable television and public access Wi-Fi • 30, 50 and 100 amp shore power are available • Gated access monitored by security • Clean and well-appointed boater lounge and laundry/bath facilities • Gasoline and diesel • On-site pump out 10
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
• Ice available for purchase • Garage parking (complimentary pass for annual slip holders); more than 40 great restaurants, all within walking distance • Potomac Gourmet Market within walking distance, offering a selection of wine and beer • Popular retailers in the Waterfront District including Carhartt, Alex and Ani, and many more
• West Marine is nearby • Convenient access to the Water Taxi to explore nearby attractions • Dry cleaning facilities nearby • Special events in the summer for slip holders and guests • Annual boaters are part of the Harbor Perks Program, which entitles them to discounts at local shops and restaurants.
National Harbor Port Personality
KENNY REPKA DOCKMASTER National Harbor Marina
What is your first memory of being on a boat?
I can think of countless times of being out on different boats, usually fishing. My favorite these days is going home to Texas, spending time with my dad and watching my son reel in everything that the Gulf of Mexico can provide. Where is your favorite place to visit by boat?
Anywhere the fish are biting! What famous person would you most like to meet? What brought you to this marina?
National Harbor is a unique location. It’s got fast-paced, high-touch customer service and is always looking for ways to wow guests by going above and beyond. I’m always up for a challenge and thrive in an environment like this. So, I guess you could say this marina was calling my name. What part of your work do you enjoy the most?
You absolutely can’t beat the relationships that you can build around National Harbor — the boaters, the community, my colleagues and the team! Everyone here is terrific.
Name your top three favorite boating songs on your playlist.
Half Empty Shotgun by Kyle Park, Things Look Good Around Here by Roger Creager and A Pirate Looks at Forty by Jimmy Buffett. Name someone who taught you that anything is possible.
I love the welcome feeling when I arrive here!
I have been blessed to be surrounded by people who always want great things for me — people who push me to be the best, do the best, and give it 110% every day. However, it all boils down to my mom and dad.
What is the oddest watercraft you’ve seen cruise into the marina?
What’s the best safety tip you can give to a new boater?
One day, a squad of assault boats from a government agency came in for lunch. That was very unexpected and exciting.
Make sure to have a first-aid kit on the boat. So many different things can occur while you’re on the water and being prepared is key!
What is the nicest compliment a boater said about National Harbor Marina?
11
Being in the hospitality business for the last 15 years, I have met many fascinating people — actors, artists, politicians, etc. But I would love to meet the British actor Jason Statham.
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
genuine
maine mouth to
C U I S I N E.
156 National Plaza National Harbor, MD ACROSS FROM THE JUMBOTRON
301-298-7850
ORDER ONLINE AT M A S O N S L O B ST E R .C O M for P I C K U P or D E L I V E R Y
MASONS-2021-26842 National Harbor Marina Life.indd 1
4/7/21 11:09 AM
National Harbor The Pride of the Potomac
By Susan Elnicki Wade Author of Crab Decks & Tiki Bars of the Chesapeake Bay
A 17-foot tall aluminum arm stretches toward the heavens. Nearby a colossal hand, knee and foot emerge next to the yawning head of a giant who struggles to rise from his subterranean slumber. Laughing children scamper in the sand between his body parts, tickle his toes and marvel at the massive waterfront statue entitled “The Awakening.” This remarkable work of art is an appropriate centerpiece for National Harbor, which has transformed and energized one of the premier destinations along the East Coast. Thanks to the vision of developer Milton Peterson, nearly 12 million visitors arrive annually to enjoy a spectacular waterfront experience on the Potomac River.
Prelude to the Present The story of this scenic property reaches back hundreds of years to when the region was populated by Algonquin tribes. Early 17th century settlements flourished by using the navigable Potomac River for trade, food and transportation. Farmers coaxed a cornucopia of fruits and vegetables from the fertile soil, and watermen pulled delicacies from the 13
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
waves. During the Civil War, troops, supplies and arms floated downstream to battle fields. The 350 acres where National Harbor stands began as part of a several thousand-acre land grant to John Addison, who immigrated here in 1667 and built a prosperous tobacco farm. In 1927 Sumner Wells, an ambassador to Cuba and advisor to President Franklin Roosevelt, bought some of the National Harbor Marina
13
property, erected a stately mansion and entertained dignitaries on the grounds. After his passing, the footprint for National Harbor returned to a serene sanctuary for wildlife. Just outside of Washington, DC, this underutilized property caught the attention of Peterson Company, which bought the land in 1984. At what seemed like the blink of an eye, a new marina, buildings and tree-lined streets appeared. In 2008, Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center opened as the largest hotel between New Jersey and Florida. Tanger Outlets shopping center was launched in 2013, and the Capital Wheel started spinning in 2014. MGM National Harbor first welcomed guests to its casino in 2016.
A Charmed Riverside Retreat National Harbor is conveniently located 10 miles away from the Washington Monument and the first U.S. president’s home in Mount Vernon and five miles from historic Alexandria, VA. You can join the cars zipping along the Woodrow Wil-
14
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
son Bridge or catch the water taxi to reach these destinations. Or you can take a turn on the 180foot tall Capital Wheel to admire them from a distance and scope out the Waterfront District from above. The Flight Deck lounge at the Ferris wheel’s base ensures no guests get thirsty. The atmosphere along the shore is festive and lively. Marina staff extend a warm welcome to boats up to 150 feet and offer a gamut of firstclass amenities that make boaters smile — security gate, free Wi-Fi, fuel, pump-out and more. You will find something for everyone at every stage of life. Parents push strollers on the pier past first-date couples and seniors tossing crackers to ducks dawdling in the waves. To create a vibrant cultural scene, National Harbor invested about $11 million in public art, and MGM added another $12 million to the indoor and outdoor collections. “The Awakening” is not the only interactive statue on the premises. Most of the art is approachable, and you are encouraged to play with it and take selfies. An informational tour accessible by phone
shares the stories of all the works. Favorites include life-like statues of famous figures: Abraham Lincoln, Henry Ford, Rosie the Riveter, Louis Armstrong, Marilyn Monroe and America’s Team of service men and women from each branch of the U.S. military forces. Year-round events and festivals — such as Cherry Blossom, Water Lantern, Crab & Beer, and Chesapeake Oyster & Wine Festivals — make every day feel like a holiday. Movies on the Potomac presents free films under the stars on Thursday and Sunday nights in the spring and summer. MGM National Harbor is more than an electrifying place to test your luck at poker, slots and roulette. Its theater showcases national acts for all generations from Chicago and Gladys Knight to Jon Bellion and Mariah Carey. (See a list of events on page 21.) Fitbit wearers watch their steps soar at National Harbor, because they encounter myriad of activities to keep them in motion. You can bike or stroll along the harbor walking trail to get different perspectives of the waterfront and marina, or rent a paddleboard, kayak or pedal boat for 15
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
fitness on the waves. Wearing comfy shoes is a good idea if you’re an avid shopper, with 160 stores ready to accommodate your fashion desires from casual attire to high-end designs. Don’t worry if all this activity works up an appetite. Irresistible aromas drift out of restaurants perched on the gentle slope of Oxon Hill, as chefs concoct mouth-watering feasts. Cuisines range from take-out Maryland crab cakes that you can devour on the dock to juicy steaks served on tables draped with white linens. With 40 eateries to choose from, nobody goes home hungry. Nightlife features clubs with everything from dueling pianos to a mechanical bull. It’s not unusual to have so much fun at National Harbor that you don’t want to leave. They’ve got that covered, too. With eight hotels, stay as long as you like and let the staff pamper you like royalty.
The Nation’s River A BOUNTIFUL CATCH IN HISTORIC WATERS
By Capt. Steve Chaconas, National Bass Guide Service, SEOPA, nationalbass@aol.com
Native Americans, settlers and George Washington harvested fish from the Potomac River for centuries. In the late 1800s, residents stocked the river with largemouth bass. By the 1970s, bass angling began to take off when subaquatic vegetation returned. All the top professional bass fishing circuits have visited the river. Thanks to the region’s moderate climate, you can cast a line into the Potomac’s tidal fisheries nearly year-round, as the river rarely ices over. The major forage includes shad and crawfish. Fish are found in shallow areas with water up to five feet deep,
and you can catch them with a variety of lures in grass, pads and old wooden barges. While you’re on the water waiting for fish to take the bait, enjoy the scenery along the river. History surrounds the Potomac with views of Mount Vernon, Fort Washington and the Nation’s Capital. Nature coexists as bald eagles take off within sight of Reagan National flight patterns. Whatever your favorite season or style of angling, the Potomac can provide memorable fishing experiences to enhance your visit to National Harbor.
Celebrate the Cherry Blossoms at National Harbor Cherry blossoms are the most eagerly awaited sign of spring in the Washington metro area, and millions of visitors swarm the Tidal Basin when those delicate little buds pop open. But if you’re looking for a less crowded place to relish the pink petal splendor, come to National Harbor. Years ago, 100 cherry trees were planted along the walkways and throughout Gaylord National Resort. In 2019, National Harbor placed an additional 100 Okame cherry trees on the Harbor 16
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
Trail. When the blossoms bloom in March, the rosy branches create a magical atmosphere and their fragrant aroma is lifted into the breeze. The cherry blossoms’ refection in the water brings a splash of pink highlights to the Potomac’s gentle waves. In a tribute to their exquisite colors, the Capital Wheel’s lights will shine in pink above the events for National Harbor’s Cherry Blossom Festival. It’s a sight you don’t want to miss.
17
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
List your PRIVATE slip Put your private slip to good use & llt with SNAG-A-SLIP today!
LLt
Connect
Start Earning
Create an online profile for your dock, slip or mooring.
Reach a large audience of boaters looking to rent dockage, slips and moorings.
Let your slip make money for you, while Snag-A-Slip takes care of the rest.
Create your listing via your Snag-A-Slip account today, and watch the money roll in!
www.snagaslip.com 18
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
Let our dedicated concierge team plan your trip today! Personalized trip planning and cruise itineraries Special offers on hundreds of fuel, dockage & retail Deep discounts on hotels, rental cars & flights And so much more!
19
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
Join today!
marinalife.com/membership
Become a preferred destination recommended by our Concierge Desk Quarterly listing in the Affinity Directory of Marinalife Magazine Listing in Marinalife.com's discount search
21
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina
National Harbor Marina
21
22
marinalife.com | National Harbor Marina